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The Project Gutenberg eBook of Sword and Pen
This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
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before using this eBook.
Title: Sword and Pen
Author: John Algernon Owens
Release date: February 21, 2009 [eBook #28152]
Language: English
Other information and formats: www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/28152
Credits: E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, David Cortesi, and the
Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team
(https://www.pgdp.net)
*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SWORD AND
PEN ***
This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you
will have to check the laws of the country where you are located
before using this eBook.
Title: Sword and Pen
Author: John Algernon Owens
Release date: February 21, 2009 [eBook #28152]
Language: English
Other information and formats: www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/28152
Credits: E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, David Cortesi, and the
Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team
(https://www.pgdp.net)
*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SWORD AND
PEN ***
Page 4
E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, David Cortesi,
and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team
(http://www.pgdp.net)
and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team
(http://www.pgdp.net)
Page 5
TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES
Several minor typographical errors have been corrected in transcribing
this work. The corrected words are shown with a light underscore like this:
continue. Hover the mouse over the word to see the original text. Typos
aside, the text is original and retains some inconsistent or outdated
spellings. This HTML file uses the Latin-1 (ISO 8859-1) character set, but
all non-ASCII characters are rendered using HTML entity notation, for
example Æ for Æ.
The original contains two lengthy addenda supplied by the publisher
which were not named in the Table of Contents. Entries for these have been
added to the Contents for convenient linking.
The 44 full-page illustrations from the original are shown inline in
reduced form. Click any illustration to open a larger version that will print
at the original size.
Despite the many testimonials in this book, as of 2008, the source of the
Mississippi is considered to be Lake Itasca. Following a five-month
investigation in 1891 it was decided that the stream from Elk Lake (the
body that Glazier would have called Lake Glazier) into Itasca is too
insignificant to be deemed the river's source. Both lakes can be seen,
looking much as they do in the maps in this book, by directing any online
mapping service to 47°11'N, 95°14'W.
Several minor typographical errors have been corrected in transcribing
this work. The corrected words are shown with a light underscore like this:
continue. Hover the mouse over the word to see the original text. Typos
aside, the text is original and retains some inconsistent or outdated
spellings. This HTML file uses the Latin-1 (ISO 8859-1) character set, but
all non-ASCII characters are rendered using HTML entity notation, for
example Æ for Æ.
The original contains two lengthy addenda supplied by the publisher
which were not named in the Table of Contents. Entries for these have been
added to the Contents for convenient linking.
The 44 full-page illustrations from the original are shown inline in
reduced form. Click any illustration to open a larger version that will print
at the original size.
Despite the many testimonials in this book, as of 2008, the source of the
Mississippi is considered to be Lake Itasca. Following a five-month
investigation in 1891 it was decided that the stream from Elk Lake (the
body that Glazier would have called Lake Glazier) into Itasca is too
insignificant to be deemed the river's source. Both lakes can be seen,
looking much as they do in the maps in this book, by directing any online
mapping service to 47°11'N, 95°14'W.
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Sword and Pen;
OR,
Ventures and Adventures
OF
WILLARD GLAZIER,
(The Soldier-Author,)
IN
WAR AND LITERATURE:
COMPRISING
INCIDENTS AND REMINISCENCES OF HIS CHILDHOOD; HIS
CHEQUERED LIFE AS A STUDENT AND TEACHER; AND HIS
REMARKABLE CAREER AS A SOLDIER AND AUTHOR;
EMBRACING ALSO THE STORY OF HIS UNPRECEDENTED
JOURNEY FROM OCEAN TO OCEAN
ON HORSEBACK; AND AN ACCOUNT OF
HIS DISCOVERY OF THE TRUE SOURCE
OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER, AND
CANOE VOYAGE THENCE TO
THE GULF OF MEXICO.
OR,
Ventures and Adventures
OF
WILLARD GLAZIER,
(The Soldier-Author,)
IN
WAR AND LITERATURE:
COMPRISING
INCIDENTS AND REMINISCENCES OF HIS CHILDHOOD; HIS
CHEQUERED LIFE AS A STUDENT AND TEACHER; AND HIS
REMARKABLE CAREER AS A SOLDIER AND AUTHOR;
EMBRACING ALSO THE STORY OF HIS UNPRECEDENTED
JOURNEY FROM OCEAN TO OCEAN
ON HORSEBACK; AND AN ACCOUNT OF
HIS DISCOVERY OF THE TRUE SOURCE
OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER, AND
CANOE VOYAGE THENCE TO
THE GULF OF MEXICO.
Page 11
BY
JOHN ALGERNON OWENS.
Illustrated.
PHILADELPHIA:
P. W. ZIEGLER &. COMPANY, PUBLISHERS,
720 CHESTNUT STREET.
.
1890
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year
1880, by
JOHN ALGERNON OWENS,
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at
Washington, D.C.
JOHN ALGERNON OWENS.
Illustrated.
PHILADELPHIA:
P. W. ZIEGLER &. COMPANY, PUBLISHERS,
720 CHESTNUT STREET.
.
1890
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year
1880, by
JOHN ALGERNON OWENS,
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at
Washington, D.C.
Page 12
PREFACE.
No apology will be required from the author for presenting to the public
some episodes in the useful career of a self-made man; and while the spirit
of patriotism continues to animate the sturdy sons of America, the story of
one of them who has exemplified this national trait in a conspicuous
measure, will be deemed not unworthy of record. The lessons it teaches,
more especially to the young, are those of uncompromising duty in every
relation of life—self-denial, perseverance and "pluck;" while the successive
stages of a course which led ultimately to a brilliant success, may be studied
with some advantage by those just entering upon the business of life. As a
soldier, Willard Glazier was "without fear and without reproach." As an
author, it is sufficient to say, he is appreciated by his contemporaries—than
which, on a literary man, no higher encomium can be passed. The sale of
nearly half a million copies of one of his productions is no slight testimony
to its value.
Biography, to be interesting, must be a transcript of an eventful, as well
as a remarkable career; and to be instructive, its subject should be
exemplary in his aims, and in his mode of attaining them. The hero of this
story comes fully up to the standard thus indicated. His career has been a
romance. Born of parents of small means but of excellent character and
repute; and bred and nurtured in the midst of some of the wildest and
grandest scenery in the rugged county of St. Lawrence, close by the
"Thousand Isles," where New York best proves her right to be called the
Empire State through the stamp of royalty on her hills and streams—under
the shadow of such surroundings as these, my subject attained maturity,
No apology will be required from the author for presenting to the public
some episodes in the useful career of a self-made man; and while the spirit
of patriotism continues to animate the sturdy sons of America, the story of
one of them who has exemplified this national trait in a conspicuous
measure, will be deemed not unworthy of record. The lessons it teaches,
more especially to the young, are those of uncompromising duty in every
relation of life—self-denial, perseverance and "pluck;" while the successive
stages of a course which led ultimately to a brilliant success, may be studied
with some advantage by those just entering upon the business of life. As a
soldier, Willard Glazier was "without fear and without reproach." As an
author, it is sufficient to say, he is appreciated by his contemporaries—than
which, on a literary man, no higher encomium can be passed. The sale of
nearly half a million copies of one of his productions is no slight testimony
to its value.
Biography, to be interesting, must be a transcript of an eventful, as well
as a remarkable career; and to be instructive, its subject should be
exemplary in his aims, and in his mode of attaining them. The hero of this
story comes fully up to the standard thus indicated. His career has been a
romance. Born of parents of small means but of excellent character and
repute; and bred and nurtured in the midst of some of the wildest and
grandest scenery in the rugged county of St. Lawrence, close by the
"Thousand Isles," where New York best proves her right to be called the
Empire State through the stamp of royalty on her hills and streams—under
the shadow of such surroundings as these, my subject attained maturity,
Page 13
with no opportunities for culture except those he made for himself. Yet he
became possessed of an education eminently useful, essentially practical
and calculated to establish just such habits of self-reliance and decision as
afterwards proved chiefly instrumental in his success. Glazier had a fixed
ambition to rise. He felt that the task would be difficult of accomplishment
—that he must be not only the architect, but the builder of his own fortunes;
and, as the statue grows beneath the sculptor's hand to perfect contour from
the unshapely block of marble, so prosperity came to Captain Glazier only
after he had cut and chiseled away at the hard surface of inexorable
circumstance, and moulded therefrom the statue of his destiny.
J. A. O.
Philadelphia, June 14th, 1880.
TO
THE MEMORY OF
ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT,
WHOSE SWORD,
AND TO THAT OF
HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW,
WHOSE PEN,
Have so Nobly Illustrated the Valor and Genius of their Country:
THE AUTHOR,
In a Spirit of Profound Admiration for
became possessed of an education eminently useful, essentially practical
and calculated to establish just such habits of self-reliance and decision as
afterwards proved chiefly instrumental in his success. Glazier had a fixed
ambition to rise. He felt that the task would be difficult of accomplishment
—that he must be not only the architect, but the builder of his own fortunes;
and, as the statue grows beneath the sculptor's hand to perfect contour from
the unshapely block of marble, so prosperity came to Captain Glazier only
after he had cut and chiseled away at the hard surface of inexorable
circumstance, and moulded therefrom the statue of his destiny.
J. A. O.
Philadelphia, June 14th, 1880.
TO
THE MEMORY OF
ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT,
WHOSE SWORD,
AND TO THAT OF
HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW,
WHOSE PEN,
Have so Nobly Illustrated the Valor and Genius of their Country:
THE AUTHOR,
In a Spirit of Profound Admiration for
Page 14
THE RENOWNED SOLDIER,
And of Measureless Gratitude to
THE IMMORTAL WRITER,
Dedicates This Book.
And of Measureless Gratitude to
THE IMMORTAL WRITER,
Dedicates This Book.
Page 15
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
ORIGIN OF THE GLAZIER FAMILY.
Lineage of Willard Glazier. — A good stock. — Oliver
Glazier at the Battle of Bunker Hill. — The home of
honest industry. — The Coronet of Pembroke. — The
"Homestead Farm." — Mehitable Bolton. — Her New
England home. — Her marriage to Ward Glazier. — The
wild "North Woods." — The mother of the soldier-
author21
CHAPTER II.
BIRTH AND CHILDHOOD OF WILLARD GLAZIER.
The infant stranger. — A mother's prayers. — "Be just before
you are generous." — Careful training. — Willard
Glazier's first battle. — A narrow escape. — Facing the
foe. — The "happy days of childhood." — "The boy is
father to the man"27
CHAPTER III.
EARLY LIFE AND HABITS.
CHAPTER I.
ORIGIN OF THE GLAZIER FAMILY.
Lineage of Willard Glazier. — A good stock. — Oliver
Glazier at the Battle of Bunker Hill. — The home of
honest industry. — The Coronet of Pembroke. — The
"Homestead Farm." — Mehitable Bolton. — Her New
England home. — Her marriage to Ward Glazier. — The
wild "North Woods." — The mother of the soldier-
author21
CHAPTER II.
BIRTH AND CHILDHOOD OF WILLARD GLAZIER.
The infant stranger. — A mother's prayers. — "Be just before
you are generous." — Careful training. — Willard
Glazier's first battle. — A narrow escape. — Facing the
foe. — The "happy days of childhood." — "The boy is
father to the man"27
CHAPTER III.
EARLY LIFE AND HABITS.
Page 16
Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of twenty-five years ago. —
The "little deacon." — First days at school. — Choosing a
wife. — A youthful gallant. — A close scholar but a wild
lad. — A mother's influence. — Ward Glazier a
Grahamite. — Young Willard's practical jokes. —
Anecdote of Crystal Spring. — "That is something like
water"34
CHAPTER IV.
WILLARD GLAZIER AT SCHOOL.
School-days continued. — Boys will be boys. — Cornelius
Carter, the teacher. — Young Willard's rebellion against
injustice. — Gum-chewing. — Laughable race through
the snow. — The tumble into a snow-bank, and what came
of it. — The runaway caught. — Explanation and
reconciliation. — The new master, James Nichols. —
"Spare the rod and spoil the child." — The age of chivalry
not gone. — Magnanimity of a school-boy. — Friendship
between Willard and Henry Abbott. — Good-bye to the
"little deacon"42
CHAPTER V.
ECCENTRICITIES OF HENRY GLAZIER.
Henry Glazier. — A singular character. — "Kaw-shaw-gan-
ce" and "Quaw-taw-pee-ab." — Tom Lolar and Henry
Glazier. — Attractive show-bills. — Billy Muldoon and
his trombone. — Behind the scenes. — "Sound your G!"
The "little deacon." — First days at school. — Choosing a
wife. — A youthful gallant. — A close scholar but a wild
lad. — A mother's influence. — Ward Glazier a
Grahamite. — Young Willard's practical jokes. —
Anecdote of Crystal Spring. — "That is something like
water"34
CHAPTER IV.
WILLARD GLAZIER AT SCHOOL.
School-days continued. — Boys will be boys. — Cornelius
Carter, the teacher. — Young Willard's rebellion against
injustice. — Gum-chewing. — Laughable race through
the snow. — The tumble into a snow-bank, and what came
of it. — The runaway caught. — Explanation and
reconciliation. — The new master, James Nichols. —
"Spare the rod and spoil the child." — The age of chivalry
not gone. — Magnanimity of a school-boy. — Friendship
between Willard and Henry Abbott. — Good-bye to the
"little deacon"42
CHAPTER V.
ECCENTRICITIES OF HENRY GLAZIER.
Henry Glazier. — A singular character. — "Kaw-shaw-gan-
ce" and "Quaw-taw-pee-ab." — Tom Lolar and Henry
Glazier. — Attractive show-bills. — Billy Muldoon and
his trombone. — Behind the scenes. — "Sound your G!"
Page 17
— The mysterious musician. — What happened to Billy.
— "May the divil fly away wid ye!"50
CHAPTER VI.
VISIONS OF THE FUTURE.
The big uncle and the little nephew. — Exchange of ideas
between the eccentric Henry Glazier and young Willard.
— Inseparable companions. — Willard's early reading. —
Favorite authors. — Hero-worship of the first Napoleon
and Charles XII. of Sweden. — The genius of good and of
evil. — Allen Wight. — A born teacher. — Reverses of
fortune. — The shadow on the home. — Willard's resolve
to seek his fortune and what came of it. — The sleep
under the trees. — The prodigal's return. — "All's well
that ends well"58
CHAPTER VII.
WILLARD GLAZIER AT HOME.
Out of boyhood. — Days of adolescence. — True family
pride. — Schemes for the future. — Willard as a
temperance advocate. — Watering his grandfather's
whiskey. — The pump behind the hill. — The sleigh-ride
by night. — The "shakedown" at Edward's. — Intoxicated
by tobacco fumes. — The return ride. — Landed in a
snow-bank. — Good-bye horses and sleigh! — Plodding
through the snow68
— "May the divil fly away wid ye!"50
CHAPTER VI.
VISIONS OF THE FUTURE.
The big uncle and the little nephew. — Exchange of ideas
between the eccentric Henry Glazier and young Willard.
— Inseparable companions. — Willard's early reading. —
Favorite authors. — Hero-worship of the first Napoleon
and Charles XII. of Sweden. — The genius of good and of
evil. — Allen Wight. — A born teacher. — Reverses of
fortune. — The shadow on the home. — Willard's resolve
to seek his fortune and what came of it. — The sleep
under the trees. — The prodigal's return. — "All's well
that ends well"58
CHAPTER VII.
WILLARD GLAZIER AT HOME.
Out of boyhood. — Days of adolescence. — True family
pride. — Schemes for the future. — Willard as a
temperance advocate. — Watering his grandfather's
whiskey. — The pump behind the hill. — The sleigh-ride
by night. — The "shakedown" at Edward's. — Intoxicated
by tobacco fumes. — The return ride. — Landed in a
snow-bank. — Good-bye horses and sleigh! — Plodding
through the snow68
Page 18
CHAPTER VIII.
ADVENTURES — EQUINE AND BOVINE.
Ward Glazier moves to the Davis Place. — "Far in the lane a
lonely house he found." — Who was Davis? —
Description of the place. — A wild spot for a home. —
Willard at work. — Adventure with an ox-team. — The
road, the bridge and the stream. — "As an ox thirsteth for
the water." — Dashed from a precipice! — Willard as a
horse-tamer. — "Chestnut Bess," the blooded mare. —
The start for home. — "Bess" on the rampage. — A
lightning dash. — The stooping arch. — Bruised and
unconscious75
CHAPTER IX.
THE YOUNG TRAPPER OF THE OSWEGATCHIE.
A plan of life. — Determination to procure an education. —
A substitute at the plow. — His father acquiesces in his
determination to become a trapper. — Life in the wild
woods along the Oswegatchie. — The six "dead falls." —
First success. — A fallacious calculation. — The goal
attained. — Seventy-five dollars in hard cash! — Four
terms of academic life. — The youthful rivals. — Lessons
in elocution. — A fight with hair-brushes and chairs! —
"The walking ghost of a kitchen fire." — Renewed
friendship. — Teaching to obtain means for an
education87
ADVENTURES — EQUINE AND BOVINE.
Ward Glazier moves to the Davis Place. — "Far in the lane a
lonely house he found." — Who was Davis? —
Description of the place. — A wild spot for a home. —
Willard at work. — Adventure with an ox-team. — The
road, the bridge and the stream. — "As an ox thirsteth for
the water." — Dashed from a precipice! — Willard as a
horse-tamer. — "Chestnut Bess," the blooded mare. —
The start for home. — "Bess" on the rampage. — A
lightning dash. — The stooping arch. — Bruised and
unconscious75
CHAPTER IX.
THE YOUNG TRAPPER OF THE OSWEGATCHIE.
A plan of life. — Determination to procure an education. —
A substitute at the plow. — His father acquiesces in his
determination to become a trapper. — Life in the wild
woods along the Oswegatchie. — The six "dead falls." —
First success. — A fallacious calculation. — The goal
attained. — Seventy-five dollars in hard cash! — Four
terms of academic life. — The youthful rivals. — Lessons
in elocution. — A fight with hair-brushes and chairs! —
"The walking ghost of a kitchen fire." — Renewed
friendship. — Teaching to obtain means for an
education87
Page 19
CHAPTER X.
THE SOLDIER SCHOOL-MASTER.
From boy to man. — The Lyceum debate. — Willard speaks
for the slave. — Entrance to the State Normal School. —
Reverses. — Fighting the world again. — Assistance from
fair hands. — Willard meets Allen Barringer. — John
Brown, and what Willard thought of him. — Principles
above bribe. — Examination. — A sleepless night. —
Haunted by the "ghost of possible defeat." — "Here is
your certificate." — The school at Schodack Centre. — At
the "Normal" again. — The Edwards School. — Thirty
pupils at two dollars each. — The "soldier school-master."
— Teachers at East Schodack. — The runaway ride. —
Good-by mittens, robes and whip! — Close of school at
East Schodack102
CHAPTER XI.
INTRODUCTION TO MILITARY LIFE.
The mutterings of war. — Enlistment. — At Camp Howe. —
First experience as a soldier. — "One step to the front!" —
Beyond Washington. — On guard. — Promotion. —
Recruiting service. — The deserted home on Arlington
Heights. — "How shall I behave in the coming battle?" —
The brave Bayard. — On the march. — The stratagem at
Falmouth Heights. — A brilliant charge. — After the
battle118
THE SOLDIER SCHOOL-MASTER.
From boy to man. — The Lyceum debate. — Willard speaks
for the slave. — Entrance to the State Normal School. —
Reverses. — Fighting the world again. — Assistance from
fair hands. — Willard meets Allen Barringer. — John
Brown, and what Willard thought of him. — Principles
above bribe. — Examination. — A sleepless night. —
Haunted by the "ghost of possible defeat." — "Here is
your certificate." — The school at Schodack Centre. — At
the "Normal" again. — The Edwards School. — Thirty
pupils at two dollars each. — The "soldier school-master."
— Teachers at East Schodack. — The runaway ride. —
Good-by mittens, robes and whip! — Close of school at
East Schodack102
CHAPTER XI.
INTRODUCTION TO MILITARY LIFE.
The mutterings of war. — Enlistment. — At Camp Howe. —
First experience as a soldier. — "One step to the front!" —
Beyond Washington. — On guard. — Promotion. —
Recruiting service. — The deserted home on Arlington
Heights. — "How shall I behave in the coming battle?" —
The brave Bayard. — On the march. — The stratagem at
Falmouth Heights. — A brilliant charge. — After the
battle118
Page 20
CHAPTER XII.
FIRST BATTLE OF BRANDY STATION.
The sentinel's lonely round. — General Pope in command of
the army. — Is gunboat service effective? — First cavalry
battle of Brandy Station. — Under a rain of bullets. —
Flipper's orchard. — "Bring on the brigade, boys!" —
Capture of Confederate prisoners. — Story of a revolver.
— Cedar Mountain. — Burial of the dead rebel. —
Retreat from the Rapidan. — The riderless horse. —
Death of Captain Walters128
CHAPTER XIII.
MANASSAS AND FREDERICKSBURG.
Manassas. — The flying troops. — The unknown hero. —
Desperate attempt to stop the retreat. — Recruiting the
decimated ranks. — Fredericksburg. — Bravery of
Meagher's brigade. — The impregnable heights. — The
cost of battles. — Death of Bayard. — Outline of his
life135
CHAPTER XIV.
UNWRITTEN HISTORY.
"What boots a weapon in a withered hand?" — A thunderbolt
wasted. — War upon hen-roosts. — A bit of unpublished
history. — A fierce fight with Hampton's cavalry. — In
one red burial blent. — From camp to home. — Troubles
FIRST BATTLE OF BRANDY STATION.
The sentinel's lonely round. — General Pope in command of
the army. — Is gunboat service effective? — First cavalry
battle of Brandy Station. — Under a rain of bullets. —
Flipper's orchard. — "Bring on the brigade, boys!" —
Capture of Confederate prisoners. — Story of a revolver.
— Cedar Mountain. — Burial of the dead rebel. —
Retreat from the Rapidan. — The riderless horse. —
Death of Captain Walters128
CHAPTER XIII.
MANASSAS AND FREDERICKSBURG.
Manassas. — The flying troops. — The unknown hero. —
Desperate attempt to stop the retreat. — Recruiting the
decimated ranks. — Fredericksburg. — Bravery of
Meagher's brigade. — The impregnable heights. — The
cost of battles. — Death of Bayard. — Outline of his
life135
CHAPTER XIV.
UNWRITTEN HISTORY.
"What boots a weapon in a withered hand?" — A thunderbolt
wasted. — War upon hen-roosts. — A bit of unpublished
history. — A fierce fight with Hampton's cavalry. — In
one red burial blent. — From camp to home. — Troubles
Page 21
never come singly. — The combat. — The capture. — A
superfluity of Confederate politeness. — Lights and
shadows144
CHAPTER XV.
THE CAPTURE.
A situation to try the stoutest hearts. — Hail Columbia! —
Every man a hero. — Kilpatrick's ingenuity. — A pen-
picture from "Soldiers of the Saddle." — Glazier thanked
by his general. — Cessation of hostilities. — A black day.
— Fitzhugh Lee proposes to crush Kilpatrick. — Kil's
audacity. — Capture of Lieutenant Glazier. — Petty
tyranny. — "Here, Yank, hand me that thar hat, and
overcoat, and boots"155
CHAPTER XVI.
LIBBY PRISON.
"All ye who enter here abandon hope." — Auld lang syne.
— Major Turner. — Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.
— Stoicism. — Glazier enters the prison-hospital — A
charnel-house. — Rebel surgeons. — Prison
correspondence. — Specimen of a regulation letter. —
The tailor's joke. — A Roland for an Oliver. — News of
death. — Schemes for escape. — The freemasonry of
misfortune. — Plot and counter-plot. — The pursuit of
pleasure under difficulties 166
superfluity of Confederate politeness. — Lights and
shadows144
CHAPTER XV.
THE CAPTURE.
A situation to try the stoutest hearts. — Hail Columbia! —
Every man a hero. — Kilpatrick's ingenuity. — A pen-
picture from "Soldiers of the Saddle." — Glazier thanked
by his general. — Cessation of hostilities. — A black day.
— Fitzhugh Lee proposes to crush Kilpatrick. — Kil's
audacity. — Capture of Lieutenant Glazier. — Petty
tyranny. — "Here, Yank, hand me that thar hat, and
overcoat, and boots"155
CHAPTER XVI.
LIBBY PRISON.
"All ye who enter here abandon hope." — Auld lang syne.
— Major Turner. — Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.
— Stoicism. — Glazier enters the prison-hospital — A
charnel-house. — Rebel surgeons. — Prison
correspondence. — Specimen of a regulation letter. —
The tailor's joke. — A Roland for an Oliver. — News of
death. — Schemes for escape. — The freemasonry of
misfortune. — Plot and counter-plot. — The pursuit of
pleasure under difficulties 166
Page 22
CHAPTER XVII.
PRISON LIFE.
Mournful news. — How a brave man dies. — New Year's
day. — Jolly under unfavorable circumstances. — Major
Turner pays his respects. — Punishment for singing
"villainous Yankee songs." — Confederate General John
Morgan. — Plans for escape. — Digging their way to
freedom. — "Poet No. 1, All's well." — Yankee ingenuity.
— The tunnel ready. — Muscle the trump card. — No
respect to rank. — Sauve qui peut! — A strategic
movement. — "Guards! guards!" — Absentees from
muster. — Disappointed hopes. — Savage treatment of
prisoners. — Was the prison mined?179
CHAPTER XVIII.
DANVILLE. — MACON. — SAVANNAH.
Belle Boyd, the Confederate spy. — National characteristics.
— Colonel Mosby. — Richmond to Danville. — Sleeping
spoon-fashion. — Glazier's "corrective point" suffers. —
Saltatory entrance to a railroad car. — Colonel Joselyn. —
Sympathy of North Carolinians. — Ingenious efforts to
escape. — Augusta. — Macon. — Turner again! —
"Carelessness" with firearms. — Tunneling. — Religious
revival. — Order from Confederate War Department. —
Murder! — Fourth of July. — Macon to Savannah. —
Camp Davidson. — More tunneling194
PRISON LIFE.
Mournful news. — How a brave man dies. — New Year's
day. — Jolly under unfavorable circumstances. — Major
Turner pays his respects. — Punishment for singing
"villainous Yankee songs." — Confederate General John
Morgan. — Plans for escape. — Digging their way to
freedom. — "Poet No. 1, All's well." — Yankee ingenuity.
— The tunnel ready. — Muscle the trump card. — No
respect to rank. — Sauve qui peut! — A strategic
movement. — "Guards! guards!" — Absentees from
muster. — Disappointed hopes. — Savage treatment of
prisoners. — Was the prison mined?179
CHAPTER XVIII.
DANVILLE. — MACON. — SAVANNAH.
Belle Boyd, the Confederate spy. — National characteristics.
— Colonel Mosby. — Richmond to Danville. — Sleeping
spoon-fashion. — Glazier's "corrective point" suffers. —
Saltatory entrance to a railroad car. — Colonel Joselyn. —
Sympathy of North Carolinians. — Ingenious efforts to
escape. — Augusta. — Macon. — Turner again! —
"Carelessness" with firearms. — Tunneling. — Religious
revival. — Order from Confederate War Department. —
Murder! — Fourth of July. — Macon to Savannah. —
Camp Davidson. — More tunneling194
Page 23
CHAPTER XIX.
UNDER FIRE AT CHARLESTON.
Under siege. — Charleston Jail. — The Stars and Stripes. —
Federal compliments. — Under the guns. — Roper
Hospital. — Yellow Jack. — Sisters of Charity. — Rebel
Christianity. — A Byronic stanza. — Charleston to
Columbia. — "Camp Sorghum." — Nemesis. — Another
dash for liberty. — Murder of Lieutenants Young and
Parker. — Studying topography. — A vaticination. —
Back to reality206
CHAPTER XX.
THE ESCAPE FROM COLUMBIA.
Mysterious voices. — "I reckon dey's Yankees." — "Who
comes there?" — The Lady of the Manor. — A weird
spectacle. — The struggle through the swamp. — A
reflection on Southern swamps in general. — "Tired
nature's sweet restorer"221
CHAPTER XXI.
LOYALTY OF THE NEGROES.
Startled by hounds. — An unpleasant predicament. — A
Christian gentlewoman. — Appeal to Mrs. Colonel Taylor.
— "She did all she could." — A meal fit for the gods. —
Aunt Katy. — "Lor' bress ye, marsters!" — Uncle Zeb's
prayer. — Hoe-cake and pinders. — Woodcraft versus
UNDER FIRE AT CHARLESTON.
Under siege. — Charleston Jail. — The Stars and Stripes. —
Federal compliments. — Under the guns. — Roper
Hospital. — Yellow Jack. — Sisters of Charity. — Rebel
Christianity. — A Byronic stanza. — Charleston to
Columbia. — "Camp Sorghum." — Nemesis. — Another
dash for liberty. — Murder of Lieutenants Young and
Parker. — Studying topography. — A vaticination. —
Back to reality206
CHAPTER XX.
THE ESCAPE FROM COLUMBIA.
Mysterious voices. — "I reckon dey's Yankees." — "Who
comes there?" — The Lady of the Manor. — A weird
spectacle. — The struggle through the swamp. — A
reflection on Southern swamps in general. — "Tired
nature's sweet restorer"221
CHAPTER XXI.
LOYALTY OF THE NEGROES.
Startled by hounds. — An unpleasant predicament. — A
Christian gentlewoman. — Appeal to Mrs. Colonel Taylor.
— "She did all she could." — A meal fit for the gods. —
Aunt Katy. — "Lor' bress ye, marsters!" — Uncle Zeb's
prayer. — Hoe-cake and pinders. — Woodcraft versus
Page 24
astronomy. — Canine foes. — Characteristics of the slave.
— Meeting escaped prisoners. — Danger. — Retreat and
concealment228
CHAPTER XXII.
PROGRESS OF THE FUGITIVES.
Parting company. — Thirst and no water. — Hoping for the
end. — The boy and the chicken. — Conversation of
ladies overheard. — The fugitives pursued. — The
sleeping village. — Captain Bryant. — The alba sus. —
Justifiable murder, and a delicious meal. — Darkies and
their prayers. — Man proposes; God disposes. — An
adventure. — A ruse de guerre. — Across the
Savannah238
CHAPTER XXIII.
THE PERILS OF AN ESCAPE.
Alligators. — A detachment of Southern chivalry. — A
scare. — Repairs neatly executed. — Misery and despair.
— Virtue its own reward. — Hunger and desperation. —
Audacity. — A Confederate officer. — "A good Union
man." — "Two sights and a jambye." — A narrow
escape249
CHAPTER XXIV.
RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST.
— Meeting escaped prisoners. — Danger. — Retreat and
concealment228
CHAPTER XXII.
PROGRESS OF THE FUGITIVES.
Parting company. — Thirst and no water. — Hoping for the
end. — The boy and the chicken. — Conversation of
ladies overheard. — The fugitives pursued. — The
sleeping village. — Captain Bryant. — The alba sus. —
Justifiable murder, and a delicious meal. — Darkies and
their prayers. — Man proposes; God disposes. — An
adventure. — A ruse de guerre. — Across the
Savannah238
CHAPTER XXIII.
THE PERILS OF AN ESCAPE.
Alligators. — A detachment of Southern chivalry. — A
scare. — Repairs neatly executed. — Misery and despair.
— Virtue its own reward. — Hunger and desperation. —
Audacity. — A Confederate officer. — "A good Union
man." — "Two sights and a jambye." — A narrow
escape249
CHAPTER XXIV.
RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST.
Page 25
Fugitive slaves. — A rebel planter. — The big Ebenezer. —
A sound of oars. — A ruse de guerre. — Burial of a dead
soldier. — A free ride. — Groping in the dark. — "Who
goes there!" — Recaptured. — Nil desperandum. —
James Brooks. — Contraband of war. — Confederate
murders. — In the saddle again. — A dash for freedom. —
Again captured. — Tried as a spy261
CHAPTER XXV.
FINAL ESCAPE FROM CAPTIVITY.
In jail. — White trash. — Yankees. — Off to Waynesboro.
— No rations. — Calling the roll. — Sylvania. — Plan for
escape. — Lieutenant John W. Wright. — A desperate
project. — Escaped! — Giving chase. — The pursuers
baffled. — Old Richard. — "Pooty hard case, massa." —
Rebel deserters. — The sound of cannon. — Personating a
rebel officer. — Mrs. Keyton. — Renewed hope. — A
Confederate outpost. — Bloodhounds. — Uncle Philip. —
March Dasher. — Suspicion disarmed. — "Now I'ze
ready, gemmen." — Stars and stripes. — Glorious
freedom. — Home274
CHAPTER XXVI
GLAZIER RE-ENTERS THE SERVICE.
Glazier's determination to re-enter the army. — Letter to
Colonel Harhaus. — Testimonial from Colonel Clarence
Buel. — Letter from Hon. Martin I. Townsend to governor
A sound of oars. — A ruse de guerre. — Burial of a dead
soldier. — A free ride. — Groping in the dark. — "Who
goes there!" — Recaptured. — Nil desperandum. —
James Brooks. — Contraband of war. — Confederate
murders. — In the saddle again. — A dash for freedom. —
Again captured. — Tried as a spy261
CHAPTER XXV.
FINAL ESCAPE FROM CAPTIVITY.
In jail. — White trash. — Yankees. — Off to Waynesboro.
— No rations. — Calling the roll. — Sylvania. — Plan for
escape. — Lieutenant John W. Wright. — A desperate
project. — Escaped! — Giving chase. — The pursuers
baffled. — Old Richard. — "Pooty hard case, massa." —
Rebel deserters. — The sound of cannon. — Personating a
rebel officer. — Mrs. Keyton. — Renewed hope. — A
Confederate outpost. — Bloodhounds. — Uncle Philip. —
March Dasher. — Suspicion disarmed. — "Now I'ze
ready, gemmen." — Stars and stripes. — Glorious
freedom. — Home274
CHAPTER XXVI
GLAZIER RE-ENTERS THE SERVICE.
Glazier's determination to re-enter the army. — Letter to
Colonel Harhaus. — Testimonial from Colonel Clarence
Buel. — Letter from Hon. Martin I. Townsend to governor
Page 26
of New York. — Letter from General Davies. — Letter
from General Kilpatrick. — Application for new
commission successful. — Home. — The mother fails to
recognize her son. — Supposed to be dead. — Recognized
by his sister Marjorie. — Filial and fraternal love. —
Reports himself to his commanding officer for duty. —
Close of the war and of Glazier's military career. — Seeks
a new object in life. — An idea occurs to him. —
Becomes an author, and finds a publisher295
CHAPTER XXVII.
CAREER AS AN AUTHOR.
Glazier in search of a publisher for "Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape." — Spends his last dollar. — Lieutenant
Richardson a friend in need. — Joel Munsell, of Albany,
consents to publish. — The author solicits subscriptions
for his work before publication. — Succeeds. — Captain
Hampton. — R. H. Ferguson. — Captain F. C. Lord. —
Publication and sale of first edition. — Great success. —
Pays his publisher in full. — Still greater successes. —
Finally attains an enormous sale. — Style of the work. —
Extracts. — Opinions of the press304
CHAPTER XXVIII.
"THREE YEARS IN THE FEDERAL CAVALRY."
Another work by Captain Glazier. — "Three Years in the
Federal Cavalry." — Daring deeds of the Light Dragoons.
from General Kilpatrick. — Application for new
commission successful. — Home. — The mother fails to
recognize her son. — Supposed to be dead. — Recognized
by his sister Marjorie. — Filial and fraternal love. —
Reports himself to his commanding officer for duty. —
Close of the war and of Glazier's military career. — Seeks
a new object in life. — An idea occurs to him. —
Becomes an author, and finds a publisher295
CHAPTER XXVII.
CAREER AS AN AUTHOR.
Glazier in search of a publisher for "Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape." — Spends his last dollar. — Lieutenant
Richardson a friend in need. — Joel Munsell, of Albany,
consents to publish. — The author solicits subscriptions
for his work before publication. — Succeeds. — Captain
Hampton. — R. H. Ferguson. — Captain F. C. Lord. —
Publication and sale of first edition. — Great success. —
Pays his publisher in full. — Still greater successes. —
Finally attains an enormous sale. — Style of the work. —
Extracts. — Opinions of the press304
CHAPTER XXVIII.
"THREE YEARS IN THE FEDERAL CAVALRY."
Another work by Captain Glazier. — "Three Years in the
Federal Cavalry." — Daring deeds of the Light Dragoons.
Page 27
— Extracts from the work. — Night attack on Falmouth
Heights. — Kilpatrick's stratagem. — Flight of the enemy.
— Capture of Falmouth. — Burial of Lieutenant Decker.
— Incidents at "Brandy Station." — "Harris Light" and
"Tenth New York." — "Men of Maine, you must save the
day!" — Position won. — Some press reviews of the
work313
CHAPTER XXIX.
"BATTLES FOR THE UNION."
"Battles for the Union." — Extracts. — Bull Run. — Brandy
Station. — Manassas. — Gettysburg. — Pittsburg
Landing. — Surrender of General Lee. — Opinions of the
press. — Philadelphia "North American." — Pittsburg
"Commercial." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." — Scranton
"Republican." — Wilkes-Barre "Record of the Times." —
Reading "Eagle." — Albany "Evening Journal"322
CHAPTER XXX.
"HEROES OF THREE WARS."
Literary zeal. — "Heroes of Three Wars." — Extract from
preface. — Sale of the work. — Extracts: Washington. —
Winfield Scott. — Zachary Taylor. — Grant. — Sheridan.
— Kilpatrick. — Press reviews, a few out of many:
Boston "Transcript." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." —
Baltimore "Sun." — Philadelphia "Times." — Cincinnati
Heights. — Kilpatrick's stratagem. — Flight of the enemy.
— Capture of Falmouth. — Burial of Lieutenant Decker.
— Incidents at "Brandy Station." — "Harris Light" and
"Tenth New York." — "Men of Maine, you must save the
day!" — Position won. — Some press reviews of the
work313
CHAPTER XXIX.
"BATTLES FOR THE UNION."
"Battles for the Union." — Extracts. — Bull Run. — Brandy
Station. — Manassas. — Gettysburg. — Pittsburg
Landing. — Surrender of General Lee. — Opinions of the
press. — Philadelphia "North American." — Pittsburg
"Commercial." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." — Scranton
"Republican." — Wilkes-Barre "Record of the Times." —
Reading "Eagle." — Albany "Evening Journal"322
CHAPTER XXX.
"HEROES OF THREE WARS."
Literary zeal. — "Heroes of Three Wars." — Extract from
preface. — Sale of the work. — Extracts: Washington. —
Winfield Scott. — Zachary Taylor. — Grant. — Sheridan.
— Kilpatrick. — Press reviews, a few out of many:
Boston "Transcript." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." —
Baltimore "Sun." — Philadelphia "Times." — Cincinnati
Page 28
"Enquirer." — Worcester "Spy." — Pittsburg
"Gazette"341
CHAPTER XXXI.
OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK.
From Boston to San Francisco. — An unparalleled ride. —
Object of the journey. — Novel lecture tour. — Captain
Frank M. Clark. — "Echoes from the Revolution." —
Lecture at Tremont Temple. — Captain Theodore L.
Kelly. — A success. — Proceeds of lecture. — Edward F.
Rollins. — Extracts from first lecture. — Press notices363
CHAPTER XXXII.
BOSTON TO CHICAGO.
In the saddle. — Bunker Hill. — Arrives in Albany. —
Reminiscences. — The Soldiers' Home. — Contributions
for erecting Soldiers' Home. — Reception at Rochester. —
Buffalo. — Dunkirk. — Swanville. — Cleveland. —
Massacre of General Custer. — Monroe. — Lectures for
Custer Monument. — Father of General Custer. —
Detroit. — Kalamazoo. — An adventure. — Gives "Paul
Revere" a rest. — Decatur. — Niles. — Michigan City. —
Chicago376
CHAPTER XXXIII.
CHICAGO TO OMAHA.
"Gazette"341
CHAPTER XXXI.
OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK.
From Boston to San Francisco. — An unparalleled ride. —
Object of the journey. — Novel lecture tour. — Captain
Frank M. Clark. — "Echoes from the Revolution." —
Lecture at Tremont Temple. — Captain Theodore L.
Kelly. — A success. — Proceeds of lecture. — Edward F.
Rollins. — Extracts from first lecture. — Press notices363
CHAPTER XXXII.
BOSTON TO CHICAGO.
In the saddle. — Bunker Hill. — Arrives in Albany. —
Reminiscences. — The Soldiers' Home. — Contributions
for erecting Soldiers' Home. — Reception at Rochester. —
Buffalo. — Dunkirk. — Swanville. — Cleveland. —
Massacre of General Custer. — Monroe. — Lectures for
Custer Monument. — Father of General Custer. —
Detroit. — Kalamazoo. — An adventure. — Gives "Paul
Revere" a rest. — Decatur. — Niles. — Michigan City. —
Chicago376
CHAPTER XXXIII.
CHICAGO TO OMAHA.
Page 29
Returns to Michigan City. — Joliet. — Thomas Babcock. —
Herbert Glazier. — Ottawa. — La Salle. — Colonel
Stevens. — Press Notice. — Taken for a highwayman. —
Milan. — Davenport. — Press Notice. — Iowa City. —
Des Moines. — Press Notice. — Attacked by prairie
wolves. — Council Bluffs. — Omaha401
CHAPTER XXXIV.
CAPTAIN GLAZIER CAPTURED BY INDIANS.
Captain Glazier as a horseman. — Cheyenne. — Two
herders. — Captured by Indians. — Torture and death of a
herder. — Escape. — Ogden. — Letter to Major Hessler.
— Kelton. — Terrace. — Wells. — Halleck. — Elko. —
Palisade. — Argenta. — Battle Mountain. — Golconda.
— Humboldt. — "The majesty of the law." — Lovelock's.
— White Plains. — Desert. — Wadsworth. — Truckee. —
Summit. — Sacramento. — Brighton. — Stockton. —
San Francisco410
CHAPTER XXXV.
RETURN FROM CALIFORNIA.
Returns to the East by the "Iron Horse." — Boston
Transcript on the journey on horseback. — Resumes
literary work. — "Peculiarities of American Cities." —
Preface to book. — A domestic incident. — A worthy son.
— Claims of parents. — Purchases the Old Homestead,
Herbert Glazier. — Ottawa. — La Salle. — Colonel
Stevens. — Press Notice. — Taken for a highwayman. —
Milan. — Davenport. — Press Notice. — Iowa City. —
Des Moines. — Press Notice. — Attacked by prairie
wolves. — Council Bluffs. — Omaha401
CHAPTER XXXIV.
CAPTAIN GLAZIER CAPTURED BY INDIANS.
Captain Glazier as a horseman. — Cheyenne. — Two
herders. — Captured by Indians. — Torture and death of a
herder. — Escape. — Ogden. — Letter to Major Hessler.
— Kelton. — Terrace. — Wells. — Halleck. — Elko. —
Palisade. — Argenta. — Battle Mountain. — Golconda.
— Humboldt. — "The majesty of the law." — Lovelock's.
— White Plains. — Desert. — Wadsworth. — Truckee. —
Summit. — Sacramento. — Brighton. — Stockton. —
San Francisco410
CHAPTER XXXV.
RETURN FROM CALIFORNIA.
Returns to the East by the "Iron Horse." — Boston
Transcript on the journey on horseback. — Resumes
literary work. — "Peculiarities of American Cities." —
Preface to book. — A domestic incident. — A worthy son.
— Claims of parents. — Purchases the Old Homestead,
Page 30
and presents it to his father and mother. — Letter to his
parents. — The end431
CHAPTER XXXVI.
THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER.
An interval of literary work. — Conception of another
expedition. — Reflections upon the Old Explorers. —
Indian rumors. — Determined to find the true source of
the Great River. — Starting on the eventful journey. —
Joined by his brother George and Barrett Channing Paine.
— Collecting materials for the expedition. — Brainerd the
first point of departure. — Through the Chippewa country.
— Seventy miles of government road. — Curiosity its
own reward. — Arrival at Leech Lake437
CHAPTER XXXVII
HOME OF THE CHIPPEWAS.
An aboriginal red man. — A primitive hotel. — A native of
the forest. — Leech Lake. — Major Ruffe's arrival. —
White Cloud. — Paul Beaulieu and his theory about the
source of the Mississippi. — Che-no-wa-ge-sic. —
Studying Indian manners and customs. — Dining with
Indian royalty. — Chippewa hospitality. — How the wife
of an Indian Chief entertains. — Souvenir of Flat Mouth.
— Return of Che-no-wa-ge-sic. — A council held. — An
Indian speech. — "No White Man has yet seen the head of
parents. — The end431
CHAPTER XXXVI.
THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER.
An interval of literary work. — Conception of another
expedition. — Reflections upon the Old Explorers. —
Indian rumors. — Determined to find the true source of
the Great River. — Starting on the eventful journey. —
Joined by his brother George and Barrett Channing Paine.
— Collecting materials for the expedition. — Brainerd the
first point of departure. — Through the Chippewa country.
— Seventy miles of government road. — Curiosity its
own reward. — Arrival at Leech Lake437
CHAPTER XXXVII
HOME OF THE CHIPPEWAS.
An aboriginal red man. — A primitive hotel. — A native of
the forest. — Leech Lake. — Major Ruffe's arrival. —
White Cloud. — Paul Beaulieu and his theory about the
source of the Mississippi. — Che-no-wa-ge-sic. —
Studying Indian manners and customs. — Dining with
Indian royalty. — Chippewa hospitality. — How the wife
of an Indian Chief entertains. — Souvenir of Flat Mouth.
— Return of Che-no-wa-ge-sic. — A council held. — An
Indian speech. — "No White Man has yet seen the head of
Page 31
the Father of Waters." — Voyage of exploration. —
Launching the canoes444
CHAPTER XXXVIII
EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY.
Launching the canoes. — Flat Mouth and White Cloud
again. — An inspiring scene. — Farewell to Leech Lake.
— Up the Kabekanka River. — Dinner at Lake Benedict.
— Difficult navigation. — A peaceful haven. — Supper
and contentment. — Lake Garfield. — Preparations for
first portage. — Utter exhaustion. — Encampment for the
night. — The cavalry column. — Lake George and Lake
Paine. — The Naiwa River. — Six miles from Itasca. —
Camping on the Mississippi watershed. — A startling
discovery. — Rations giving out. — Ammunition gone. —
Arrival at Lake Itasca454
CHAPTER XXXIX.
DISCOVERY OF THE SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
Short rations. — Empty haversacks and depleted cartridge-
boxes. — Statement of Chenowagesic. — Captain
Glazier's diary. — Vivid description. — Coasting Itasca.
— Chenowagesic puzzled. — The barrier overcome. —
Victory! the Infant Mississippi. — Enthusiastic desire to
see the source. — The goal reached. — A beautiful lake.
— The fountain-head. — An American the first white man
to stand by its side. — Schoolcraft. — How he came to
Launching the canoes444
CHAPTER XXXVIII
EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY.
Launching the canoes. — Flat Mouth and White Cloud
again. — An inspiring scene. — Farewell to Leech Lake.
— Up the Kabekanka River. — Dinner at Lake Benedict.
— Difficult navigation. — A peaceful haven. — Supper
and contentment. — Lake Garfield. — Preparations for
first portage. — Utter exhaustion. — Encampment for the
night. — The cavalry column. — Lake George and Lake
Paine. — The Naiwa River. — Six miles from Itasca. —
Camping on the Mississippi watershed. — A startling
discovery. — Rations giving out. — Ammunition gone. —
Arrival at Lake Itasca454
CHAPTER XXXIX.
DISCOVERY OF THE SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
Short rations. — Empty haversacks and depleted cartridge-
boxes. — Statement of Chenowagesic. — Captain
Glazier's diary. — Vivid description. — Coasting Itasca.
— Chenowagesic puzzled. — The barrier overcome. —
Victory! the Infant Mississippi. — Enthusiastic desire to
see the source. — The goal reached. — A beautiful lake.
— The fountain-head. — An American the first white man
to stand by its side. — Schoolcraft. — How he came to
Page 32
miss the lake. — Appropriate ceremonies. — Captain
Glazier's speech. — Naming the lake. — Chenowagesic.
— Military honors. — "Three cheers for the explorer"465
CHAPTER XL.
DOWN THE GREAT RIVER.
Voyage from Source to Sea. — Three thousand miles in an
open canoe. — "Pioneers of the Mississippi." — A
thrilling lecture. — The long voyage begun. —
Mosquitoes. — Hunger and exhaustion. — The Captain
kills an otter. — Lakes Bemidji and Winnibegoshish. —
An Indian missionary. — Wind-bound. — Chenowagesic
bids farewell to the Captain. — Pokegama Falls. — Grand
Rapids. — Meeting the first steamboat. — Aitkin. —
Great enthusiasm. — The new canoes. — Leaving Aitkin.
— Arrival at Little Falls. — Escorted in triumph to the
town. — "Captain Glazier! A speech! A speech!" — Lake
Pepin. — An appalling storm. — St. Louis. — Southern
hospitality. — New Orleans. — Arrival at the Gulf of
Mexico. — End of voyage476
CHAPTER XLI.
RECEPTION BY THE NEW ORLEANS ACADEMY OF SCIENCES.
Captain Glazier returns to New Orleans. — A general
ovation. — Flattering opinions of the press. —
Introduction to the Mayor. — Freedom of the City
tendered. — Special meeting of the New Orleans
Glazier's speech. — Naming the lake. — Chenowagesic.
— Military honors. — "Three cheers for the explorer"465
CHAPTER XL.
DOWN THE GREAT RIVER.
Voyage from Source to Sea. — Three thousand miles in an
open canoe. — "Pioneers of the Mississippi." — A
thrilling lecture. — The long voyage begun. —
Mosquitoes. — Hunger and exhaustion. — The Captain
kills an otter. — Lakes Bemidji and Winnibegoshish. —
An Indian missionary. — Wind-bound. — Chenowagesic
bids farewell to the Captain. — Pokegama Falls. — Grand
Rapids. — Meeting the first steamboat. — Aitkin. —
Great enthusiasm. — The new canoes. — Leaving Aitkin.
— Arrival at Little Falls. — Escorted in triumph to the
town. — "Captain Glazier! A speech! A speech!" — Lake
Pepin. — An appalling storm. — St. Louis. — Southern
hospitality. — New Orleans. — Arrival at the Gulf of
Mexico. — End of voyage476
CHAPTER XLI.
RECEPTION BY THE NEW ORLEANS ACADEMY OF SCIENCES.
Captain Glazier returns to New Orleans. — A general
ovation. — Flattering opinions of the press. —
Introduction to the Mayor. — Freedom of the City
tendered. — Special meeting of the New Orleans
Page 33
Academy of Sciences. — Presentation of the "Alice" to
the Academy. — Captain Glazier's address. — The
President's Response. — Resolutions of thanks and
appreciation passed. — Visit to the Arsenal of the
Washington Artillery. — Welcome by the Old Guard of
the Louisiana Tigers. — Pleasant memories of the
"Crescent City"490
CHAPTER XLII.
BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
Return to St. Louis. — Lecture at Mercantile Library Hall.
— Brilliant audience. — The Missouri Historical Society
present. — Eloquent introduction by Judge Todd. —
"Pioneers of the Mississippi." — Presentation of the
"Itasca" to the Historical Society. — Remarks of Captain
Silas Bent on accepting the canoe. — Congratulations of
the audience. — Closing scene496
CHAPTER XLIII.
GREETINGS OF THE VOYAGE.
An interesting souvenir. — Greeting at Lake Glazier. —
Petition to Geographical Societies. — Voice from Aitkin,
Gate City of the Upper Mississippi. — Tributes from
Brainerd. — Mississippi Pyramid. — An old friend at La
Crosse. — Greetings at St. Louis. — Senator Lamar. —
Royal welcome at Bayou Tunica. — Sentiment of Port
Eads. — Congratulations of the officers of the "Margaret."
the Academy. — Captain Glazier's address. — The
President's Response. — Resolutions of thanks and
appreciation passed. — Visit to the Arsenal of the
Washington Artillery. — Welcome by the Old Guard of
the Louisiana Tigers. — Pleasant memories of the
"Crescent City"490
CHAPTER XLII.
BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
Return to St. Louis. — Lecture at Mercantile Library Hall.
— Brilliant audience. — The Missouri Historical Society
present. — Eloquent introduction by Judge Todd. —
"Pioneers of the Mississippi." — Presentation of the
"Itasca" to the Historical Society. — Remarks of Captain
Silas Bent on accepting the canoe. — Congratulations of
the audience. — Closing scene496
CHAPTER XLIII.
GREETINGS OF THE VOYAGE.
An interesting souvenir. — Greeting at Lake Glazier. —
Petition to Geographical Societies. — Voice from Aitkin,
Gate City of the Upper Mississippi. — Tributes from
Brainerd. — Mississippi Pyramid. — An old friend at La
Crosse. — Greetings at St. Louis. — Senator Lamar. —
Royal welcome at Bayou Tunica. — Sentiment of Port
Eads. — Congratulations of the officers of the "Margaret."
Page 34
— Greetings from New Orleans. — "Fame's triple
wreath." — Closing remarks502
"SWORD AND PEN" COMMENDATIONS.
517
APPENDIX BY THE PUBLISHERS
Appx. i
wreath." — Closing remarks502
"SWORD AND PEN" COMMENDATIONS.
517
APPENDIX BY THE PUBLISHERS
Appx. i
Page 35
ILLUSTRATIONS.
Portrait of the Soldier-author Frontispiece
Birth-place of Willard Glazier 26
The First Battle 32
Race with the Schoolmaster 44
Tragic Experience with an Ox-Team 80
The Young Trapper of the Oswegatchie 90
Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary 102
Old State Normal School 110
A Cavalry Column on the March 118
Night Attack on Falmouth Heights 126
Federal Canteens for Confederate Tobacco 130
Burial of Captain Walters at Midnight, during Pope's retreat 134
Sergeant Glazier at Aldie 146
Lieutenant Glazier at Brandy Station 156
Cavalry Fight at New Baltimore—Lieutenant Glazier taken
Prisoner 160
Libby Prison 166
The Hole in the Floor 192
Portrait of the Soldier-author Frontispiece
Birth-place of Willard Glazier 26
The First Battle 32
Race with the Schoolmaster 44
Tragic Experience with an Ox-Team 80
The Young Trapper of the Oswegatchie 90
Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary 102
Old State Normal School 110
A Cavalry Column on the March 118
Night Attack on Falmouth Heights 126
Federal Canteens for Confederate Tobacco 130
Burial of Captain Walters at Midnight, during Pope's retreat 134
Sergeant Glazier at Aldie 146
Lieutenant Glazier at Brandy Station 156
Cavalry Fight at New Baltimore—Lieutenant Glazier taken
Prisoner 160
Libby Prison 166
The Hole in the Floor 192
Page 36
Tunneling—the Narrow Path To Freedom 198
Charleston Jail—Charleston, South Carolina 206
The Escape From Columbia—Crossing the Dead-Line 216
The Escape—Fed by Negroes in a Swamp 220
The Pursuit of Knowledge under Difficulties 224
Uncle Zeb's Prayer 232
The Escape—Crossing the Savannah at Midnight 246
A Mutual Surprise 258
Recaptured by a Confederate Outpost 266
The Escape and Pursuit 270
The Escape From Sylvania, Georgia—Running the Guard 276
Interview With Joel Munsell 306
Cavalry Foraging-Party Returning To Camp 312
A Cavalry Bivouac 319
Battle of Gettysburg 332
Captain Glazier at Tremont Temple—Boston 364
Boston to Brighton—First Day of The Journey 376
A Night among Wolves 406
Captured by Indians, near Skull Rocks, Wyoming 412
Pursued by Arrapahoes 418
Riding into the Pacific, near the Cliff House—San Francisco 428
Charleston Jail—Charleston, South Carolina 206
The Escape From Columbia—Crossing the Dead-Line 216
The Escape—Fed by Negroes in a Swamp 220
The Pursuit of Knowledge under Difficulties 224
Uncle Zeb's Prayer 232
The Escape—Crossing the Savannah at Midnight 246
A Mutual Surprise 258
Recaptured by a Confederate Outpost 266
The Escape and Pursuit 270
The Escape From Sylvania, Georgia—Running the Guard 276
Interview With Joel Munsell 306
Cavalry Foraging-Party Returning To Camp 312
A Cavalry Bivouac 319
Battle of Gettysburg 332
Captain Glazier at Tremont Temple—Boston 364
Boston to Brighton—First Day of The Journey 376
A Night among Wolves 406
Captured by Indians, near Skull Rocks, Wyoming 412
Pursued by Arrapahoes 418
Riding into the Pacific, near the Cliff House—San Francisco 428
Page 37
Map of the Headwaters of the Mississippi 437
Captain Glazier Embarking for the Headwaters of the
Mississippi 454
Camp Among the Pines 458
Making a Portage 462
Map of Lake Glazier 464
Lake Glazier—Source of the Mississippi 468
Running Rapids on the Upper Mississippi 478
SWORD AND PEN.
Captain Glazier Embarking for the Headwaters of the
Mississippi 454
Camp Among the Pines 458
Making a Portage 462
Map of Lake Glazier 464
Lake Glazier—Source of the Mississippi 468
Running Rapids on the Upper Mississippi 478
SWORD AND PEN.
Page 38
CHAPTER I.
ORIGIN OF THE GLAZIER FAMILY.
Lineage of Willard Glazier. — A good stock. — Oliver Glazier at the Battle of Bunker Hill. — The
home of honest industry. — The Coronet of Pembroke. — The "Homestead Farm." —
Mehitable Bolton. — Her New England home. — Her marriage to Ward Glazier. — The wild
"North Woods." — The mother of the soldier-author.
Willard Glazier comes of the mixed blood of Saxon and of Celt. We first
hear of his ancestors upon this side of the Atlantic at that period of our
nation's history which intervened between the speck of war at Lexington
and the cloud of war at Bunker Hill.
Massachusetts and the town of Boston had become marked objects of the
displeasure of the British Parliament. Later, in 1775, Ethan Allen had
startled Captain Delaplace by presenting his lank figure at the captain's
bedside and demanding the surrender of Ticonderoga in the name of the
"Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress." In the language of Daniel
Webster, "A spirit pervaded all ranks, not transient, not boisterous, but deep,
solemn, determined."
War on their own soil and at their own doors was indeed a strange work
to the yeomanry of New England; but their consciences were convinced of
its necessity, and when their country called them to her defense they did not
withhold themselves from the perilous responsibility.
The statement of Quincy seemed to pervade all hearts. Said that
distinguished son of genius and patriotism, "Blandishments will not
fascinate us, nor will threats of a halter intimidate; for, under God, we are
ORIGIN OF THE GLAZIER FAMILY.
Lineage of Willard Glazier. — A good stock. — Oliver Glazier at the Battle of Bunker Hill. — The
home of honest industry. — The Coronet of Pembroke. — The "Homestead Farm." —
Mehitable Bolton. — Her New England home. — Her marriage to Ward Glazier. — The wild
"North Woods." — The mother of the soldier-author.
Willard Glazier comes of the mixed blood of Saxon and of Celt. We first
hear of his ancestors upon this side of the Atlantic at that period of our
nation's history which intervened between the speck of war at Lexington
and the cloud of war at Bunker Hill.
Massachusetts and the town of Boston had become marked objects of the
displeasure of the British Parliament. Later, in 1775, Ethan Allen had
startled Captain Delaplace by presenting his lank figure at the captain's
bedside and demanding the surrender of Ticonderoga in the name of the
"Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress." In the language of Daniel
Webster, "A spirit pervaded all ranks, not transient, not boisterous, but deep,
solemn, determined."
War on their own soil and at their own doors was indeed a strange work
to the yeomanry of New England; but their consciences were convinced of
its necessity, and when their country called them to her defense they did not
withhold themselves from the perilous responsibility.
The statement of Quincy seemed to pervade all hearts. Said that
distinguished son of genius and patriotism, "Blandishments will not
fascinate us, nor will threats of a halter intimidate; for, under God, we are
Page 39
determined that, wheresoever, whensoever, and howsoever we shall be
called to make our exit, we will die free men."
At such a time, and among such men, we find enrolled in the ranks of the
patriot army Oliver Glazier, the great-grandfather of the subject of the
present biography.
Oliver's father was John Glazier, a Massachusetts Lancastrian, born in
1739. John Glazier was the son of William Glazier, born about the year
1700, his ancestry being respectively of English and of Scotch extraction.
Oliver himself, however, was born in the town of Lancaster, in the province
or colony of Massachusetts, May twenty-third, 1763.
Hence the blood of Norman, of Saxon and of Celt, that had forgotten the
animosities of race and mingled quietly in the veins of his ancestors, had
become purely American in Oliver, and though but little over fourteen years
of age, we find him doing yeoman service upon the ramparts of Bunker
Hill.
That he performed well his part in the struggle for liberty, is evident from
the fact that he appears upon the rolls as a pensioner, from the close of that
memorable contest until the time of his death.
Mr. Frank Renehan, in a sketch contributed by him to an elaborate work
which was published by the New York and Hartford Publishing Company in
1871, comments as follows upon the coincidence of Oliver Glazier in 1775
and Willard Glazier in 1861—both being at the time of entering service
comparatively boys in age, enlisting for the defense of their country: "The
former, though then but fourteen years of age, participated with the patriots
in the battle of Bunker Hill, and to the last contributed his young
enthusiasm and willing services to the cause he had espoused; thus giving
early testimony of his devotion to the land of his adoption and of fealty to
called to make our exit, we will die free men."
At such a time, and among such men, we find enrolled in the ranks of the
patriot army Oliver Glazier, the great-grandfather of the subject of the
present biography.
Oliver's father was John Glazier, a Massachusetts Lancastrian, born in
1739. John Glazier was the son of William Glazier, born about the year
1700, his ancestry being respectively of English and of Scotch extraction.
Oliver himself, however, was born in the town of Lancaster, in the province
or colony of Massachusetts, May twenty-third, 1763.
Hence the blood of Norman, of Saxon and of Celt, that had forgotten the
animosities of race and mingled quietly in the veins of his ancestors, had
become purely American in Oliver, and though but little over fourteen years
of age, we find him doing yeoman service upon the ramparts of Bunker
Hill.
That he performed well his part in the struggle for liberty, is evident from
the fact that he appears upon the rolls as a pensioner, from the close of that
memorable contest until the time of his death.
Mr. Frank Renehan, in a sketch contributed by him to an elaborate work
which was published by the New York and Hartford Publishing Company in
1871, comments as follows upon the coincidence of Oliver Glazier in 1775
and Willard Glazier in 1861—both being at the time of entering service
comparatively boys in age, enlisting for the defense of their country: "The
former, though then but fourteen years of age, participated with the patriots
in the battle of Bunker Hill, and to the last contributed his young
enthusiasm and willing services to the cause he had espoused; thus giving
early testimony of his devotion to the land of his adoption and of fealty to
Page 40
the principles of popular government involved in the struggle for American
independence. So remarkable an instance of ancestral fidelity to the
interests of civil liberty could not but exercise a marked influence upon
those of the same blood to whom the tradition was handed down, and here
we find our subject, a scion of the third generation, assisting in 1861 on the
battlefields of the South, in maintenance of the liberty his progenitor had
contributed to achieve in 1775 on the battlefields of the North! This is not
mentioned as a singular fact—history is replete with just such coincidences,
—but merely for the purpose of suggesting the moral that, in matters of
patriotism, the son is only consistent when he imitates the example and
emulates the virtues of his sires."
In this eloquent passage occurs an error of fact. Oliver Glazier while in
the patriot army was not fighting for the "land of his adoption." As we have
seen, he was native here and "to the manor born." Indeed, in the light of
historic proof and with the example of men descended from Washington
and Light Horse Harry Lee before us, we are rather inclined to admire the
paragraph as a fine specimen of rhetorical composition than to admit its
accuracy as a deduction in philosophy.
Subsequent to his term of military service—an experience through which
he had safely passed—Oliver Glazier became a resident of West Boylston,
Massachusetts, where he married a Miss Hastings.
The name of Glazier, Lower tells us, is purely English, and is derived
from the title given to the trade. However that may be, those who have
borne it have always expressed a pride in having sprung from the great
mass—the people—and have held with the philosopher of Sunnyside, that
whether "hereditary rank be an illusion or not, hereditary virtue gives a
patent of nobility beyond all the blazonry of the herald's college." The name
of Hastings takes its rise from a nobler source; for Mrs. Oliver Glazier
independence. So remarkable an instance of ancestral fidelity to the
interests of civil liberty could not but exercise a marked influence upon
those of the same blood to whom the tradition was handed down, and here
we find our subject, a scion of the third generation, assisting in 1861 on the
battlefields of the South, in maintenance of the liberty his progenitor had
contributed to achieve in 1775 on the battlefields of the North! This is not
mentioned as a singular fact—history is replete with just such coincidences,
—but merely for the purpose of suggesting the moral that, in matters of
patriotism, the son is only consistent when he imitates the example and
emulates the virtues of his sires."
In this eloquent passage occurs an error of fact. Oliver Glazier while in
the patriot army was not fighting for the "land of his adoption." As we have
seen, he was native here and "to the manor born." Indeed, in the light of
historic proof and with the example of men descended from Washington
and Light Horse Harry Lee before us, we are rather inclined to admire the
paragraph as a fine specimen of rhetorical composition than to admit its
accuracy as a deduction in philosophy.
Subsequent to his term of military service—an experience through which
he had safely passed—Oliver Glazier became a resident of West Boylston,
Massachusetts, where he married a Miss Hastings.
The name of Glazier, Lower tells us, is purely English, and is derived
from the title given to the trade. However that may be, those who have
borne it have always expressed a pride in having sprung from the great
mass—the people—and have held with the philosopher of Sunnyside, that
whether "hereditary rank be an illusion or not, hereditary virtue gives a
patent of nobility beyond all the blazonry of the herald's college." The name
of Hastings takes its rise from a nobler source; for Mrs. Oliver Glazier
Page 41
brought into the family as blue blood as any in all England. The great
family which bears that name in Great Britain can show quarterings of an
earlier date than the battle which gave a kingdom to William of Normandy.
Macaulay says that one branch of their line, in the fourteenth century, "wore
the coronet of Pembroke; that from another sprang the renowned Lord
Chamberlain, the faithful adherent of the White Rose, whose fate has
furnished so striking a theme both to the poet and historian," and while it is
probable that this wife of an American patriot was many degrees removed
from the powerful leaders whose name she bore, the same blood
undoubtedly flowed in her veins that coursed through theirs.
Oliver, during the many years of a happy married life which terminated
in his death at the ripe age of ninety-seven, became the father of eight
children. His son Jabez left Boylston at an early age, and after considerable
"prospecting" finally married a Miss Sarah Tucker and settled in the
township of Fowler, St. Lawrence County, New York. Out of their union
sprang three sons, George, Ward, and Henry, and four daughters, Elvira,
Martha, Caroline and Lydia. During a visit he made to his "down East"
relations, Ward married a young lady by the name of Mehitable Bolton, of
West Boylston, Massachusetts.
This young lady was a true representative of the New England woman,
who believes that work is the handmaid of religion. She entered a cotton
factory at Worcester when only seventeen years of age, and worked
perseveringly through long years of labor, often walking from her home in
West Boylston to the factory at Worcester, a distance of seven miles. At the
time of her marriage—which occurred when she was twenty-five—she had
accumulated the snug little sum of five hundred dollars, besides possessing
a handsome wardrobe, all of which was the fruit of her own untiring
industry.
family which bears that name in Great Britain can show quarterings of an
earlier date than the battle which gave a kingdom to William of Normandy.
Macaulay says that one branch of their line, in the fourteenth century, "wore
the coronet of Pembroke; that from another sprang the renowned Lord
Chamberlain, the faithful adherent of the White Rose, whose fate has
furnished so striking a theme both to the poet and historian," and while it is
probable that this wife of an American patriot was many degrees removed
from the powerful leaders whose name she bore, the same blood
undoubtedly flowed in her veins that coursed through theirs.
Oliver, during the many years of a happy married life which terminated
in his death at the ripe age of ninety-seven, became the father of eight
children. His son Jabez left Boylston at an early age, and after considerable
"prospecting" finally married a Miss Sarah Tucker and settled in the
township of Fowler, St. Lawrence County, New York. Out of their union
sprang three sons, George, Ward, and Henry, and four daughters, Elvira,
Martha, Caroline and Lydia. During a visit he made to his "down East"
relations, Ward married a young lady by the name of Mehitable Bolton, of
West Boylston, Massachusetts.
This young lady was a true representative of the New England woman,
who believes that work is the handmaid of religion. She entered a cotton
factory at Worcester when only seventeen years of age, and worked
perseveringly through long years of labor, often walking from her home in
West Boylston to the factory at Worcester, a distance of seven miles. At the
time of her marriage—which occurred when she was twenty-five—she had
accumulated the snug little sum of five hundred dollars, besides possessing
a handsome wardrobe, all of which was the fruit of her own untiring
industry.
Page 42
If it be true that the mothers of men of mark are always women of strong
and noble characters, then we are not surprised to find in the mother of
Willard Glazier those sterling qualities which made her young life
successful.
The early married life of Ward Glazier was passed upon the farm first
cleared and cultivated by his father, and which has since become known to
the neighborhood as the "Old Glazier Homestead." This farm is situated in
the township of Fowler, midway between the small villages of Little York
and Fullersville.
The township is a tract of rugged land, containing only the little village
of Hailesborough, besides those already named. Along its borders rushes
and tumbles a turbulent stream which still retains its original Indian
appellation—the Oswegatchie; a name no doubt conveying to the ear of its
aboriginal sponsors some poetical conceit, just as another stream in far off
Virginia is named the Shenandoah, or "Daughter of the Stars."
Those who are at all familiar with the scenery that prevails in what in
other sections of the country are called the great North Woods, and in their
own neighborhood the great South Woods, can readily imagine what were
the geological and scenic peculiarities of Fowler township. Bare, sterile,
famished-looking, as far as horticultural and herbaceous crops are
concerned, yet rich in pasture and abounding in herds—with vast rocks
crested and plumed with rich growths of black balsam, maple, and spruce
timber, and with huge boulders scattered carelessly over its surface and
margining its streams, St. Lawrence County presents to-day features of
savage grandeur as wild and imposing as it did ere the foot of a trapper had
profaned its primeval forests.
Yet its farms and its dwellings are numerous, its villages and towns
possess all the accompaniments of modern civilization, the spires of its
and noble characters, then we are not surprised to find in the mother of
Willard Glazier those sterling qualities which made her young life
successful.
The early married life of Ward Glazier was passed upon the farm first
cleared and cultivated by his father, and which has since become known to
the neighborhood as the "Old Glazier Homestead." This farm is situated in
the township of Fowler, midway between the small villages of Little York
and Fullersville.
The township is a tract of rugged land, containing only the little village
of Hailesborough, besides those already named. Along its borders rushes
and tumbles a turbulent stream which still retains its original Indian
appellation—the Oswegatchie; a name no doubt conveying to the ear of its
aboriginal sponsors some poetical conceit, just as another stream in far off
Virginia is named the Shenandoah, or "Daughter of the Stars."
Those who are at all familiar with the scenery that prevails in what in
other sections of the country are called the great North Woods, and in their
own neighborhood the great South Woods, can readily imagine what were
the geological and scenic peculiarities of Fowler township. Bare, sterile,
famished-looking, as far as horticultural and herbaceous crops are
concerned, yet rich in pasture and abounding in herds—with vast rocks
crested and plumed with rich growths of black balsam, maple, and spruce
timber, and with huge boulders scattered carelessly over its surface and
margining its streams, St. Lawrence County presents to-day features of
savage grandeur as wild and imposing as it did ere the foot of a trapper had
profaned its primeval forests.
Yet its farms and its dwellings are numerous, its villages and towns
possess all the accompaniments of modern civilization, the spires of its
Page 43
churches indicate that the gentle influences of religion are not forgotten, and
there, as elsewhere, the indomitable will of man has won from the
wilderness a living and a home.
BIRTH-PLACE OF WILLARD GLAZIER.
there, as elsewhere, the indomitable will of man has won from the
wilderness a living and a home.
BIRTH-PLACE OF WILLARD GLAZIER.
Page 44
CHAPTER II.
BIRTH AND CHILDHOOD OF WILLARD GLAZIER.
The infant stranger. — A mother's prayers. — "Be just before you are generous." — Careful
training. — Willard Glazier's first battle. — A narrow escape. — Facing the foe. — The happy
days of childhood. — "The boy is father to the man."
The Glazier Homestead, as we have said, is upon the main road leading
from Little York to Fullerville. It is a substantial and comfortable farm-
house, with no pretension to architectural beauty, but, nevertheless, is a
sightly object in a pleasant landscape. Standing back two hundred feet from
the road, in a grove of gigantic elms, with a limpid brook of spring water a
short distance to the right, and rich fields of herd grass stretching off
rearwards towards the waters of the Oswegatchie, which hurry along on
their journey of forty miles to the St. Lawrence River, the old house is sure
to attract the attention of the traveller, and to be long remembered as a
picture of solid and substantial comfort.
In this old house, upon the morning of August twenty-second, 1841, to
Ward Glazier and Mehitable, his wife, a son was born who was
subsequently named Willard. The father and mother were by no means
sentimental people—they were certainly not given to seeing the poetical
side of life; they were plain, earnest people, rough hewn out of the coarse
fibre of Puritanism, but the advent of this little child brought a joy to their
hearts that had its softening influence upon the home in which he was to be
reared.
BIRTH AND CHILDHOOD OF WILLARD GLAZIER.
The infant stranger. — A mother's prayers. — "Be just before you are generous." — Careful
training. — Willard Glazier's first battle. — A narrow escape. — Facing the foe. — The happy
days of childhood. — "The boy is father to the man."
The Glazier Homestead, as we have said, is upon the main road leading
from Little York to Fullerville. It is a substantial and comfortable farm-
house, with no pretension to architectural beauty, but, nevertheless, is a
sightly object in a pleasant landscape. Standing back two hundred feet from
the road, in a grove of gigantic elms, with a limpid brook of spring water a
short distance to the right, and rich fields of herd grass stretching off
rearwards towards the waters of the Oswegatchie, which hurry along on
their journey of forty miles to the St. Lawrence River, the old house is sure
to attract the attention of the traveller, and to be long remembered as a
picture of solid and substantial comfort.
In this old house, upon the morning of August twenty-second, 1841, to
Ward Glazier and Mehitable, his wife, a son was born who was
subsequently named Willard. The father and mother were by no means
sentimental people—they were certainly not given to seeing the poetical
side of life; they were plain, earnest people, rough hewn out of the coarse
fibre of Puritanism, but the advent of this little child brought a joy to their
hearts that had its softening influence upon the home in which he was to be
reared.
Page 45
The thoroughness of Ward Glazier's nature, that conscientiousness in
excess which made him radical in all things, was of the heart as well as of
the head, and though not a demonstrative man, the intensity of his paternal
love cropped out in many ways. As to his wife, hers was truly "mother's
love." And what notes are there attuned to sacred music, in all the broad
vocabulary of the English tongue, which gives any idea of the sentiment
that links a woman to her babe, except the three simple syllables, "mother's
love!" Brooding over the tiny stranger, ready to laugh or cry; exultant with
hope and pride, despondent with fear, quivering with anguish if the "wind
of heaven doth visit its cheek too roughly," and singing hosannas of joy
when it lisps the simpler syllables that she so patiently has taught, covering
it with the broad wing of her measureless affection, and lavishing upon it
such "sighs as perfect joy perplexed for utterance, steals from her sister
sorrow," there is nothing except God's own illimitable affection for his
creatures, that can rival in depth and strength and comprehensiveness, a
mother's love.
The heart of Ward Glazier's wife, at this time, blossomed in absolutely
rank luxuriance with this feeling, and ran riot in the joy of its possession;
but she determined within herself that it should be no blind or foolish
worship. It grew, therefore, into a sober, careful, provident affection.
Quiet and unobtrusive in manner, her face always wore a look of gravity
befitting one who felt that God had entrusted to her charge a fresh human
soul to mould for good or evil. She fully realized the fact that her son would
grow up with honor or sink down into ignominy just as she should guide or
spoil him in his youth. She quite comprehended the stubborn truth, that
while the father to some extent may shape the outward career of his son, the
mother is responsible for the coloring of his inner life: and that
excess which made him radical in all things, was of the heart as well as of
the head, and though not a demonstrative man, the intensity of his paternal
love cropped out in many ways. As to his wife, hers was truly "mother's
love." And what notes are there attuned to sacred music, in all the broad
vocabulary of the English tongue, which gives any idea of the sentiment
that links a woman to her babe, except the three simple syllables, "mother's
love!" Brooding over the tiny stranger, ready to laugh or cry; exultant with
hope and pride, despondent with fear, quivering with anguish if the "wind
of heaven doth visit its cheek too roughly," and singing hosannas of joy
when it lisps the simpler syllables that she so patiently has taught, covering
it with the broad wing of her measureless affection, and lavishing upon it
such "sighs as perfect joy perplexed for utterance, steals from her sister
sorrow," there is nothing except God's own illimitable affection for his
creatures, that can rival in depth and strength and comprehensiveness, a
mother's love.
The heart of Ward Glazier's wife, at this time, blossomed in absolutely
rank luxuriance with this feeling, and ran riot in the joy of its possession;
but she determined within herself that it should be no blind or foolish
worship. It grew, therefore, into a sober, careful, provident affection.
Quiet and unobtrusive in manner, her face always wore a look of gravity
befitting one who felt that God had entrusted to her charge a fresh human
soul to mould for good or evil. She fully realized the fact that her son would
grow up with honor or sink down into ignominy just as she should guide or
spoil him in his youth. She quite comprehended the stubborn truth, that
while the father to some extent may shape the outward career of his son, the
mother is responsible for the coloring of his inner life: and that
Page 46
"All we learn of good is learned in youth,
When passion's heat is pure, when love is truth."
Though of Puritan stock, though reared in the austere faith of John Knox,
there was nothing hard or harsh in this mother's character, and still less was
there anything of the materialist about her. She would have utterly scouted
the doctrine of Cabanis and his school, which held that the physical was the
whole structure of man; that all instincts, passions, thoughts, emanated from
the body; that sensibility is an effect of the nervous system, that passion is
an emanation of the viscera, that intellect is nothing more than a cerebral
secretion, and "self-consciousness but a general faculty of living matter."
She had drunk inspiration of a different kind from her infancy. In her New
England home the very atmosphere was charged with religious influences.
She was taught, or rather she had learned without a teacher, not only to see
God in the flowers and in the stars, but to recognize his immediate agency
in all things terrestrial.
Night after night, listening to the tremulous tones of her father as he read
a lesson from the sacred page, not only to those of his own blood, but to his
"man-servant, his maid-servant, and the stranger within his gates," she had
felt the presence of a tangible God, and when, at last, she followed the
fortunes of the chosen one of her heart far into the great North Woods,
nature spoke to her from the forest and the cataract, deepening each early
impression and intensifying each early belief, until she realized as a living
fact that the "Lord was ever in his holy temple" and that his temple was the
universe.
To a woman like this every act of life became a matter of conscience, and
the training of her child of course became such to Mrs. Glazier. She had
watched the pitfalls which the "world, the flesh and the devil"—that trinity
When passion's heat is pure, when love is truth."
Though of Puritan stock, though reared in the austere faith of John Knox,
there was nothing hard or harsh in this mother's character, and still less was
there anything of the materialist about her. She would have utterly scouted
the doctrine of Cabanis and his school, which held that the physical was the
whole structure of man; that all instincts, passions, thoughts, emanated from
the body; that sensibility is an effect of the nervous system, that passion is
an emanation of the viscera, that intellect is nothing more than a cerebral
secretion, and "self-consciousness but a general faculty of living matter."
She had drunk inspiration of a different kind from her infancy. In her New
England home the very atmosphere was charged with religious influences.
She was taught, or rather she had learned without a teacher, not only to see
God in the flowers and in the stars, but to recognize his immediate agency
in all things terrestrial.
Night after night, listening to the tremulous tones of her father as he read
a lesson from the sacred page, not only to those of his own blood, but to his
"man-servant, his maid-servant, and the stranger within his gates," she had
felt the presence of a tangible God, and when, at last, she followed the
fortunes of the chosen one of her heart far into the great North Woods,
nature spoke to her from the forest and the cataract, deepening each early
impression and intensifying each early belief, until she realized as a living
fact that the "Lord was ever in his holy temple" and that his temple was the
universe.
To a woman like this every act of life became a matter of conscience, and
the training of her child of course became such to Mrs. Glazier. She had
watched the pitfalls which the "world, the flesh and the devil"—that trinity
Page 47
of evil—provide for the feet of the unwary, and she determined that young
Willard's steps, if she could prevent it, should never stray that way.
Her husband took life and its duties much more easily. He was less rigid
in his sense of parental responsibility. While a man of great rectitude of
purpose, he was good-natured to a fault—somewhat improvident, careless
of money, ever ready to extend aid to the needy, and especially disinclined
to the exercise of harshness in his home, even when the stern element of
authority was needed. In short, he was one of those big-hearted men who
are so brimful of the "milk of human kindness" that the greatest pain they
ever feel is the pain they see others suffer. His plan therefore was, spare the
rod even if you do spoil the child.
But—perhaps fortunately for young Willard—Mrs. Glazier held different
views. From his very infancy she endeavored to instil into his nature habits
of truthfulness, industry and thrift. "Never waste and never lie" was her pet
injunction. Her aim was not to make her son a generous, but a just man.
"One hour of justice is worth an eternity of prayer," says the Arabian
proverb, but Mrs. Glazier, while she exalted justice as the greatest of the
virtues, also believed that in order to make man's heart its temple, prayer
was an absolutely necessary pre-requisite. She likewise endeavored from
the first to habituate the boy's mind to reflect upon the value of money and
the uses of economy. She would have "coined her blood for drachms" if that
would have benefited her husband or her son. Her savings were not spent
upon herself, but in the hard school of a bitter experience she had learned
that money means much more than dollars and cents—that its possession
involves the ability to live a life of honor, untempted by the sordid
solicitations that clamor round the poor man's door and wring the poor
man's heart.
Willard's steps, if she could prevent it, should never stray that way.
Her husband took life and its duties much more easily. He was less rigid
in his sense of parental responsibility. While a man of great rectitude of
purpose, he was good-natured to a fault—somewhat improvident, careless
of money, ever ready to extend aid to the needy, and especially disinclined
to the exercise of harshness in his home, even when the stern element of
authority was needed. In short, he was one of those big-hearted men who
are so brimful of the "milk of human kindness" that the greatest pain they
ever feel is the pain they see others suffer. His plan therefore was, spare the
rod even if you do spoil the child.
But—perhaps fortunately for young Willard—Mrs. Glazier held different
views. From his very infancy she endeavored to instil into his nature habits
of truthfulness, industry and thrift. "Never waste and never lie" was her pet
injunction. Her aim was not to make her son a generous, but a just man.
"One hour of justice is worth an eternity of prayer," says the Arabian
proverb, but Mrs. Glazier, while she exalted justice as the greatest of the
virtues, also believed that in order to make man's heart its temple, prayer
was an absolutely necessary pre-requisite. She likewise endeavored from
the first to habituate the boy's mind to reflect upon the value of money and
the uses of economy. She would have "coined her blood for drachms" if that
would have benefited her husband or her son. Her savings were not spent
upon herself, but in the hard school of a bitter experience she had learned
that money means much more than dollars and cents—that its possession
involves the ability to live a life of honor, untempted by the sordid
solicitations that clamor round the poor man's door and wring the poor
man's heart.
Page 48
The result was that as soon as he began to comprehend her words, young
Willard had impressed upon his memory maxims eulogizing all who
practise habits of sobriety, industry and frugality, and denunciatory of all
who fail to do so.
His mother never wearied of teaching him such sayings of Dr. Franklin as
these: "Time is money," "Credit is money," "Money begets money," "The
good paymaster is lord of another man's purse," and "The sound of a man's
hammer heard by his creditor at six o'clock in the morning makes him easy
six months longer, while the sound of his voice heard in a tavern, induces
him to send for his money the next day;" "Trifling items aggregate into
large totals," while the text that ruled the house was that of the Scripture, "If
any would not work neither should he eat."
The effect of the constant teaching of such lessons was not however
perceptible in the lad's habits in very early life. He was no model little boy,
no monster of perfection—he was like the boys that we see around us every
day—not one of the marvels we read about. But the seed was sown in his
soul which was destined to quicken into fruit in after life.
At the early age of four years his mother began to teach him to read and
write, and under her loving tuition he acquired a knowledge of these two
branches of culture quite rapidly.
Just about this time an incident occurred which came near finishing
young Willard's career in a manner as sudden as it would have been
singular.
The "Homestead Farm" was at that time pretty well stocked for a place
only containing one hundred and forty acres, and among the cattle was a
sturdy Alderney bull whose reputation for peace and quietness was
unusually good.
Willard had impressed upon his memory maxims eulogizing all who
practise habits of sobriety, industry and frugality, and denunciatory of all
who fail to do so.
His mother never wearied of teaching him such sayings of Dr. Franklin as
these: "Time is money," "Credit is money," "Money begets money," "The
good paymaster is lord of another man's purse," and "The sound of a man's
hammer heard by his creditor at six o'clock in the morning makes him easy
six months longer, while the sound of his voice heard in a tavern, induces
him to send for his money the next day;" "Trifling items aggregate into
large totals," while the text that ruled the house was that of the Scripture, "If
any would not work neither should he eat."
The effect of the constant teaching of such lessons was not however
perceptible in the lad's habits in very early life. He was no model little boy,
no monster of perfection—he was like the boys that we see around us every
day—not one of the marvels we read about. But the seed was sown in his
soul which was destined to quicken into fruit in after life.
At the early age of four years his mother began to teach him to read and
write, and under her loving tuition he acquired a knowledge of these two
branches of culture quite rapidly.
Just about this time an incident occurred which came near finishing
young Willard's career in a manner as sudden as it would have been
singular.
The "Homestead Farm" was at that time pretty well stocked for a place
only containing one hundred and forty acres, and among the cattle was a
sturdy Alderney bull whose reputation for peace and quietness was
unusually good.
Page 49
On a certain morning, however, early in the spring of the year 1845,
young Master Willard happened to overhear a conversation between two of
the farm hands, in the course of which one of them declared that "old
Blackface was tarin' round mighty lively." This statement interested the lad
to such an extent that he concluded to go and see how this "tarin' round"
was done.
Accordingly, taking advantage of a moment when his mother's attention
was occupied, he started for the barnyard, into which Mr. Bull had been
turned only a few moments before. Now as young Willard was somewhat
smaller than the visitors our bovine friend was in the habit of receiving,
such an unwarrantable intrusion was not to be tolerated for a moment.
Accordingly, no sooner had Willard set his little feet within the enclosure of
the barn-yard than the bull gave a roar of rage, and catching the boy on the
tips of his horns, which fortunately were buttoned, sent him twenty feet up
in the air, preparing to trample him out of existence when he should come
down. Luckily some of the men were attracted to the scene, who secured his
bullship and rescued the child. Willard was not seriously hurt, and the
instant he regained his feet, he turned round, shook his tiny fist at the now
retreating animal and shouted out in a shrill treble, "When I get to be a big
man I'll toss you in the air!"
Having thus taken the bull by the horns in a literal as well as figurative
sense, the lad began gradually to develop into that terrible embodiment of
unrest—a boy. He exhibited no very marked peculiarities up to this time to
distinguish him from other youths; but just grew into the conglomerate
mass of good, bad and indifferent qualities which go to make up the
ordinary flesh-and-blood boy—brimful of mischief and impatient of
restraint.
young Master Willard happened to overhear a conversation between two of
the farm hands, in the course of which one of them declared that "old
Blackface was tarin' round mighty lively." This statement interested the lad
to such an extent that he concluded to go and see how this "tarin' round"
was done.
Accordingly, taking advantage of a moment when his mother's attention
was occupied, he started for the barnyard, into which Mr. Bull had been
turned only a few moments before. Now as young Willard was somewhat
smaller than the visitors our bovine friend was in the habit of receiving,
such an unwarrantable intrusion was not to be tolerated for a moment.
Accordingly, no sooner had Willard set his little feet within the enclosure of
the barn-yard than the bull gave a roar of rage, and catching the boy on the
tips of his horns, which fortunately were buttoned, sent him twenty feet up
in the air, preparing to trample him out of existence when he should come
down. Luckily some of the men were attracted to the scene, who secured his
bullship and rescued the child. Willard was not seriously hurt, and the
instant he regained his feet, he turned round, shook his tiny fist at the now
retreating animal and shouted out in a shrill treble, "When I get to be a big
man I'll toss you in the air!"
Having thus taken the bull by the horns in a literal as well as figurative
sense, the lad began gradually to develop into that terrible embodiment of
unrest—a boy. He exhibited no very marked peculiarities up to this time to
distinguish him from other youths; but just grew into the conglomerate
mass of good, bad and indifferent qualities which go to make up the
ordinary flesh-and-blood boy—brimful of mischief and impatient of
restraint.
Page 50
Page 51
CHAPTER III.
EARLY LIFE AND HABITS.
Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of twenty-five years ago. — The "little deacon." — First days at
school. — Choosing a wife. — A youthful gallant. — A close scholar but a wild lad. — A
mother's influence. — Ward Glazier a Grahamite. — Young Willard's practical jokes. —
Anecdote of Crystal Spring. — "That is something like water."
It must not be supposed that young Willard's home was gloomy and
joyless, because it was presided over by a religious woman. The
Presbyterians of that day and that race were by no means a lugubrious
people. They did not necessarily view their lives as a mere vale of tears, nor
did they think the "night side of nature" the most sacred one. The Rev. Mr.
Morrison, one of their divines, tells us that "the thoughtless, the grave, the
old and the young, alike enjoyed every species of wit," and though they
were "thoughtful, serious men, yet they never lost an occasion that might
promise sport," and he very pertinently asks, "what other race ever equaled
them in getting up corn-huskings, log-rollings and quiltings?—and what
hosts of queer stories are connected with them!" Fond of fun, there was a
grotesque humor about them, which in its way has, perhaps, never been
equaled.
"It was the sternness of the Scotch Covenanter softened by a century's
residence abroad, amid persecution and trial, united to the comic humor and
pathos of the Irish, and then grown wild in the woods among their own New
England mountains."
EARLY LIFE AND HABITS.
Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of twenty-five years ago. — The "little deacon." — First days at
school. — Choosing a wife. — A youthful gallant. — A close scholar but a wild lad. — A
mother's influence. — Ward Glazier a Grahamite. — Young Willard's practical jokes. —
Anecdote of Crystal Spring. — "That is something like water."
It must not be supposed that young Willard's home was gloomy and
joyless, because it was presided over by a religious woman. The
Presbyterians of that day and that race were by no means a lugubrious
people. They did not necessarily view their lives as a mere vale of tears, nor
did they think the "night side of nature" the most sacred one. The Rev. Mr.
Morrison, one of their divines, tells us that "the thoughtless, the grave, the
old and the young, alike enjoyed every species of wit," and though they
were "thoughtful, serious men, yet they never lost an occasion that might
promise sport," and he very pertinently asks, "what other race ever equaled
them in getting up corn-huskings, log-rollings and quiltings?—and what
hosts of queer stories are connected with them!" Fond of fun, there was a
grotesque humor about them, which in its way has, perhaps, never been
equaled.
"It was the sternness of the Scotch Covenanter softened by a century's
residence abroad, amid persecution and trial, united to the comic humor and
pathos of the Irish, and then grown wild in the woods among their own New
England mountains."
Page 52
THE FIRST BATTLE.
Such was the Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of that period.
Other cheerful influences were also at work in the two villages that
comprised the town of Fowler. The only house of worship in the town
proper was a Universalist church, and the people were compelled for the
most part, notwithstanding their various creeds, to worship in a common
temple where the asperities of sectarian difference had no existence.
Ward Glazier, at that time, was an adherent of Universalism, while his
wife held evangelical views. But he was ever ready to ride with his wife and
son to the church of her choice at Gouverneur, a distance of six miles, and
returning, chat with them pleasantly of the sermon, the crops, the markets
and the gossip of the town.
In truth, young Willard's early home was a good and pleasant one, and
having learned, under his mother's careful training, to read exceedingly
well, for a boy of his age, by the time he reached his fourth year he became
noted for his inquiring disposition, his quiet manner, and a quaint habit of
Such was the Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of that period.
Other cheerful influences were also at work in the two villages that
comprised the town of Fowler. The only house of worship in the town
proper was a Universalist church, and the people were compelled for the
most part, notwithstanding their various creeds, to worship in a common
temple where the asperities of sectarian difference had no existence.
Ward Glazier, at that time, was an adherent of Universalism, while his
wife held evangelical views. But he was ever ready to ride with his wife and
son to the church of her choice at Gouverneur, a distance of six miles, and
returning, chat with them pleasantly of the sermon, the crops, the markets
and the gossip of the town.
In truth, young Willard's early home was a good and pleasant one, and
having learned, under his mother's careful training, to read exceedingly
well, for a boy of his age, by the time he reached his fourth year he became
noted for his inquiring disposition, his quiet manner, and a quaint habit of
Page 53
making some practical application of the "wise saws" with which his
mother had stored his juvenile mind.
The result was that up to this period of his existence he was an old-
fashioned little fellow, and somehow had acquired the sobriquet of the
"little deacon."
At about five years of age, however, a change took place in the boy.
The bird that flutters and twitters in the parent nest is a very different
thing from the emancipated fledgeling, feeling its newly acquired power of
flight, and soaring far up and out into the woods and over the fields; and the
boy whose experience of life is confined to the household of his parents, is
not less different from the lad who has gone beyond it into the bustle and
turmoil of that epitomized world,—a public school.
Little Willard, like other youths, was thrown into this new sphere of
action suddenly, and without any adequate idea of what was there expected
of him. The first day passed as all first days at school pass, not in study, but
in looking on and becoming accustomed to the surroundings, himself in
turn being the subject of scrutiny by his school-mates, as the "new boy."
The day did not end, however, without its incident.
Young Willard as soon as he had made his bow to his new teacher, was
placed upon a bench in close proximity to a pretty little girl of about his
own age. Instead of wasting his time therefore, by studying the less
attractive lineaments of his male companions, he made a careful
comparison between this young lady and the other girls present, the result
of which was that the moment he was permitted to go out during the
customary recess, he bounded off home at the top of his speed, and with all
the exuberance natural to his years announced to his astonished mother,
"Mother! mother! I've picked out my wife!"
mother had stored his juvenile mind.
The result was that up to this period of his existence he was an old-
fashioned little fellow, and somehow had acquired the sobriquet of the
"little deacon."
At about five years of age, however, a change took place in the boy.
The bird that flutters and twitters in the parent nest is a very different
thing from the emancipated fledgeling, feeling its newly acquired power of
flight, and soaring far up and out into the woods and over the fields; and the
boy whose experience of life is confined to the household of his parents, is
not less different from the lad who has gone beyond it into the bustle and
turmoil of that epitomized world,—a public school.
Little Willard, like other youths, was thrown into this new sphere of
action suddenly, and without any adequate idea of what was there expected
of him. The first day passed as all first days at school pass, not in study, but
in looking on and becoming accustomed to the surroundings, himself in
turn being the subject of scrutiny by his school-mates, as the "new boy."
The day did not end, however, without its incident.
Young Willard as soon as he had made his bow to his new teacher, was
placed upon a bench in close proximity to a pretty little girl of about his
own age. Instead of wasting his time therefore, by studying the less
attractive lineaments of his male companions, he made a careful
comparison between this young lady and the other girls present, the result
of which was that the moment he was permitted to go out during the
customary recess, he bounded off home at the top of his speed, and with all
the exuberance natural to his years announced to his astonished mother,
"Mother! mother! I've picked out my wife!"
Page 54
Susceptibility to the influence of beauty seems, at this period of Willard's
life, to have been one of his prominent characteristics, for in addition to
exhibiting itself in the manner described, upon another occasion not long
afterwards it broke out as follows:
Every school-boy is aware that there is nothing so humiliating to a male
pupil at a public school as to be called a "girl-boy." Hence, for trivial
offences a boy is often punished by being sandwiched between two girls,
and compelled to remain there until the offence committed has been
sufficiently atoned for. Now young Willard was frequently guilty of talking
during study hours, and his teacher determined to try this species of
punishment upon him with a view of correcting the offensive habit. As
soon, therefore, as he caught him indulging in the prohibited practice, he
was ordered to take his place between two very young ladies of six and
eight summers respectively. To the amazement of his teacher, young Willard
sustained the infliction smilingly, and believing that this was an indication
that the culprit recognized the justice of the punishment and was practising
a commendable patience, he very soon called him up to his own desk,
reasoned with him upon the necessity of observing the rules of school, and
released him with an admonition to be careful for the future, as a repetition
of his offence would certainly be followed by a repetition of the
punishment.
Willard said nothing, but went to his desk, and for the space of five
minutes, perhaps, there was complete silence in the school-room. Then
Mr. —— was startled to hear a distinct, clear, unmistakable whisper break
in upon his meditations, and became as suddenly struck with the conviction
that it was uttered by Master Willard Glazier.
The countenance of the pedagogue grew dark and stern. Fire shot from
his usually calm eyes, and his expression betokened the fact that this
life, to have been one of his prominent characteristics, for in addition to
exhibiting itself in the manner described, upon another occasion not long
afterwards it broke out as follows:
Every school-boy is aware that there is nothing so humiliating to a male
pupil at a public school as to be called a "girl-boy." Hence, for trivial
offences a boy is often punished by being sandwiched between two girls,
and compelled to remain there until the offence committed has been
sufficiently atoned for. Now young Willard was frequently guilty of talking
during study hours, and his teacher determined to try this species of
punishment upon him with a view of correcting the offensive habit. As
soon, therefore, as he caught him indulging in the prohibited practice, he
was ordered to take his place between two very young ladies of six and
eight summers respectively. To the amazement of his teacher, young Willard
sustained the infliction smilingly, and believing that this was an indication
that the culprit recognized the justice of the punishment and was practising
a commendable patience, he very soon called him up to his own desk,
reasoned with him upon the necessity of observing the rules of school, and
released him with an admonition to be careful for the future, as a repetition
of his offence would certainly be followed by a repetition of the
punishment.
Willard said nothing, but went to his desk, and for the space of five
minutes, perhaps, there was complete silence in the school-room. Then
Mr. —— was startled to hear a distinct, clear, unmistakable whisper break
in upon his meditations, and became as suddenly struck with the conviction
that it was uttered by Master Willard Glazier.
The countenance of the pedagogue grew dark and stern. Fire shot from
his usually calm eyes, and his expression betokened the fact that this
Page 55
flagrant act of disobedience was more than he could bear. Indignation
however soon gave place to astonishment, for the little fellow, without
waiting for a single word from his teacher's lips, quietly arose to his feet,
and with the placid expression of an individual performing a meritorious
action, marched across the school-room and deliberately seated himself in
the place he had before occupied between the two little girls.
"Willard Glazier!" thundered the master, "come here, sir, immediately!"
The boy of course instantly obeyed.
"What do you mean, sir!" exclaimed the teacher, "how dare you conduct
yourself in this disgraceful manner, sir!"
Young Willard looked astonished.
"Why, Mr. ——," said he, "didn't you say that if I whispered to Myron
Sprague again, I should go back and sit between Lizzie and Annie?"
"Yes, sir, I did, and how dare you disobey me in this way?"
"Why, sir," said Willard, "I whispered again to him, because, sir,—
because—I like to sit there, sir."
A light dawned upon the mind of the master, and thereafter he adopted a
less attractive mode of punishing Willard's offences. To some of my readers
such incidents may seem too trivial for record, and no doubt such days as
these are foolish days, but are they not in our memories, among our very
happiest too? As David Copperfield said of such, so say we, that "of all my
time that Time has in his grip, there's none at which I smile so much, or
think of half so kindly."
The usual surroundings of a public school made a great change in the
existence of Willard Glazier, and it is necessary to note its influence, for in
writing the life of a man in its private as well as its public relations, the
however soon gave place to astonishment, for the little fellow, without
waiting for a single word from his teacher's lips, quietly arose to his feet,
and with the placid expression of an individual performing a meritorious
action, marched across the school-room and deliberately seated himself in
the place he had before occupied between the two little girls.
"Willard Glazier!" thundered the master, "come here, sir, immediately!"
The boy of course instantly obeyed.
"What do you mean, sir!" exclaimed the teacher, "how dare you conduct
yourself in this disgraceful manner, sir!"
Young Willard looked astonished.
"Why, Mr. ——," said he, "didn't you say that if I whispered to Myron
Sprague again, I should go back and sit between Lizzie and Annie?"
"Yes, sir, I did, and how dare you disobey me in this way?"
"Why, sir," said Willard, "I whispered again to him, because, sir,—
because—I like to sit there, sir."
A light dawned upon the mind of the master, and thereafter he adopted a
less attractive mode of punishing Willard's offences. To some of my readers
such incidents may seem too trivial for record, and no doubt such days as
these are foolish days, but are they not in our memories, among our very
happiest too? As David Copperfield said of such, so say we, that "of all my
time that Time has in his grip, there's none at which I smile so much, or
think of half so kindly."
The usual surroundings of a public school made a great change in the
existence of Willard Glazier, and it is necessary to note its influence, for in
writing the life of a man in its private as well as its public relations, the
Page 56
chief point to be considered is that which men call character, and how it
was formed and fashioned.
If the truth must be told, the "little deacon" had not been a month in
attendance at school before he was up to every imaginable species of
mischief that the fertile brain of a school-boy could conceive—provided its
execution did not involve unequivocal untruth or palpable dishonesty.
No human being, save one, was exempt from his practical jokes. That
one was his mother. In his wildest moods, a glance of reproach from her
would check him. His father, however, enjoyed no such immunity, and in a
kindly way, he delighted in tormenting the good man whenever the
opportunity offered.
For instance, that worthy gentleman, among other idiosyncracies, was a
follower of the so-called Dr. Sylvester Graham, an ex-Presbyterian
clergyman who, in 1832, inaugurated, by a familiar course of lectures, a
new system of dietetics.
The Grahamites, as they were called, held that health is the necessary
result of obeying certain physical laws, and disease the equally certain
result of disobeying them; that all stimulants are pernicious to the human
body, and should be rejected, except in those rare cases where it becomes
necessary to administer one known poison as an antidote to another equally
deadly, in order to neutralize its effects or expel it from the system. Dr.
Graham condemned the use of tea, coffee and spices, tobacco, opium, and
not only alcoholic drinks but even beer and cider, declaring that all were
equally poisonous, and that they only differed in the degree in which their
evil qualities were concentrated or expanded.
Ward Glazier held this theory to be the result of a profound philosophy,
and considered the observance of the course of diet he prescribed to be the
was formed and fashioned.
If the truth must be told, the "little deacon" had not been a month in
attendance at school before he was up to every imaginable species of
mischief that the fertile brain of a school-boy could conceive—provided its
execution did not involve unequivocal untruth or palpable dishonesty.
No human being, save one, was exempt from his practical jokes. That
one was his mother. In his wildest moods, a glance of reproach from her
would check him. His father, however, enjoyed no such immunity, and in a
kindly way, he delighted in tormenting the good man whenever the
opportunity offered.
For instance, that worthy gentleman, among other idiosyncracies, was a
follower of the so-called Dr. Sylvester Graham, an ex-Presbyterian
clergyman who, in 1832, inaugurated, by a familiar course of lectures, a
new system of dietetics.
The Grahamites, as they were called, held that health is the necessary
result of obeying certain physical laws, and disease the equally certain
result of disobeying them; that all stimulants are pernicious to the human
body, and should be rejected, except in those rare cases where it becomes
necessary to administer one known poison as an antidote to another equally
deadly, in order to neutralize its effects or expel it from the system. Dr.
Graham condemned the use of tea, coffee and spices, tobacco, opium, and
not only alcoholic drinks but even beer and cider, declaring that all were
equally poisonous, and that they only differed in the degree in which their
evil qualities were concentrated or expanded.
Ward Glazier held this theory to be the result of a profound philosophy,
and considered the observance of the course of diet he prescribed to be the
Page 57
only way in which a human being could secure for himself a sound mind in
a sound body. In medicine, Mr. Glazier was an equally rigid hydropathist.
He held that the system of water cure was the only rational system of
healing. One of his individual fancies was to drink only water obtained
from a particular spring. This spring was beautifully clear and cold, and was
situated at the distance of about sixty rods from the house. It was Willard's
allotted duty each day to fill a large pitcher from its crystal treasures for use
at meals. In order to do this, the brooklet being extremely shallow, and
running over masses of pebbles, he was compelled to kneel and dip it up
with a cup,—an operation requiring both time and patience. Now within a
few yards of this place flowed a small stream or creek considerably deeper
and of larger volume, fed by a number of rills, and as the boy had conceived
the impression that his father only fancied a distinction where there was
really no difference, between the waters of the rival streams, it occurred to
him that he might just as well plunge his pitcher in the latter, fill it by a
single effort, and thus save himself what he especially disliked,—useless
labor. This he did with the following result:
Ward Glazier was just about sitting down to dinner as Willard entered,
and observing that his son came from the immediate vicinity of the creek,
poured out and tasted a little of the water with evident dissatisfaction.
"Willard," said he, "you didn't get this from the spring; this is creek
water. Now go right back and get a pitcherful from the spring."
Off started Master Willard to do as he was bidden, but on his way, the
originator of all mischief suggested to his fertile brain the idea of playing a
trick upon his father; so instead of going to the spring, he simply loitered
for a few moments out of sight of such of the family as might be at the
windows,
a sound body. In medicine, Mr. Glazier was an equally rigid hydropathist.
He held that the system of water cure was the only rational system of
healing. One of his individual fancies was to drink only water obtained
from a particular spring. This spring was beautifully clear and cold, and was
situated at the distance of about sixty rods from the house. It was Willard's
allotted duty each day to fill a large pitcher from its crystal treasures for use
at meals. In order to do this, the brooklet being extremely shallow, and
running over masses of pebbles, he was compelled to kneel and dip it up
with a cup,—an operation requiring both time and patience. Now within a
few yards of this place flowed a small stream or creek considerably deeper
and of larger volume, fed by a number of rills, and as the boy had conceived
the impression that his father only fancied a distinction where there was
really no difference, between the waters of the rival streams, it occurred to
him that he might just as well plunge his pitcher in the latter, fill it by a
single effort, and thus save himself what he especially disliked,—useless
labor. This he did with the following result:
Ward Glazier was just about sitting down to dinner as Willard entered,
and observing that his son came from the immediate vicinity of the creek,
poured out and tasted a little of the water with evident dissatisfaction.
"Willard," said he, "you didn't get this from the spring; this is creek
water. Now go right back and get a pitcherful from the spring."
Off started Master Willard to do as he was bidden, but on his way, the
originator of all mischief suggested to his fertile brain the idea of playing a
trick upon his father; so instead of going to the spring, he simply loitered
for a few moments out of sight of such of the family as might be at the
windows,
Page 58
"Under an elm whose antique roots peep out
Upon the brook, that brawls along the wood."
He then quietly sauntered back, with the identical pitcher of water with
which he had come forth.
"There," said he, emphatically, as if he had fulfilled his mission, at the
same time placing the pitcher near his father's plate upon the table. The
good man took it up, examined the contents with a critical eye, poured out a
glassful of the sparkling liquid and drained it to the last drop.
"Ah," said he, with a sigh expressive of great satisfaction, "that is
something like water! that does a man good!"
This evidence of parental fallibility Master Willard enjoyed hugely, but it
was many years before he ventured to give his father an opportunity to join
in the laugh at his own expense, by telling him of the occurrence.
Upon the brook, that brawls along the wood."
He then quietly sauntered back, with the identical pitcher of water with
which he had come forth.
"There," said he, emphatically, as if he had fulfilled his mission, at the
same time placing the pitcher near his father's plate upon the table. The
good man took it up, examined the contents with a critical eye, poured out a
glassful of the sparkling liquid and drained it to the last drop.
"Ah," said he, with a sigh expressive of great satisfaction, "that is
something like water! that does a man good!"
This evidence of parental fallibility Master Willard enjoyed hugely, but it
was many years before he ventured to give his father an opportunity to join
in the laugh at his own expense, by telling him of the occurrence.
Page 59
CHAPTER IV.
WILLARD GLAZIER AT SCHOOL.
School-days continued. — Boys will be boys. — Cornelius Carter, the teacher. — Young Willard's
rebellion against injustice. — Gum-chewing. — Laughable race through the snow. — The
tumble into a snow-bank, and what came of it. — The runaway caught. — Explanation and
reconciliation. — The new master, James Nichols. — "Spare the rod and spoil the child." —
The age of chivalry not gone. — Magnanimity of a school-boy. — Friendship between Willard
and Henry Abbott. — Good-bye to the "little deacon."
Willard Glazier was, by no means, what is termed a bad boy, at school.
It is true he was full of mischief; was the last in for study and the first out
for recreation, but he was neither disobedient nor inattentive to his lessons.
One scholarly element, however, he lacked. The bump which phrenologists
term reverence had small development in him at this period of his existence.
His record always stood high in the matter of lessons, but low in the matter
of conduct. Instances of insubordination occurred whenever he thought he
was treated unfairly, while no boy was ever more ready to submit to
authority when wisely and justly administered. The following incident is an
illustration in point:
One of his teachers bore the name of Cornelius Carter. We have been
unable to ascertain this gentleman's nationality, nor would his history, if
known to us, be pertinent to this work, but we have reason to believe that he
was of Scottish descent, if not actually a native of that
"Land of brown heath and shaggy wood,
Land of the mountain and the flood."
WILLARD GLAZIER AT SCHOOL.
School-days continued. — Boys will be boys. — Cornelius Carter, the teacher. — Young Willard's
rebellion against injustice. — Gum-chewing. — Laughable race through the snow. — The
tumble into a snow-bank, and what came of it. — The runaway caught. — Explanation and
reconciliation. — The new master, James Nichols. — "Spare the rod and spoil the child." —
The age of chivalry not gone. — Magnanimity of a school-boy. — Friendship between Willard
and Henry Abbott. — Good-bye to the "little deacon."
Willard Glazier was, by no means, what is termed a bad boy, at school.
It is true he was full of mischief; was the last in for study and the first out
for recreation, but he was neither disobedient nor inattentive to his lessons.
One scholarly element, however, he lacked. The bump which phrenologists
term reverence had small development in him at this period of his existence.
His record always stood high in the matter of lessons, but low in the matter
of conduct. Instances of insubordination occurred whenever he thought he
was treated unfairly, while no boy was ever more ready to submit to
authority when wisely and justly administered. The following incident is an
illustration in point:
One of his teachers bore the name of Cornelius Carter. We have been
unable to ascertain this gentleman's nationality, nor would his history, if
known to us, be pertinent to this work, but we have reason to believe that he
was of Scottish descent, if not actually a native of that
"Land of brown heath and shaggy wood,
Land of the mountain and the flood."
Page 60
At all events he possessed all the sterling qualities of that clear-headed
people.
A man of fine parts and scholarly attainments, earnestly bent upon doing
his whole duty, vigorous, energetic and thorough in everything, Carter was
just the man to conduct a school with mathematical precision, but at the
same time, his natural irritability was such that the whirlwind was less
fierce than his wrath, when the latter was aroused. About the time of his
advent among the pupils at the Little York public school, gum-chewing had
become an accomplishment among the boys, and though it was a species of
amusement positively forbidden, was carried on surreptitiously throughout
the school.
One dark winter morning just after a heavy fall of snow, it happened that
our friend Willard, though placed upon a bench in the middle of a row of
these gum-chewing juveniles, was himself not chewing, for the simple
reason that he had no gum to chew, and his next neighbors were niggardly
enough to refuse to give him any.
Suddenly the hawk eye of Carter swept down upon the offending group;
and quite assured that if mischief was in progress, young Glazier was in it,
came forward and stretching out his long arms, placed his palms upon the
outermost cheek of each "end boy," and brought the heads of the entire line
together with a shock that made them ring again. Then, without a word, he
caught each urchin in turn by the collar of his coat, and with one vigorous
jerk swung him into the middle of the floor and in his sternest tones bade
him stand there until further orders.
Willard did not at the moment venture to say anything, but stood with the
rest, nursing his wrath. Had he really been at fault he would have thought
nothing of it, but first to have been deprived by circumstances of the
people.
A man of fine parts and scholarly attainments, earnestly bent upon doing
his whole duty, vigorous, energetic and thorough in everything, Carter was
just the man to conduct a school with mathematical precision, but at the
same time, his natural irritability was such that the whirlwind was less
fierce than his wrath, when the latter was aroused. About the time of his
advent among the pupils at the Little York public school, gum-chewing had
become an accomplishment among the boys, and though it was a species of
amusement positively forbidden, was carried on surreptitiously throughout
the school.
One dark winter morning just after a heavy fall of snow, it happened that
our friend Willard, though placed upon a bench in the middle of a row of
these gum-chewing juveniles, was himself not chewing, for the simple
reason that he had no gum to chew, and his next neighbors were niggardly
enough to refuse to give him any.
Suddenly the hawk eye of Carter swept down upon the offending group;
and quite assured that if mischief was in progress, young Glazier was in it,
came forward and stretching out his long arms, placed his palms upon the
outermost cheek of each "end boy," and brought the heads of the entire line
together with a shock that made them ring again. Then, without a word, he
caught each urchin in turn by the collar of his coat, and with one vigorous
jerk swung him into the middle of the floor and in his sternest tones bade
him stand there until further orders.
Willard did not at the moment venture to say anything, but stood with the
rest, nursing his wrath. Had he really been at fault he would have thought
nothing of it, but first to have been deprived by circumstances of the
Page 61
opportunity to break the rules, and then to be punished for a breach of them,
was too much.
He waited, without a word, until the group of delinquents, after listening
to a scathing lecture, were dismissed to their seats. He then deliberately
proceeded to put his books under his arm, preparatory to making a start for
home.
One of the monitors, a large boy, observing this movement, informed Mr.
Carter that Willard Glazier was going to "cut for home," in other words, to
leave school without permission.
The master, upon receiving this intelligence, started down the aisle
towards young Willard; but that restive youth perceiving the movement,
made rapid time for the door, and dashed down-stairs closely pursued by the
now furious pedagogue.
Having some rods the advantage at the start, the boy reached the exterior
of the building first, and struck out in a straight line for home.
RACE WITH THE SCHOOLMASTER.
was too much.
He waited, without a word, until the group of delinquents, after listening
to a scathing lecture, were dismissed to their seats. He then deliberately
proceeded to put his books under his arm, preparatory to making a start for
home.
One of the monitors, a large boy, observing this movement, informed Mr.
Carter that Willard Glazier was going to "cut for home," in other words, to
leave school without permission.
The master, upon receiving this intelligence, started down the aisle
towards young Willard; but that restive youth perceiving the movement,
made rapid time for the door, and dashed down-stairs closely pursued by the
now furious pedagogue.
Having some rods the advantage at the start, the boy reached the exterior
of the building first, and struck out in a straight line for home.
RACE WITH THE SCHOOLMASTER.
Page 62
The storms which prevailed throughout the entire winter in St. Lawrence
County, had piled up their accumulated snows over the space of ground that
separated the school-house from Willard Glazier's home. Over this single
expanse of deep snow many feet had trodden a hard path, which alternate
melting and freezing had formed into a solid, slippery, back-bone looking
ridge, altogether unsafe for fast travel. Over this ridge young Willard was
now running at the top of his speed. In view of the probable flogging
behind, he took no heed of the perils of the path before him.
"So like an arrow, swift he flew
Shot by an archer strong,
So did he fly, which brings me to
The middle of my song."
As for Carter, not a whit daunted by the icy path and the fact that he was
hatless, in slippers, and clad only in a long, loose summer coat worn in the
heated school-room, he gave chase in gallant style, and while Willard
possessed the advantage of an earlier start, the teacher's long legs
compensated for the time gained by his pupil, and made a pretty even race
of it.
On he went therefore, his coat-tails standing out straight like the forks of
a boot-jack, and a red bandanna handkerchief streaming in the wind from
his pocket behind like some fierce piratic flag! On, too, went Master
Willard Glazier, until both—one now nearly upon the heels of the other—
reached a troublesome miniature glacier, when each missed his footing.
Down went the boy's head and up went the master's heels, and the pair
lay together, panting for breath, in the drifts of a contiguous snow-bank.
County, had piled up their accumulated snows over the space of ground that
separated the school-house from Willard Glazier's home. Over this single
expanse of deep snow many feet had trodden a hard path, which alternate
melting and freezing had formed into a solid, slippery, back-bone looking
ridge, altogether unsafe for fast travel. Over this ridge young Willard was
now running at the top of his speed. In view of the probable flogging
behind, he took no heed of the perils of the path before him.
"So like an arrow, swift he flew
Shot by an archer strong,
So did he fly, which brings me to
The middle of my song."
As for Carter, not a whit daunted by the icy path and the fact that he was
hatless, in slippers, and clad only in a long, loose summer coat worn in the
heated school-room, he gave chase in gallant style, and while Willard
possessed the advantage of an earlier start, the teacher's long legs
compensated for the time gained by his pupil, and made a pretty even race
of it.
On he went therefore, his coat-tails standing out straight like the forks of
a boot-jack, and a red bandanna handkerchief streaming in the wind from
his pocket behind like some fierce piratic flag! On, too, went Master
Willard Glazier, until both—one now nearly upon the heels of the other—
reached a troublesome miniature glacier, when each missed his footing.
Down went the boy's head and up went the master's heels, and the pair
lay together, panting for breath, in the drifts of a contiguous snow-bank.
Page 63
"Ah, ha!" said Carter, when he had recovered sufficiently to speak, "so
you were going home, were you?"
"Yes," said young Willard, as his head emerged from the drift, looking
like an animated snow-ball, "and I would have reached there, too, if I hadn't
slipped."
This was all that was said, at the time, but as Mr. Carter led his prisoner
back, an explanation took place, in which the lad so strongly insisted that
his escapade arose from a sense of the gross injustice done him, that
Carter's own sense of right was touched, and after admonishing the boy to
take a different mode of redressing his grievances in the future, he agreed to
forego the flogging and let Master Willard finish the remainder of the
session in the customary way.
After this occurrence, Willard got along very well under the tuition of
Mr. Carter, and it was not until some years later, when a gentleman by the
name of Nichols took charge of the school, that anything transpired worthy
of note.
James Nichols was a devout believer in Solomon's maxim that to spare
the rod is to spoil the child. The whip was his arbiter in all differences
which arose between his pupils and himself. He never paused, as Mr.
Montieth has lately done, to consider that at least two-thirds of the offences
for which children are flogged at school are "crimes for which they are in
nowise responsible," and "when stripped of the color given to them by
senseless and unmeaning rules, they are simply the crimes of being a boy
and being a girl," and are "incited by bad air, cold feet, overwork and long
confinement; crimes which the parents of these same children are
accustomed to excuse in themselves, when they sit in church, by the dulness
of the sermon, or other circumstances that offend against nature and which
they sometimes soothe with fennel or hartshorn, or change of position, and
you were going home, were you?"
"Yes," said young Willard, as his head emerged from the drift, looking
like an animated snow-ball, "and I would have reached there, too, if I hadn't
slipped."
This was all that was said, at the time, but as Mr. Carter led his prisoner
back, an explanation took place, in which the lad so strongly insisted that
his escapade arose from a sense of the gross injustice done him, that
Carter's own sense of right was touched, and after admonishing the boy to
take a different mode of redressing his grievances in the future, he agreed to
forego the flogging and let Master Willard finish the remainder of the
session in the customary way.
After this occurrence, Willard got along very well under the tuition of
Mr. Carter, and it was not until some years later, when a gentleman by the
name of Nichols took charge of the school, that anything transpired worthy
of note.
James Nichols was a devout believer in Solomon's maxim that to spare
the rod is to spoil the child. The whip was his arbiter in all differences
which arose between his pupils and himself. He never paused, as Mr.
Montieth has lately done, to consider that at least two-thirds of the offences
for which children are flogged at school are "crimes for which they are in
nowise responsible," and "when stripped of the color given to them by
senseless and unmeaning rules, they are simply the crimes of being a boy
and being a girl," and are "incited by bad air, cold feet, overwork and long
confinement; crimes which the parents of these same children are
accustomed to excuse in themselves, when they sit in church, by the dulness
of the sermon, or other circumstances that offend against nature and which
they sometimes soothe with fennel or hartshorn, or change of position, and
Page 64
not unseldom with sleep." In school discipline Mr. Nichols was a pure
materialist. He never realized Cayley's profound lesson that "education is
not the mere storing a youthful memory with a bundle of facts which it
neither digests nor assimilates," but that it is the formation and training of a
mind. Under his régime the rod ruled everything. Even the offence of
whispering was punished by the lash.
Upon one occasion, when young Willard was seated between two
brothers—Henry and Brayton Abbott by name—engaged in solving
Algebraic problems, a whispered inquiry, regarding the lesson, passed from
one to the other.
Mr. Nichols at the moment happened to glance towards them, and
conjectured, by the movement of Willard's lips, that he was violating the
rule against whispering.
"Willard Glazier!" said he, angrily, "come out here, sir!"
The boy obeyed.
"Now then, Willard," said Mr. Nichols, "I presume you understand the
rules of this school?"
"I think I do, sir."
"Very well, then you know that whispering during the hours of study is a
breach of its discipline, and that I must punish you."
Willard said nothing.
"Have you a knife, sir?" pursued the teacher.
"No, sir," replied the boy, not quite certain whether the knife was wanted
for the purpose of scalping him, or merely with a view of amputating the
unruly member which had been the instrument of offence. "Well, take this
one," said Nichols, handing him a five-bladed pocket-knife, with the large
blade open, "go out and cut me a good stout stick."
materialist. He never realized Cayley's profound lesson that "education is
not the mere storing a youthful memory with a bundle of facts which it
neither digests nor assimilates," but that it is the formation and training of a
mind. Under his régime the rod ruled everything. Even the offence of
whispering was punished by the lash.
Upon one occasion, when young Willard was seated between two
brothers—Henry and Brayton Abbott by name—engaged in solving
Algebraic problems, a whispered inquiry, regarding the lesson, passed from
one to the other.
Mr. Nichols at the moment happened to glance towards them, and
conjectured, by the movement of Willard's lips, that he was violating the
rule against whispering.
"Willard Glazier!" said he, angrily, "come out here, sir!"
The boy obeyed.
"Now then, Willard," said Mr. Nichols, "I presume you understand the
rules of this school?"
"I think I do, sir."
"Very well, then you know that whispering during the hours of study is a
breach of its discipline, and that I must punish you."
Willard said nothing.
"Have you a knife, sir?" pursued the teacher.
"No, sir," replied the boy, not quite certain whether the knife was wanted
for the purpose of scalping him, or merely with a view of amputating the
unruly member which had been the instrument of offence. "Well, take this
one," said Nichols, handing him a five-bladed pocket-knife, with the large
blade open, "go out and cut me a good stout stick."
Page 65
The boy by no means relished the prospect this mission suggested, but
seeing no means of escape, he went to a grove in the neighborhood and cut
a stick whose dimensions resembled a young tree—shrewdly suspecting
that Nichols would never venture to use a club of such size.
With this stick he stalked majestically back to the school-room. As he
entered, he saw Henry Abbott standing up in front of the teacher's desk, and
heard him utter these words:
"It is not fair, Mr. Nichols, to flog Willard alone. It was my fault, sir. I
beckoned to Brayton and whispered first. That is what started it. You should
whip me, too, sir."
The master, as we have said, was stern and uncompromising, but his
nature was not entirely devoid of feeling, and as he heard the brave
admission, his eye lighted up with sudden softness.
"Go back to your seats, boys," said he, "I will not flog either of you to-
day. Lads that are brave enough to face the punishment of one offence as
you have done, can, I hope, be trusted not to soon commit another."
The incident was one that raised the tone of the whole school, and it gave
rise to a warm feeling of admiration in Willard Glazier's breast for Henry
Abbott which did Willard good, and made the two youths firm friends.
Thus the years sped on—dotted with little incidents that seem too trivial
to relate, and yet each one of which had some effect upon the future life and
character of young Willard. He had become a pretty wild boy by this time,
and the cognomen of the "little deacon" was dropped without ceremony.
Although he was marked high for scholarly attainment, he received many
a bad mark for violating the rules of school.
This state of affairs existed until the boy had reached the age of eleven
years, when he was brought into contact with two diametrically opposite
seeing no means of escape, he went to a grove in the neighborhood and cut
a stick whose dimensions resembled a young tree—shrewdly suspecting
that Nichols would never venture to use a club of such size.
With this stick he stalked majestically back to the school-room. As he
entered, he saw Henry Abbott standing up in front of the teacher's desk, and
heard him utter these words:
"It is not fair, Mr. Nichols, to flog Willard alone. It was my fault, sir. I
beckoned to Brayton and whispered first. That is what started it. You should
whip me, too, sir."
The master, as we have said, was stern and uncompromising, but his
nature was not entirely devoid of feeling, and as he heard the brave
admission, his eye lighted up with sudden softness.
"Go back to your seats, boys," said he, "I will not flog either of you to-
day. Lads that are brave enough to face the punishment of one offence as
you have done, can, I hope, be trusted not to soon commit another."
The incident was one that raised the tone of the whole school, and it gave
rise to a warm feeling of admiration in Willard Glazier's breast for Henry
Abbott which did Willard good, and made the two youths firm friends.
Thus the years sped on—dotted with little incidents that seem too trivial
to relate, and yet each one of which had some effect upon the future life and
character of young Willard. He had become a pretty wild boy by this time,
and the cognomen of the "little deacon" was dropped without ceremony.
Although he was marked high for scholarly attainment, he received many
a bad mark for violating the rules of school.
This state of affairs existed until the boy had reached the age of eleven
years, when he was brought into contact with two diametrically opposite
Page 66
influences, one of which was calculated to make and the other to mar his
future character and fortunes.
future character and fortunes.
Page 67
CHAPTER V.
ECCENTRICITIES OF HENRY GLAZIER.
Henry Glazier. — A singular character. — "Kaw-shaw-gan-ce" and "Quaw-taw-pee-ah." — Tom
Lolar and Henry Glazier. — Attractive show-bills. — Billy Muldoon and his trombone. —
Behind the scenes. — "Sound your G!" — The mysterious musician. — What happened to
Billy. — "May the divil fly away wid ye!"
At this time there resided in the paternal homestead a younger brother of
Ward Glazier named Henry, who was Willard's senior by about eleven
years, and, physically speaking, was a splendid specimen of masculine
development. Like his brothers Ward and George, he stood six feet in his
stockings, and literally looked down on his fellows.
He had conceived a great liking for his nephew Willard, and on many a
hunting excursion in the Great North Woods, the boy was his only
companion. This affection, however, was not unmingled with some
contempt for the lad's diminutive stature.
Upon one occasion, during a visit to West Boylston, he made it his
business to search out the relatives of Willard's mother, in order to ascertain
what sort of stock she came from. On returning home, this son of Anak
exclaimed, with a dejected air:
"Mother, I'll be hanged if I ain't discouraged! Our Willard will always be
a little runt. His mother's folks ain't bigger'n a pinch of snuff!"
How far the prediction has been verified any one who has seen the
compact, sinewy form of the young soldier will understand.
ECCENTRICITIES OF HENRY GLAZIER.
Henry Glazier. — A singular character. — "Kaw-shaw-gan-ce" and "Quaw-taw-pee-ah." — Tom
Lolar and Henry Glazier. — Attractive show-bills. — Billy Muldoon and his trombone. —
Behind the scenes. — "Sound your G!" — The mysterious musician. — What happened to
Billy. — "May the divil fly away wid ye!"
At this time there resided in the paternal homestead a younger brother of
Ward Glazier named Henry, who was Willard's senior by about eleven
years, and, physically speaking, was a splendid specimen of masculine
development. Like his brothers Ward and George, he stood six feet in his
stockings, and literally looked down on his fellows.
He had conceived a great liking for his nephew Willard, and on many a
hunting excursion in the Great North Woods, the boy was his only
companion. This affection, however, was not unmingled with some
contempt for the lad's diminutive stature.
Upon one occasion, during a visit to West Boylston, he made it his
business to search out the relatives of Willard's mother, in order to ascertain
what sort of stock she came from. On returning home, this son of Anak
exclaimed, with a dejected air:
"Mother, I'll be hanged if I ain't discouraged! Our Willard will always be
a little runt. His mother's folks ain't bigger'n a pinch of snuff!"
How far the prediction has been verified any one who has seen the
compact, sinewy form of the young soldier will understand.
Page 68
Henry Glazier reveled in everything sensational. His ideal of heaven was
a succession of tableaux in which he was to play the principal part.
At one time he joined another eccentric character named Tom Lolar, an
Indian of the Seneca tribe, whose lands in the long ago of Indian history
bordered the blue waters of Lake Seneca in central New York. This peculiar
pair proceeded to electrify certain rural communities in their immediate
neighborhood with huge posters, announcing that on a given night:
KAW-SHAW-GAN-CE,
OR
THE RED WILD CAT,
THE
Great Chief of the Walaitipu Indians,
Now traveling for the benefit of his tribe, proposes to
exhibit
to an enlightened public the
Trophies won by his Braves,
In their battles with other Ferocious Tribes beyond the
Rocky
Mountains, and the Great Chief will likewise give an
exhibition of the
WAR DANCES OF HIS NATION.
Accordingly upon the night in question Tom Lolar as "Kaw-shaw-gan-
ce," and Henry Glazier as ticket agent, reaped such an excellent harvest that
a succession of tableaux in which he was to play the principal part.
At one time he joined another eccentric character named Tom Lolar, an
Indian of the Seneca tribe, whose lands in the long ago of Indian history
bordered the blue waters of Lake Seneca in central New York. This peculiar
pair proceeded to electrify certain rural communities in their immediate
neighborhood with huge posters, announcing that on a given night:
KAW-SHAW-GAN-CE,
OR
THE RED WILD CAT,
THE
Great Chief of the Walaitipu Indians,
Now traveling for the benefit of his tribe, proposes to
exhibit
to an enlightened public the
Trophies won by his Braves,
In their battles with other Ferocious Tribes beyond the
Rocky
Mountains, and the Great Chief will likewise give an
exhibition of the
WAR DANCES OF HIS NATION.
Accordingly upon the night in question Tom Lolar as "Kaw-shaw-gan-
ce," and Henry Glazier as ticket agent, reaped such an excellent harvest that
Page 69
the latter concluded to start a "live Indian" upon his own account.
This he accordingly did, dubbing the prodigy of his creation "Quaw-taw-
pee-ah," or the "Red Wild Cat."
Whether this venture was successful or not we have failed to learn, but
there is one story connected with it which is too good to be lost, though it
lacks satisfactory evidence of authenticity.
The legend runs that our enterprising manager went three miles away and
hunted up a genuine old native of Erin who had deserted from the British
army, where he held some position in one of the military bands attached to a
regiment stationed in Canada. With true Irish instinct this exile of Erin had
brought his trombone across the border, and "the enterprising manager"—to
use the language of the bills—"secured in him the services of an eminent
musician, late of Her Majesty's Royal Band," to discourse sweet music
during the entire performance. This and other attractive announcements
drew a goodly crowd of lads and lasses from far and near to the place
appointed, and when the doors—otherwise tent-flaps—were open, the
assemblage marched in to the entrancing strains of the trombone, as played
by "Professor Muldoonati" alias Billy Muldoon.
Everything passed off well. "Quaw-taw-pee-ah" presented to the elite of
the locality a type of the aboriginal American, which at least possessed the
merit of originality. If the audience expected to be astonished they were not
disappointed; for such an Indian as they then beheld no living eye had ever
looked upon before.
Mr. Catlin would have admitted that this noble red man was alien to any
of his tribes, and even Cooper's Leather-Stocking would have conceded that
his was a new revelation of savage humanity. It is barely possible that
Buffalo Bill may have dreamed of something like him, and it is not
This he accordingly did, dubbing the prodigy of his creation "Quaw-taw-
pee-ah," or the "Red Wild Cat."
Whether this venture was successful or not we have failed to learn, but
there is one story connected with it which is too good to be lost, though it
lacks satisfactory evidence of authenticity.
The legend runs that our enterprising manager went three miles away and
hunted up a genuine old native of Erin who had deserted from the British
army, where he held some position in one of the military bands attached to a
regiment stationed in Canada. With true Irish instinct this exile of Erin had
brought his trombone across the border, and "the enterprising manager"—to
use the language of the bills—"secured in him the services of an eminent
musician, late of Her Majesty's Royal Band," to discourse sweet music
during the entire performance. This and other attractive announcements
drew a goodly crowd of lads and lasses from far and near to the place
appointed, and when the doors—otherwise tent-flaps—were open, the
assemblage marched in to the entrancing strains of the trombone, as played
by "Professor Muldoonati" alias Billy Muldoon.
Everything passed off well. "Quaw-taw-pee-ah" presented to the elite of
the locality a type of the aboriginal American, which at least possessed the
merit of originality. If the audience expected to be astonished they were not
disappointed; for such an Indian as they then beheld no living eye had ever
looked upon before.
Mr. Catlin would have admitted that this noble red man was alien to any
of his tribes, and even Cooper's Leather-Stocking would have conceded that
his was a new revelation of savage humanity. It is barely possible that
Buffalo Bill may have dreamed of something like him, and it is not
Page 70
impossible that the late Edwin Forrest may have actually been on speaking
terms with his brother, but outside of these two gentlemen, we do not
believe that human imagination ever conceived a child of the forest in any
respect resembling "Quaw-taw-pee-ah" on his opening night.
It did seem a little singular to combine the convivial music of "St.
Patrick's day in the morning" with such diabolical grimaces and gestures as
those which the Great Chief used in the pantomimic expression of his
sentiments. But the people were prepared for originality, and they had it. At
any rate the performance received their loud applause. At last, however, it
was over: the successive scenes of the programme had come and gone—the
war dances were finished, the curtain had fallen on the last act, and Billy
Muldoon's trombone had subsided into silence. But if the performance
within was wild, it was nothing to the wild night without. It was the
seventeenth of March, and the snow had been steadily falling since
morning, shrouding the hills and all the surrounding country with a mantle
as white and cold as a winding sheet.
The wind had increased since nightfall, and by the time "Quaw-taw-pee-
ah" had washed his face of its red lead, and Mr. Muldoon had been paid his
share of the proceeds, it was blowing "great guns," as the sailors say. Out
into such a night as this the audience dispersed: but the lights of home
shone through the blinding storm near at hand, and buffeting with the fierce
gusts of whirling snow and wind was only brave sport for them. Not so,
however, with Mr. Billy Muldoon. His home was three miles away, and
though the prospect without was anything but pleasant, he prepared to face
it like a man. His only precaution was to see that an old army canteen was
filled afresh with the best whiskey the neighborhood afforded. Then he
started on his homeward journey.
terms with his brother, but outside of these two gentlemen, we do not
believe that human imagination ever conceived a child of the forest in any
respect resembling "Quaw-taw-pee-ah" on his opening night.
It did seem a little singular to combine the convivial music of "St.
Patrick's day in the morning" with such diabolical grimaces and gestures as
those which the Great Chief used in the pantomimic expression of his
sentiments. But the people were prepared for originality, and they had it. At
any rate the performance received their loud applause. At last, however, it
was over: the successive scenes of the programme had come and gone—the
war dances were finished, the curtain had fallen on the last act, and Billy
Muldoon's trombone had subsided into silence. But if the performance
within was wild, it was nothing to the wild night without. It was the
seventeenth of March, and the snow had been steadily falling since
morning, shrouding the hills and all the surrounding country with a mantle
as white and cold as a winding sheet.
The wind had increased since nightfall, and by the time "Quaw-taw-pee-
ah" had washed his face of its red lead, and Mr. Muldoon had been paid his
share of the proceeds, it was blowing "great guns," as the sailors say. Out
into such a night as this the audience dispersed: but the lights of home
shone through the blinding storm near at hand, and buffeting with the fierce
gusts of whirling snow and wind was only brave sport for them. Not so,
however, with Mr. Billy Muldoon. His home was three miles away, and
though the prospect without was anything but pleasant, he prepared to face
it like a man. His only precaution was to see that an old army canteen was
filled afresh with the best whiskey the neighborhood afforded. Then he
started on his homeward journey.
Page 71
At first it was pretty hard work. The snow had drifted into heaps in some
places, and rose almost to the little man's waist. Still he struggled bravely
on, only stopping now and then to celebrate the anniversary of Ireland's
Patron Saint by taking a long pull and a strong pull at the canteen.
For a half-hour or more he made but slow progress through the pitiless,
pelting storm, and he heartily cursed his folly in attempting the task of
coming home at all, on such a night as this. But a change came o'er the
spirit of his dream. As the contents of the canteen had diminished, Billy's
spirits had risen in exact proportion, his heart had grown strong and he
began to despise the difficulties in his way. In fact he was as happy as a
prince, and rather liked the idea of facing the snow drifts and fighting the
wind. So on he went. What seemed strange to Billy was the fact that there
seemed to be so much sameness in the surrounding features of the
landscape—or so much of it as he could discover, during the momentary
lulls of the storm. He therefore stopped short, steadied himself for a
moment, and took another drink; which proceeding seemed to clear up his
mind on the puzzled subject, for muttering that it was "all roight," he once
more started forward.
Another half-hour passed and still another, and yet Billy found the road
open before him, with no sign of his own humble little home. He began to
grow very tired and considerably muddled, and paused at length to consider
the situation.
In front of him he perceived something so like the lane that led to his
own shanty that he joyfully proceeded, and at length reached what he
believed to be a back door that he had directed his wife to leave "on the
latch" for his return.
What surprised him was that he could see no light within. He was,
however, sufficiently aware of the fact that he had taken more of "the
places, and rose almost to the little man's waist. Still he struggled bravely
on, only stopping now and then to celebrate the anniversary of Ireland's
Patron Saint by taking a long pull and a strong pull at the canteen.
For a half-hour or more he made but slow progress through the pitiless,
pelting storm, and he heartily cursed his folly in attempting the task of
coming home at all, on such a night as this. But a change came o'er the
spirit of his dream. As the contents of the canteen had diminished, Billy's
spirits had risen in exact proportion, his heart had grown strong and he
began to despise the difficulties in his way. In fact he was as happy as a
prince, and rather liked the idea of facing the snow drifts and fighting the
wind. So on he went. What seemed strange to Billy was the fact that there
seemed to be so much sameness in the surrounding features of the
landscape—or so much of it as he could discover, during the momentary
lulls of the storm. He therefore stopped short, steadied himself for a
moment, and took another drink; which proceeding seemed to clear up his
mind on the puzzled subject, for muttering that it was "all roight," he once
more started forward.
Another half-hour passed and still another, and yet Billy found the road
open before him, with no sign of his own humble little home. He began to
grow very tired and considerably muddled, and paused at length to consider
the situation.
In front of him he perceived something so like the lane that led to his
own shanty that he joyfully proceeded, and at length reached what he
believed to be a back door that he had directed his wife to leave "on the
latch" for his return.
What surprised him was that he could see no light within. He was,
however, sufficiently aware of the fact that he had taken more of "the
Page 72
crayther" than his good woman would approve of, so not caring to wake her
up, he stole to the door and tried to lift the latch. It was fastened. Everything
within was dark as Erebus, and not a sound could be heard except the low
breathing of what he supposed to be his sleeping children. This rather
excited Billy's wrath. He had been particular in his injunction to leave the
door unbolted, and it was hard to be kept out in the storm on such a night as
this. He called out—at first in a whisper, then louder and louder—to
Kathleen to let him in. There was no response. Yet he certainly heard the
movement of feet within. What could it mean? The little man finally swore
a big oath and fiercely demanded admittance; but still there came no reply.
He then essayed to force the door, and to his utter amazement the upper part
of it gave way, opening out like a window-shutter, while the lower part
remained firm. The musician therefore climbed up, and seating himself on
the edge of the door, peered in. He could see nothing but a black void. To
use his own figure of speech, "yez might as well hunt for Gineral
Washington's will down a black dog's throat, as attimpt to see the nose on
yer face in there!"
He was nearly paralyzed with astonishment. Suddenly a bright thought
struck him. He raised his trombone to his lips, and in spite of the mingled
emotions that agitated his breast, blew upon it a blast loud enough to have
waked the dead.
Imagine therefore how his previous astonishment was deepened into
almost idiotic wonder when he heard a reply from what appeared to be a
trombone of more gigantic power than his own. "Bur-r-r!" went Mr.
Muldoon's instrument.
"Boo-o-o!" replied the invisible respondent.
Billy was amazed. Billy was awe-stricken. But the instinct of the
musician rose above all other emotions.
up, he stole to the door and tried to lift the latch. It was fastened. Everything
within was dark as Erebus, and not a sound could be heard except the low
breathing of what he supposed to be his sleeping children. This rather
excited Billy's wrath. He had been particular in his injunction to leave the
door unbolted, and it was hard to be kept out in the storm on such a night as
this. He called out—at first in a whisper, then louder and louder—to
Kathleen to let him in. There was no response. Yet he certainly heard the
movement of feet within. What could it mean? The little man finally swore
a big oath and fiercely demanded admittance; but still there came no reply.
He then essayed to force the door, and to his utter amazement the upper part
of it gave way, opening out like a window-shutter, while the lower part
remained firm. The musician therefore climbed up, and seating himself on
the edge of the door, peered in. He could see nothing but a black void. To
use his own figure of speech, "yez might as well hunt for Gineral
Washington's will down a black dog's throat, as attimpt to see the nose on
yer face in there!"
He was nearly paralyzed with astonishment. Suddenly a bright thought
struck him. He raised his trombone to his lips, and in spite of the mingled
emotions that agitated his breast, blew upon it a blast loud enough to have
waked the dead.
Imagine therefore how his previous astonishment was deepened into
almost idiotic wonder when he heard a reply from what appeared to be a
trombone of more gigantic power than his own. "Bur-r-r!" went Mr.
Muldoon's instrument.
"Boo-o-o!" replied the invisible respondent.
Billy was amazed. Billy was awe-stricken. But the instinct of the
musician rose above all other emotions.
Page 73
"Sound your G!" said Billy.
"Boo-o-o!" was the answer in a deeper base than before.
"Yer out o' tune, ye domned old fool!" says Billy.
"Boo-o-o!" came the response once more.
"Sound yer G, and take that, ye murtherin spalpeen!" said the now
thoroughly exasperated musician, dashing his own instrument in the
direction of his invisible rival.
Just then poor Billy saw a ferocious-looking pair of eyes glaring at him,
and before he had time to add another word, some huge object rushed
towards him, struck him a determined blow, and lifting him off his perch
sent him into the middle of the road.
The fact is, Billy had wandered very much out of his way, and had
mistaken Ward Glazier's barn for his own dwelling. The supposed rival
musician was our old acquaintance, "Black-face," the Bull.
Billy picked himself up from the snow, and, regardless of his bruised
body and aching bones, steadied himself for a last shot at the enemy. The
little man looked in the direction where he thought his adversary ought to
be, and though he could see nothing through the darkness and storm, he
shouted out, in accents of blended dignity and contempt:
"May the divil fly away wid ye! Ye may be the sthronger of the two, but,
be jabers, yer no museecian!"
How he eventually got home and what were his sentiments regarding the
adventure with which he had met, are facts that do not concern this history;
but it is quite probable that he wondered as we have often done, that St.
Patrick, while engaged in the laudable task of expelling snakes from the soil
of the Emerald Isle, did not also provide that such reptiles should keep out
of the boots of her sons.
"Boo-o-o!" was the answer in a deeper base than before.
"Yer out o' tune, ye domned old fool!" says Billy.
"Boo-o-o!" came the response once more.
"Sound yer G, and take that, ye murtherin spalpeen!" said the now
thoroughly exasperated musician, dashing his own instrument in the
direction of his invisible rival.
Just then poor Billy saw a ferocious-looking pair of eyes glaring at him,
and before he had time to add another word, some huge object rushed
towards him, struck him a determined blow, and lifting him off his perch
sent him into the middle of the road.
The fact is, Billy had wandered very much out of his way, and had
mistaken Ward Glazier's barn for his own dwelling. The supposed rival
musician was our old acquaintance, "Black-face," the Bull.
Billy picked himself up from the snow, and, regardless of his bruised
body and aching bones, steadied himself for a last shot at the enemy. The
little man looked in the direction where he thought his adversary ought to
be, and though he could see nothing through the darkness and storm, he
shouted out, in accents of blended dignity and contempt:
"May the divil fly away wid ye! Ye may be the sthronger of the two, but,
be jabers, yer no museecian!"
How he eventually got home and what were his sentiments regarding the
adventure with which he had met, are facts that do not concern this history;
but it is quite probable that he wondered as we have often done, that St.
Patrick, while engaged in the laudable task of expelling snakes from the soil
of the Emerald Isle, did not also provide that such reptiles should keep out
of the boots of her sons.
Page 74
Page 75
CHAPTER VI.
VISIONS OF THE FUTURE.
The big uncle and the little nephew. — Exchange of ideas between the eccentric Henry Glazier and
young Willard. — Inseparable companions. — Willard's early reading. — Favorite authors. —
Hero-worship of the first Napoleon and Charles XII. of Sweden. — The genius of good and of
evil. — Allen Wight. — A born teacher. — Reverses of fortune. — The shadow on the home.
— Willard's resolve to seek his fortune and what came of it. — The sleep under the trees. —
The prodigal's return. — "All's well that ends well."
Between Henry Glazier and young Willard a singular friendship had
sprung up. The great, six-foot uncle and the quaint, old-fashioned boy were
much together.
In the woods and fields, at junketings and corn-huskings, the pair were
often seen in grave converse, and while Willard was ever eager to hear the
stories of his uncle's mad adventures and queer scrapes, Henry Glazier, in
turn, would listen with a species of reverent wonder to the boy's recital of
striking passages of history or of fiction which he had picked up in the
course of a varied and desultory reading—a taste for which was developed
even at that early age. The volumes to which he had access were few in
number, but he had read their pages again and again, and the subjects of
which they treated were, for the most part, of just such a character as were
calculated to attract the attention of a youth of action rather than of thought.
Among them were "Rollin's Ancient History," "Robinson Crusoe," "The
Arabian Nights," "Life of Charles XII. of Sweden," "Kossuth and his
Generals," and "Napoleon and his Marshals,"—everything relating to the
career of the great Corsican being devoured with the greatest avidity.
VISIONS OF THE FUTURE.
The big uncle and the little nephew. — Exchange of ideas between the eccentric Henry Glazier and
young Willard. — Inseparable companions. — Willard's early reading. — Favorite authors. —
Hero-worship of the first Napoleon and Charles XII. of Sweden. — The genius of good and of
evil. — Allen Wight. — A born teacher. — Reverses of fortune. — The shadow on the home.
— Willard's resolve to seek his fortune and what came of it. — The sleep under the trees. —
The prodigal's return. — "All's well that ends well."
Between Henry Glazier and young Willard a singular friendship had
sprung up. The great, six-foot uncle and the quaint, old-fashioned boy were
much together.
In the woods and fields, at junketings and corn-huskings, the pair were
often seen in grave converse, and while Willard was ever eager to hear the
stories of his uncle's mad adventures and queer scrapes, Henry Glazier, in
turn, would listen with a species of reverent wonder to the boy's recital of
striking passages of history or of fiction which he had picked up in the
course of a varied and desultory reading—a taste for which was developed
even at that early age. The volumes to which he had access were few in
number, but he had read their pages again and again, and the subjects of
which they treated were, for the most part, of just such a character as were
calculated to attract the attention of a youth of action rather than of thought.
Among them were "Rollin's Ancient History," "Robinson Crusoe," "The
Arabian Nights," "Life of Charles XII. of Sweden," "Kossuth and his
Generals," and "Napoleon and his Marshals,"—everything relating to the
career of the great Corsican being devoured with the greatest avidity.
Page 76
He began, of course, by reading the descriptions of battles. All boys do
so. But gradually his interest in such exciting events extended to the actors
in them, and again to the causes that led to them, and at length the books
were read from the preface to the end.
The conversations between the uncle and nephew were far from
exercising a good influence over the boy. If Willard related some daring
deed from the life of Charles XII. or of the great Napoleon—his own
especial hero—his uncle Henry would match it with some equally striking,
if less civilized adventure in the forest or upon the river, in which he or
some of his whilom associates had played the principal part. All this was, to
a certain extent, calculated to unsettle the lad's mind for the common,
routine duties of a useful existence. Fortunately, however, at about the time
that it began to produce that effect, another opposite and more powerful
influence was brought to bear upon him which changed the current of his
ambition, and turned his attention to matters less exciting in their character,
but destined to exert a much greater influence over his future life. I allude to
his association with his teacher, Allen Wight.
The small, plain brick school-house at Little York stands there, we
believe, to-day as it did then in all its native and naked ugliness. Such a
structure, looking at it aesthetically, is not a cheerful sight to the lover of
learning, but at that period it was under the mastership of a mind of no
ordinary calibre. From all that we can learn of him, Allen Wight was that
remarkable character—a born educator. He did not believe his duty was
performed by merely drilling his pupils, parrot-like, to repeat other men's
sentiments. He knew that the minds of mortals, particularly if young and
fresh, are as diverse in their springs of action as the laws of the universe,
and he conceived it to be his duty to study the individual characteristics of
each scholar under his charge, as he would have familiarized himself with
so. But gradually his interest in such exciting events extended to the actors
in them, and again to the causes that led to them, and at length the books
were read from the preface to the end.
The conversations between the uncle and nephew were far from
exercising a good influence over the boy. If Willard related some daring
deed from the life of Charles XII. or of the great Napoleon—his own
especial hero—his uncle Henry would match it with some equally striking,
if less civilized adventure in the forest or upon the river, in which he or
some of his whilom associates had played the principal part. All this was, to
a certain extent, calculated to unsettle the lad's mind for the common,
routine duties of a useful existence. Fortunately, however, at about the time
that it began to produce that effect, another opposite and more powerful
influence was brought to bear upon him which changed the current of his
ambition, and turned his attention to matters less exciting in their character,
but destined to exert a much greater influence over his future life. I allude to
his association with his teacher, Allen Wight.
The small, plain brick school-house at Little York stands there, we
believe, to-day as it did then in all its native and naked ugliness. Such a
structure, looking at it aesthetically, is not a cheerful sight to the lover of
learning, but at that period it was under the mastership of a mind of no
ordinary calibre. From all that we can learn of him, Allen Wight was that
remarkable character—a born educator. He did not believe his duty was
performed by merely drilling his pupils, parrot-like, to repeat other men's
sentiments. He knew that the minds of mortals, particularly if young and
fresh, are as diverse in their springs of action as the laws of the universe,
and he conceived it to be his duty to study the individual characteristics of
each scholar under his charge, as he would have familiarized himself with
Page 77
the notes of a piece of music before he attempted to play it. His method was
that of the Jesuit, carried out in a Protestant fashion. In young Glazier he
took especial interest. He liked the sturdy little fellow who, though full of
youthful vim, could yet sit down and discuss the difference between a
Macedonian phalanx as described by Rollin and a corps d'armée as
manoeuvred by Soult, and he determined if possible—to use his own
phraseology—"to make a man of him."
His first step was to lead the boy's mind up to a habit of reasoning upon
the present and the past, and upon the every day world of practical realities
with which he had to do. When this habit had become sufficiently matured
in him, the wise teacher told him the story of his own life, with its struggles,
its disappointments and its triumphs, thinking thus to stimulate his favorite
pupil to greater efforts and better achievements in the path of knowledge.
He talked to young Willard as he would have talked to a man, yet with all
the gentleness of manner he would have used in addressing a woman. Every
incentive which he could place before the boy, every appeal to both heart
and brain which he could make, Allen Wight used—as the mechanic would
use the lever—to bring out all that was noblest and best in him—to develop
all the sleeping possibilities of his young nature.
Ward Glazier had not been as prosperous in his worldly affairs as his
patriotism and honesty deserved, and things at the old "Homestead" looked
rather gloomy. Poverty is a fearful darkener of child-life, and while its
shadow rarely fell on Willard, who was always at school or roving the
woods and fields with his uncle Henry, to his sisters and brothers it
frequently presented its dark face and whispered unpleasant prophesies of
the future.
Of course it was not that abject kind of poverty which stints the supply of
food and fire in a house. It did not still the prattle of the children, or banish
that of the Jesuit, carried out in a Protestant fashion. In young Glazier he
took especial interest. He liked the sturdy little fellow who, though full of
youthful vim, could yet sit down and discuss the difference between a
Macedonian phalanx as described by Rollin and a corps d'armée as
manoeuvred by Soult, and he determined if possible—to use his own
phraseology—"to make a man of him."
His first step was to lead the boy's mind up to a habit of reasoning upon
the present and the past, and upon the every day world of practical realities
with which he had to do. When this habit had become sufficiently matured
in him, the wise teacher told him the story of his own life, with its struggles,
its disappointments and its triumphs, thinking thus to stimulate his favorite
pupil to greater efforts and better achievements in the path of knowledge.
He talked to young Willard as he would have talked to a man, yet with all
the gentleness of manner he would have used in addressing a woman. Every
incentive which he could place before the boy, every appeal to both heart
and brain which he could make, Allen Wight used—as the mechanic would
use the lever—to bring out all that was noblest and best in him—to develop
all the sleeping possibilities of his young nature.
Ward Glazier had not been as prosperous in his worldly affairs as his
patriotism and honesty deserved, and things at the old "Homestead" looked
rather gloomy. Poverty is a fearful darkener of child-life, and while its
shadow rarely fell on Willard, who was always at school or roving the
woods and fields with his uncle Henry, to his sisters and brothers it
frequently presented its dark face and whispered unpleasant prophesies of
the future.
Of course it was not that abject kind of poverty which stints the supply of
food and fire in a house. It did not still the prattle of the children, or banish
Page 78
childish mirth from the dwelling. It was not the wolf at the door, but the
wolf in the dim possible distance when the poor father, bent with age,
would perhaps be unable to keep his little flock together. But the boy had
never thought of such a possible time. His visions of the future were of
sights to be seen in the great world—of a time when he would be large
enough and free enough to accompany his uncle Henry upon some of his
wild adventures among civilized or savage races, and of the delights of
unlimited books to be read upon subjects most congenial to his mind. He
therefore made no allowance for his father's gloomy face and short words,
and often thought him stern when he was only sad.
A slight incident, however, changed all this and compelled him to face
life not as a dream but as a reality. One evening Willard's father came home
very tired and somewhat dispirited by some adverse circumstances, such as
occur in every man's business life at times, and of course he was not in the
most pleasant frame of mind to encounter the petty annoyances of a
household. Something that Willard said or did, capped the climax of his
irritability and he called the boy a fool. It was a very unusual thing for Ward
Glazier to speak with even apparent harshness to his children, and the lad
felt it, therefore, all the more keenly. He became very thoughtful and silent,
and crept off to bed earlier than usual only to lie awake most of the night
brooding over the insult, and debating within himself what to do in order to
vindicate his outraged dignity. The conclusion at which he finally arrived
was that when the morning came, he would run away from home and seek
his fortune in the great world. The fact is he had been reading "Robinson
Crusoe" but a day or two previous, and that charming story had made a
great impression on his mind. Under its weird influence his vivid
imagination conjured up possible scenes of adventure in which he was to
emulate the courage and sagacity of that celebrated truant, and eventually
wolf in the dim possible distance when the poor father, bent with age,
would perhaps be unable to keep his little flock together. But the boy had
never thought of such a possible time. His visions of the future were of
sights to be seen in the great world—of a time when he would be large
enough and free enough to accompany his uncle Henry upon some of his
wild adventures among civilized or savage races, and of the delights of
unlimited books to be read upon subjects most congenial to his mind. He
therefore made no allowance for his father's gloomy face and short words,
and often thought him stern when he was only sad.
A slight incident, however, changed all this and compelled him to face
life not as a dream but as a reality. One evening Willard's father came home
very tired and somewhat dispirited by some adverse circumstances, such as
occur in every man's business life at times, and of course he was not in the
most pleasant frame of mind to encounter the petty annoyances of a
household. Something that Willard said or did, capped the climax of his
irritability and he called the boy a fool. It was a very unusual thing for Ward
Glazier to speak with even apparent harshness to his children, and the lad
felt it, therefore, all the more keenly. He became very thoughtful and silent,
and crept off to bed earlier than usual only to lie awake most of the night
brooding over the insult, and debating within himself what to do in order to
vindicate his outraged dignity. The conclusion at which he finally arrived
was that when the morning came, he would run away from home and seek
his fortune in the great world. The fact is he had been reading "Robinson
Crusoe" but a day or two previous, and that charming story had made a
great impression on his mind. Under its weird influence his vivid
imagination conjured up possible scenes of adventure in which he was to
emulate the courage and sagacity of that celebrated truant, and eventually
Page 79
come home, as Robinson did, a man full of knowledge with which to
astonish the family, and with wealth to lavish on brothers and sisters, and
make comfortable the declining years of his parents. "Then his father would
not think him a fool," said this youthful logician to himself. His active little
brain was too highly stimulated by his great resolve to permit much sleep
that night, and his bosom swelled proudly as he thought how bravely he
would encounter misfortune and face danger for the sake of the glorious
future he saw in the distance. His boyish heart thrilled strangely within him
as he pictured to himself how full of amazement his brothers and sisters
would be, when they found he had gone forth all alone to seek his fortune.
Even the little sleep, therefore, that he obtained, was but a dreamy repetition
of his waking thoughts, and when the first gray streak of dawn told of the
coming day, the boy arose and quietly dressing himself for his journey,
emerged from the house, passed down the avenue under the broad elms and
struck the highway. He shivered a little as the chill air of morning touched
his cheek, and his ambitious dream did not look quite so glowing and
glorious as it had done when snugly ensconced in his comfortable bed, but
still he had a consciousness that he was doing something very manly, and
he walked on with a firm step and determined heart.
It is true he had no very definite idea of where he was going,—he only
thought of doing great things and seeing strange sights. His whole plan of
travel was comprehended in the one idea of going out into the world. That
was all. Accordingly the youth trudged on for miles without weariness,—
for his head was still thronged with thick coming fancies of the possible
future that lay before him, and for some time the exulting sense of freedom
that ever accompanies disenthralment of any kind, thrilled his whole being
with a firm resolution to accomplish great things.
astonish the family, and with wealth to lavish on brothers and sisters, and
make comfortable the declining years of his parents. "Then his father would
not think him a fool," said this youthful logician to himself. His active little
brain was too highly stimulated by his great resolve to permit much sleep
that night, and his bosom swelled proudly as he thought how bravely he
would encounter misfortune and face danger for the sake of the glorious
future he saw in the distance. His boyish heart thrilled strangely within him
as he pictured to himself how full of amazement his brothers and sisters
would be, when they found he had gone forth all alone to seek his fortune.
Even the little sleep, therefore, that he obtained, was but a dreamy repetition
of his waking thoughts, and when the first gray streak of dawn told of the
coming day, the boy arose and quietly dressing himself for his journey,
emerged from the house, passed down the avenue under the broad elms and
struck the highway. He shivered a little as the chill air of morning touched
his cheek, and his ambitious dream did not look quite so glowing and
glorious as it had done when snugly ensconced in his comfortable bed, but
still he had a consciousness that he was doing something very manly, and
he walked on with a firm step and determined heart.
It is true he had no very definite idea of where he was going,—he only
thought of doing great things and seeing strange sights. His whole plan of
travel was comprehended in the one idea of going out into the world. That
was all. Accordingly the youth trudged on for miles without weariness,—
for his head was still thronged with thick coming fancies of the possible
future that lay before him, and for some time the exulting sense of freedom
that ever accompanies disenthralment of any kind, thrilled his whole being
with a firm resolution to accomplish great things.
Page 80
At the expiration of a few hours, however, the fatigue involved in so
unusual a tramp before breakfast, began to tell upon him, and as he
mechanically slackened his pace, his reflections assumed a less jubilant and
less satisfactory character. He had walked nearly fourteen miles and was
already footsore. "Going out into the world," began to seem not quite so
enchanting a proceeding as it had appeared to be at starting. For the first
time since the idea of "seeking his fortune" had entered his mind, he asked
himself where he was to seek it.
The reply to this inquiry was not easy. Meanwhile the sun had mounted
high up in the heavens and was shining brightly, the birds were singing their
matin songs, and in the roadside pastures the cattle were quietly grazing. It
was a peaceful, pastoral scene, but its peace did not enter the heart of the
wanderer. Somehow the world did not appear half so attractive in his eyes
as it had looked when he stole forth from his father's gate in the cold gray of
the morning twilight. His step, therefore, was less elastic and his bearing
less assured now than then, and at length he sat down under a large beech-
tree by the roadside, to reflect upon the situation. He began to feel very
weary, and the sudden transition from action to repose induced a drowsiness
that in a few minutes overcame his waking sense and launched him into the
sea of forgetfulness. The young head sank lower and lower on his breast,
and finally, sleep ... "that knits up the ravelled sleeve of care," ... "sore
labor's bath, balm of hurt minds, great Nature's second course," came to him
unawares, and for some hours he was totally oblivious of all surroundings.
It was a dreamless sleep, and noon had come when he awoke. For a few
moments he was unable to recall where he was or how he had come there,
but in a very short time the recollection of everything that had happened to
him since the evening before swept over his mind like a flood. Every
circumstance now, however, was viewed in a far different light. Somehow,
unusual a tramp before breakfast, began to tell upon him, and as he
mechanically slackened his pace, his reflections assumed a less jubilant and
less satisfactory character. He had walked nearly fourteen miles and was
already footsore. "Going out into the world," began to seem not quite so
enchanting a proceeding as it had appeared to be at starting. For the first
time since the idea of "seeking his fortune" had entered his mind, he asked
himself where he was to seek it.
The reply to this inquiry was not easy. Meanwhile the sun had mounted
high up in the heavens and was shining brightly, the birds were singing their
matin songs, and in the roadside pastures the cattle were quietly grazing. It
was a peaceful, pastoral scene, but its peace did not enter the heart of the
wanderer. Somehow the world did not appear half so attractive in his eyes
as it had looked when he stole forth from his father's gate in the cold gray of
the morning twilight. His step, therefore, was less elastic and his bearing
less assured now than then, and at length he sat down under a large beech-
tree by the roadside, to reflect upon the situation. He began to feel very
weary, and the sudden transition from action to repose induced a drowsiness
that in a few minutes overcame his waking sense and launched him into the
sea of forgetfulness. The young head sank lower and lower on his breast,
and finally, sleep ... "that knits up the ravelled sleeve of care," ... "sore
labor's bath, balm of hurt minds, great Nature's second course," came to him
unawares, and for some hours he was totally oblivious of all surroundings.
It was a dreamless sleep, and noon had come when he awoke. For a few
moments he was unable to recall where he was or how he had come there,
but in a very short time the recollection of everything that had happened to
him since the evening before swept over his mind like a flood. Every
circumstance now, however, was viewed in a far different light. Somehow,
Page 81
the provocation which had sent him into the wide world to seek his fortune
did not seem half so great as it had seemed only the night before. The
example of De Foe's hero was not so completely alluring, and a portion of
that history which the evening previous he had not deemed worthy of a
thought, now rose vividly before him. He seemed to read again these words:
"My father, a grave, wise man, gave me serious and excellent counsel
against what he saw was my design. He told me it was for men of desperate
fortunes on the one hand, or of aspiring superior fortunes on the other, who
went abroad upon adventures, to rise by enterprise and make themselves
famous in undertakings of a nature out of the common road: that these
things were all either too far above me, or too far below me: that mine was
the middle state or what might be called the upper station of humble life,
which he had found by long experience was the best state in the world, the
most suited to human happiness. The wise man gave his testimony to this
when he prayed to have 'neither poverty nor riches.'" And then came the
thought that all that Robinson ever gained in fame or fortune, failed to still
the quiet but terrible whisper of his conscience whenever he thought of
those he had abandoned for a roving life. So intently did he think upon
these things, he seemed actually to behold the wanderer upon his sea-girt
island with lawless Will Atkins and the gentle French priest beside him,
while the words of the repentant mutineer seemed to be hissed into his ear:
—"No, sir, I did not cut his throat, but I cut the throat of all his comforts. I
shortened his days and I broke his heart by the most ungrateful, unnatural
return, for the most tender and affectionate treatment that father ever gave
or child could receive." Young Willard could not but remember that his
parents had been most kind and tender, that his father had lavished upon
him during all the years of his childhood a most prodigal wealth of
affection: and the one harsh epithet he had received seemed as nothing
did not seem half so great as it had seemed only the night before. The
example of De Foe's hero was not so completely alluring, and a portion of
that history which the evening previous he had not deemed worthy of a
thought, now rose vividly before him. He seemed to read again these words:
"My father, a grave, wise man, gave me serious and excellent counsel
against what he saw was my design. He told me it was for men of desperate
fortunes on the one hand, or of aspiring superior fortunes on the other, who
went abroad upon adventures, to rise by enterprise and make themselves
famous in undertakings of a nature out of the common road: that these
things were all either too far above me, or too far below me: that mine was
the middle state or what might be called the upper station of humble life,
which he had found by long experience was the best state in the world, the
most suited to human happiness. The wise man gave his testimony to this
when he prayed to have 'neither poverty nor riches.'" And then came the
thought that all that Robinson ever gained in fame or fortune, failed to still
the quiet but terrible whisper of his conscience whenever he thought of
those he had abandoned for a roving life. So intently did he think upon
these things, he seemed actually to behold the wanderer upon his sea-girt
island with lawless Will Atkins and the gentle French priest beside him,
while the words of the repentant mutineer seemed to be hissed into his ear:
—"No, sir, I did not cut his throat, but I cut the throat of all his comforts. I
shortened his days and I broke his heart by the most ungrateful, unnatural
return, for the most tender and affectionate treatment that father ever gave
or child could receive." Young Willard could not but remember that his
parents had been most kind and tender, that his father had lavished upon
him during all the years of his childhood a most prodigal wealth of
affection: and the one harsh epithet he had received seemed as nothing
Page 82
among the multitude of kind and loving words that had never been withheld
from him. His heart told him that something deeper than any ordinary woe
would darken his mother's quiet face when she beheld his empty chair and
realized that he had gone, perhaps never to return, without one farewell
word to her. Such reflections as these, that he wondered had not occurred to
him before, now took possession of his mind and, impelled by their
influence, he arose and slowly started back towards home. As he came
within sight of the old place he saw his father in the distance reaping, and
the sight filled him with gladness.
"From the top of the road, through the gap was seen
Down a zigzag road cut up by rills,
The velvet valley cradled between
Dark double ridges of 'elm' clad hills;
And just beyond, on the sunniest slope,
With its windows aglint in the sunset warm,
In the spot where he first knew life and hope,
Was the dear old house of the 'Homestead' farm."
But he was not just then in a frame of mind to meet the parental eye, and
he therefore skirted round a piece of woods which concealed him from his
father's view and reaching the door unobserved, crept into the house.
Though his absence had been discovered, and its cause, if not known, at
least shrewdly suspected, his father and mother in their reception of him
very wisely ignored all knowledge of his truancy and treated the young
prodigal with such unusual marks of kindness and indulgence, that he was
completely melted, and felt, with keen remorse, that he had been upon the
eve of becoming a most wretched ingrate. The lesson of the experiment was
not lost upon him, and he never again tried the foolish venture.
from him. His heart told him that something deeper than any ordinary woe
would darken his mother's quiet face when she beheld his empty chair and
realized that he had gone, perhaps never to return, without one farewell
word to her. Such reflections as these, that he wondered had not occurred to
him before, now took possession of his mind and, impelled by their
influence, he arose and slowly started back towards home. As he came
within sight of the old place he saw his father in the distance reaping, and
the sight filled him with gladness.
"From the top of the road, through the gap was seen
Down a zigzag road cut up by rills,
The velvet valley cradled between
Dark double ridges of 'elm' clad hills;
And just beyond, on the sunniest slope,
With its windows aglint in the sunset warm,
In the spot where he first knew life and hope,
Was the dear old house of the 'Homestead' farm."
But he was not just then in a frame of mind to meet the parental eye, and
he therefore skirted round a piece of woods which concealed him from his
father's view and reaching the door unobserved, crept into the house.
Though his absence had been discovered, and its cause, if not known, at
least shrewdly suspected, his father and mother in their reception of him
very wisely ignored all knowledge of his truancy and treated the young
prodigal with such unusual marks of kindness and indulgence, that he was
completely melted, and felt, with keen remorse, that he had been upon the
eve of becoming a most wretched ingrate. The lesson of the experiment was
not lost upon him, and he never again tried the foolish venture.
Page 83
Page 84
CHAPTER VII.
WILLARD GLAZIER AT HOME.
WILLARD GLAZIER AT HOME.
Page 85
Out of boyhood. — Days of adolescence. — True family pride. —
Schemes for the future. — Willard as a temperance advocate. —
Watering his grandfather's whiskey. — The pump behind the hill. The
sleigh-ride by night. — The "shakedown" at Edwards. — Intoxicated by
tobacco fumes. — The return ride. — Landed in a snow-bank. — Good-
bye horses and sleigh! — Plodding through the snow.
Ward Glazier—putting his theories to the test of practice—believed it
best to allow the error of his son to work out its own punishment, without
adding a word to indicate that he knew it had been committed. The wisdom
of such reticence is not often recognized by parents placed in similar
circumstances, but it would perhaps be better for the children if it were. At
the same time the father thought it expedient to apprise Allen Wight of the
matter. That gentleman readily acquiescing in his plans, saw in the recoil
which would probably succeed such an escapade in the mind of a sensitive
and generous boy, the opportunity he sought to arouse him to a sense of the
duties that lay before him in his future career, in living a useful and worthy
life.
One afternoon, therefore, when they were enjoying a quiet chat after
school hours, he managed—without the slightest allusion to the runaway
freak—to turn the conversation to the subject of "self-made men." Not, be it
understood, that species of fungi who only love their maker, because being
"Self-made, self-trained, self-satisfied,"
they are
"Themselves their only daily boast and pride."
Not the Randall Leslies, or the Peter Firkins of the world or that other
Schemes for the future. — Willard as a temperance advocate. —
Watering his grandfather's whiskey. — The pump behind the hill. The
sleigh-ride by night. — The "shakedown" at Edwards. — Intoxicated by
tobacco fumes. — The return ride. — Landed in a snow-bank. — Good-
bye horses and sleigh! — Plodding through the snow.
Ward Glazier—putting his theories to the test of practice—believed it
best to allow the error of his son to work out its own punishment, without
adding a word to indicate that he knew it had been committed. The wisdom
of such reticence is not often recognized by parents placed in similar
circumstances, but it would perhaps be better for the children if it were. At
the same time the father thought it expedient to apprise Allen Wight of the
matter. That gentleman readily acquiescing in his plans, saw in the recoil
which would probably succeed such an escapade in the mind of a sensitive
and generous boy, the opportunity he sought to arouse him to a sense of the
duties that lay before him in his future career, in living a useful and worthy
life.
One afternoon, therefore, when they were enjoying a quiet chat after
school hours, he managed—without the slightest allusion to the runaway
freak—to turn the conversation to the subject of "self-made men." Not, be it
understood, that species of fungi who only love their maker, because being
"Self-made, self-trained, self-satisfied,"
they are
"Themselves their only daily boast and pride."
Not the Randall Leslies, or the Peter Firkins of the world or that other
Page 86
"Score of Peter Funks,
Of the mock-mining stamp, who deal in chunks
Of confidence, ores and metals as examples
And sell the bowels of the earth by samples;"
but that higher race who have achieved noble things despite all the
drawbacks of poverty and friendlessness.
He spoke of Clive, the Shropshire farmer's son, who, according to the
greatest of modern historians, equalled Lucullus in war and Tergot in peace;
that reformer who out of the discordant elements of an Indian oligarchy
consolidated and perfected an empire, one of the most splendid the world
contains.
He spoke, too, of that other Indian ruler who as he lay dreaming a boy's
day-dream one holiday, upon the bank of a stream that flowed through
Daylesford Manor—the manor which one ancestor's sword had won and
another ancestor's folly had lost—who formed a scheme of life that
culminated in the extension of the same empire beyond all previous
expectation, and in linking his own name so inseparably with the story of
his country, that no man can write the history of England without writing
the life of Warren Hastings.
Other examples of great ends achieved with little means, by men in our
own land, were talked over.
Franklin the boy, walking up Market street, Philadelphia, a penny-roll
under each arm and munching a third, under the laughing observation of
Miss Read, his future wife—and Franklin the sage and Minister,
representing his government at the most elegant court in Europe, were
contrasted for his edification. Various modern instances were added, Mr.
Wight keeping in view Pope's axiom that
Of the mock-mining stamp, who deal in chunks
Of confidence, ores and metals as examples
And sell the bowels of the earth by samples;"
but that higher race who have achieved noble things despite all the
drawbacks of poverty and friendlessness.
He spoke of Clive, the Shropshire farmer's son, who, according to the
greatest of modern historians, equalled Lucullus in war and Tergot in peace;
that reformer who out of the discordant elements of an Indian oligarchy
consolidated and perfected an empire, one of the most splendid the world
contains.
He spoke, too, of that other Indian ruler who as he lay dreaming a boy's
day-dream one holiday, upon the bank of a stream that flowed through
Daylesford Manor—the manor which one ancestor's sword had won and
another ancestor's folly had lost—who formed a scheme of life that
culminated in the extension of the same empire beyond all previous
expectation, and in linking his own name so inseparably with the story of
his country, that no man can write the history of England without writing
the life of Warren Hastings.
Other examples of great ends achieved with little means, by men in our
own land, were talked over.
Franklin the boy, walking up Market street, Philadelphia, a penny-roll
under each arm and munching a third, under the laughing observation of
Miss Read, his future wife—and Franklin the sage and Minister,
representing his government at the most elegant court in Europe, were
contrasted for his edification. Various modern instances were added, Mr.
Wight keeping in view Pope's axiom that
Page 87
"Men must be taught as if you taught them not,
And things unknown proposed as things forgot."
When the boy's mind had been sufficiently awakened he followed the
advice of the old adage to "strike while the iron is hot," and impressed upon
him the fact that being the eldest son he was naturally the prop of his house;
nor did he ignore the truth, unpalatable as it might be, that Willard could
hope for no material aid from the hands of his parents. He must carve his
own way. He must build even the ladder up which he was to climb. Others
had done so—why not he? And then he told him that the way to do it
successfully was to acquire knowledge and cultivate wisdom; for
"Knowledge and wisdom, far from being one,
Have, oft times, no connection.
Knowledge dwells in the thoughts of other men,
Wisdom in minds attentive to their own."
Working upon what he rightly conjectured to be the boy's newly
awakened sense of the kindness of his father, he spoke of that good man's
pecuniary reverses, and professed his faith in Willard as the future
regenerator of the fallen fortunes of Ward Glazier's family.
The boy's generous enthusiasm was awakened at once. His ordinary
school tasks and home duties no longer looked commonplace, and were no
longer distasteful to him. They were but incidents in a general plan of
usefulness, and he performed them with an air of cheerfulness that pleased
his teacher and delighted his parents. He volunteered to help his father in
the fields, and while but a boy in years, he yet performed the work of a
man. In fact, he had discovered that every duty of life has its heroic side,
And things unknown proposed as things forgot."
When the boy's mind had been sufficiently awakened he followed the
advice of the old adage to "strike while the iron is hot," and impressed upon
him the fact that being the eldest son he was naturally the prop of his house;
nor did he ignore the truth, unpalatable as it might be, that Willard could
hope for no material aid from the hands of his parents. He must carve his
own way. He must build even the ladder up which he was to climb. Others
had done so—why not he? And then he told him that the way to do it
successfully was to acquire knowledge and cultivate wisdom; for
"Knowledge and wisdom, far from being one,
Have, oft times, no connection.
Knowledge dwells in the thoughts of other men,
Wisdom in minds attentive to their own."
Working upon what he rightly conjectured to be the boy's newly
awakened sense of the kindness of his father, he spoke of that good man's
pecuniary reverses, and professed his faith in Willard as the future
regenerator of the fallen fortunes of Ward Glazier's family.
The boy's generous enthusiasm was awakened at once. His ordinary
school tasks and home duties no longer looked commonplace, and were no
longer distasteful to him. They were but incidents in a general plan of
usefulness, and he performed them with an air of cheerfulness that pleased
his teacher and delighted his parents. He volunteered to help his father in
the fields, and while but a boy in years, he yet performed the work of a
man. In fact, he had discovered that every duty of life has its heroic side,
Page 88
and needs only the impulse of high and noble motives to be invested with
dignity and interest.
Meanwhile, he did not neglect his studies. The idea of intellectual culture
was no longer a mere abstraction. Books were not only what they always
had been—reservoirs of knowledge, alluring to his imagination, and
fascinating to his mind—but they were now looked upon as levers, with
which he was to move the world. Knowledge now meant the means
whereby, in the days to come, he was to acquire the power to make his
father and mother comfortable for the balance of their lives; and to surround
his sisters with those luxuries which go far towards making existence a
thing of grace and refinement. When, therefore, he worked during the warm
days of summer, aiding his father in the care of the farm, the summer
evenings found him poring earnestly over his books—practical and useful
ones now—and the harvest once gathered, he was back again in his old
place at school, where he studied steadily and hard. His teacher, Allen
Wight, looked on and was satisfied. And yet Willard was a wild boy—as
wild as any in the school. His relish for fun and frolic was as keen as ever,
but it was now subordinated to his judgment. His practical jokes were
fewer, and the peculiarities of his father no longer furnished him with a
subject for their perpetration. Now and then, however, the old exuberance
of mischief would break out, and upon one occasion his grandfather became
its victim.
As that mosaic styled "character" is nothing more than an aggregate of
just such trivial things, we trust our readers will pardon us if we relate the
incident in point.
When Willard was over nine years of age, his father moved from the Old
Homestead and purchased a place named the Goodrich Farm, where he
opened a country store. The venture proved to be an unfortunate one, and,
dignity and interest.
Meanwhile, he did not neglect his studies. The idea of intellectual culture
was no longer a mere abstraction. Books were not only what they always
had been—reservoirs of knowledge, alluring to his imagination, and
fascinating to his mind—but they were now looked upon as levers, with
which he was to move the world. Knowledge now meant the means
whereby, in the days to come, he was to acquire the power to make his
father and mother comfortable for the balance of their lives; and to surround
his sisters with those luxuries which go far towards making existence a
thing of grace and refinement. When, therefore, he worked during the warm
days of summer, aiding his father in the care of the farm, the summer
evenings found him poring earnestly over his books—practical and useful
ones now—and the harvest once gathered, he was back again in his old
place at school, where he studied steadily and hard. His teacher, Allen
Wight, looked on and was satisfied. And yet Willard was a wild boy—as
wild as any in the school. His relish for fun and frolic was as keen as ever,
but it was now subordinated to his judgment. His practical jokes were
fewer, and the peculiarities of his father no longer furnished him with a
subject for their perpetration. Now and then, however, the old exuberance
of mischief would break out, and upon one occasion his grandfather became
its victim.
As that mosaic styled "character" is nothing more than an aggregate of
just such trivial things, we trust our readers will pardon us if we relate the
incident in point.
When Willard was over nine years of age, his father moved from the Old
Homestead and purchased a place named the Goodrich Farm, where he
opened a country store. The venture proved to be an unfortunate one, and,
Page 89
after a series of pecuniary vicissitudes, he left it, and, at the period to which
we refer, was the occupant of a farm known in that section as the Davis
Place.
This farm and the Glazier Homestead occupied positions upon opposite
sides of the same public road—the former being one mile nearer the town
of Fullersville.
Meantime, the Homestead was occupied and cultivated by Jabez Glazier,
the grandfather of Willard, and upon certain occasions the boy was sent
over to stay for a few days at that place, to help the old gentleman in many
little ways connected with its cultivation.
At that time and in that locality it was customary during the haying
season to deal out to the men employed stated rations of whiskey every day.
A bottle was filled for each one, and, being placed by the recipient in a
swathe of the newly-cut grass, frequent visits were made to the spot and
frequent libations indulged in. Ward Glazier and his wife being
determinedly opposed to the use of ardent spirits under any circumstances
whatever, the custom was dispensed with at the Davis Place; but at the Old
Homestead, under the rule of Jabez Glazier, the time-honored usage was
staunchly maintained. Young Willard had been so deeply inoculated with
his parents' opinions on this subject, that he had delivered an address before
the society of "Sons of Temperance" at Fullerville even at that early age,
and his disgust may be imagined when he found himself selected by his
grandfather to go to the village tavern for the necessary quantity of "Old
Rye." He asked that some other messenger might be sent, but the old
gentleman was inflexible. Nobody but Willard would satisfy his whim—
perhaps because he felt that, in the custody of his grandson, the "fire-water"
would not be tampered with on its return to the farm. Willard did not openly
rebel against his grandfather's commands—since it was the fashion in those
we refer, was the occupant of a farm known in that section as the Davis
Place.
This farm and the Glazier Homestead occupied positions upon opposite
sides of the same public road—the former being one mile nearer the town
of Fullersville.
Meantime, the Homestead was occupied and cultivated by Jabez Glazier,
the grandfather of Willard, and upon certain occasions the boy was sent
over to stay for a few days at that place, to help the old gentleman in many
little ways connected with its cultivation.
At that time and in that locality it was customary during the haying
season to deal out to the men employed stated rations of whiskey every day.
A bottle was filled for each one, and, being placed by the recipient in a
swathe of the newly-cut grass, frequent visits were made to the spot and
frequent libations indulged in. Ward Glazier and his wife being
determinedly opposed to the use of ardent spirits under any circumstances
whatever, the custom was dispensed with at the Davis Place; but at the Old
Homestead, under the rule of Jabez Glazier, the time-honored usage was
staunchly maintained. Young Willard had been so deeply inoculated with
his parents' opinions on this subject, that he had delivered an address before
the society of "Sons of Temperance" at Fullerville even at that early age,
and his disgust may be imagined when he found himself selected by his
grandfather to go to the village tavern for the necessary quantity of "Old
Rye." He asked that some other messenger might be sent, but the old
gentleman was inflexible. Nobody but Willard would satisfy his whim—
perhaps because he felt that, in the custody of his grandson, the "fire-water"
would not be tampered with on its return to the farm. Willard did not openly
rebel against his grandfather's commands—since it was the fashion in those
Page 90
days for children to be obedient—but turned his attention to gaining his
object by means of a little stratagem. Not far from the house on the road
leading to the store stood an old pump, concealed from view by an
intervening building and a rising hill. Here this youthful disciple of Father
Matthew made it a practice regularly to stop, and pouring out half the
contents of the jug he carried, refilled it with the crystal liquid from the
pump.
At first this improvement in their potations seemed hardly to attract the
attention of the individuals interested; but, as each day the proportion of
water increased, the dilution at last forced itself upon their attention, and
every one agreed that the tavern-keeper was cheating Jabez in the "Rye"
business. The result of it all was the withdrawal of Jabez Glazier's custom
from the establishment in question, and the future purchase of "spiritual"
goods by Mr. Jabez himself in person.
Thus Willard's object was attained, and the cold-water people were no
longer vexed by the inconsistent spectacle of a son of temperance playing
Ganymede to a set of drinking, though by no means drunken, hay-makers.
Not often, now, did young Willard figure as chief in any mad scrape or
wild boyish adventure. Those times were left behind. Once, indeed, his
uncle Henry, the patron of the great chief "Kaw-shaw-gan-ce," swooped
down upon the household, and, in an enormous four-horse sleigh of his own
construction, took him, together with a gay and festive party of lads and
lasses, off to Edwards, a village nine miles away. Here the rustic party had a
"shake-down," and young Willard got fearfully sick in a dense atmosphere
of tobacco smoke. The feast over, he was tightly packed in the sleigh with
the buxom country girls and their muscular attendants, while Henry Glazier
drove across country through a blinding snow-storm and over measureless
drifts. The party was stranded at last on a rail fence under the snow, and the
object by means of a little stratagem. Not far from the house on the road
leading to the store stood an old pump, concealed from view by an
intervening building and a rising hill. Here this youthful disciple of Father
Matthew made it a practice regularly to stop, and pouring out half the
contents of the jug he carried, refilled it with the crystal liquid from the
pump.
At first this improvement in their potations seemed hardly to attract the
attention of the individuals interested; but, as each day the proportion of
water increased, the dilution at last forced itself upon their attention, and
every one agreed that the tavern-keeper was cheating Jabez in the "Rye"
business. The result of it all was the withdrawal of Jabez Glazier's custom
from the establishment in question, and the future purchase of "spiritual"
goods by Mr. Jabez himself in person.
Thus Willard's object was attained, and the cold-water people were no
longer vexed by the inconsistent spectacle of a son of temperance playing
Ganymede to a set of drinking, though by no means drunken, hay-makers.
Not often, now, did young Willard figure as chief in any mad scrape or
wild boyish adventure. Those times were left behind. Once, indeed, his
uncle Henry, the patron of the great chief "Kaw-shaw-gan-ce," swooped
down upon the household, and, in an enormous four-horse sleigh of his own
construction, took him, together with a gay and festive party of lads and
lasses, off to Edwards, a village nine miles away. Here the rustic party had a
"shake-down," and young Willard got fearfully sick in a dense atmosphere
of tobacco smoke. The feast over, he was tightly packed in the sleigh with
the buxom country girls and their muscular attendants, while Henry Glazier
drove across country through a blinding snow-storm and over measureless
drifts. The party was stranded at last on a rail fence under the snow, and the
Page 91
living freight flung bodily forth and buried in the deep drifts. They emerged
from their snowy baptism with many a laugh and scream and shout, and
tramped the remainder of the distance home. The horses having made good
their escape, Willard was carried forward on his uncle Henry's back.
from their snowy baptism with many a laugh and scream and shout, and
tramped the remainder of the distance home. The horses having made good
their escape, Willard was carried forward on his uncle Henry's back.
Page 92
CHAPTER VIII.
ADVENTURES—EQUINE AND BOVINE.
Ward Glazier moves to the Davis Place. — "Far in the lane a lonely house he found." — Who was
Davis? — Description of the place. — A wild spot for a home. — Willard at work. —
Adventure with an ox-team. — The road, the bridge and the stream. — "As an ox thirsteth for
the water." — Dashed from a precipice! — Willard as a horse-tamer. — "Chestnut Bess," the
blooded mare. — The start for home. — "Bess" on the rampage. — A lightning dash. — The
stooping arch. — Bruised and unconscious.
It will be remembered that when Ward Glazier left the Homestead, he
removed to a neighboring farm known as the Goodrich Place,—a fine,
comfortable, well-stocked and well-tilled farm, presenting an appearance of
prosperity to the eye of the observer and calculated to make the impression
that its owner must be well-to-do in the world. As we have heretofore
hinted, however, Ward Glazier failed to prosper there. Why this was the
case it is hard to tell. A late writer has suggested that "not only the higher
intellectual gifts but even the finer moral emotions are an incumbrance to
the fortune-hunter." That "a gentle disposition and extreme frankness and
generosity have been the ruin in a worldly sense of many a noble spirit;"
and he adds that "there is a degree of cautiousness and distrust and a certain
insensibility and sternness that seem essential to a man who has to bustle
through the world and engineer his own affairs,"—and if he be right, the
matter may be easily understood.
However that may be, he failed to prosper, and as business misfortunes
began to fall thick and fast upon his head, he gave up the farm to his
ADVENTURES—EQUINE AND BOVINE.
Ward Glazier moves to the Davis Place. — "Far in the lane a lonely house he found." — Who was
Davis? — Description of the place. — A wild spot for a home. — Willard at work. —
Adventure with an ox-team. — The road, the bridge and the stream. — "As an ox thirsteth for
the water." — Dashed from a precipice! — Willard as a horse-tamer. — "Chestnut Bess," the
blooded mare. — The start for home. — "Bess" on the rampage. — A lightning dash. — The
stooping arch. — Bruised and unconscious.
It will be remembered that when Ward Glazier left the Homestead, he
removed to a neighboring farm known as the Goodrich Place,—a fine,
comfortable, well-stocked and well-tilled farm, presenting an appearance of
prosperity to the eye of the observer and calculated to make the impression
that its owner must be well-to-do in the world. As we have heretofore
hinted, however, Ward Glazier failed to prosper there. Why this was the
case it is hard to tell. A late writer has suggested that "not only the higher
intellectual gifts but even the finer moral emotions are an incumbrance to
the fortune-hunter." That "a gentle disposition and extreme frankness and
generosity have been the ruin in a worldly sense of many a noble spirit;"
and he adds that "there is a degree of cautiousness and distrust and a certain
insensibility and sternness that seem essential to a man who has to bustle
through the world and engineer his own affairs,"—and if he be right, the
matter may be easily understood.
However that may be, he failed to prosper, and as business misfortunes
began to fall thick and fast upon his head, he gave up the farm to his
Page 93
creditors, together with all his other effects, and took up his abode at the
Davis Place.
Who the particular Davis was whose name clung to the place we have
been unable to ascertain, but when Ward Glazier moved there, the house
seemed fairly to scowl upon the passer-by—so utterly unprepossessing was
its appearance. A rude, capacious wooden structure, it stood fronting the
highway, and was a place where the beautiful had no existence. The very
soil looked black and rough—the vegetation rugged. Every inclosure was of
stone or knotted timber, and even a dove-cot which in its fresher days some
hand had placed upon the lawn, was now roofless and shattered, and lay
prone upon the ground, a shapeless mass of collapsed boards. The lawn—if
such it could be named—resembled a bleak shore, blackened with stranded
wrecks of ships whose passengers had long years before gone down at sea.
The broken windows in the dormitories were festooned with cobwebs that
had housed long lines of ancestral spiders, and where a pane or two of glass
remained among the many empty frames, one fancied a gibbering spectre
might look out from the gloomy depths behind.
The back-ground against which this bleak and sombre place was thrown
was no less grim and stern. Huge rocks in tiers, like stone coffins, rose in
fierce ranges one above another up and up—back and farther back until
they reached a point from whence a miniature forest of dwarf beech and
maple, that appeared to crown the topmost bastion of them all, nodded in
the swaying wind like funeral plumes upon a Titan's hearse.
In fact, the only gleam of light upon the place—and it was a crazy, fitful
gleam at that—came from a rushing stream that took its source high up
among the hills. This brook first seen off to the extreme left of the house,
came dashing down the rocks until it reached a level. Then, swinging round
with sudden swirl it engirdled the place, and after many a curious twist and
Davis Place.
Who the particular Davis was whose name clung to the place we have
been unable to ascertain, but when Ward Glazier moved there, the house
seemed fairly to scowl upon the passer-by—so utterly unprepossessing was
its appearance. A rude, capacious wooden structure, it stood fronting the
highway, and was a place where the beautiful had no existence. The very
soil looked black and rough—the vegetation rugged. Every inclosure was of
stone or knotted timber, and even a dove-cot which in its fresher days some
hand had placed upon the lawn, was now roofless and shattered, and lay
prone upon the ground, a shapeless mass of collapsed boards. The lawn—if
such it could be named—resembled a bleak shore, blackened with stranded
wrecks of ships whose passengers had long years before gone down at sea.
The broken windows in the dormitories were festooned with cobwebs that
had housed long lines of ancestral spiders, and where a pane or two of glass
remained among the many empty frames, one fancied a gibbering spectre
might look out from the gloomy depths behind.
The back-ground against which this bleak and sombre place was thrown
was no less grim and stern. Huge rocks in tiers, like stone coffins, rose in
fierce ranges one above another up and up—back and farther back until
they reached a point from whence a miniature forest of dwarf beech and
maple, that appeared to crown the topmost bastion of them all, nodded in
the swaying wind like funeral plumes upon a Titan's hearse.
In fact, the only gleam of light upon the place—and it was a crazy, fitful
gleam at that—came from a rushing stream that took its source high up
among the hills. This brook first seen off to the extreme left of the house,
came dashing down the rocks until it reached a level. Then, swinging round
with sudden swirl it engirdled the place, and after many a curious twist and
Page 94
turn got straight again and went onward far off among the neighboring
fields and lost itself at last in the Oswegatchie. The interior of the house
was just as wild and dreary as the exterior. The rooms, for the most part,
were too large for comfort. When one spoke, a dozen ghostly echoes
answered, and at twilight the smaller children huddled around the kitchen
fire and seldom went beyond that cheerful room until bed time. Often, in
the dead of night, the creaking of timber and the voices of the wind startled
the little ones from sleep, and a sense of something unreal and mysterious
overshadowed their young minds.
It was, take it all in all, a grim, gaunt, strange place in which to fix a
home. It was there, however, in the midst of such sterile surroundings, that
the next five years of Willard's life were mainly passed. There were no
external influences brought to bear upon this portion of his existence that
were not harsh and wild and stern. His father, honest even to the verge of
fanaticism, was letting his heart corrode to bitterness under the sense of
hopeless indebtedness. The churlish fields attached to the place offered but
a grudging reward for the hardest labor. There was no hope of his acquiring
a profession or even an education beyond the scant opportunity of Allen
Wight's school, unless he himself could earn the means to pay for it. Still he
was neither discouraged nor without hope. Instead of sinking under this
accumulation of difficulties, his moral fibre was rendered more robust, and
with it his physical strength and usefulness developed daily.
Thus a year sped on, and at the end of that time his father, as one means
of adding something to his scanty resources, obtained the job of hauling a
quantity of iron ore from the ore beds near Little York to a forge and
furnace at Fullerville. Willard with an ox-team and his uncle Henry with a
span of fine horses, were employed for the most part to do the actual
hauling.
fields and lost itself at last in the Oswegatchie. The interior of the house
was just as wild and dreary as the exterior. The rooms, for the most part,
were too large for comfort. When one spoke, a dozen ghostly echoes
answered, and at twilight the smaller children huddled around the kitchen
fire and seldom went beyond that cheerful room until bed time. Often, in
the dead of night, the creaking of timber and the voices of the wind startled
the little ones from sleep, and a sense of something unreal and mysterious
overshadowed their young minds.
It was, take it all in all, a grim, gaunt, strange place in which to fix a
home. It was there, however, in the midst of such sterile surroundings, that
the next five years of Willard's life were mainly passed. There were no
external influences brought to bear upon this portion of his existence that
were not harsh and wild and stern. His father, honest even to the verge of
fanaticism, was letting his heart corrode to bitterness under the sense of
hopeless indebtedness. The churlish fields attached to the place offered but
a grudging reward for the hardest labor. There was no hope of his acquiring
a profession or even an education beyond the scant opportunity of Allen
Wight's school, unless he himself could earn the means to pay for it. Still he
was neither discouraged nor without hope. Instead of sinking under this
accumulation of difficulties, his moral fibre was rendered more robust, and
with it his physical strength and usefulness developed daily.
Thus a year sped on, and at the end of that time his father, as one means
of adding something to his scanty resources, obtained the job of hauling a
quantity of iron ore from the ore beds near Little York to a forge and
furnace at Fullerville. Willard with an ox-team and his uncle Henry with a
span of fine horses, were employed for the most part to do the actual
hauling.
Page 95
By this time Willard was quite familiar with the management of horses,
and he had also learned to drive oxen, so that at the age of thirteen he
worked with his ox-team as regularly and almost as efficiently as any of his
grown-up uncles or even his father. The management of an ox-team, by the
way, is quite different from that of horses, and at times it becomes very
troublesome business, requiring for its successful accomplishment the very
nicest admixture of courage, coolness and discretion. Willard, however,
with the self-reliance that always characterizes a boy of his age, never for a
moment doubted that he was adequate to the task, and as he had been
placed in charge of a very fine yoke of oxen, took much pride in driving
them in the same manner as he would have driven a span of horses, seated
on the top of his load upon the wagon instead of being on foot and close by
their heads, as prudence would have taught an older driver to do. The truth
is, that if there was any human being before whom the boy delighted to
exhibit himself as doing a manly part in his little circle of existence, that
being was Henry Glazier.
Consequently, when his uncle's team was on the road, Master Willard
took a position upon his own load with as important an air as if he were on
the box of a coach-and-four, and guided his cattle as if they were animals of
the most docile disposition, to halt at his whisper or proceed at his word. As
the principal part of the work was performed at midsummer under the rays
of a scorching sun, the cattle were, of course, irritable and restive to a
degree that in colder weather would have seemed inconsistent with the
phlegmatic characteristics of their race.
The road from Little York to Fullerville is a winding, narrow road,
somewhat hilly in places, and neither very smooth nor level at any point.
Midway between the two villages a brawling stream crosses the road, and
making a turn empties itself, at the distance of about thirty yards, into the
and he had also learned to drive oxen, so that at the age of thirteen he
worked with his ox-team as regularly and almost as efficiently as any of his
grown-up uncles or even his father. The management of an ox-team, by the
way, is quite different from that of horses, and at times it becomes very
troublesome business, requiring for its successful accomplishment the very
nicest admixture of courage, coolness and discretion. Willard, however,
with the self-reliance that always characterizes a boy of his age, never for a
moment doubted that he was adequate to the task, and as he had been
placed in charge of a very fine yoke of oxen, took much pride in driving
them in the same manner as he would have driven a span of horses, seated
on the top of his load upon the wagon instead of being on foot and close by
their heads, as prudence would have taught an older driver to do. The truth
is, that if there was any human being before whom the boy delighted to
exhibit himself as doing a manly part in his little circle of existence, that
being was Henry Glazier.
Consequently, when his uncle's team was on the road, Master Willard
took a position upon his own load with as important an air as if he were on
the box of a coach-and-four, and guided his cattle as if they were animals of
the most docile disposition, to halt at his whisper or proceed at his word. As
the principal part of the work was performed at midsummer under the rays
of a scorching sun, the cattle were, of course, irritable and restive to a
degree that in colder weather would have seemed inconsistent with the
phlegmatic characteristics of their race.
The road from Little York to Fullerville is a winding, narrow road,
somewhat hilly in places, and neither very smooth nor level at any point.
Midway between the two villages a brawling stream crosses the road, and
making a turn empties itself, at the distance of about thirty yards, into the
Page 96
waters of the Oswegatchie. This stream is spanned by a rustic bridge at a
very considerable elevation above the water. The banks are high and abrupt,
and, as the traveler approaches them, he cannot fail to be attracted by the
silvery sparkle of the waters far below. The view from the bridge takes in
the white farm-houses with their emerald setting of rich grain-fields and
meadowlands, the distant forge with its belching smoke-stacks, the winding
Oswegatchie, and the distant blue hills. If the month happens to be August,
the traveler may hear the cheerful hum of busy industry, the swinging
cradles of the harvesters or the steady roll of the reaper. Upon a day, late in
this richest of summer months—August—in the year of our Lord 1854,
Willard and his uncle Henry were slowly wending their way towards
Fullerville—the former with his ox-team and the latter with a spanking span
of horses. The beasts of burden by their drooping heads and slow pace
evinced the fact that the loads of ore they were drawing were unusually
heavy, and this, combined with the sultry atmosphere, was telling upon the
strength of even such powerful beasts as they.
Willard, as usual, was seated upon the top of his load, and, as they neared
the bridge, despite his familiarity with every detail of the scene, a sense of
its exquisite beauty took possession of him, and, for a moment, he forgot
that he was driving an ox-team. For a moment he was oblivious to the fact
that it takes all a driver's care and skill to prevent mischief whenever a
thirsty ox obtains a glimpse of water upon a summer's day. As they neared
the bridge, the fevered eyes of the cattle caught sight of the limpid stream
away down below, and, just as a cry of warning from his uncle recalled the
boy to a sense of the deadly peril of his position, the cattle made an oblique
plunge over the edge of the bank with two tons of iron-ore in lumps varying
from five pounds to fifty, pouring a huge and deadly hail over their reckless
heads. With rare presence of mind for a boy of his age, the instant he heard
very considerable elevation above the water. The banks are high and abrupt,
and, as the traveler approaches them, he cannot fail to be attracted by the
silvery sparkle of the waters far below. The view from the bridge takes in
the white farm-houses with their emerald setting of rich grain-fields and
meadowlands, the distant forge with its belching smoke-stacks, the winding
Oswegatchie, and the distant blue hills. If the month happens to be August,
the traveler may hear the cheerful hum of busy industry, the swinging
cradles of the harvesters or the steady roll of the reaper. Upon a day, late in
this richest of summer months—August—in the year of our Lord 1854,
Willard and his uncle Henry were slowly wending their way towards
Fullerville—the former with his ox-team and the latter with a spanking span
of horses. The beasts of burden by their drooping heads and slow pace
evinced the fact that the loads of ore they were drawing were unusually
heavy, and this, combined with the sultry atmosphere, was telling upon the
strength of even such powerful beasts as they.
Willard, as usual, was seated upon the top of his load, and, as they neared
the bridge, despite his familiarity with every detail of the scene, a sense of
its exquisite beauty took possession of him, and, for a moment, he forgot
that he was driving an ox-team. For a moment he was oblivious to the fact
that it takes all a driver's care and skill to prevent mischief whenever a
thirsty ox obtains a glimpse of water upon a summer's day. As they neared
the bridge, the fevered eyes of the cattle caught sight of the limpid stream
away down below, and, just as a cry of warning from his uncle recalled the
boy to a sense of the deadly peril of his position, the cattle made an oblique
plunge over the edge of the bank with two tons of iron-ore in lumps varying
from five pounds to fifty, pouring a huge and deadly hail over their reckless
heads. With rare presence of mind for a boy of his age, the instant he heard
Page 97
his uncle's warning cry, Willard realized the situation and jumped sideways
from the wagon. As he did so, his hat fell off and rolled a short distance
away. At the same moment a lump of ore, weighing not less than one-
hundred pounds, fell upon it and crushed it so deeply into the ground that it
was completely hidden from view. Many months afterwards, some boys
digging for fish-bait found the hat buried there, and returned to the village
with a tale of some possible and unknown murder, committed when or by
whom no one could tell.
from the wagon. As he did so, his hat fell off and rolled a short distance
away. At the same moment a lump of ore, weighing not less than one-
hundred pounds, fell upon it and crushed it so deeply into the ground that it
was completely hidden from view. Many months afterwards, some boys
digging for fish-bait found the hat buried there, and returned to the village
with a tale of some possible and unknown murder, committed when or by
whom no one could tell.
Page 98
TRAGIC EXPERIENCE WITH AN OX-TEAM.
As for the boy himself, he escaped with only a scratch or two and a few
bruises, but that he escaped with his life or with sound limbs was almost a
miracle; and, as his big-hearted uncle picked him up, he hugged the lad as
one snatched from the very jaws of death. Willard was somewhat awed by
the narrowness of his escape, and it was observed that his face wore an
As for the boy himself, he escaped with only a scratch or two and a few
bruises, but that he escaped with his life or with sound limbs was almost a
miracle; and, as his big-hearted uncle picked him up, he hugged the lad as
one snatched from the very jaws of death. Willard was somewhat awed by
the narrowness of his escape, and it was observed that his face wore an
Page 99
expression a shade graver than was its wont for several days after the
occurrence.
The lesson, however, made no lasting impression. Scarce a week had
gone by ere his life was once more imperilled, and this time the danger
resulted from his own reckless over-confidence in himself.
It is a singular fact in the boy's history that every danger to which at this
period of his life he was exposed, seems to have been twin-brother to some
other hazard equally great, and which tripped upon its very heels.
As already stated, Willard was a good horseman for a boy of his age. He
possessed considerable nerve, and, having been brought up among horses,
knew a good deal about their ways. But his real knowledge upon the subject
was nothing to that which he thought he possessed; and, though a stout little
fellow, of course he lacked the muscle of steel that is required to master an
enraged horse. But he had never hesitated to ride any steed in all that
neighborhood, with the single exception of one of a pair of extremely
beautiful but vicious mares, which on account of her color was named
"Chestnut Bess."
This horse was as wild and untamed as the famous steed of Mazeppa, and
even Henry Glazier, master-horseman though he was, seldom attempted to
use this one, except in harness with her mate. The knowledge of this fact
excited an overweening desire in Willard's breast to show them what he
could do in the way of taming the hitherto untamed creature, and never
having been unhorsed in his life, he determined, upon the first favorable
opportunity, to try his powers upon the vicious animal. That opportunity
was not long in coming. One summer morning it was arranged that Willard
should go over to his grandfather's and aid in the cultivation of a large corn-
field on the Homestead Farm. Willard made up his mind that, if he went, he
would go in style on the back of "Chestnut Bess." He wanted to show his
occurrence.
The lesson, however, made no lasting impression. Scarce a week had
gone by ere his life was once more imperilled, and this time the danger
resulted from his own reckless over-confidence in himself.
It is a singular fact in the boy's history that every danger to which at this
period of his life he was exposed, seems to have been twin-brother to some
other hazard equally great, and which tripped upon its very heels.
As already stated, Willard was a good horseman for a boy of his age. He
possessed considerable nerve, and, having been brought up among horses,
knew a good deal about their ways. But his real knowledge upon the subject
was nothing to that which he thought he possessed; and, though a stout little
fellow, of course he lacked the muscle of steel that is required to master an
enraged horse. But he had never hesitated to ride any steed in all that
neighborhood, with the single exception of one of a pair of extremely
beautiful but vicious mares, which on account of her color was named
"Chestnut Bess."
This horse was as wild and untamed as the famous steed of Mazeppa, and
even Henry Glazier, master-horseman though he was, seldom attempted to
use this one, except in harness with her mate. The knowledge of this fact
excited an overweening desire in Willard's breast to show them what he
could do in the way of taming the hitherto untamed creature, and never
having been unhorsed in his life, he determined, upon the first favorable
opportunity, to try his powers upon the vicious animal. That opportunity
was not long in coming. One summer morning it was arranged that Willard
should go over to his grandfather's and aid in the cultivation of a large corn-
field on the Homestead Farm. Willard made up his mind that, if he went, he
would go in style on the back of "Chestnut Bess." He wanted to show his
Page 100
Uncle Henry and the others what the "little runt" was capable of
accomplishing as an equestrian. Accordingly, he placed a good strong bridle
upon the mare's head, gave an extra pull at the saddle-girth to assure
himself there was no possibility of that failing him, and, taking a hoe,
which he wished to use in his work on the farm, in his right hand, he led the
mare quietly down the path, out through the gate, and into the road.
Gathering the reins in his left hand, without giving her time to conjecture
his object—for mounting her was no easy task—he jumped lightly into the
saddle, and screwed his knees into her sides with all his might.
Now, this mare was not one of those ordinary quadrupeds possessing a
single vice, which the rider may learn and master. She was an animal of
infinite resources. Her modes of attack were innumerable. It is true she
rather preferred to settle matters upon the very threshold of the contest in a
short, sharp way, by kicking her man before he could mount. But, if baffled
in this design, she would vary the proceedings by dashing her head down
between her knees, sending her heels up in the air, and, if possible, plunge
the rider over her head to the ground; or, she would waltz round on her hind
legs in such a way as to render the best balanced brain somewhat dizzy and
uncertain; in the event of the failure of these coquettish pleasantries, she
had not a single scruple against playing Shylock, and taking her pound of
flesh out of his leg with her teeth. Thus, you see, it would not do to go to
sleep upon her back; and Master Willard Glazier no sooner found himself
firmly seated than he made up his mind that for the time, at least, he had his
hands full of business. As the mare had been deprived of an opportunity to
kick him, by the suddenness with which he sprang upon her back, she
concluded to try her next favorite line of strategy and shake him off. So
down went her head and up went her heels, and, had he been less on the
alert, he must have gone to earth; but, with his knees dug into her sides as if
accomplishing as an equestrian. Accordingly, he placed a good strong bridle
upon the mare's head, gave an extra pull at the saddle-girth to assure
himself there was no possibility of that failing him, and, taking a hoe,
which he wished to use in his work on the farm, in his right hand, he led the
mare quietly down the path, out through the gate, and into the road.
Gathering the reins in his left hand, without giving her time to conjecture
his object—for mounting her was no easy task—he jumped lightly into the
saddle, and screwed his knees into her sides with all his might.
Now, this mare was not one of those ordinary quadrupeds possessing a
single vice, which the rider may learn and master. She was an animal of
infinite resources. Her modes of attack were innumerable. It is true she
rather preferred to settle matters upon the very threshold of the contest in a
short, sharp way, by kicking her man before he could mount. But, if baffled
in this design, she would vary the proceedings by dashing her head down
between her knees, sending her heels up in the air, and, if possible, plunge
the rider over her head to the ground; or, she would waltz round on her hind
legs in such a way as to render the best balanced brain somewhat dizzy and
uncertain; in the event of the failure of these coquettish pleasantries, she
had not a single scruple against playing Shylock, and taking her pound of
flesh out of his leg with her teeth. Thus, you see, it would not do to go to
sleep upon her back; and Master Willard Glazier no sooner found himself
firmly seated than he made up his mind that for the time, at least, he had his
hands full of business. As the mare had been deprived of an opportunity to
kick him, by the suddenness with which he sprang upon her back, she
concluded to try her next favorite line of strategy and shake him off. So
down went her head and up went her heels, and, had he been less on the
alert, he must have gone to earth; but, with his knees dug into her sides as if
Page 101
they were the opposite jaws of a vice, for every jerk of her head down he
gave one with the reins up, and at each jerk the hoe-handle gave her a rap
over the ears, so that she began to find the fun less agreeable than usual.
Changing her tactics, with a bound she proceeded to execute a fine
imitation of the "German," and spin round like a Fifth Avenue belle or a
humming-top. But the boy's young, clear, temperate brain and well-
disciplined nerves were proof even against this style of attack, and still firm
in his seat, he belabored the brute with his hoe with such a perfect rain of
blows that she gave up her prancing and dashed down the road at a break-
neck pace. For perhaps five hundred yards the road led down hill, and then,
crossing a stream, ascended again, the ascent being quite steep and by no
means smooth.
While upon the descent, it was all Willard could do to hold on, for he was
encumbered with the hoe, which at every jump of the mare struck the top of
her head, until she absolutely flew. The few pedestrians upon the road that
morning stopped in amazement to stare after the mad flight of horse and
rider.
As soon as the bridge was crossed and they commenced the abrupt rise,
"Chestnut Bess" began to slacken her pace, but the young gentleman, who
by this time considered himself her master, would not agree to this. He
proposed to give her a lesson, so he administered a good thrashing with his
novel style of whip and compelled her to keep her pace all the way to the
top of the hill, where horse and rider at length arrived in safety. From that
point to the Old Homestead the mare was perfectly willing to jog along
quietly, and when they reached the farm you may be sure that the "spirit" of
one "mortal" at least was "proud," as he related to his wondering kinsman
how he had taken the mischief out of the chestnut mare.
gave one with the reins up, and at each jerk the hoe-handle gave her a rap
over the ears, so that she began to find the fun less agreeable than usual.
Changing her tactics, with a bound she proceeded to execute a fine
imitation of the "German," and spin round like a Fifth Avenue belle or a
humming-top. But the boy's young, clear, temperate brain and well-
disciplined nerves were proof even against this style of attack, and still firm
in his seat, he belabored the brute with his hoe with such a perfect rain of
blows that she gave up her prancing and dashed down the road at a break-
neck pace. For perhaps five hundred yards the road led down hill, and then,
crossing a stream, ascended again, the ascent being quite steep and by no
means smooth.
While upon the descent, it was all Willard could do to hold on, for he was
encumbered with the hoe, which at every jump of the mare struck the top of
her head, until she absolutely flew. The few pedestrians upon the road that
morning stopped in amazement to stare after the mad flight of horse and
rider.
As soon as the bridge was crossed and they commenced the abrupt rise,
"Chestnut Bess" began to slacken her pace, but the young gentleman, who
by this time considered himself her master, would not agree to this. He
proposed to give her a lesson, so he administered a good thrashing with his
novel style of whip and compelled her to keep her pace all the way to the
top of the hill, where horse and rider at length arrived in safety. From that
point to the Old Homestead the mare was perfectly willing to jog along
quietly, and when they reached the farm you may be sure that the "spirit" of
one "mortal" at least was "proud," as he related to his wondering kinsman
how he had taken the mischief out of the chestnut mare.
Page 102
The boy rose immeasurably in his uncle Henry's estimation by this feat,
and all were delighted with his pluck, though Jabez Glazier, his grandfather,
with his greater experience, warned him not to trust the beast too far, for,
according to his belief, her eye had danger in it yet. When the day of work
was ended, Willard once more mounted upon "Chestnut Bess" and rode
towards home. For a short time the mare trotted quietly along, and the boy
was more than ever convinced that he had broken her of her tricks.
This agreeable belief however was of short duration. The thought had
hardly entered his head when she commenced her antics again. Her heels
went skyward and her nose went down, and a repetition of the morning's
performances succeeded.
There was quite as much vigor and pertinacity in her movements as if she
were just starting out for the day. This time Willard had provided himself
with a stout beech switch, and used its stinging persuasion with good effect.
She danced, she pranced, she waltzed, she made sudden dashes and full
stops. She would have rolled in the gravel if the boy's switch had ceased
stinging her into motives for action, but she could not shake him off. He
clung to her back like a little leech, and it began to look as if human will-
power was going to conquer brute stubbornness, when suddenly a new idea
seemed to enter the animal's head. Without a moment's warning, and utterly
scorning the control of the bit which she had taken in her teeth, she swung
round and at full gallop made straight for the Homestead farm from which
she had so lately come. The farm-yard gate was wide open and she dashed
in, making directly for the wagon-shed at the extreme end of the place,
which was now empty. This shed, the top of which was supported by a
cross-beam, was only just high enough to permit a wagon to be sheltered
there, and if the horse got in, Willard saw at a glance that she would be
obliged to lower her head to do so, and that in the course of her entry he
and all were delighted with his pluck, though Jabez Glazier, his grandfather,
with his greater experience, warned him not to trust the beast too far, for,
according to his belief, her eye had danger in it yet. When the day of work
was ended, Willard once more mounted upon "Chestnut Bess" and rode
towards home. For a short time the mare trotted quietly along, and the boy
was more than ever convinced that he had broken her of her tricks.
This agreeable belief however was of short duration. The thought had
hardly entered his head when she commenced her antics again. Her heels
went skyward and her nose went down, and a repetition of the morning's
performances succeeded.
There was quite as much vigor and pertinacity in her movements as if she
were just starting out for the day. This time Willard had provided himself
with a stout beech switch, and used its stinging persuasion with good effect.
She danced, she pranced, she waltzed, she made sudden dashes and full
stops. She would have rolled in the gravel if the boy's switch had ceased
stinging her into motives for action, but she could not shake him off. He
clung to her back like a little leech, and it began to look as if human will-
power was going to conquer brute stubbornness, when suddenly a new idea
seemed to enter the animal's head. Without a moment's warning, and utterly
scorning the control of the bit which she had taken in her teeth, she swung
round and at full gallop made straight for the Homestead farm from which
she had so lately come. The farm-yard gate was wide open and she dashed
in, making directly for the wagon-shed at the extreme end of the place,
which was now empty. This shed, the top of which was supported by a
cross-beam, was only just high enough to permit a wagon to be sheltered
there, and if the horse got in, Willard saw at a glance that she would be
obliged to lower her head to do so, and that in the course of her entry he
Page 103
must inevitably strike the beam and perhaps be instantly killed or swept off
her back upon a pile of rocks that on either side walled the entrance to the
shed.
His heart for once failed him, for there seemed no earthly hope of escape.
There was no time to spring off, even if the speed at which he was going
would have permitted him to do so, for in a shorter time than it has taken to
describe the scene, the shed was reached, bang went the mare's head against
the opposite end, and at the same instant Willard felt a dull thud against his
person, realized the fact that he was being thrown into the air, and then
came darkness and unconsciousness. He was dashed violently upon the
stones, and when picked up his body was found to be much lacerated and
bruised.
Fortunately, however, no bones were broken, though he was obliged to
keep his bed for some days afterwards. No doubt while lying there during
slow convalescence he mused upon the vicissitudes attendant upon the
career of a horse-tamer. At all events from this time he became much
steadier and more prudent,—the wild adventures of his earlier boyhood
having entirely lost their attraction for him.
her back upon a pile of rocks that on either side walled the entrance to the
shed.
His heart for once failed him, for there seemed no earthly hope of escape.
There was no time to spring off, even if the speed at which he was going
would have permitted him to do so, for in a shorter time than it has taken to
describe the scene, the shed was reached, bang went the mare's head against
the opposite end, and at the same instant Willard felt a dull thud against his
person, realized the fact that he was being thrown into the air, and then
came darkness and unconsciousness. He was dashed violently upon the
stones, and when picked up his body was found to be much lacerated and
bruised.
Fortunately, however, no bones were broken, though he was obliged to
keep his bed for some days afterwards. No doubt while lying there during
slow convalescence he mused upon the vicissitudes attendant upon the
career of a horse-tamer. At all events from this time he became much
steadier and more prudent,—the wild adventures of his earlier boyhood
having entirely lost their attraction for him.
Page 104
CHAPTER IX.
THE YOUNG TRAPPER OF THE OSWEGATCHIE.
A plan of life. — Determination to procure an education. — A substitute at the plow. — His father
acquiesces in his determination to become a trapper. — Life in the wild woods along the
Oswegatchie. — The six "dead-falls." — First success. — A fallacious calculation. — The
goal attained. — Seventy-five dollars in hard cash! — Four terms of academic life. — The
youthful rivals. — Lessons in elocution. — A fight with hair-brushes and chairs! — "The
walking ghost of a kitchen fire." — Renewed friendship. — Teaching to obtain means for an
education.
At this period of Willard's life, he is described by Mr. Rennehan as
having acquired an appetite for the acquisition of knowledge which soon
became the controlling passion of his nature, and, "thoroughly absorbed by
this idea, he fixed upon the select school of his native town as the institution
best adapted to initiate him in the course suited to the fulfilment of his
laudable ambition."
But his determination to procure an education met with obstacles from
the outset. How to defray the necessary expenses which such a course
involved was the question which continually presented itself for his
ingenuity to solve. His father's reverses placed it quite beyond the
possibilities to hire help upon the farm, and Willard's services had therefore
come to be looked upon as something of vital importance.
In dragging from the hard soil of the Davis place the living which
necessity compelled, he performed the work of a man, and the perfect trust
which his father reposed in him gave his services additional value.
THE YOUNG TRAPPER OF THE OSWEGATCHIE.
A plan of life. — Determination to procure an education. — A substitute at the plow. — His father
acquiesces in his determination to become a trapper. — Life in the wild woods along the
Oswegatchie. — The six "dead-falls." — First success. — A fallacious calculation. — The
goal attained. — Seventy-five dollars in hard cash! — Four terms of academic life. — The
youthful rivals. — Lessons in elocution. — A fight with hair-brushes and chairs! — "The
walking ghost of a kitchen fire." — Renewed friendship. — Teaching to obtain means for an
education.
At this period of Willard's life, he is described by Mr. Rennehan as
having acquired an appetite for the acquisition of knowledge which soon
became the controlling passion of his nature, and, "thoroughly absorbed by
this idea, he fixed upon the select school of his native town as the institution
best adapted to initiate him in the course suited to the fulfilment of his
laudable ambition."
But his determination to procure an education met with obstacles from
the outset. How to defray the necessary expenses which such a course
involved was the question which continually presented itself for his
ingenuity to solve. His father's reverses placed it quite beyond the
possibilities to hire help upon the farm, and Willard's services had therefore
come to be looked upon as something of vital importance.
In dragging from the hard soil of the Davis place the living which
necessity compelled, he performed the work of a man, and the perfect trust
which his father reposed in him gave his services additional value.
Page 105
This fact increased the difficulty of his position; but though he made it a
point to husband all his spare time for self-instruction, he was far from
satisfied with the existing state of affairs, and pondered long and earnestly
over the best means of securing the advantages of regular instruction.
At that time the streams tributary to the St. Lawrence were supplied with
such fur-bearing animals as the mink, the musk-rat, the otter, and the more
humble rabbit, the skins of all of which were more or less valuable and
were sought by professional trappers. These men found the business a
reasonably lucrative one, and it commended itself especially to Willard, as
health and strength were the only capital required. The grand difficulty was
how to supply his place in the work of the farm. His father was a man who
always listened with patience and sympathy to any scheme that promised to
benefit his children. His son, therefore, had no hesitation in laying the
whole matter before him and seeking his advice upon the subject. He felt, of
course, that any proposal to withdraw his personal labor from the common
stock of exertion by which the cultivation of the farm was rendered a
possibility, was a direct pecuniary tax upon his father's resources; but he
believed he could to a great extent neutralize the injury by supplying a
substitute.
He also felt assured that although the step he proposed to take might be a
present loss to the family it would prove an ultimate gain. He was
thoroughly determined to make his life a success, and he was just as
thoroughly determined that any success which might crown his efforts
should be shared by his parents. It is true that the road looked long and the
path rough, but he had a "heart for any fate," and his courage never failed. A
substitute at the plow he knew he could obtain for a small sum, and the
board of such a person would take the place of his own at the home table,
and he never doubted that he could earn a sufficient surplus to pay the
point to husband all his spare time for self-instruction, he was far from
satisfied with the existing state of affairs, and pondered long and earnestly
over the best means of securing the advantages of regular instruction.
At that time the streams tributary to the St. Lawrence were supplied with
such fur-bearing animals as the mink, the musk-rat, the otter, and the more
humble rabbit, the skins of all of which were more or less valuable and
were sought by professional trappers. These men found the business a
reasonably lucrative one, and it commended itself especially to Willard, as
health and strength were the only capital required. The grand difficulty was
how to supply his place in the work of the farm. His father was a man who
always listened with patience and sympathy to any scheme that promised to
benefit his children. His son, therefore, had no hesitation in laying the
whole matter before him and seeking his advice upon the subject. He felt, of
course, that any proposal to withdraw his personal labor from the common
stock of exertion by which the cultivation of the farm was rendered a
possibility, was a direct pecuniary tax upon his father's resources; but he
believed he could to a great extent neutralize the injury by supplying a
substitute.
He also felt assured that although the step he proposed to take might be a
present loss to the family it would prove an ultimate gain. He was
thoroughly determined to make his life a success, and he was just as
thoroughly determined that any success which might crown his efforts
should be shared by his parents. It is true that the road looked long and the
path rough, but he had a "heart for any fate," and his courage never failed. A
substitute at the plow he knew he could obtain for a small sum, and the
board of such a person would take the place of his own at the home table,
and he never doubted that he could earn a sufficient surplus to pay the
Page 106
wages of such an assistant. At all events he made up his mind to try the
experiment.
With young Willard, to think was to act, and this project was no sooner
conceived than he proceeded to put it into execution. He laid his plans
frankly before his father, who, to his great gratification, assented to his
proposal. A man was hired for fifteen dollars a month to take Willard's place
on the farm, and the latter made his first venture as a trapper.
His initial experiment was to set six traps of the pattern called a "dead-
fall" or "figure of four," and this resulted in the capture of two minks worth
about eight dollars. With what an exultant heart he drew out his first mink
and realized that by his own unaided exertions he had made some money,
no boy or man need be told. He at once, however, entered into some rather
fallacious calculations and built some extremely airy castles. It occurred to
him that if out of six traps he could obtain two skins, out of one hundred he
could obtain thirty-three, and so on, in proportion.
This, however, proved to be a miscalculation, it not being so much the
number of traps set, as the quantity of game in a given locality which
regulates the amount of success for a trapper. Yet his efforts in this new
business succeeded to a gratifying degree, and the fact of having exchanged
the dull monotony of farm drudgery for the exhilarating excitement of a
hunter's life, was in itself a sufficient reward for any amount of exertion.
Indeed what mode of life could be happier or more free, for a healthy,
strong-limbed youth of fifteen, than to live as he then did, almost entirely in
the woods? Then too, his daily route lay in the midst of some of the finest
scenery to be found anywhere in New York, even in that grand old county
of St. Lawrence.
To a lover of nature nothing could be more alluring than the locality
through which Willard, at that period of his life, trapped and hunted. To
experiment.
With young Willard, to think was to act, and this project was no sooner
conceived than he proceeded to put it into execution. He laid his plans
frankly before his father, who, to his great gratification, assented to his
proposal. A man was hired for fifteen dollars a month to take Willard's place
on the farm, and the latter made his first venture as a trapper.
His initial experiment was to set six traps of the pattern called a "dead-
fall" or "figure of four," and this resulted in the capture of two minks worth
about eight dollars. With what an exultant heart he drew out his first mink
and realized that by his own unaided exertions he had made some money,
no boy or man need be told. He at once, however, entered into some rather
fallacious calculations and built some extremely airy castles. It occurred to
him that if out of six traps he could obtain two skins, out of one hundred he
could obtain thirty-three, and so on, in proportion.
This, however, proved to be a miscalculation, it not being so much the
number of traps set, as the quantity of game in a given locality which
regulates the amount of success for a trapper. Yet his efforts in this new
business succeeded to a gratifying degree, and the fact of having exchanged
the dull monotony of farm drudgery for the exhilarating excitement of a
hunter's life, was in itself a sufficient reward for any amount of exertion.
Indeed what mode of life could be happier or more free, for a healthy,
strong-limbed youth of fifteen, than to live as he then did, almost entirely in
the woods? Then too, his daily route lay in the midst of some of the finest
scenery to be found anywhere in New York, even in that grand old county
of St. Lawrence.
To a lover of nature nothing could be more alluring than the locality
through which Willard, at that period of his life, trapped and hunted. To
Page 107
follow the winding waters of the Oswegatchie is to enjoy a perpetual feast.
That river is one of a great family of rivers, among which may be
enumerated the Rackett, the Grasse, the Indian, and the Black, all of which
take their rise far up in the recesses of the great North Woods. Though not
to any extent navigable, it is yet nearly as broad as the lovely and "blue
Juniata" of "peaceful Pennsylvania."
At times turbulent and brawling, it is often vexed in its passage to the St.
Lawrence by rapids and cataracts varying in height and volume, but which
in their infinite variety give a wild and romantic beauty to this poetical
stream. At times it glides smoothly along through low meadow lands, and
again it plunges into some dense thicket or brawls through some briery dell
where the foliage is so thick that one can only see the glint and ripple of its
waters at rare intervals, shining between the lapping leaves and tangled
vines. Then again it sweeps onward through cleft rocks and jutting banks
until, lost at last in the very heart of the primeval forest, its twilight waters
reflect the images of giant trees which had their beginning on its banks a
century ago.
That river is one of a great family of rivers, among which may be
enumerated the Rackett, the Grasse, the Indian, and the Black, all of which
take their rise far up in the recesses of the great North Woods. Though not
to any extent navigable, it is yet nearly as broad as the lovely and "blue
Juniata" of "peaceful Pennsylvania."
At times turbulent and brawling, it is often vexed in its passage to the St.
Lawrence by rapids and cataracts varying in height and volume, but which
in their infinite variety give a wild and romantic beauty to this poetical
stream. At times it glides smoothly along through low meadow lands, and
again it plunges into some dense thicket or brawls through some briery dell
where the foliage is so thick that one can only see the glint and ripple of its
waters at rare intervals, shining between the lapping leaves and tangled
vines. Then again it sweeps onward through cleft rocks and jutting banks
until, lost at last in the very heart of the primeval forest, its twilight waters
reflect the images of giant trees which had their beginning on its banks a
century ago.
Page 108
THE YOUNG TRAPPER OF THE OSWEGATCHIE.
Willard's life during that autumn passed in persevering work. Day by day
he traveled his accustomed routes, while the leaves turned from green to red
and from red to russet and brown, and at last fell from the naked branches
of the forest trees with a little farewell rustle, to be trodden into the rich soil
below.
Willard's life during that autumn passed in persevering work. Day by day
he traveled his accustomed routes, while the leaves turned from green to red
and from red to russet and brown, and at last fell from the naked branches
of the forest trees with a little farewell rustle, to be trodden into the rich soil
below.
Page 109
By the time the first snow came he found himself much more robust
physically, and with seventy-five dollars clear profit in his pocket. In
addition to these advantages he also acquired the inestimable habit of self-
reliance, so that when he entered upon a course of preparation for his
academic life, it was with full faith in himself. For four terms, beginning
August thirteenth, 1857, and ending the latter part of June, 1859, he
remained at the excellent institution of learning which he had selected, and
while there gained considerable credit as a hard student.
During the first of these terms a generous rivalry existed between himself
and a youth by the name of Albert Burt, as to which should lead the class.
As it turned out, however, they kept together and were both marked
"perfect." The academy was under the management of the Rev. E. C. Bruce,
M. A., Principal; and Andrew Roe, Professor of Mathematics. About a
month or six weeks after he entered the school, he arranged to take lessons
in elocution under a Professor Bronson, that gentleman having organized a
large class at the academy.
In a brief diary kept by him at the time, we find the remark that he was
"greatly pleased with the Professor's method of teaching that important
branch of study." Willard had advanced to the higher grade of Algebra and
Grammar, had added Philosophy to the list of his studies, and having
cultivated a natural turn for public speaking, was elected on the eighteenth
of December, 1857, a member of the Oratorical Society—an association
connected with the institution. His boy experiences were very similar to
those which happen to all lads in academic life. He had his chums, among
whom were Brayton Abbott and Ozias Johnson; he had his little flirtations
with misses of his own age, and he had his fights, as all boys have.
Among the latter was one with Johnson, who was his room-mate, and
who, being four years older than himself, undertook, for fun, to rub his face
physically, and with seventy-five dollars clear profit in his pocket. In
addition to these advantages he also acquired the inestimable habit of self-
reliance, so that when he entered upon a course of preparation for his
academic life, it was with full faith in himself. For four terms, beginning
August thirteenth, 1857, and ending the latter part of June, 1859, he
remained at the excellent institution of learning which he had selected, and
while there gained considerable credit as a hard student.
During the first of these terms a generous rivalry existed between himself
and a youth by the name of Albert Burt, as to which should lead the class.
As it turned out, however, they kept together and were both marked
"perfect." The academy was under the management of the Rev. E. C. Bruce,
M. A., Principal; and Andrew Roe, Professor of Mathematics. About a
month or six weeks after he entered the school, he arranged to take lessons
in elocution under a Professor Bronson, that gentleman having organized a
large class at the academy.
In a brief diary kept by him at the time, we find the remark that he was
"greatly pleased with the Professor's method of teaching that important
branch of study." Willard had advanced to the higher grade of Algebra and
Grammar, had added Philosophy to the list of his studies, and having
cultivated a natural turn for public speaking, was elected on the eighteenth
of December, 1857, a member of the Oratorical Society—an association
connected with the institution. His boy experiences were very similar to
those which happen to all lads in academic life. He had his chums, among
whom were Brayton Abbott and Ozias Johnson; he had his little flirtations
with misses of his own age, and he had his fights, as all boys have.
Among the latter was one with Johnson, who was his room-mate, and
who, being four years older than himself, undertook, for fun, to rub his face
Page 110
with a newly-purchased hair-brush. This kind of fun did not suit Willard,
however, and he resented it by giving Johnson a "dig" in the ribs.
Whereupon a fight ensued in earnest, and as Willard was too young and
light to keep up the contest at close quarters, he dodged his adversary and
covered his retreat by dropping chairs in front of Johnson's legs, which
brought that young gentleman to the floor more than once, to his own
intense disgust and Willard's great gratification. At length Johnson managed
to corner his opponent, and then rubbed his face so thoroughly with the
bristles that his comrades that morning thought he had caught the scarlet-
fever, or as Dickens says, that he was the "walking ghost of a kitchen fire."
As generally happens, however, between two manly fellows, their
combat inspired a feeling of mutual respect, and from being mere
acquaintances they grew to be fast friends.
Study and sedentary habits at length so much impaired Willard's health
that, in the latter part of the month of August, 1858, he was compelled to
cease his attendance at school and go home. The thirtieth of September
following, however, found him at the Teachers' Institute of St. Lawrence
County, with the proceedings of which body he appears to have been highly
gratified, for in the diary to which we have already referred, he speaks of it
in these words:—
"I am now attending the Teachers' Institute of this county, which is in
session at Gouverneur, it having opened upon the twenty-seventh instant.
The School Commissioners are Mr. C. C. Church and Allen Wight. I am
highly pleased with the proceedings and the method of conducting the
exercises of this apparently indispensable part of a Teacher's instruction,"—
adding that it was his "intention to become a teacher the coming winter."
Indeed, to be a teacher seems to have been his favorite scheme of life, and
his highest ambition was ultimately to fill the chair of Mathematics in one
however, and he resented it by giving Johnson a "dig" in the ribs.
Whereupon a fight ensued in earnest, and as Willard was too young and
light to keep up the contest at close quarters, he dodged his adversary and
covered his retreat by dropping chairs in front of Johnson's legs, which
brought that young gentleman to the floor more than once, to his own
intense disgust and Willard's great gratification. At length Johnson managed
to corner his opponent, and then rubbed his face so thoroughly with the
bristles that his comrades that morning thought he had caught the scarlet-
fever, or as Dickens says, that he was the "walking ghost of a kitchen fire."
As generally happens, however, between two manly fellows, their
combat inspired a feeling of mutual respect, and from being mere
acquaintances they grew to be fast friends.
Study and sedentary habits at length so much impaired Willard's health
that, in the latter part of the month of August, 1858, he was compelled to
cease his attendance at school and go home. The thirtieth of September
following, however, found him at the Teachers' Institute of St. Lawrence
County, with the proceedings of which body he appears to have been highly
gratified, for in the diary to which we have already referred, he speaks of it
in these words:—
"I am now attending the Teachers' Institute of this county, which is in
session at Gouverneur, it having opened upon the twenty-seventh instant.
The School Commissioners are Mr. C. C. Church and Allen Wight. I am
highly pleased with the proceedings and the method of conducting the
exercises of this apparently indispensable part of a Teacher's instruction,"—
adding that it was his "intention to become a teacher the coming winter."
Indeed, to be a teacher seems to have been his favorite scheme of life, and
his highest ambition was ultimately to fill the chair of Mathematics in one
Page 111
of the great institutions of learning. That most exact of sciences was his
favorite branch of study, and the intellectual stimulus which it imparts had
for him a peculiar fascination.
In pursuance of his object, and in order, by teaching during one part of
the year, to raise means to enable him to attend school during another
portion, he set about procuring for himself a school. Fortunately for the
accomplishment of his object, it was suggested to him to apply to the
School Commissioner of his own Assembly district, and he did so. The
examination which followed his application, owing to some local rivalry,
was extremely rigid; but he passed through it with great credit and received
the appointment he desired, being assigned forthwith to duty in the town of
Edwards, St. Lawrence County. He commenced teaching in the bleak month
of November, 1858, and was very earnest in fulfilling the duties of his
position, taking every opportunity not only of instilling knowledge into the
minds of his pupils, but also striving to imbue them with a love of self-
culture. He labored hard in his efforts to earn means with which to support
himself during the coming summer at the Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary,
and discovered while thus working that teaching was as much of a
discipline for himself as for his pupils.
The time does not seem to have passed unpleasantly to him at this period
of his career, for in an entry made in his diary on the twenty-eighth of
November, 1858, he says:
"I am spending the evening with Mr. Hiram Harris and family, having
come into the district this afternoon. My mission here is to teach school for
a term of three months in fulfilment of the contract existing between the
trustees and myself. In compliance with a custom that prevails, I am
expected to 'board around,' as it is styled, and Mr. Harris, being one of the
Trustees, has invited me to spend my first week at his house.
favorite branch of study, and the intellectual stimulus which it imparts had
for him a peculiar fascination.
In pursuance of his object, and in order, by teaching during one part of
the year, to raise means to enable him to attend school during another
portion, he set about procuring for himself a school. Fortunately for the
accomplishment of his object, it was suggested to him to apply to the
School Commissioner of his own Assembly district, and he did so. The
examination which followed his application, owing to some local rivalry,
was extremely rigid; but he passed through it with great credit and received
the appointment he desired, being assigned forthwith to duty in the town of
Edwards, St. Lawrence County. He commenced teaching in the bleak month
of November, 1858, and was very earnest in fulfilling the duties of his
position, taking every opportunity not only of instilling knowledge into the
minds of his pupils, but also striving to imbue them with a love of self-
culture. He labored hard in his efforts to earn means with which to support
himself during the coming summer at the Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary,
and discovered while thus working that teaching was as much of a
discipline for himself as for his pupils.
The time does not seem to have passed unpleasantly to him at this period
of his career, for in an entry made in his diary on the twenty-eighth of
November, 1858, he says:
"I am spending the evening with Mr. Hiram Harris and family, having
come into the district this afternoon. My mission here is to teach school for
a term of three months in fulfilment of the contract existing between the
trustees and myself. In compliance with a custom that prevails, I am
expected to 'board around,' as it is styled, and Mr. Harris, being one of the
Trustees, has invited me to spend my first week at his house.
Page 112
"The School Commissioner of this Assembly district is Mr. C. C. Church,
of Potsdam, from whom I received a certificate based upon the
recommendation of Commissioner Allen Wight of the first district. The
School Trustees are E. L. Beardsley, Hiram Harris, and Jeptha Clark. The
present term will be my first experience in the profession I have adopted. I
do hope it will prove a useful one, for I am of opinion that a teacher's first
experience is apt to give color to his whole future career." The day after this
entry he adds that "only a small attendance greeted me upon opening my
school," and after consoling himself with the reflection that this will leave
him plenty of time for study, he adopted a single rule—"Do right;" and an
additional motto, "A time and place for everything and everything in its
time and place."
It will thus be seen that he had already acquired a clear idea of the
importance of order in every pursuit, and knew that method gives to an
ordinary mortal Briærean arms with which to accomplish whatever he may
desire to do. How few attain to this knowledge until it is too late!
As a writer, whose words we think worthy of remembrance, has said:
"This is an era of doing things scientifically. People make scientific
calculations of the weather, and the average number of murders for the next
year. They measure the stars and they measure the affections, both
scientifically. The only thing they fail to do scientifically is, to manage
themselves. As a rule, they drift, and then find fault with fate and
Providence because they don't drift into the right port. They drift into life
with a multiplicity of vague dreams, which are somehow to be realized; but
they have a very dim idea of ways and means. They drift through it,
carelessly, with an inadequate knowledge of their own resources, and a still
more inadequate notion of using them to the best advantage; they drift out
of it with a melancholy sense of failure, both absolutely as to themselves
of Potsdam, from whom I received a certificate based upon the
recommendation of Commissioner Allen Wight of the first district. The
School Trustees are E. L. Beardsley, Hiram Harris, and Jeptha Clark. The
present term will be my first experience in the profession I have adopted. I
do hope it will prove a useful one, for I am of opinion that a teacher's first
experience is apt to give color to his whole future career." The day after this
entry he adds that "only a small attendance greeted me upon opening my
school," and after consoling himself with the reflection that this will leave
him plenty of time for study, he adopted a single rule—"Do right;" and an
additional motto, "A time and place for everything and everything in its
time and place."
It will thus be seen that he had already acquired a clear idea of the
importance of order in every pursuit, and knew that method gives to an
ordinary mortal Briærean arms with which to accomplish whatever he may
desire to do. How few attain to this knowledge until it is too late!
As a writer, whose words we think worthy of remembrance, has said:
"This is an era of doing things scientifically. People make scientific
calculations of the weather, and the average number of murders for the next
year. They measure the stars and they measure the affections, both
scientifically. The only thing they fail to do scientifically is, to manage
themselves. As a rule, they drift, and then find fault with fate and
Providence because they don't drift into the right port. They drift into life
with a multiplicity of vague dreams, which are somehow to be realized; but
they have a very dim idea of ways and means. They drift through it,
carelessly, with an inadequate knowledge of their own resources, and a still
more inadequate notion of using them to the best advantage; they drift out
of it with a melancholy sense of failure, both absolutely as to themselves
Page 113
and relatively as to the world. Of all their splendid possibilities, none are
realized. Nothing is completed. They start wrong or they make one fatal
step, and everything goes wrong all the way through. It seems as if most
lives were only experiments. Now and then one is turned out which fits in
its niche and is tolerably symmetrical. The rest are all awry, unfinished,
misplaced, and merely faint suggestions of what might have been. Much of
this is doubtless beyond mortal control, but a far greater portion is due to
the lack of a nice direction of forces. The human mechanism is complicated,
and a very slight flaw sets it all wrong. There may be too much steam or too
much friction, or too little power or too little balance. But clearly the first
step is to strengthen the weak points, to gauge its capabilities, to set it
running smoothly, and to give it a definite aim. If existence were simply
passive and the mission of man was to be instead of to do, he might perhaps
be left to develop as the trees do, according to his own will or fancy or
according to certain natural laws. But as it is the universal wish wherever
one is, to be somewhere else, a little higher in the scale, it seems to be a part
of wisdom, as well as humanity, to fit one for climbing. But many an
aspirant finds his wings clipped in the beginning of his career, through the
ignorance or carelessness of his friends, who never took the trouble of
measuring his capabilities. He is treated as a receptacle into which a certain
amount of ideas are to be poured, no matter whether they may answer to
anything within him or not. He is turned out of an educational mill with five
hundred others, and with plenty of loose knowledge, but without the
remotest idea of what to do with it, or what nature intended him for, and
with no especial fitness for any one thing. He can think, probably, if he has
the requisite amount of brains, but how to establish a relation between
thought and bread and butter is the problem. He has the requisite motive
power, but it is not attached to anything. He does not know how to attach it,
realized. Nothing is completed. They start wrong or they make one fatal
step, and everything goes wrong all the way through. It seems as if most
lives were only experiments. Now and then one is turned out which fits in
its niche and is tolerably symmetrical. The rest are all awry, unfinished,
misplaced, and merely faint suggestions of what might have been. Much of
this is doubtless beyond mortal control, but a far greater portion is due to
the lack of a nice direction of forces. The human mechanism is complicated,
and a very slight flaw sets it all wrong. There may be too much steam or too
much friction, or too little power or too little balance. But clearly the first
step is to strengthen the weak points, to gauge its capabilities, to set it
running smoothly, and to give it a definite aim. If existence were simply
passive and the mission of man was to be instead of to do, he might perhaps
be left to develop as the trees do, according to his own will or fancy or
according to certain natural laws. But as it is the universal wish wherever
one is, to be somewhere else, a little higher in the scale, it seems to be a part
of wisdom, as well as humanity, to fit one for climbing. But many an
aspirant finds his wings clipped in the beginning of his career, through the
ignorance or carelessness of his friends, who never took the trouble of
measuring his capabilities. He is treated as a receptacle into which a certain
amount of ideas are to be poured, no matter whether they may answer to
anything within him or not. He is turned out of an educational mill with five
hundred others, and with plenty of loose knowledge, but without the
remotest idea of what to do with it, or what nature intended him for, and
with no especial fitness for any one thing. He can think, probably, if he has
the requisite amount of brains, but how to establish a relation between
thought and bread and butter is the problem. He has the requisite motive
power, but it is not attached to anything. He does not know how to attach it,
Page 114
so he revolves in a circle, or makes a series of floundering experiments, that
bear meagre fruit, perhaps when the better part of his life is gone. He knows
books, but he does not know men. He is a master of theories, but cannot
apply them. If he has a small amount of brains, his case is still more
hopeless. To be sure, a proper amount of knowledge has been poured in, but
it has all slipped through. He might have assimilated some other kind of
knowledge, but that particular kind has left him with mental dyspepsia, and
a vague feeling of hopelessness which is likely to prove fatal to all useful
effort. Or perhaps he has talent, but is destitute of the requisite tact to make
it tell upon the world. His success depends largely on his power to move
others, but he has no lever and is forced to rely upon main strength, which
involves a serious expenditure of vitality, with only doubtful results. He
works all his life against perpetual friction, because no one had the foresight
or insight to discern that this was the flaw in his machinery.
"Another fatal point is in the choice of a vocation. Having drifted through
an education, he next drifts into his business or profession. He rarely stops
to take an inventory of his capital, or, at best, he takes a very partial one.
Chance or circumstance decides him. His grandfather sits on the judge's
bench. He thinks the judge's bench a desirable place, so he takes to the law.
He puts on his grandfather's coat without the slightest reference to whether
it will fit or not. Perhaps he intends to grow to it, but a willow sapling
cannot grow into an oak. It may grow into a very respectable willow, but if
it aspires to the higher dignity, it will most likely get crushed or blown over.
It may be that he has a grand vision of commercial splendor, and plunges
into business life with a very good idea of Sophocles and Horace and no
idea whatever of trade; with a very good talent for theories, but none
whatever for facts; with some insight into metaphysics, but none at all into
people. Instead of trying his strength in shallow waters, he starts to cross the
bear meagre fruit, perhaps when the better part of his life is gone. He knows
books, but he does not know men. He is a master of theories, but cannot
apply them. If he has a small amount of brains, his case is still more
hopeless. To be sure, a proper amount of knowledge has been poured in, but
it has all slipped through. He might have assimilated some other kind of
knowledge, but that particular kind has left him with mental dyspepsia, and
a vague feeling of hopelessness which is likely to prove fatal to all useful
effort. Or perhaps he has talent, but is destitute of the requisite tact to make
it tell upon the world. His success depends largely on his power to move
others, but he has no lever and is forced to rely upon main strength, which
involves a serious expenditure of vitality, with only doubtful results. He
works all his life against perpetual friction, because no one had the foresight
or insight to discern that this was the flaw in his machinery.
"Another fatal point is in the choice of a vocation. Having drifted through
an education, he next drifts into his business or profession. He rarely stops
to take an inventory of his capital, or, at best, he takes a very partial one.
Chance or circumstance decides him. His grandfather sits on the judge's
bench. He thinks the judge's bench a desirable place, so he takes to the law.
He puts on his grandfather's coat without the slightest reference to whether
it will fit or not. Perhaps he intends to grow to it, but a willow sapling
cannot grow into an oak. It may grow into a very respectable willow, but if
it aspires to the higher dignity, it will most likely get crushed or blown over.
It may be that he has a grand vision of commercial splendor, and plunges
into business life with a very good idea of Sophocles and Horace and no
idea whatever of trade; with a very good talent for theories, but none
whatever for facts; with some insight into metaphysics, but none at all into
people. Instead of trying his strength in shallow waters, he starts to cross the
Page 115
Atlantic in a very small skiff. By the time he has reached mid-ocean he
discovers his error, but it is too late to turn back; so he is buffeted about by
winds and waves until he, too, goes down and counts among the failures.
"Another of the few points upon which life hinges is marriage, and
people drift into that as they do into everything else. It is one of the things
to be done in order to complete the circle of human experience. A man is
caught by a pretty face and a winning smile. He takes no thought of the new
element he is adding to his life, either with reference to his outward career
or his inward needs. Caprice governs his choice, or perhaps a hard form of
self-interest. Having committed one or two of the grand errors of life, he
settles down to its serious business, and speedily discovers that he has a
dead weight to carry. He has mistaken his vocation, whatever it may be.
"He is conscious now that it is too late to change; that he might have
attained supreme excellence in some other calling. He toils with heavy heart
and sinking spirit at the plodding pace of dull mediocrity. His work is
drudgery and wearies him body and soul. Those who once smiled upon him
pass him by. Men of far inferior capabilities distance him in the race.
Perhaps too he has made another misstep, and has a wife who sympathizes
neither with his tastes nor his trials: who has no comprehension of him
whatever, save that he is a being whose business it is to love her and furnish
her with spending money. The beauty which fascinated him has grown
faded and insipid. The pretty coquetries that won him pall upon him; he is
absolutely alone with the burden of life pressing heavily upon him. Is it
strange that he is mastered in the battle and finally falls beneath the world's
pitiless tread? This is a sad little picture, but it is an every-day one, and the
world goes on its way as before.
"What matters it that a lonely, dissipated man has lain down in sorrow to
rise no more! The world cannot stop to weep over the remains of the
discovers his error, but it is too late to turn back; so he is buffeted about by
winds and waves until he, too, goes down and counts among the failures.
"Another of the few points upon which life hinges is marriage, and
people drift into that as they do into everything else. It is one of the things
to be done in order to complete the circle of human experience. A man is
caught by a pretty face and a winning smile. He takes no thought of the new
element he is adding to his life, either with reference to his outward career
or his inward needs. Caprice governs his choice, or perhaps a hard form of
self-interest. Having committed one or two of the grand errors of life, he
settles down to its serious business, and speedily discovers that he has a
dead weight to carry. He has mistaken his vocation, whatever it may be.
"He is conscious now that it is too late to change; that he might have
attained supreme excellence in some other calling. He toils with heavy heart
and sinking spirit at the plodding pace of dull mediocrity. His work is
drudgery and wearies him body and soul. Those who once smiled upon him
pass him by. Men of far inferior capabilities distance him in the race.
Perhaps too he has made another misstep, and has a wife who sympathizes
neither with his tastes nor his trials: who has no comprehension of him
whatever, save that he is a being whose business it is to love her and furnish
her with spending money. The beauty which fascinated him has grown
faded and insipid. The pretty coquetries that won him pall upon him; he is
absolutely alone with the burden of life pressing heavily upon him. Is it
strange that he is mastered in the battle and finally falls beneath the world's
pitiless tread? This is a sad little picture, but it is an every-day one, and the
world goes on its way as before.
"What matters it that a lonely, dissipated man has lain down in sorrow to
rise no more! The world cannot stop to weep over the remains of the
Page 116
departed one it has trampled upon. Those whose business it is can take them
on one side, lay them away under the green sod out of sight, shed a tear
perhaps, and pass on until their turn comes to lay down wearily, go to sleep,
and be laid away. The world chides, the world laughs, but it takes no
cognizance of the grief—
"'That inward breaks and shows no cause without,
Why the man dies.'
"Yet there is but the difference of a point in the game between the victim
and the hero. The cards are the same, or the victim, perhaps, may hold the
best trumps, but he plays recklessly, loses his point, loses his game, loses
all! On such slight things does human destiny hinge. The hero has all his
resources at command—his game dimly outlined. He knows his winning
cards, and he plays them skilfully.
"Every point tells. Nothing is left to chance that can be accomplished by
foresight. He wins the game. He wins the prizes. He has the mastery of life.
The world takes off its hat to him. Fortune and people smile upon him. Not
that he is better than others—very likely he is not so good. But the world
counts results. Becky Sharp is not a model, but Becky Sharp is a power. The
world does not like her in the abstract, but it likes her dinners, it courts her
smiles, it fawns upon her, it showers its good things upon her, all because
she has mastered it. Becky Sharp is not a model. Her aims are unworthy,
and her means unscrupulous; but she reads us a lesson in fact, in foresight,
in energy, in the subtle art of making the most of limited resources. So long
as life is a game, it is worth studying. The difference between playing it
well and playing it ill is the difference between light and darkness, between
joy and desolation, between life and death."
on one side, lay them away under the green sod out of sight, shed a tear
perhaps, and pass on until their turn comes to lay down wearily, go to sleep,
and be laid away. The world chides, the world laughs, but it takes no
cognizance of the grief—
"'That inward breaks and shows no cause without,
Why the man dies.'
"Yet there is but the difference of a point in the game between the victim
and the hero. The cards are the same, or the victim, perhaps, may hold the
best trumps, but he plays recklessly, loses his point, loses his game, loses
all! On such slight things does human destiny hinge. The hero has all his
resources at command—his game dimly outlined. He knows his winning
cards, and he plays them skilfully.
"Every point tells. Nothing is left to chance that can be accomplished by
foresight. He wins the game. He wins the prizes. He has the mastery of life.
The world takes off its hat to him. Fortune and people smile upon him. Not
that he is better than others—very likely he is not so good. But the world
counts results. Becky Sharp is not a model, but Becky Sharp is a power. The
world does not like her in the abstract, but it likes her dinners, it courts her
smiles, it fawns upon her, it showers its good things upon her, all because
she has mastered it. Becky Sharp is not a model. Her aims are unworthy,
and her means unscrupulous; but she reads us a lesson in fact, in foresight,
in energy, in the subtle art of making the most of limited resources. So long
as life is a game, it is worth studying. The difference between playing it
well and playing it ill is the difference between light and darkness, between
joy and desolation, between life and death."
Page 117
Even at that early and immature time of his life, Willard Glazier had
thought much upon this subject—examples of the disjointed successes of all
unplanned and unmethodical careers having been brought too frequently
into close proximity to his own door, not to have made an impression upon
his inquiring mind.
Hence, at the very threshold of his life as a teacher, he resolved to have
plan and purpose clearly defined in everything he did.
thought much upon this subject—examples of the disjointed successes of all
unplanned and unmethodical careers having been brought too frequently
into close proximity to his own door, not to have made an impression upon
his inquiring mind.
Hence, at the very threshold of his life as a teacher, he resolved to have
plan and purpose clearly defined in everything he did.
Page 118
CHAPTER X.
THE SOLDIER SCHOOL-MASTER.
From boy to man. — The Lyceum debate. — Willard speaks for the slave. — Entrance to the State
Normal School. — Reverses. — Fighting the world again. — Assistance from fair hands. —
Willard meets Allen Barringer. — John Brown, and what Willard thought of him. — Principles
above bribe. — Examination. — A sleepless night. — Haunted by the "ghost of possible
defeat." — "Here is your certificate." — The school at Schodack Centre. — At the "Normal"
again. — The Edwards School. — Thirty pupils at two dollars each. — The "soldier school-
master." — Teaches at East Schodack. — The runaway ride. — Good-by mittens, robes and
whip! — Close of school at East Schodack.
Although a very boy in years, young Glazier felt himself already stepping
upon the boundary line of manhood and, luckily for his future welfare,
comprehended the manifold dangers and mentally realized the
responsibilities which attend that phase of human existence.
Upon the fifth of February, 1857, the dull routine of a teacher's duty was
varied by a visit made to Edwards by Willard's uncle Joseph, and his sisters;
and, after closing his school, the former went home with his visitors, and
thence to a Lyceum which had been established in the Herrick School
District, where a debate was in progress as to the relative importance, in a
humanitarian point of view, of the bondage of the African race in the
Southern States, or the decadence of the Indian tribes under the
encroachments of the Whites. The "question" assumed that the Aborigines
were most worthy of sympathy; and young Glazier, being invited to
participate in the discussion, accepted, and spoke upon the negative side of
the question.
THE SOLDIER SCHOOL-MASTER.
From boy to man. — The Lyceum debate. — Willard speaks for the slave. — Entrance to the State
Normal School. — Reverses. — Fighting the world again. — Assistance from fair hands. —
Willard meets Allen Barringer. — John Brown, and what Willard thought of him. — Principles
above bribe. — Examination. — A sleepless night. — Haunted by the "ghost of possible
defeat." — "Here is your certificate." — The school at Schodack Centre. — At the "Normal"
again. — The Edwards School. — Thirty pupils at two dollars each. — The "soldier school-
master." — Teaches at East Schodack. — The runaway ride. — Good-by mittens, robes and
whip! — Close of school at East Schodack.
Although a very boy in years, young Glazier felt himself already stepping
upon the boundary line of manhood and, luckily for his future welfare,
comprehended the manifold dangers and mentally realized the
responsibilities which attend that phase of human existence.
Upon the fifth of February, 1857, the dull routine of a teacher's duty was
varied by a visit made to Edwards by Willard's uncle Joseph, and his sisters;
and, after closing his school, the former went home with his visitors, and
thence to a Lyceum which had been established in the Herrick School
District, where a debate was in progress as to the relative importance, in a
humanitarian point of view, of the bondage of the African race in the
Southern States, or the decadence of the Indian tribes under the
encroachments of the Whites. The "question" assumed that the Aborigines
were most worthy of sympathy; and young Glazier, being invited to
participate in the discussion, accepted, and spoke upon the negative side of
the question.
Page 119
GOUVERNEUR WESLEYAN SEMINARY.
He little dreamed upon that winter's night, when, in the small arena of a
village debating-club, he stood up as the champion of the slave, that the day
was not far distant when he would ride rowel-deep in carnage upon battle-
fields which war's sad havoc had made sickening, fighting for the same
cause in whose behalf he now so eloquently spoke.
No prophetic vision of what fate held in store for him appeared to the
ardent boy, speaking for those who could not rise from the darkness of their
bondage to speak for themselves. No glimpse of weary months dragged out
in Confederate prisons—of hair-breadth escapes from dangers dread and
manifold—of hiding in newly-dug graves made to assist the flight of the
living, not to entomb the dead—of lying in jungles and cypress-swamps
while fierce men and baffled hounds were panting for his blood—of
vicissitudes and perils more like the wild creations of some fevered dream
than the plain and unvarnished reality: nothing of all this came before him
to trouble his young hopes or cloud his bright anticipations of the future.
He little dreamed upon that winter's night, when, in the small arena of a
village debating-club, he stood up as the champion of the slave, that the day
was not far distant when he would ride rowel-deep in carnage upon battle-
fields which war's sad havoc had made sickening, fighting for the same
cause in whose behalf he now so eloquently spoke.
No prophetic vision of what fate held in store for him appeared to the
ardent boy, speaking for those who could not rise from the darkness of their
bondage to speak for themselves. No glimpse of weary months dragged out
in Confederate prisons—of hair-breadth escapes from dangers dread and
manifold—of hiding in newly-dug graves made to assist the flight of the
living, not to entomb the dead—of lying in jungles and cypress-swamps
while fierce men and baffled hounds were panting for his blood—of
vicissitudes and perils more like the wild creations of some fevered dream
than the plain and unvarnished reality: nothing of all this came before him
to trouble his young hopes or cloud his bright anticipations of the future.
Page 120
He spoke of freedom, and had never seen a slave. He pictured the cruelty
of the lash used in a Christian land on Christian woman, be she black or
white. He spoke of the deeper wrong of tearing the new-born babe from its
mother's breast to sell it by the pound—of dragging the woman herself from
the father of her child and compelling her to mate with other men—of the
fact that such wrongs were not alone the offspring of cruel hearts, nor of
brutal owners, but arose from the mere operation of barbarous laws where
masters, if left to themselves, would have been most kind. He spoke of such
things as these, and yet he never dreamed that his words were but the
precursors of deeds that would make mere words seem spiritless and tame.
Young Glazier spoke well. The little magnates of the place,—the older
men, after this, talked of him as of one likely to rise, to become a man of
note, and their manner grew more respectful towards the young school-
master. His occupations and amusements at this period of his existence,
though simple in their character, were considerably varied.
Among other entries in his journal about this date, is one that so
commends itself by its brevity and comprehensiveness that I quote it
verbatim.
"Having," he says, "received an invitation upon the twenty-fourth of
December, I attended a party at the residence of Jeptha Clark, whose
excellent wife received me very kindly; upon Christmas day I visited T. L.
Turnbull's school at Fullerville; upon Monday last called at Mr. Austin's
school in the Herrick District; Tuesday, dropped down for a moment upon
the students at Gouverneur; on Wednesday, returned home; and on
Thursday, for the greater part of the day, assisted uncle Joseph in hauling
wood from the swamps on the Davis Place."
Thus the time slipped rapidly by and his first term of teaching drew to a
close. In the spring of 1859 he again became a member of the Gouverneur
of the lash used in a Christian land on Christian woman, be she black or
white. He spoke of the deeper wrong of tearing the new-born babe from its
mother's breast to sell it by the pound—of dragging the woman herself from
the father of her child and compelling her to mate with other men—of the
fact that such wrongs were not alone the offspring of cruel hearts, nor of
brutal owners, but arose from the mere operation of barbarous laws where
masters, if left to themselves, would have been most kind. He spoke of such
things as these, and yet he never dreamed that his words were but the
precursors of deeds that would make mere words seem spiritless and tame.
Young Glazier spoke well. The little magnates of the place,—the older
men, after this, talked of him as of one likely to rise, to become a man of
note, and their manner grew more respectful towards the young school-
master. His occupations and amusements at this period of his existence,
though simple in their character, were considerably varied.
Among other entries in his journal about this date, is one that so
commends itself by its brevity and comprehensiveness that I quote it
verbatim.
"Having," he says, "received an invitation upon the twenty-fourth of
December, I attended a party at the residence of Jeptha Clark, whose
excellent wife received me very kindly; upon Christmas day I visited T. L.
Turnbull's school at Fullerville; upon Monday last called at Mr. Austin's
school in the Herrick District; Tuesday, dropped down for a moment upon
the students at Gouverneur; on Wednesday, returned home; and on
Thursday, for the greater part of the day, assisted uncle Joseph in hauling
wood from the swamps on the Davis Place."
Thus the time slipped rapidly by and his first term of teaching drew to a
close. In the spring of 1859 he again became a member of the Gouverneur
Page 121
Wesleyan Seminary, and in May of that year, made the following
characteristic entry in his diary:
"'Order is Heaven's first law.' A time and place for everything, and
everything in its time and place, was the rule of conduct I adopted some
time ago. In accordance with this determination I have laid out the
following routine of occupation for each day. I intend to abide by it during
the present term. I will retire at ten o'clock p. m., rise each morning at five
o'clock, walk and exercise until six, then return to my room, breakfast and
read history until eight, then repeat what the English call a 'constitutional,'
viz.: another walk until prayers, devoting the time intervening between
prayers and recitation, to Algebra. After recitation, I will study Geometry
for three-quarters of an hour, Latin for half an hour, and be ready for
recitation again at two o'clock. This will complete my regular course of
study, and, by carrying out this routine, I can dine at noon, and also have a
considerable amount of time for miscellaneous reading and writing, to say
nothing of my Saturdays, upon which I can review the studies of the week."
To this plan young Glazier adhered conscientiously, and hence made
rapid progress and very soon found himself in a condition to take another
forward step in the pathway of learning. That step was the entrance to the
State Normal School at Albany. To go to West Point and receive the military
training which our government benevolently bestows upon her sons at that
institution, had been his pet ambition for years—the scheme towards which
all his energies were bent. But failing in this, his next choice was the
Normal School. Accordingly, on a certain September afternoon in 1859, he
found himself in the capital city of the Empire State, knocking for
admission at the doors of the Normal School. He was alone and among
strangers in a great city, with a purse containing the sum of eight dollars!
For a course of seven or eight months instruction this was certainly a
characteristic entry in his diary:
"'Order is Heaven's first law.' A time and place for everything, and
everything in its time and place, was the rule of conduct I adopted some
time ago. In accordance with this determination I have laid out the
following routine of occupation for each day. I intend to abide by it during
the present term. I will retire at ten o'clock p. m., rise each morning at five
o'clock, walk and exercise until six, then return to my room, breakfast and
read history until eight, then repeat what the English call a 'constitutional,'
viz.: another walk until prayers, devoting the time intervening between
prayers and recitation, to Algebra. After recitation, I will study Geometry
for three-quarters of an hour, Latin for half an hour, and be ready for
recitation again at two o'clock. This will complete my regular course of
study, and, by carrying out this routine, I can dine at noon, and also have a
considerable amount of time for miscellaneous reading and writing, to say
nothing of my Saturdays, upon which I can review the studies of the week."
To this plan young Glazier adhered conscientiously, and hence made
rapid progress and very soon found himself in a condition to take another
forward step in the pathway of learning. That step was the entrance to the
State Normal School at Albany. To go to West Point and receive the military
training which our government benevolently bestows upon her sons at that
institution, had been his pet ambition for years—the scheme towards which
all his energies were bent. But failing in this, his next choice was the
Normal School. Accordingly, on a certain September afternoon in 1859, he
found himself in the capital city of the Empire State, knocking for
admission at the doors of the Normal School. He was alone and among
strangers in a great city, with a purse containing the sum of eight dollars!
For a course of seven or eight months instruction this was certainly a
Page 122
modest estimate of expenses! In fact, young Glazier had based his financial
arrangements on a miscalculation of the amount furnished by the State. He
did not then know that the only provision made by the body politic was for
mileage, tuition and text-books. But on Monday morning, September
seventeenth, 1859, he signed his name to the Normal pledge, and at the
conclusion of the examination—which continued until September twenty-
third—was assigned to the Junior Class—there being at that time four
classes: the Senior and sub-Senior, Junior and sub-Junior.
The next step was to find lodgings at a weekly or monthly price more
suited to his means than those which he had temporarily taken at the Adams
House on his arrival there the previous evening. Always frugal in regard to
his personal expenditures, he knew that, in order to eke out the full term
with his scanty resources, he must carry his habitual thrift to its fullest
extent. He therefore scoured the town for apartments, aided by references
from Professor Cochran, principal of the Normal, and finally obtained a
room on Lydius street, almost within shadow of the Cathedral, and at the
certainly reasonable rate of "six shillings per week." This room he shared
with Alexander S. Hunter, from Schoharie County, and a member of the
sub-Senior Class. For several weeks the young students boarded at this
place, buying what food they required, which the landlady cooked for them
free of charge. Seventy-five cents a week paid for their cooking and rent!
But even this small outlay soon exhausted the meagre resources of young
Glazier and, at the end of the time mentioned, he went over into Rensselaer
County, to look up a school, in order to replenish his well-nigh empty purse,
and to enable him to continue in his efforts to acquire an education. It was a
bright clear morning in November when he left his boarding-place on
Lydius street in quest of his self-appointed work, and, crossing the Hudson
on a ferry-boat, walked all the way to Nassau by the Bloomingdale Road—
arrangements on a miscalculation of the amount furnished by the State. He
did not then know that the only provision made by the body politic was for
mileage, tuition and text-books. But on Monday morning, September
seventeenth, 1859, he signed his name to the Normal pledge, and at the
conclusion of the examination—which continued until September twenty-
third—was assigned to the Junior Class—there being at that time four
classes: the Senior and sub-Senior, Junior and sub-Junior.
The next step was to find lodgings at a weekly or monthly price more
suited to his means than those which he had temporarily taken at the Adams
House on his arrival there the previous evening. Always frugal in regard to
his personal expenditures, he knew that, in order to eke out the full term
with his scanty resources, he must carry his habitual thrift to its fullest
extent. He therefore scoured the town for apartments, aided by references
from Professor Cochran, principal of the Normal, and finally obtained a
room on Lydius street, almost within shadow of the Cathedral, and at the
certainly reasonable rate of "six shillings per week." This room he shared
with Alexander S. Hunter, from Schoharie County, and a member of the
sub-Senior Class. For several weeks the young students boarded at this
place, buying what food they required, which the landlady cooked for them
free of charge. Seventy-five cents a week paid for their cooking and rent!
But even this small outlay soon exhausted the meagre resources of young
Glazier and, at the end of the time mentioned, he went over into Rensselaer
County, to look up a school, in order to replenish his well-nigh empty purse,
and to enable him to continue in his efforts to acquire an education. It was a
bright clear morning in November when he left his boarding-place on
Lydius street in quest of his self-appointed work, and, crossing the Hudson
on a ferry-boat, walked all the way to Nassau by the Bloomingdale Road—
Page 123
a distance of sixteen miles. His object was to find Allen Barringer, School
Commissioner for Rensselaer County, who, as he had been told, lived
somewhere near Nassau. On the way to that village he passed two or three
schools, concerning which he made inquiries, with a view to engaging some
one of them on his return to Albany should he be so successful as to obtain
a certificate from Mr. Barringer. At about two o'clock in the afternoon of
this, to him, eventful day, young Glazier had arrived at the residence of
Harmon Payne, near East Schodack, or "Scott's Corners," as it was
sometimes called. He had been referred to this gentleman as one likely to
assist him in his endeavors to obtain a school. He had eaten nothing since
morning, and, having walked a distance of nearly sixteen miles, as may be
imagined, was somewhat faint and hungry. But the good wife of Mr. Payne
showed herself not lacking in the kindly courtesy belonging to a
gentlewoman, and, with true hospitality, placed before the young Normal
student a delicious repast of bread and honey.
To this youthful wayfarer, with a purse reduced to a cypher, and
struggling over the first rough places in the pathway of life, the simple meal
was like manna in the wilderness. After chatting pleasantly with the family
for an hour or more, he started again on his journey. But this time not alone;
for Mr. Payne very kindly sent his niece with the boy teacher, in whom he
had become so much interested, to show him a shorter route "across lots" to
East Schodack. This village, two miles farther on, by the traveled highway,
was only three-quarters of a mile distant by a pathway leading across the
pasture lands of some adjoining farms. In the fading November afternoon
the young lady and her protégé walked together to East Schodack—a walk
which young Willard never forgot, and out of which afterwards grew a fairy
fabric of romantic regard glittering with all the rainbow hues of boyish
Commissioner for Rensselaer County, who, as he had been told, lived
somewhere near Nassau. On the way to that village he passed two or three
schools, concerning which he made inquiries, with a view to engaging some
one of them on his return to Albany should he be so successful as to obtain
a certificate from Mr. Barringer. At about two o'clock in the afternoon of
this, to him, eventful day, young Glazier had arrived at the residence of
Harmon Payne, near East Schodack, or "Scott's Corners," as it was
sometimes called. He had been referred to this gentleman as one likely to
assist him in his endeavors to obtain a school. He had eaten nothing since
morning, and, having walked a distance of nearly sixteen miles, as may be
imagined, was somewhat faint and hungry. But the good wife of Mr. Payne
showed herself not lacking in the kindly courtesy belonging to a
gentlewoman, and, with true hospitality, placed before the young Normal
student a delicious repast of bread and honey.
To this youthful wayfarer, with a purse reduced to a cypher, and
struggling over the first rough places in the pathway of life, the simple meal
was like manna in the wilderness. After chatting pleasantly with the family
for an hour or more, he started again on his journey. But this time not alone;
for Mr. Payne very kindly sent his niece with the boy teacher, in whom he
had become so much interested, to show him a shorter route "across lots" to
East Schodack. This village, two miles farther on, by the traveled highway,
was only three-quarters of a mile distant by a pathway leading across the
pasture lands of some adjoining farms. In the fading November afternoon
the young lady and her protégé walked together to East Schodack—a walk
which young Willard never forgot, and out of which afterwards grew a fairy
fabric of romantic regard glittering with all the rainbow hues of boyish
Page 124
sentiment, and falling collapsed in the after-crash of life, like many another
soap-bubble experience of first young days.
But he did not succeed, at that time, in securing the East Schodack
School, as he had hoped to do. Nothing daunted, however, he trod reverses
under foot and pushed on towards the residence of the School
Commissioner whose ipse dixit was to award him success or failure.
Allen Barringer lived one mile from the village of Nassau, in Rensselaer
County, and it was nearly nightfall when, with an anxious heart and weary
with the day's journey, he knocked at the door of the comfortable country
residence which had been pointed out to him as the one belonging to the
School Commissioner. That gentleman himself came to the door in answer
to his knock, and upon Willard's inquiry for Mr. Barringer replied:
"I am Mr. Barringer, sir; what can I do for you?"
His manner was so pleasant and his face so genial that young Glazier, at
once reassured, had no difficulty in making known his business.
"I have come out here from Albany," said he, "to see if I could pass
examination for a certificate, to teach in your district."
"Well, come in, come in," said Mr. Barringer, cordially, "and I will see
what I can do for you. You are not going back to Albany to-night?" he
asked.
"No, I shall not be able to do so," replied Willard.
"Have you friends or relatives here with whom you intend to stay?"
"No, sir."
"Then I shall be glad to have you stop with us to-night. I am a young man
like yourself, living at home here with my parents, as you see; I am fond of
company, and will be happy to place my room at your disposal. And as
soap-bubble experience of first young days.
But he did not succeed, at that time, in securing the East Schodack
School, as he had hoped to do. Nothing daunted, however, he trod reverses
under foot and pushed on towards the residence of the School
Commissioner whose ipse dixit was to award him success or failure.
Allen Barringer lived one mile from the village of Nassau, in Rensselaer
County, and it was nearly nightfall when, with an anxious heart and weary
with the day's journey, he knocked at the door of the comfortable country
residence which had been pointed out to him as the one belonging to the
School Commissioner. That gentleman himself came to the door in answer
to his knock, and upon Willard's inquiry for Mr. Barringer replied:
"I am Mr. Barringer, sir; what can I do for you?"
His manner was so pleasant and his face so genial that young Glazier, at
once reassured, had no difficulty in making known his business.
"I have come out here from Albany," said he, "to see if I could pass
examination for a certificate, to teach in your district."
"Well, come in, come in," said Mr. Barringer, cordially, "and I will see
what I can do for you. You are not going back to Albany to-night?" he
asked.
"No, I shall not be able to do so," replied Willard.
"Have you friends or relatives here with whom you intend to stay?"
"No, sir."
"Then I shall be glad to have you stop with us to-night. I am a young man
like yourself, living at home here with my parents, as you see; I am fond of
company, and will be happy to place my room at your disposal. And as
Page 125
there will be no hurry about the examination, we will talk more about it
after supper."
Young Glazier thanked his host for the kind proffer of entertainment, and
of course acquiesced in the arrangement.
Accordingly, after the physical man had been refreshed at a well-spread
supper-table, Mr. Barringer conducted his young guest to his own
apartments, where they drew their easy-chairs before a comfortable fire,
and entered into conversation.
"I am considerably interested in politics just now," said Mr. Barringer,
and then he asked abruptly, "what is your opinion of John Brown?"
At this time the first red flash of the war that swiftly followed, had
glowered athwart the political horizon, in the John Brown raid at Harper's
Ferry, and against this lurid background the figure of the stern old man
stood out in strong relief. It was at the period when, shut up in prison, he
was writing those heroic words to his wife, those loving words of farewell
to his children; when petitions poured in pleading for his life—though they
were petitions all in vain—and when, naturally, partisan feeling on the
subject was at its height. Willard felt that in expressing his candid
convictions he might be treading on dangerous ground, and perhaps
endangering his chances for success, yet he held principle so high, and
honest sentiment so far above bribe, that if his certificate had depended on
it he would not have hesitated to express his admiration for the brave old
man who laid down his life for the slave, and whose name has since been
crowned with the immortelles of fame. Therefore Willard replied with a
frankness worthy of emulation that he looked upon John Brown as a
conscientious, earnest, devoted man—a man whose face was firmly set in
the path of duty though that path led to imprisonment and the gallows; a
man much in advance of his time—one of the pioneers of free thought,
after supper."
Young Glazier thanked his host for the kind proffer of entertainment, and
of course acquiesced in the arrangement.
Accordingly, after the physical man had been refreshed at a well-spread
supper-table, Mr. Barringer conducted his young guest to his own
apartments, where they drew their easy-chairs before a comfortable fire,
and entered into conversation.
"I am considerably interested in politics just now," said Mr. Barringer,
and then he asked abruptly, "what is your opinion of John Brown?"
At this time the first red flash of the war that swiftly followed, had
glowered athwart the political horizon, in the John Brown raid at Harper's
Ferry, and against this lurid background the figure of the stern old man
stood out in strong relief. It was at the period when, shut up in prison, he
was writing those heroic words to his wife, those loving words of farewell
to his children; when petitions poured in pleading for his life—though they
were petitions all in vain—and when, naturally, partisan feeling on the
subject was at its height. Willard felt that in expressing his candid
convictions he might be treading on dangerous ground, and perhaps
endangering his chances for success, yet he held principle so high, and
honest sentiment so far above bribe, that if his certificate had depended on
it he would not have hesitated to express his admiration for the brave old
man who laid down his life for the slave, and whose name has since been
crowned with the immortelles of fame. Therefore Willard replied with a
frankness worthy of emulation that he looked upon John Brown as a
conscientious, earnest, devoted man—a man whose face was firmly set in
the path of duty though that path led to imprisonment and the gallows; a
man much in advance of his time—one of the pioneers of free thought,
Page 126
suffering for the sacred cause, as pioneers in all great movements always
suffer. He spoke with a modest fearlessness known sometimes to youth and
to few men. Mr. Barringer replied that, though he held different views, he
could not but admire Willard's frankness in avowing his own political
convictions, and that this independence in principle would in nowise detract
from his previously formed good opinion of him. Afterwards, Mr. Barringer
examined him in the common English branches of study, besides
astronomy, philosophy and algebra—studies usually taught in the public
schools of Rensselaer County. In this way, with much pleasant talk dropped
at intervals through the official business of examination, interspersed with
politics and concluded with social chat, an agreeable evening passed.
OLD STATE NORMAL SCHOOL. ALBANY, NEW YORK.
Mr. Barringer at last said good-night to the young Normal student, with
the remark that he would see what could be done for him in the morning.
Not much sleep visited Willard's eyes that night, with the ghost of
possible defeat haunting his wakeful senses, stretched to their utmost
tension of anxiety.
suffer. He spoke with a modest fearlessness known sometimes to youth and
to few men. Mr. Barringer replied that, though he held different views, he
could not but admire Willard's frankness in avowing his own political
convictions, and that this independence in principle would in nowise detract
from his previously formed good opinion of him. Afterwards, Mr. Barringer
examined him in the common English branches of study, besides
astronomy, philosophy and algebra—studies usually taught in the public
schools of Rensselaer County. In this way, with much pleasant talk dropped
at intervals through the official business of examination, interspersed with
politics and concluded with social chat, an agreeable evening passed.
OLD STATE NORMAL SCHOOL. ALBANY, NEW YORK.
Mr. Barringer at last said good-night to the young Normal student, with
the remark that he would see what could be done for him in the morning.
Not much sleep visited Willard's eyes that night, with the ghost of
possible defeat haunting his wakeful senses, stretched to their utmost
tension of anxiety.
Page 127
Would he, or would he not, receive in the morning the certificate he
sought? This was the thought tossed continually up on the topmost wave of
his consciousness all the night long. Morning dawned at last, much to his
relief. When Mr. Barringer came to his door to announce breakfast, he
handed Willard the coveted piece of paper.
"Now then," said he, cheerily, "here is your certificate, and as I am going
to drive over to Albany after breakfast, if you have no particular school in
view, I shall be glad to have you ride with me as far as Schodack Centre,
where I have some very good friends, and will introduce you to the trustees
of the district, Messrs. Brockway, Hover and Knickerbocker."
Accordingly they drove over to the residence of Milton Knickerbocker,
school trustee of District No. 7, of the town of Schodack.
That gentleman thanked the School Commissioner for bringing the young
teacher over, said that he would be pleased to engage him, and that it was
only necessary to see another trustee, George Brockway, to make the
engagement final. Mr. Knickerbocker then accompanied young Glazier to
the residence of Mr. Brockway, where arrangements were made for him to
teach the school at Schodack Centre. He then walked back to Albany.
Willard had said nothing to his landlady, on Lydius street, concerning his
intended absence, fearing he might have to report the failure of his project,
and on the evening of his return to Albany—having been away for thirty-six
hours—was surprised to find that the family were just about to advertise
him in the city papers, thinking some strange fate had befallen him,—that
he had perhaps committed suicide.
In just one week from the time Glazier engaged his school at Schodack
Centre, he returned to that place, and taught the young Schodackers
successfully through the specified term, after which he went to Albany and
sought? This was the thought tossed continually up on the topmost wave of
his consciousness all the night long. Morning dawned at last, much to his
relief. When Mr. Barringer came to his door to announce breakfast, he
handed Willard the coveted piece of paper.
"Now then," said he, cheerily, "here is your certificate, and as I am going
to drive over to Albany after breakfast, if you have no particular school in
view, I shall be glad to have you ride with me as far as Schodack Centre,
where I have some very good friends, and will introduce you to the trustees
of the district, Messrs. Brockway, Hover and Knickerbocker."
Accordingly they drove over to the residence of Milton Knickerbocker,
school trustee of District No. 7, of the town of Schodack.
That gentleman thanked the School Commissioner for bringing the young
teacher over, said that he would be pleased to engage him, and that it was
only necessary to see another trustee, George Brockway, to make the
engagement final. Mr. Knickerbocker then accompanied young Glazier to
the residence of Mr. Brockway, where arrangements were made for him to
teach the school at Schodack Centre. He then walked back to Albany.
Willard had said nothing to his landlady, on Lydius street, concerning his
intended absence, fearing he might have to report the failure of his project,
and on the evening of his return to Albany—having been away for thirty-six
hours—was surprised to find that the family were just about to advertise
him in the city papers, thinking some strange fate had befallen him,—that
he had perhaps committed suicide.
In just one week from the time Glazier engaged his school at Schodack
Centre, he returned to that place, and taught the young Schodackers
successfully through the specified term, after which he went to Albany and
Page 128
passed the next Normal School term. On the twelfth of July following, he
left Albany for the home farm, where he worked until the first of
September. He then went on a prospecting tour out to Edwards, near the
field of his former efforts, and canvassed for scholars at two dollars each,
for a term of eight weeks. His object was to teach during the fall and winter
months and return to Albany in the spring. This energetic youth of eighteen
succeeded in obtaining about thirty pupils, among whom were six teachers
—one of them having taught four terms.
Among the incidents of his school experience at this time may be
mentioned the fact of a series of drill tactics, originated by himself, with
which he practised his pupils so thoroughly that they were enabled to go
through all the regular evolutions set down in Hardee. Yet he had never seen
the drill-book.
It may be regarded as one of those outcroppings of his natural bent
towards the military art which he displayed from his very infancy; for true
military genius, like true poetical genius, is born, not made. Of course our
young tactician soon made himself known, and throughout the district he
was distinguished by the title of the "Soldier-Schoolmaster."
It was an involuntary tribute yielded by public sentiment to the boy who
afterwards became the "Soldier-Author."
This boy-teacher, young as he was, marshaled all his pupils into
disciplined order, like the rank and file of the army, and somehow held
natural words of command at his disposal whereby he wielded the human
material given into his charge, as a general might wield the forces under his
command. The school was his miniature world and he was its master—his
diminutive kingdom wherein he was king; and within the boundary of this
chosen realm his sway was absolute.
left Albany for the home farm, where he worked until the first of
September. He then went on a prospecting tour out to Edwards, near the
field of his former efforts, and canvassed for scholars at two dollars each,
for a term of eight weeks. His object was to teach during the fall and winter
months and return to Albany in the spring. This energetic youth of eighteen
succeeded in obtaining about thirty pupils, among whom were six teachers
—one of them having taught four terms.
Among the incidents of his school experience at this time may be
mentioned the fact of a series of drill tactics, originated by himself, with
which he practised his pupils so thoroughly that they were enabled to go
through all the regular evolutions set down in Hardee. Yet he had never seen
the drill-book.
It may be regarded as one of those outcroppings of his natural bent
towards the military art which he displayed from his very infancy; for true
military genius, like true poetical genius, is born, not made. Of course our
young tactician soon made himself known, and throughout the district he
was distinguished by the title of the "Soldier-Schoolmaster."
It was an involuntary tribute yielded by public sentiment to the boy who
afterwards became the "Soldier-Author."
This boy-teacher, young as he was, marshaled all his pupils into
disciplined order, like the rank and file of the army, and somehow held
natural words of command at his disposal whereby he wielded the human
material given into his charge, as a general might wield the forces under his
command. The school was his miniature world and he was its master—his
diminutive kingdom wherein he was king; and within the boundary of this
chosen realm his sway was absolute.
Page 129
First the "Soldier-Schoolmaster," drilling his boy-pupils; then the Soldier
of the Saddle, riding through shot and shell and war's fierce din on
Virginia's historic fields; and last, but perhaps not least, the "Soldier-
Author," winning golden opinions from press and people; through all these
changes of his life, from boy to man, one characteristic shows plain and
clear—his military bent. It is like the one bright stripe through a neutral
ground, the one vein of ore deposit through the various stratifications of its
native rock.
The Edwards Select School was continued until the first of November,
when Glazier left home once more, this time in company with his sister
Marjorie, bound for Troy. On arriving at that city he left his sister at the
house of an old friend, Alexander McCoy, and went down into Rensselaer
County a second time in search of a school, or rather two schools—one for
his sister as well as one for himself. He succeeded in obtaining both of them
on the same day, and went back to Troy that night. His own district was
East Schodack, near Schodack Centre, where he had previously taught, and
his sister secured the school two miles north of the village of Castleton and
six miles distant from Albany.
The little school-house near Castleton, where his sister taught, was
located in a lovely spot on a height overlooking the Hudson and
commanding a fine view of the river and the surrounding scenery.
During the school term in their respective districts, it was Willard
Glazier's habit to visit his sister once a week, on Saturday or Sunday, and on
several occasions a gentleman living at East Schodack, William Westfall by
name, who owned a fine horse and sleigh, loaned him the use of his
conveyance to drive to Castleton and return. The sleigh was provided with
warm robes of fur and the horse was beyond doubt spirited, and a handsome
specimen of the genus horse. But as we cannot look for absolute perfection
of the Saddle, riding through shot and shell and war's fierce din on
Virginia's historic fields; and last, but perhaps not least, the "Soldier-
Author," winning golden opinions from press and people; through all these
changes of his life, from boy to man, one characteristic shows plain and
clear—his military bent. It is like the one bright stripe through a neutral
ground, the one vein of ore deposit through the various stratifications of its
native rock.
The Edwards Select School was continued until the first of November,
when Glazier left home once more, this time in company with his sister
Marjorie, bound for Troy. On arriving at that city he left his sister at the
house of an old friend, Alexander McCoy, and went down into Rensselaer
County a second time in search of a school, or rather two schools—one for
his sister as well as one for himself. He succeeded in obtaining both of them
on the same day, and went back to Troy that night. His own district was
East Schodack, near Schodack Centre, where he had previously taught, and
his sister secured the school two miles north of the village of Castleton and
six miles distant from Albany.
The little school-house near Castleton, where his sister taught, was
located in a lovely spot on a height overlooking the Hudson and
commanding a fine view of the river and the surrounding scenery.
During the school term in their respective districts, it was Willard
Glazier's habit to visit his sister once a week, on Saturday or Sunday, and on
several occasions a gentleman living at East Schodack, William Westfall by
name, who owned a fine horse and sleigh, loaned him the use of his
conveyance to drive to Castleton and return. The sleigh was provided with
warm robes of fur and the horse was beyond doubt spirited, and a handsome
specimen of the genus horse. But as we cannot look for absolute perfection
Page 130
in anything pertaining to earth, it may be stated that this animal was no
exception to the universal rule. He had his fault, as young Glazier
discovered—a disagreeable habit of running away every time he saw a train
of cars. Perhaps the horse couldn't help it; it was no doubt an inherited
disposition, descended to him through long lines of fractious ancestors, and
therefore it need not be set down against him in the catalogue of wilful sins.
But whether so or otherwise, this little unpleasantness in his disposition was
an established fact, and unfortunately there were two railroads to cross
between East Schodack and Castleton. On Glazier's first ride to Castleton
with the Westfall horse and sleigh, he had just crossed the Boston and
Albany Railroad when a freight-train rolled heavily by, which put the horse
under excellent headway, and on reaching the Hudson River Railroad—the
two tracks running very near each other—a passenger train came up behind
him. This completed the aggregation of causes, and away flew the horse
down the road to Castleton at break-neck speed. Fences disappeared like
gray streaks in the distance; roadside cottages came in view and were
swiftly left behind in the track of the foam-flecked animal. All that Glazier
could do was to keep him in the road, until at length an old shed by the
roadside served his purpose, and running him into it, the horse, puffing and
snorting, was obliged to stop. On his return to East Schodack, Mr. Westfall
asked him how he liked the horse. He replied that he thought the animal a
splendid traveler. He did think so, beyond question.
The next Sunday young Glazier was driving again to Castleton with the
same stylish turn-out; this time with his sister Marjorie in the sleigh. She
had come up to East Schodack the evening before, and he was taking her
back to her school. The sleighing was excellent, the day fine, and all went
merry as a marriage bell until they reached the railroad. There the inevitable
train of cars loomed in view, and the puff, puff of the engine, sending out
exception to the universal rule. He had his fault, as young Glazier
discovered—a disagreeable habit of running away every time he saw a train
of cars. Perhaps the horse couldn't help it; it was no doubt an inherited
disposition, descended to him through long lines of fractious ancestors, and
therefore it need not be set down against him in the catalogue of wilful sins.
But whether so or otherwise, this little unpleasantness in his disposition was
an established fact, and unfortunately there were two railroads to cross
between East Schodack and Castleton. On Glazier's first ride to Castleton
with the Westfall horse and sleigh, he had just crossed the Boston and
Albany Railroad when a freight-train rolled heavily by, which put the horse
under excellent headway, and on reaching the Hudson River Railroad—the
two tracks running very near each other—a passenger train came up behind
him. This completed the aggregation of causes, and away flew the horse
down the road to Castleton at break-neck speed. Fences disappeared like
gray streaks in the distance; roadside cottages came in view and were
swiftly left behind in the track of the foam-flecked animal. All that Glazier
could do was to keep him in the road, until at length an old shed by the
roadside served his purpose, and running him into it, the horse, puffing and
snorting, was obliged to stop. On his return to East Schodack, Mr. Westfall
asked him how he liked the horse. He replied that he thought the animal a
splendid traveler. He did think so, beyond question.
The next Sunday young Glazier was driving again to Castleton with the
same stylish turn-out; this time with his sister Marjorie in the sleigh. She
had come up to East Schodack the evening before, and he was taking her
back to her school. The sleighing was excellent, the day fine, and all went
merry as a marriage bell until they reached the railroad. There the inevitable
train of cars loomed in view, and the puff, puff of the engine, sending out
Page 131
great volumes of steam and its wild screech at the crossing, completely
upset what few ideas of propriety and steady travel this horse may have had
in his poor, bewildered head, and, with a leap and a jerk, he was once more
running away on the Castleton Road as if the entire host of the nether
regions were let loose after him.
For a little while he made things around them as lively as a pot of yeast.
Away went whip, robes, mittens and everything else lying loose in the
bottom of the sleigh at all calculated to yield to the velocity of a whirlwind
or a runaway. But Glazier proved himself master of the situation in this as
in many another event of his life, and with one hand holding his frightened
sister from jumping out of the sleigh, with the other he twisted the lines
firmly around his wrist and kept the horse in the road, until, at the distance
of three-quarters of a mile beyond Castleton, he brought the infuriated
animal to a stand-still by running him against the side of a barn. Afterwards
he drove leisurely back and picked up the robes, and whip and articles
spilled during the wild runaway ride.
A broken shaft was the only result of this last adventure, which Glazier of
course, put in repair before his return to East Schodack. Mr. Westfall never
knew until after the close of the school term that his horse had afforded the
young teacher an opportunity to tell what he knew about runaways.
The school at East Schodack closed with an exhibition exceedingly
creditable to the efforts of the teacher, at which Mr. Allen Barringer was
present, and in a speech before the school complimented young Glazier in
the highest terms. The programme of exercises was an excellent one, and
was made up of original addresses, declamations, recitations and music.
After the close of the school, Mr. Barringer presented Glazier with a
certificate which entitled him to teach for three years, and also gave him in
upset what few ideas of propriety and steady travel this horse may have had
in his poor, bewildered head, and, with a leap and a jerk, he was once more
running away on the Castleton Road as if the entire host of the nether
regions were let loose after him.
For a little while he made things around them as lively as a pot of yeast.
Away went whip, robes, mittens and everything else lying loose in the
bottom of the sleigh at all calculated to yield to the velocity of a whirlwind
or a runaway. But Glazier proved himself master of the situation in this as
in many another event of his life, and with one hand holding his frightened
sister from jumping out of the sleigh, with the other he twisted the lines
firmly around his wrist and kept the horse in the road, until, at the distance
of three-quarters of a mile beyond Castleton, he brought the infuriated
animal to a stand-still by running him against the side of a barn. Afterwards
he drove leisurely back and picked up the robes, and whip and articles
spilled during the wild runaway ride.
A broken shaft was the only result of this last adventure, which Glazier of
course, put in repair before his return to East Schodack. Mr. Westfall never
knew until after the close of the school term that his horse had afforded the
young teacher an opportunity to tell what he knew about runaways.
The school at East Schodack closed with an exhibition exceedingly
creditable to the efforts of the teacher, at which Mr. Allen Barringer was
present, and in a speech before the school complimented young Glazier in
the highest terms. The programme of exercises was an excellent one, and
was made up of original addresses, declamations, recitations and music.
After the close of the school, Mr. Barringer presented Glazier with a
certificate which entitled him to teach for three years, and also gave him in
Page 132
addition the following letter of recommendation—a tribute of which any
young teacher might be justly proud, and which he carefully preserved:
"To Whom it May Concern:
"This is to certify, that I am well acquainted with Willard Glazier, he
having taught school during the winters of 1859 and '60 in my
Commission District. I consider him one of the most promising young
teachers of my acquaintance. The school that has the good fortune to
secure his services will find him one of the most capable and efficient
teachers of the day.
"Allen Barringer,
"School Commissioner, Rensselaer County.
"Schodack, New York, 1860."
Early in the year 1860 he resumed his studies at the State Normal School,
and remained at that institution until the guns of Sumter sounded their war-
cry through the land.
This period was the great turning-point in Willard Glazier's life, and
hereafter we encounter him in a far different rôle.
young teacher might be justly proud, and which he carefully preserved:
"To Whom it May Concern:
"This is to certify, that I am well acquainted with Willard Glazier, he
having taught school during the winters of 1859 and '60 in my
Commission District. I consider him one of the most promising young
teachers of my acquaintance. The school that has the good fortune to
secure his services will find him one of the most capable and efficient
teachers of the day.
"Allen Barringer,
"School Commissioner, Rensselaer County.
"Schodack, New York, 1860."
Early in the year 1860 he resumed his studies at the State Normal School,
and remained at that institution until the guns of Sumter sounded their war-
cry through the land.
This period was the great turning-point in Willard Glazier's life, and
hereafter we encounter him in a far different rôle.
Page 133
CHAPTER XI.
INTRODUCTION TO MILITARY LIFE.
The mutterings of war. — Enlistment. — At Camp Howe. — First experience as a soldier. — "One
step to the front!" — Beyond Washington. — On guard. — Promotion. — Recruiting service.
— The deserted home on Arlington Heights. — "How shall I behave in the coming battle?" —
The brave Bayard. — On the march. — The stratagem at Falmouth Heights. — A brilliant
charge. — After the battle.
The inevitable results of the discord so long pending between North and
South accumulated day by day; and when, at length, Abraham Lincoln was
elected by a large popular majority, that election was, as everybody knows,
immediately followed by the calling of a Southern States Convention, the
secession, one after another, of each of those States, the capture of Fort
Sumter, the killing of Ellsworth, and the defeat of the Federal troops at Bull
Run. All of these occurrences contributed to inflame the passions, intensify
the opinions, and arouse the enthusiasm of the people of both sections to
fever-heat.
It was in the whirl and torrent of this popular storm that Willard Glazier
was caught up and swept into the ranks of the Union army.
His regiment, the Harris Light Cavalry, was originally intended for the
regular service—to rank as the Seventh Regular Cavalry. The general
government, however, concluded to limit the number of their regiments of
horse to six—the reasons for which are given by Captain Glazier in his
"Soldiers of the Saddle," as follows:
INTRODUCTION TO MILITARY LIFE.
The mutterings of war. — Enlistment. — At Camp Howe. — First experience as a soldier. — "One
step to the front!" — Beyond Washington. — On guard. — Promotion. — Recruiting service.
— The deserted home on Arlington Heights. — "How shall I behave in the coming battle?" —
The brave Bayard. — On the march. — The stratagem at Falmouth Heights. — A brilliant
charge. — After the battle.
The inevitable results of the discord so long pending between North and
South accumulated day by day; and when, at length, Abraham Lincoln was
elected by a large popular majority, that election was, as everybody knows,
immediately followed by the calling of a Southern States Convention, the
secession, one after another, of each of those States, the capture of Fort
Sumter, the killing of Ellsworth, and the defeat of the Federal troops at Bull
Run. All of these occurrences contributed to inflame the passions, intensify
the opinions, and arouse the enthusiasm of the people of both sections to
fever-heat.
It was in the whirl and torrent of this popular storm that Willard Glazier
was caught up and swept into the ranks of the Union army.
His regiment, the Harris Light Cavalry, was originally intended for the
regular service—to rank as the Seventh Regular Cavalry. The general
government, however, concluded to limit the number of their regiments of
horse to six—the reasons for which are given by Captain Glazier in his
"Soldiers of the Saddle," as follows:
Page 134
"Under the military régime of General Scott, the cavalry arm of the
service had been almost entirely overlooked. His previous campaigns in
Mexico, which consisted chiefly of the investment of walled towns and of
assaults on fortresses, had not been favorable to extensive cavalry
operations, and he was not disposed, at so advanced an age in life,
materially to change his tactics of war."
A CAVALRY COLUMN ON THE MARCH.
Hence, this regiment was mustered into service as the "Second Regiment
of New York Cavalry," and, as Senator Ira Harris had extended to the
organization the influence of his name and purse, it soon came to be called
the "Harris Light Cavalry," and retained that title throughout the whole of
its eventful career. The natural tastes of young Glazier led him into this
branch of the service in preference to the infantry, and we find him writing
to his sister Marjorie as follows:
Camp Howe, near Scarsdale, New York,
August 16th, 1861.
My Dear Sister: From the post-mark of this letter you will at once
conjecture the truth ere I tell it to you, and I can fancy you saying to
service had been almost entirely overlooked. His previous campaigns in
Mexico, which consisted chiefly of the investment of walled towns and of
assaults on fortresses, had not been favorable to extensive cavalry
operations, and he was not disposed, at so advanced an age in life,
materially to change his tactics of war."
A CAVALRY COLUMN ON THE MARCH.
Hence, this regiment was mustered into service as the "Second Regiment
of New York Cavalry," and, as Senator Ira Harris had extended to the
organization the influence of his name and purse, it soon came to be called
the "Harris Light Cavalry," and retained that title throughout the whole of
its eventful career. The natural tastes of young Glazier led him into this
branch of the service in preference to the infantry, and we find him writing
to his sister Marjorie as follows:
Camp Howe, near Scarsdale, New York,
August 16th, 1861.
My Dear Sister: From the post-mark of this letter you will at once
conjecture the truth ere I tell it to you, and I can fancy you saying to
Page 135
yourself when you glance at it: "Willard is no longer talking about
enlisting but has really entered the army." You are right, I now wear the
Union Blue.
Many of our home friends will doubtless wonder why I have
sacrificed my professional prospects at a time when they first began to
look cheering, in order to share the hardships and perils of a soldier's
life. But I need not explain, to you, my reasons for doing so. When our
country is threatened with destruction by base and designing men, in
order to gratify personal ambition and love of sway, it becomes her sons
to go to her rescue and avert the impending ruin. The rebelling South
has yet to learn the difference between the true principles of the
Constitution and the delusion of "State rights." It is as easy to die a
volunteer as a drafted soldier, and in my opinion, is infinitely more
honorable. I shall return to my studies as soon as the Rebellion is put
down and the authority of our Government fully restored, and not until
then.
Let me give you a sketch of our movements thus far. Having reached
Troy at 3 o'clock on the afternoon of the day you and I parted, I spent
the remainder of the evening until 8 o'clock in the city. At that hour we
embarked for New York, and the boys had a very exciting and
enthusiastic time on board the steamer Vanderbilt. Wednesday was spent
at 648 Broadway, Regimental Headquarters of the "Harris Light
Cavalry;" and on that night we came by train to our present camp: or,
rather, as near it as we could, for it is two miles from the nearest station.
The spot is picturesque enough to be described. An old farm,
surrounded by stone fences that look like ramparts, constitutes the
camp. The Hudson and Harlem rivers are in full view, and the country
around is full of beauty. On the first night we bivouacked upon the bare
enlisting but has really entered the army." You are right, I now wear the
Union Blue.
Many of our home friends will doubtless wonder why I have
sacrificed my professional prospects at a time when they first began to
look cheering, in order to share the hardships and perils of a soldier's
life. But I need not explain, to you, my reasons for doing so. When our
country is threatened with destruction by base and designing men, in
order to gratify personal ambition and love of sway, it becomes her sons
to go to her rescue and avert the impending ruin. The rebelling South
has yet to learn the difference between the true principles of the
Constitution and the delusion of "State rights." It is as easy to die a
volunteer as a drafted soldier, and in my opinion, is infinitely more
honorable. I shall return to my studies as soon as the Rebellion is put
down and the authority of our Government fully restored, and not until
then.
Let me give you a sketch of our movements thus far. Having reached
Troy at 3 o'clock on the afternoon of the day you and I parted, I spent
the remainder of the evening until 8 o'clock in the city. At that hour we
embarked for New York, and the boys had a very exciting and
enthusiastic time on board the steamer Vanderbilt. Wednesday was spent
at 648 Broadway, Regimental Headquarters of the "Harris Light
Cavalry;" and on that night we came by train to our present camp: or,
rather, as near it as we could, for it is two miles from the nearest station.
The spot is picturesque enough to be described. An old farm,
surrounded by stone fences that look like ramparts, constitutes the
camp. The Hudson and Harlem rivers are in full view, and the country
around is full of beauty. On the first night we bivouacked upon the bare
Page 136
sod, with no covering for our bodies but the broad canopy of heaven. It
was not until a late hour on the following afternoon that our white tents
began to dot the ground and gleam through the dark foliage of the trees.
Crowds of visitors from the neighboring village come out every day
to see us. My health was never better, and this sort of life affords me
keen enjoyment. The very roughness of it is invigorating. My present
writing-desk is the top of the stone wall I have alluded to, so you must
criticise neither my penmanship nor my style. I received a letter from
father on Tuesday afternoon, and, thank God! I enter the service with
his full approbation. The discipline enforced here is strict, our rations
are good, fruit is very abundant, and to be had for the asking; so that if
you will only write soon and often, there will be little else required to
fill the wants of
Your affectionate brother, Willard.
Fortunately for their future comfort, the Harris Light Cavalry, at the very
outset of its military career, was placed under the charge of a rigid and
skilful disciplinarian—one Captain A. N. Duffiè—who, having graduated
honorably at the celebrated French military school, St. Cyr, possessed all
the martial enthusiasm as well as personal peculiarities of his excitable
countrymen.
The captain either was, or believed himself to be, an eloquent speaker,
and his efforts at rhetorical display, added to his French pronunciation of
English words, became a source of great amusement to the men. He was
wont to harangue them, as if they were about to enter upon a sanguinary
battle. The old stone walls of the peaceful farm were pictured as bristling
with the enemy's bayonets, and the boys were called on to "charge" at the
hidden foe and capture him.
was not until a late hour on the following afternoon that our white tents
began to dot the ground and gleam through the dark foliage of the trees.
Crowds of visitors from the neighboring village come out every day
to see us. My health was never better, and this sort of life affords me
keen enjoyment. The very roughness of it is invigorating. My present
writing-desk is the top of the stone wall I have alluded to, so you must
criticise neither my penmanship nor my style. I received a letter from
father on Tuesday afternoon, and, thank God! I enter the service with
his full approbation. The discipline enforced here is strict, our rations
are good, fruit is very abundant, and to be had for the asking; so that if
you will only write soon and often, there will be little else required to
fill the wants of
Your affectionate brother, Willard.
Fortunately for their future comfort, the Harris Light Cavalry, at the very
outset of its military career, was placed under the charge of a rigid and
skilful disciplinarian—one Captain A. N. Duffiè—who, having graduated
honorably at the celebrated French military school, St. Cyr, possessed all
the martial enthusiasm as well as personal peculiarities of his excitable
countrymen.
The captain either was, or believed himself to be, an eloquent speaker,
and his efforts at rhetorical display, added to his French pronunciation of
English words, became a source of great amusement to the men. He was
wont to harangue them, as if they were about to enter upon a sanguinary
battle. The old stone walls of the peaceful farm were pictured as bristling
with the enemy's bayonets, and the boys were called on to "charge" at the
hidden foe and capture him.
Page 137
"One morning," says Captain Glazier, "after a week spent in drill, we
were all surprised by receiving an order to 'fall into line,' and discovered
that the object of this movement was to listen to a Napoleonic harangue
from Captain Duffiè. So loud had been our protests, so manifest our
rebellious spirit on the subject of fortifying a peaceful farm on the banks of
the Hudson, that the captain undoubtedly feared he might not be very
zealously supported by us in his future movements, and, like Napoleon on
assuming command of the Army of Italy, sought to test the devotion of his
men. After amusing us a-while in broken English, appealing to our
patriotism and honor, he at length shouted:
"'Now, as many of you as are ready to follow me to the cannon's mouth,
take one step to the front!'
"This ruse was perfectly successful, and the whole line took the desired
step."
The time passed pleasantly enough in this camp of instruction, despite
the monotony of drill and guard duty, and, by the time the order to break
camp reached the men, they were well advanced in the duties of the soldier.
The regiment left Camp Howe about the end of August, and, passing
through New York, entered that most beautiful and patriotic of cities,
Philadelphia, where they were royally entertained by the managers of the
"Volunteer Refreshment Saloon." They at length reached Washington and
encamped a half mile beyond the Capitol.
From this point Glazier writes to his mother as follows:
Camp Oregon,
Near Washington, D.C.,
August 25th, 1861.
Dear Mother: I am at present seated under the branches of a large
peach tree that marks the spot where two sentinels of our army, while on
were all surprised by receiving an order to 'fall into line,' and discovered
that the object of this movement was to listen to a Napoleonic harangue
from Captain Duffiè. So loud had been our protests, so manifest our
rebellious spirit on the subject of fortifying a peaceful farm on the banks of
the Hudson, that the captain undoubtedly feared he might not be very
zealously supported by us in his future movements, and, like Napoleon on
assuming command of the Army of Italy, sought to test the devotion of his
men. After amusing us a-while in broken English, appealing to our
patriotism and honor, he at length shouted:
"'Now, as many of you as are ready to follow me to the cannon's mouth,
take one step to the front!'
"This ruse was perfectly successful, and the whole line took the desired
step."
The time passed pleasantly enough in this camp of instruction, despite
the monotony of drill and guard duty, and, by the time the order to break
camp reached the men, they were well advanced in the duties of the soldier.
The regiment left Camp Howe about the end of August, and, passing
through New York, entered that most beautiful and patriotic of cities,
Philadelphia, where they were royally entertained by the managers of the
"Volunteer Refreshment Saloon." They at length reached Washington and
encamped a half mile beyond the Capitol.
From this point Glazier writes to his mother as follows:
Camp Oregon,
Near Washington, D.C.,
August 25th, 1861.
Dear Mother: I am at present seated under the branches of a large
peach tree that marks the spot where two sentinels of our army, while on
Page 138
duty last night, were shot by the rebels. I was one of the same guard,
having been assigned to such duty for the first time since entering the
service. Like all other sentinels, I was obliged to walk my lonely beat
with drawn sabre.
It may interest you to know where I performed my first guard duty. It
was in front of the residence of a rabid secessionist, who is now an
officer in the famous Black-Horse Cavalry. You may remember that this
regiment was reported to have been utterly destroyed at Bull Run, and
yet I am informed by Washingtonians that it had but two companies in
the fight. So much for newspaper gossip.
During the day I was very kindly treated by the family of this
gentleman, but in the evening our camp commander came to me and
said: "Take this revolver, and if you value your life, be vigilant.
Remember, you are not at Scarsdale now!" He, of course, referred to our
old camp near Scarsdale, twenty-four miles from New York. Our
present one is a little over half a mile from the Capitol, and from my
tent I can see the dome of that building, glittering, like a ball of gold, in
the sunlight.
Yesterday I paid a visit to the city. The streets were crowded with
infantry, artillery and cavalry soldiers, all actively engaged in preparing
for the coming conflict. An engagement seems to be close at hand.
Entrenchments are being dug and batteries erected in every direction.
The citizens do not apprehend any danger from an attack by the enemy.
My regiment has been attached to Brigadier-General Baker's Brigade.
It will be three weeks to-morrow since I enlisted. I have been in this
camp one week, and one week was spent at Camp Howe, Scarsdale,
New York.
having been assigned to such duty for the first time since entering the
service. Like all other sentinels, I was obliged to walk my lonely beat
with drawn sabre.
It may interest you to know where I performed my first guard duty. It
was in front of the residence of a rabid secessionist, who is now an
officer in the famous Black-Horse Cavalry. You may remember that this
regiment was reported to have been utterly destroyed at Bull Run, and
yet I am informed by Washingtonians that it had but two companies in
the fight. So much for newspaper gossip.
During the day I was very kindly treated by the family of this
gentleman, but in the evening our camp commander came to me and
said: "Take this revolver, and if you value your life, be vigilant.
Remember, you are not at Scarsdale now!" He, of course, referred to our
old camp near Scarsdale, twenty-four miles from New York. Our
present one is a little over half a mile from the Capitol, and from my
tent I can see the dome of that building, glittering, like a ball of gold, in
the sunlight.
Yesterday I paid a visit to the city. The streets were crowded with
infantry, artillery and cavalry soldiers, all actively engaged in preparing
for the coming conflict. An engagement seems to be close at hand.
Entrenchments are being dug and batteries erected in every direction.
The citizens do not apprehend any danger from an attack by the enemy.
My regiment has been attached to Brigadier-General Baker's Brigade.
It will be three weeks to-morrow since I enlisted. I have been in this
camp one week, and one week was spent at Camp Howe, Scarsdale,
New York.
Page 139
We are being rapidly prepared for field service. Our drill is very rigid,
yet I submit to the discipline willingly, and I find that hard study is as
essential to the composition of a good soldier as to a good teacher. I
have purchased a copy of the "Cavalry Tactics," and devote every
leisure hour to its mastery. There is but one thing which gives me any
serious annoyance now, and that is the question of the ways and means
for the education of my brothers and sisters. I think Elvira and Marjorie
had better teach this winter, and then, if the war should be concluded
before next spring, I will make arrangements for their attendance at
school again. With kindest love to all, I am
Your loving and dutiful son,
Willard.
About two months more were occupied by the Harris Light in camp-duty,
scouting and foraging, but almost immediately after their arrival in Virginia,
young Glazier was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Shortly after his
promotion he was detailed for recruiting service and sent to the city of New
York for that purpose. The great city was in a turmoil of excitement.
The "Tammany" organization carried things with a high hand, and was
opposed by the equally powerful Union League. Between these two centres
the current of public opinion ran in strong tides. But, in the midst of it all,
the young corporal was successful in his recruiting service, and on the
second day of December rejoined his comrades, who were then at Camp
Palmer, Arlington Heights.
This spot was one of peculiar beauty. Its associations were hallowed.
There stood the ancestral home of the Lees, whose deserted rooms seemed
haunted with memories of a noble race. Its floors had echoed to the tread of
youth and beauty. Its walls had witnessed gatherings of renown. From its
yet I submit to the discipline willingly, and I find that hard study is as
essential to the composition of a good soldier as to a good teacher. I
have purchased a copy of the "Cavalry Tactics," and devote every
leisure hour to its mastery. There is but one thing which gives me any
serious annoyance now, and that is the question of the ways and means
for the education of my brothers and sisters. I think Elvira and Marjorie
had better teach this winter, and then, if the war should be concluded
before next spring, I will make arrangements for their attendance at
school again. With kindest love to all, I am
Your loving and dutiful son,
Willard.
About two months more were occupied by the Harris Light in camp-duty,
scouting and foraging, but almost immediately after their arrival in Virginia,
young Glazier was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Shortly after his
promotion he was detailed for recruiting service and sent to the city of New
York for that purpose. The great city was in a turmoil of excitement.
The "Tammany" organization carried things with a high hand, and was
opposed by the equally powerful Union League. Between these two centres
the current of public opinion ran in strong tides. But, in the midst of it all,
the young corporal was successful in his recruiting service, and on the
second day of December rejoined his comrades, who were then at Camp
Palmer, Arlington Heights.
This spot was one of peculiar beauty. Its associations were hallowed.
There stood the ancestral home of the Lees, whose deserted rooms seemed
haunted with memories of a noble race. Its floors had echoed to the tread of
youth and beauty. Its walls had witnessed gatherings of renown. From its
Page 140
portals rode General Lee to take command of the Richmond troops—a man
who must be revered for his qualities of heart and remembered especially
by the North as one who, amid all the fury of passion which the war
engendered, was never betrayed into an intemperate expression towards the
enemy. Now, the halls and porches of the quaint old building rang with the
tread of armed men. Its rooms were despoiled, and that atmosphere of
desolation which ever clings about a deserted home, enveloped the place. A
winding roadway under thick foliaged trees, led down the Heights to the
"Long Bridge," crossing the Potomac. Near the house stood an old-
fashioned "well sweep" which carried a moss-covered bucket on its trips
down the well, to bring up the most sparkling of water. Instinctively a
feeling of sadness took possession of the heart at the mournful contrast
between the past and present of this beautiful spot.
"Ah, crueler than fire or flood
Come steps of men of alien blood,
And silently the treacherous air
Closes—and keeps no token, where
Its dead are buried."
The day of trial—the baptism of battle—seemed rapidly approaching.
General McClellan, having drilled and manoeuvred and viewed and
reviewed the Army of the Potomac, until what had been little better than an
armed and uniformed mob began to assume the aspect of a body of
regulars, determined upon an advance movement. Accordingly on the third
of March, 1862, the army marched upon Centreville, captured the "Quaker"
guns and, much to the disgust of his followers, fell back upon his original
position, instead of continuing the advance.
who must be revered for his qualities of heart and remembered especially
by the North as one who, amid all the fury of passion which the war
engendered, was never betrayed into an intemperate expression towards the
enemy. Now, the halls and porches of the quaint old building rang with the
tread of armed men. Its rooms were despoiled, and that atmosphere of
desolation which ever clings about a deserted home, enveloped the place. A
winding roadway under thick foliaged trees, led down the Heights to the
"Long Bridge," crossing the Potomac. Near the house stood an old-
fashioned "well sweep" which carried a moss-covered bucket on its trips
down the well, to bring up the most sparkling of water. Instinctively a
feeling of sadness took possession of the heart at the mournful contrast
between the past and present of this beautiful spot.
"Ah, crueler than fire or flood
Come steps of men of alien blood,
And silently the treacherous air
Closes—and keeps no token, where
Its dead are buried."
The day of trial—the baptism of battle—seemed rapidly approaching.
General McClellan, having drilled and manoeuvred and viewed and
reviewed the Army of the Potomac, until what had been little better than an
armed and uniformed mob began to assume the aspect of a body of
regulars, determined upon an advance movement. Accordingly on the third
of March, 1862, the army marched upon Centreville, captured the "Quaker"
guns and, much to the disgust of his followers, fell back upon his original
position, instead of continuing the advance.
Page 141
As the Harris Light enjoyed throughout this campaign of magnificent
possibilities, the honor of being "Little Mac's" body guard, they were of
course during the forward movement in high spirits. They believed it to be
the initial step to a vigorous campaign in which they might hold the post of
honor. But when the order to fall back came, their disappointment was great
indeed. At first they were mystified, but it soon leaked out that a council of
war had been held and that McClellan's plan of the Peninsular Campaign
had been adopted.
It had also been determined that a section of the army should be left
behind, under the command of General Irvin McDowell, to guard the
approaches to Washington.
The First Pennsylvania Cavalry, under the command of General (then
Colonel) George Dashiel Bayard, and the Harris Light, remained with the
latter force. Under such a leader as Bayard, the men could have no fear of
rusting in inactivity. He was the soul of honor, the bravest of the brave. No
more gallant spirit ever took up the sword, no kinder heart ever tempered
valor, no life was more stainless, no death could be more sad; for the day
that was appointed for his nuptials closed over his grave.
Judson Kilpatrick, one of those restless, nervous, energetic and self-
reliant spirits who believe in themselves thoroughly, and make up in
activity what they lack in method, was Colonel of the Harris Light, and the
dawning glory of young Bayard's fame excited a spirit of emulation, if not
of envy in his heart, which found vent in a very creditable desire to equal or
excel that leader in the field. The brilliant night attack on Falmouth Heights
was one of the first results of this rivalry, and as it was also the initial battle
in Corporal Glazier's experience, we give his own vivid description of it as
it is found in "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry."
possibilities, the honor of being "Little Mac's" body guard, they were of
course during the forward movement in high spirits. They believed it to be
the initial step to a vigorous campaign in which they might hold the post of
honor. But when the order to fall back came, their disappointment was great
indeed. At first they were mystified, but it soon leaked out that a council of
war had been held and that McClellan's plan of the Peninsular Campaign
had been adopted.
It had also been determined that a section of the army should be left
behind, under the command of General Irvin McDowell, to guard the
approaches to Washington.
The First Pennsylvania Cavalry, under the command of General (then
Colonel) George Dashiel Bayard, and the Harris Light, remained with the
latter force. Under such a leader as Bayard, the men could have no fear of
rusting in inactivity. He was the soul of honor, the bravest of the brave. No
more gallant spirit ever took up the sword, no kinder heart ever tempered
valor, no life was more stainless, no death could be more sad; for the day
that was appointed for his nuptials closed over his grave.
Judson Kilpatrick, one of those restless, nervous, energetic and self-
reliant spirits who believe in themselves thoroughly, and make up in
activity what they lack in method, was Colonel of the Harris Light, and the
dawning glory of young Bayard's fame excited a spirit of emulation, if not
of envy in his heart, which found vent in a very creditable desire to equal or
excel that leader in the field. The brilliant night attack on Falmouth Heights
was one of the first results of this rivalry, and as it was also the initial battle
in Corporal Glazier's experience, we give his own vivid description of it as
it is found in "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry."
Page 142
"Our instructions," he says, "were conveyed to us in a whisper. A
beautiful moonlight fell upon the scene, which was as still as death; and
with proud determination the two young cavalry chieftains moved forward
to the night's fray. Bayard was to attack on the main road in front, but not
until Kilpatrick had commenced operations on their right flank, by a detour
through a narrow and neglected wood-path. As the Heights were considered
well-nigh impregnable, it was necessary to resort to some stratagem, for
which Kilpatrick showed a becoming aptness.
"Having approached to within hearing distance of the rebel pickets, but
before we were challenged, Kilpatrick shouted with his clear voice, which
sounded like a trumpet on the still night air:
"'Bring up your artillery in the centre, and infantry on the left!'
"'Well, but, Colonel,' said an honest though rather obtuse Captain, 'we
haven't got any inf—'
"'Silence in the ranks!' commanded the leader. 'Artillery in the centre,
infantry on the left!'
"The pickets caught and spread the alarm and thus greatly facilitated our
hazardous enterprise.
"'Charge!' was the order which then thrilled the ranks, and echoed
through the dark, dismal woods; and the column swept up the rugged
heights in the midst of blazing cannon and rattling musketry.
beautiful moonlight fell upon the scene, which was as still as death; and
with proud determination the two young cavalry chieftains moved forward
to the night's fray. Bayard was to attack on the main road in front, but not
until Kilpatrick had commenced operations on their right flank, by a detour
through a narrow and neglected wood-path. As the Heights were considered
well-nigh impregnable, it was necessary to resort to some stratagem, for
which Kilpatrick showed a becoming aptness.
"Having approached to within hearing distance of the rebel pickets, but
before we were challenged, Kilpatrick shouted with his clear voice, which
sounded like a trumpet on the still night air:
"'Bring up your artillery in the centre, and infantry on the left!'
"'Well, but, Colonel,' said an honest though rather obtuse Captain, 'we
haven't got any inf—'
"'Silence in the ranks!' commanded the leader. 'Artillery in the centre,
infantry on the left!'
"The pickets caught and spread the alarm and thus greatly facilitated our
hazardous enterprise.
"'Charge!' was the order which then thrilled the ranks, and echoed
through the dark, dismal woods; and the column swept up the rugged
heights in the midst of blazing cannon and rattling musketry.
Page 143
NIGHT ATTACK ON FALMOUTH HEIGHTS.
"So steep was the ascent that not a few saddles slipped off the horses,
precipitating their riders into a creek which flowed lazily at the base of a
hill; while others fell dead and dying, struck by the missiles of destruction
which filled the air. But the field was won, and the enemy, driven at the
point of the sabre, fled unceremoniously down the heights, through
Falmouth and over the bridge which spanned the Rappahannock, burning
that beautiful structure behind them, to prevent pursuit."
This engagement, while otherwise of but little importance, was valuable
because it taught the enemy that the Federals could use the cavalry arm of
the service as effectively as their infantry.
All accounts agree that Corporal Glazier acquitted himself very
creditably in his first battle. After the action was over he accompanied his
comrades to the field and contributed his best aid towards the care of the
wounded and the unburied dead. Such an experience was full of painful
contrast to the quiet scenes of home and school life to which he had hitherto
been accustomed. In his history, as with thousands of other brave boys who
"So steep was the ascent that not a few saddles slipped off the horses,
precipitating their riders into a creek which flowed lazily at the base of a
hill; while others fell dead and dying, struck by the missiles of destruction
which filled the air. But the field was won, and the enemy, driven at the
point of the sabre, fled unceremoniously down the heights, through
Falmouth and over the bridge which spanned the Rappahannock, burning
that beautiful structure behind them, to prevent pursuit."
This engagement, while otherwise of but little importance, was valuable
because it taught the enemy that the Federals could use the cavalry arm of
the service as effectively as their infantry.
All accounts agree that Corporal Glazier acquitted himself very
creditably in his first battle. After the action was over he accompanied his
comrades to the field and contributed his best aid towards the care of the
wounded and the unburied dead. Such an experience was full of painful
contrast to the quiet scenes of home and school life to which he had hitherto
been accustomed. In his history, as with thousands of other brave boys who
Page 144
missed death through many battles, this period was the sharp prelude to a
long experience of successive conflicts, of weary marches seasoned with
hunger, of prison starvation and the many privations which fall to the lot of
the soldier, all glorified when given freely in the defence of liberty and
country.
long experience of successive conflicts, of weary marches seasoned with
hunger, of prison starvation and the many privations which fall to the lot of
the soldier, all glorified when given freely in the defence of liberty and
country.
Page 145
CHAPTER XII.
FIRST BATTLE OF BRANDY STATION.
The sentinel's lonely round. — General Pope in command of the army. — Is gunboat service
effective? — First cavalry battle of Brandy Station. — Under a rain of bullets. — Flipper's
orchard. — "Bring up the brigade, boys!" — Capture of Confederate prisoners. — Story of a
revolver. — Cedar Mountain. — Burial of the dead rebel. — Retreat from the Rapidan. — The
riderless horse. — Death of Captain Walters.
The Harris Light now entered upon exciting times, and Corporal Glazier,
ever at the post of duty, had little leisure for anything unconnected with the
exigencies of camp and field. At that period the men of both armies were
guilty of the barbarous practice of shooting solitary sentinels at their posts,
and no man went on guard at night without feeling that an inglorious death
might await him in the darkness, while deprived of the power to strike a
defensive blow, or to breathe a prayer.
On the twenty-second of July, 1862, a new commander was assigned the
Army of Virginia in the person of General John Pope. General McClellan
had lost the confidence of the Northern people by his continued disasters,
and was at length succeeded by General Pope, who was placed at the head
of the united commands of Fremont, Banks, McDowell (and later in
August), Burnside and Fitz-John Porter. General Pope commenced his
duties with a ringing address to the army under his command. Among other
things, he declared: "That he had heard much of 'lines of communication
and retreat,' but the only line in his opinion, that a general should know
anything about, was the line of the enemy's retreat." The dash of such a
theory of war was extremely invigorating, and once more the hearts of the
FIRST BATTLE OF BRANDY STATION.
The sentinel's lonely round. — General Pope in command of the army. — Is gunboat service
effective? — First cavalry battle of Brandy Station. — Under a rain of bullets. — Flipper's
orchard. — "Bring up the brigade, boys!" — Capture of Confederate prisoners. — Story of a
revolver. — Cedar Mountain. — Burial of the dead rebel. — Retreat from the Rapidan. — The
riderless horse. — Death of Captain Walters.
The Harris Light now entered upon exciting times, and Corporal Glazier,
ever at the post of duty, had little leisure for anything unconnected with the
exigencies of camp and field. At that period the men of both armies were
guilty of the barbarous practice of shooting solitary sentinels at their posts,
and no man went on guard at night without feeling that an inglorious death
might await him in the darkness, while deprived of the power to strike a
defensive blow, or to breathe a prayer.
On the twenty-second of July, 1862, a new commander was assigned the
Army of Virginia in the person of General John Pope. General McClellan
had lost the confidence of the Northern people by his continued disasters,
and was at length succeeded by General Pope, who was placed at the head
of the united commands of Fremont, Banks, McDowell (and later in
August), Burnside and Fitz-John Porter. General Pope commenced his
duties with a ringing address to the army under his command. Among other
things, he declared: "That he had heard much of 'lines of communication
and retreat,' but the only line in his opinion, that a general should know
anything about, was the line of the enemy's retreat." The dash of such a
theory of war was extremely invigorating, and once more the hearts of the
Page 146
Northern people cherished and exulted in the hope that they had found the
"right man for the right place." Popular enthusiasm reacted upon the army;
their idol of yesterday was dethroned, and they girded their loins for a
renewal of the struggle, in the full belief that, with Pope to lead them, they
would write a very different chapter upon the page of History, from that
which recorded their Peninsular campaign.
Here we desire to correct a statement, then current, regarding the value of
the gunboat service, viz., that McClellan's army was indebted for its safety
during the retreat from Malvern Hill to the gunboats stationed in James
River. That this was not the case is proven by the testimony of L. L.
Dabney, chief-of-staff to General T. J. Jackson. He says: "It is a fact worthy
of note, that the fire of the gunboats, so much valued by the Federals, and,
at one time, so much dreaded by the Confederates, had no actual influence
whatever in the battle. The noise and fury doubtless produced a certain
effect upon the emotions of the assailants, but this was dependent upon their
novelty. The loss effected by them was trivial when compared with the
ravages of the field artillery; and it was found chiefly among their own
friends. Far more of their ponderous missiles fell within their own lines than
within those of the Confederates. Indeed, a fire directed at an invisible foe
across two or three miles of intervening hills and woods can never reach its
aim, save by accident. Nor is the havoc wrought by the larger projectiles in
proportion to their magnitude. Where one of them explodes against a human
body it does, indeed, crush it into a frightful mass, but it is not likely to
strike more men, in the open order of field operations, than a shot of less
weight; and the wretch blown to atoms by it is not put hors du combat more
effectually than he whose brain is penetrated by half an ounce of lead or
iron. The broadside of a modern gunboat may consist of three hundred
pounds of iron projected by forty pounds of powder, but it is fired from
"right man for the right place." Popular enthusiasm reacted upon the army;
their idol of yesterday was dethroned, and they girded their loins for a
renewal of the struggle, in the full belief that, with Pope to lead them, they
would write a very different chapter upon the page of History, from that
which recorded their Peninsular campaign.
Here we desire to correct a statement, then current, regarding the value of
the gunboat service, viz., that McClellan's army was indebted for its safety
during the retreat from Malvern Hill to the gunboats stationed in James
River. That this was not the case is proven by the testimony of L. L.
Dabney, chief-of-staff to General T. J. Jackson. He says: "It is a fact worthy
of note, that the fire of the gunboats, so much valued by the Federals, and,
at one time, so much dreaded by the Confederates, had no actual influence
whatever in the battle. The noise and fury doubtless produced a certain
effect upon the emotions of the assailants, but this was dependent upon their
novelty. The loss effected by them was trivial when compared with the
ravages of the field artillery; and it was found chiefly among their own
friends. Far more of their ponderous missiles fell within their own lines than
within those of the Confederates. Indeed, a fire directed at an invisible foe
across two or three miles of intervening hills and woods can never reach its
aim, save by accident. Nor is the havoc wrought by the larger projectiles in
proportion to their magnitude. Where one of them explodes against a human
body it does, indeed, crush it into a frightful mass, but it is not likely to
strike more men, in the open order of field operations, than a shot of less
weight; and the wretch blown to atoms by it is not put hors du combat more
effectually than he whose brain is penetrated by half an ounce of lead or
iron. The broadside of a modern gunboat may consist of three hundred
pounds of iron projected by forty pounds of powder, but it is fired from
Page 147
only two guns. The effect upon a line of men, therefore, is but one-fifteenth
of that which the same metal might have had, fired from ten-pounder rifled
guns."
The truth of the matter is, that so far as offensive operations in
conjunction with that army were concerned, the gunboats were more
ornamental than useful; and it is not just that the modicum of glory
(mingled with so much of disaster), won fairly upon that occasion by the
land forces, should be awarded to another branch of the service.
General Pope was not permitted to remain long before an opportunity
offered for practically testing his war theories. McClellan's troops had
scarcely recovered breath after their retreat from before Richmond when
Lee, leaving his entrenchments, boldly threw himself forward and met Pope
and the Union forces, face to face on the old battle-ground of Manassas.
The Harris Light, prior to the second battle of Bull Run, had been offered,
and eagerly accepted, an opportunity to cross swords with the "Southern
chivalry," and the result now was a desperate encounter at Brandy Station.
The first action which baptized in blood this historic ground took place
August twentieth, 1862. About six o'clock in the morning a heavy column
of Stuart's cavalry was discovered approaching from the direction of
Culpepper, and Kilpatrick received orders to check their advance. The
Harris Light, acting as rear guard of Bayard's brigade, kept the enemy in
check until Bayard could form his command at a more favorable point two
miles north of the station. Corporal Glazier was in the front rank of the first
squadron that led the charge, and repulsed the enemy. His horse was
wounded in the neck, and his saddle and canteen perforated with bullets.
of that which the same metal might have had, fired from ten-pounder rifled
guns."
The truth of the matter is, that so far as offensive operations in
conjunction with that army were concerned, the gunboats were more
ornamental than useful; and it is not just that the modicum of glory
(mingled with so much of disaster), won fairly upon that occasion by the
land forces, should be awarded to another branch of the service.
General Pope was not permitted to remain long before an opportunity
offered for practically testing his war theories. McClellan's troops had
scarcely recovered breath after their retreat from before Richmond when
Lee, leaving his entrenchments, boldly threw himself forward and met Pope
and the Union forces, face to face on the old battle-ground of Manassas.
The Harris Light, prior to the second battle of Bull Run, had been offered,
and eagerly accepted, an opportunity to cross swords with the "Southern
chivalry," and the result now was a desperate encounter at Brandy Station.
The first action which baptized in blood this historic ground took place
August twentieth, 1862. About six o'clock in the morning a heavy column
of Stuart's cavalry was discovered approaching from the direction of
Culpepper, and Kilpatrick received orders to check their advance. The
Harris Light, acting as rear guard of Bayard's brigade, kept the enemy in
check until Bayard could form his command at a more favorable point two
miles north of the station. Corporal Glazier was in the front rank of the first
squadron that led the charge, and repulsed the enemy. His horse was
wounded in the neck, and his saddle and canteen perforated with bullets.
Page 148
FEDERAL CANTEENS FOR CONFEDERATE TOBACCO
The fight at Flipper's Orchard preceded that at Brandy Station by more
than a month, having occurred on the Fourth of July. The Troy company of
the Harris Light had been ordered, about eight o'clock in the morning of
that day, to reconnoitre the Telegraph Road, south of Fredericksburg.
Leaving camp, they soon came in sight of a detachment of Bath cavalry on
patrol duty, escorting the Richmond mail. They learned the strength of the
enemy from some colored people along the route, and also the probability
that they would halt at Flipper's Orchard for refreshments. This place was
on the south bank of the Po River, some twenty miles from Fredericksburg,
in an angle formed by the roads leading to Bull Church and the
Rappahannock. After following them for several hours, the company halted
for consultation, "and," says Glazier, "our lieutenant put the question to
vote, whether we should go on and capture the foe, about one hundred
strong, or return to camp. The vote was unanimous for battle. I was in
charge of the advance guard, having a squad of four men, and received
orders to strike a gallop. Just as we came within sight of the Orchard, we
The fight at Flipper's Orchard preceded that at Brandy Station by more
than a month, having occurred on the Fourth of July. The Troy company of
the Harris Light had been ordered, about eight o'clock in the morning of
that day, to reconnoitre the Telegraph Road, south of Fredericksburg.
Leaving camp, they soon came in sight of a detachment of Bath cavalry on
patrol duty, escorting the Richmond mail. They learned the strength of the
enemy from some colored people along the route, and also the probability
that they would halt at Flipper's Orchard for refreshments. This place was
on the south bank of the Po River, some twenty miles from Fredericksburg,
in an angle formed by the roads leading to Bull Church and the
Rappahannock. After following them for several hours, the company halted
for consultation, "and," says Glazier, "our lieutenant put the question to
vote, whether we should go on and capture the foe, about one hundred
strong, or return to camp. The vote was unanimous for battle. I was in
charge of the advance guard, having a squad of four men, and received
orders to strike a gallop. Just as we came within sight of the Orchard, we
Page 149
saw the Confederates dismounting and making leisurely arrangements for
their repast. Dashing spurs into our horses' flanks, we wheeled round the
corner and along the Bull Church Road, sweeping down upon them with
tremendous clatter. 'Here they are, boys!' I shouted; 'bring up the brigade!'
We were about forty in number, but surprised them completely, and they
fled panic-stricken. Twelve men and nine horses were captured. On
reaching Dr. Flipper's house, I noticed a dismounted Confederate officer
who, with others, was running across a wheat-field. I started in hot pursuit,
jumping my horse over a six-rail fence to reach him. He fired upon me with
both carbine and revolver, but missed his mark, and by this time I stood
over him with my navy-revolver, demanding his surrender. He gave up his
arms and equipments, which were speedily transferred to my own person.
We made quick work of the fight, the whole affair lasting not longer than
fifteen minutes. The Confederate reserves were only a short distance off at
Bull Church, and we hurried back with our spoils towards the
Rappahannock, fearful that we might be overtaken. My prisoner, as I
afterward learned, was Lieutenant Powell, in command of the patrol. His
revolver has a story of its own. It was a beautiful silver-mounted weapon,
and I resolved to keep possession of it as my especial trophy, instead of
turning it over to the Quartermaster's Department. This was not an easy
matter, as vigilant eyes were on the look-out for all 'munitions of war
captured from the enemy,' which were consigned to a common receptacle. I
therefore dug a hole in the ground of our tent and buried my treasure, where
it remained until we changed our encampment. One day, some time after, I
carelessly left it lying on a log, a short distance from camp, and on
returning found it gone. While I stood there deploring my ill luck, I heard a
succession of clear, snapping shots just beyond a rise of ground directly in
front of me, and recognized the familiar report of my revolver. Going in the
their repast. Dashing spurs into our horses' flanks, we wheeled round the
corner and along the Bull Church Road, sweeping down upon them with
tremendous clatter. 'Here they are, boys!' I shouted; 'bring up the brigade!'
We were about forty in number, but surprised them completely, and they
fled panic-stricken. Twelve men and nine horses were captured. On
reaching Dr. Flipper's house, I noticed a dismounted Confederate officer
who, with others, was running across a wheat-field. I started in hot pursuit,
jumping my horse over a six-rail fence to reach him. He fired upon me with
both carbine and revolver, but missed his mark, and by this time I stood
over him with my navy-revolver, demanding his surrender. He gave up his
arms and equipments, which were speedily transferred to my own person.
We made quick work of the fight, the whole affair lasting not longer than
fifteen minutes. The Confederate reserves were only a short distance off at
Bull Church, and we hurried back with our spoils towards the
Rappahannock, fearful that we might be overtaken. My prisoner, as I
afterward learned, was Lieutenant Powell, in command of the patrol. His
revolver has a story of its own. It was a beautiful silver-mounted weapon,
and I resolved to keep possession of it as my especial trophy, instead of
turning it over to the Quartermaster's Department. This was not an easy
matter, as vigilant eyes were on the look-out for all 'munitions of war
captured from the enemy,' which were consigned to a common receptacle. I
therefore dug a hole in the ground of our tent and buried my treasure, where
it remained until we changed our encampment. One day, some time after, I
carelessly left it lying on a log, a short distance from camp, and on
returning found it gone. While I stood there deploring my ill luck, I heard a
succession of clear, snapping shots just beyond a rise of ground directly in
front of me, and recognized the familiar report of my revolver. Going in the
Page 150
direction of the shots, I rescued it from the hands of a sergeant by whom it
had been temporarily confiscated. After this adventure I concluded to incur
no further risks with the weapon, and so packed it in a cigar-box and sent it
to my sister Elvira."
The battle of Cedar Mountain, fought on the afternoon of August ninth,
1862, needs only a passing notice in connection with this record. The
battalion in which Corporal Glazier served acted as body-guard to General
McDowell, and arrived on the field just as the wave of battle was receding.
The following morning, on passing over the slopes of Cedar Mountain,
where the guns of General Banks had made sad havoc on the previous day,
a dead Confederate soldier, partially unburied, attracted the attention of the
troopers. At that period of the war a sentiment of extreme bitterness toward
the adversary pervaded the ranks on both sides, and as the squadron swept
by the men showered on the poor dead body remarks expressive of their
contempt. Corporal Glazier was an exception. Moved by an impulse born of
our common humanity, he returned and buried the cold, stark corpse,
covering it with mother Earth; and when questioned why he gave such
consideration to a miserable dead rebel, replied, that he thought any man
brave enough to die for a principle, should be respected for that bravery,
whether his cause were right or wrong.
On the eighteenth of the month our cavalry relieved the infantry on the
line of the Rapidan, and on the nineteenth, in a sharp skirmish between
Stuart's and Bayard's forces, Captain Charles Walters, of the Harris Light
Cavalry, was killed. This officer was very popular in the regiment, and his
death cast a gloom over all. Wrapped in a soldier's blanket his body was
consigned to a soldier's grave at the solemn hour of midnight. And while the
sad obsequies were being performed, orders came for the retreat to
Culpepper.
had been temporarily confiscated. After this adventure I concluded to incur
no further risks with the weapon, and so packed it in a cigar-box and sent it
to my sister Elvira."
The battle of Cedar Mountain, fought on the afternoon of August ninth,
1862, needs only a passing notice in connection with this record. The
battalion in which Corporal Glazier served acted as body-guard to General
McDowell, and arrived on the field just as the wave of battle was receding.
The following morning, on passing over the slopes of Cedar Mountain,
where the guns of General Banks had made sad havoc on the previous day,
a dead Confederate soldier, partially unburied, attracted the attention of the
troopers. At that period of the war a sentiment of extreme bitterness toward
the adversary pervaded the ranks on both sides, and as the squadron swept
by the men showered on the poor dead body remarks expressive of their
contempt. Corporal Glazier was an exception. Moved by an impulse born of
our common humanity, he returned and buried the cold, stark corpse,
covering it with mother Earth; and when questioned why he gave such
consideration to a miserable dead rebel, replied, that he thought any man
brave enough to die for a principle, should be respected for that bravery,
whether his cause were right or wrong.
On the eighteenth of the month our cavalry relieved the infantry on the
line of the Rapidan, and on the nineteenth, in a sharp skirmish between
Stuart's and Bayard's forces, Captain Charles Walters, of the Harris Light
Cavalry, was killed. This officer was very popular in the regiment, and his
death cast a gloom over all. Wrapped in a soldier's blanket his body was
consigned to a soldier's grave at the solemn hour of midnight. And while the
sad obsequies were being performed, orders came for the retreat to
Culpepper.
Page 151
"We buried him darkly at dead of night,
The sod with our bayonets turning,
By the struggling moonbeam's misty light,
And our lanterns dimly burning.
· · · · ·
"Slowly and sadly we laid him down,
On the field of his fame fresh and gory;
We carved not a line, we raised not a stone,
But left him alone with his glory."
BURIAL OF CAPTAIN WALTERS AT MIDNIGHT, DURING POPE'S RETREAT.
The sod with our bayonets turning,
By the struggling moonbeam's misty light,
And our lanterns dimly burning.
· · · · ·
"Slowly and sadly we laid him down,
On the field of his fame fresh and gory;
We carved not a line, we raised not a stone,
But left him alone with his glory."
BURIAL OF CAPTAIN WALTERS AT MIDNIGHT, DURING POPE'S RETREAT.
Page 152
CHAPTER XIII.
MANASSAS AND FREDERICKSBURG.
Manassas. — The flying troops. — The unknown hero. — Desperate attempt to stop the retreat. —
Recruiting the decimated ranks. — Fredericksburg. — Bravery of Meagher's brigade. — The
impregnable heights. — The cost of battles. — Death of Bayard. — Outline of his life.
The plains of Manassas still speak to us. The smoke of battle that once
hung over them has long since rolled away, but the blood of over forty
thousand brave men of both North and South who here met, and fighting
fell to rise no more, consecrates the soil. Between them and us the grass has
grown green for many and many a summer, but it cannot hide the memory
of their glorious deeds. From this altar of sacrifice the incense yet sweeps
heavenward. The waters of Bull Run Creek swirl against their banks as of
old, and, to the heedless passer-by, utter nothing of the despairing time
when red carnage held awful sway, and counted its victims by the thousand;
yet, if one strays thitherward who can listen to the mystic language of the
waves, they will reword their burden of death and of dark disaster which
"followed fast and followed faster," and at last overtook the devoted
Northern army, and made wild confusion and wilder flight.
No general description of the battle need be given here. That portion only
which concerns the subject of this biography, now promoted to the rank of
Sergeant, will be set in the framework of these pages. Concerning the part
which he took in the action, and which occurred under his own observation,
he says:
MANASSAS AND FREDERICKSBURG.
Manassas. — The flying troops. — The unknown hero. — Desperate attempt to stop the retreat. —
Recruiting the decimated ranks. — Fredericksburg. — Bravery of Meagher's brigade. — The
impregnable heights. — The cost of battles. — Death of Bayard. — Outline of his life.
The plains of Manassas still speak to us. The smoke of battle that once
hung over them has long since rolled away, but the blood of over forty
thousand brave men of both North and South who here met, and fighting
fell to rise no more, consecrates the soil. Between them and us the grass has
grown green for many and many a summer, but it cannot hide the memory
of their glorious deeds. From this altar of sacrifice the incense yet sweeps
heavenward. The waters of Bull Run Creek swirl against their banks as of
old, and, to the heedless passer-by, utter nothing of the despairing time
when red carnage held awful sway, and counted its victims by the thousand;
yet, if one strays thitherward who can listen to the mystic language of the
waves, they will reword their burden of death and of dark disaster which
"followed fast and followed faster," and at last overtook the devoted
Northern army, and made wild confusion and wilder flight.
No general description of the battle need be given here. That portion only
which concerns the subject of this biography, now promoted to the rank of
Sergeant, will be set in the framework of these pages. Concerning the part
which he took in the action, and which occurred under his own observation,
he says:
Page 153
"On the eventful thirtieth—it was August, 1862—our artillery occupied
the crest of a hill a short distance beyond Bull Run Creek, the cavalry
regiments under Bayard being stationed next, and the infantry drawn up in
line behind the cavalry.
"A short time before the battle opened, I was sent to a distant part of the
field to deliver an order. An ominous stillness pervaded the ranks. The
pickets as I passed them were silent, with faces firmly set towards the front,
and the shadow of coming battle hovered portentously, like a cloud with
veiled lightnings, over the Union lines.
"It was the calm which precedes a storm, and the thunderbolts of war fell
fast and heavy when the storm at length broke over our heads. I had just
taken my place in the cavalry ranks when a shell from the enemy's guns
whizzed over our heads with a long and spiteful shriek. One of the horses
attached to a caisson was in the path of the fiery missile, and the next
instant the animal's head was severed entirely from his neck. The deathly
silence was now broken, and more shot and shell followed in quick
succession, plowing through the startled air and falling with destructive
force among the Union troops. This iron hail from the guns of the enemy
was composed in part of old pieces of chain and broken iron rails, as well as
the shot and shell ordinarily used. Our artillery soon replied, but from some
unexplained cause the Union troops in this portion of our line broke and
fled in panic before a shot had been fired from the muskets of the enemy.
This battle, like the first Bull Run, had been well planned, and every effort
which good generalship and good judgment could dictate in order to insure
success, had been made by Generals Pope and McDowell.
"At this crisis of affairs, the cavalry under Bayard and Kilpatrick were
ordered to the rear, to stem, if possible, the tide of retreat, but the effort was
well nigh fruitless. Regiment after regiment surged by in one continuous
the crest of a hill a short distance beyond Bull Run Creek, the cavalry
regiments under Bayard being stationed next, and the infantry drawn up in
line behind the cavalry.
"A short time before the battle opened, I was sent to a distant part of the
field to deliver an order. An ominous stillness pervaded the ranks. The
pickets as I passed them were silent, with faces firmly set towards the front,
and the shadow of coming battle hovered portentously, like a cloud with
veiled lightnings, over the Union lines.
"It was the calm which precedes a storm, and the thunderbolts of war fell
fast and heavy when the storm at length broke over our heads. I had just
taken my place in the cavalry ranks when a shell from the enemy's guns
whizzed over our heads with a long and spiteful shriek. One of the horses
attached to a caisson was in the path of the fiery missile, and the next
instant the animal's head was severed entirely from his neck. The deathly
silence was now broken, and more shot and shell followed in quick
succession, plowing through the startled air and falling with destructive
force among the Union troops. This iron hail from the guns of the enemy
was composed in part of old pieces of chain and broken iron rails, as well as
the shot and shell ordinarily used. Our artillery soon replied, but from some
unexplained cause the Union troops in this portion of our line broke and
fled in panic before a shot had been fired from the muskets of the enemy.
This battle, like the first Bull Run, had been well planned, and every effort
which good generalship and good judgment could dictate in order to insure
success, had been made by Generals Pope and McDowell.
"At this crisis of affairs, the cavalry under Bayard and Kilpatrick were
ordered to the rear, to stem, if possible, the tide of retreat, but the effort was
well nigh fruitless. Regiment after regiment surged by in one continuous
Page 154
and almost resistless wave. A cheer was heard to go up from the
Confederate ranks as Stuart's cavalry charged us, and though we returned
the charge it did not stop the panic which had taken possession of our
troops.
"One of its causes was undoubtedly the supposition that the enemy was
executing a flank movement on our left. In forty-five minutes from the
beginning of the battle, this part of the army was in full retreat; but the
determined stand made by Heintzelman, and also one or two heroic
attempts to stop the backward-surging wave, saved our forces from utter
rout and possible capture.
"As soon as the Union batteries were taken by the enemy, they were
turned upon us, in addition to their own guns, and afterwards, on came
Stuart in a head-long charge with one of those hideous yells peculiar to the
Southern 'chivalry.' With thousands of others who were rapidly retiring, I
had recrossed Bull Run Creek when my attention was arrested by a
mounted officer who sprang out from the mass of flying men, and waving
his sword above his head, called on every one, irrespective of regiment, to
rally around him and face the foe. He wore no golden leaf—no silver star.
He was appealing to officers higher in command than himself, who, mixed
with the crowd, were hurrying by. His manner, tense with excitement, was
strung up to the pitch of heroism, and his presence was like an inspiration,
as he stood outside the mass, a mark for the bullets of the enemy.
"I halted, filled with admiration for so noble an example of valor, and
then rode rapidly towards him. Seeing me, he galloped forward to meet me
and asked my aid in making a stand against the enemy.
"'Sergeant,' said he, 'you are just in time. As you are mounted, you can be
of great service in rallying these men for a stand on this ground.'
Confederate ranks as Stuart's cavalry charged us, and though we returned
the charge it did not stop the panic which had taken possession of our
troops.
"One of its causes was undoubtedly the supposition that the enemy was
executing a flank movement on our left. In forty-five minutes from the
beginning of the battle, this part of the army was in full retreat; but the
determined stand made by Heintzelman, and also one or two heroic
attempts to stop the backward-surging wave, saved our forces from utter
rout and possible capture.
"As soon as the Union batteries were taken by the enemy, they were
turned upon us, in addition to their own guns, and afterwards, on came
Stuart in a head-long charge with one of those hideous yells peculiar to the
Southern 'chivalry.' With thousands of others who were rapidly retiring, I
had recrossed Bull Run Creek when my attention was arrested by a
mounted officer who sprang out from the mass of flying men, and waving
his sword above his head, called on every one, irrespective of regiment, to
rally around him and face the foe. He wore no golden leaf—no silver star.
He was appealing to officers higher in command than himself, who, mixed
with the crowd, were hurrying by. His manner, tense with excitement, was
strung up to the pitch of heroism, and his presence was like an inspiration,
as he stood outside the mass, a mark for the bullets of the enemy.
"I halted, filled with admiration for so noble an example of valor, and
then rode rapidly towards him. Seeing me, he galloped forward to meet me
and asked my aid in making a stand against the enemy.
"'Sergeant,' said he, 'you are just in time. As you are mounted, you can be
of great service in rallying these men for a stand on this ground.'
Page 155
"'Lieutenant,' I replied, 'they will not listen to the wearer of these
chevrons.'
"'Tear off your chevrons,' said this unknown hero,—'the infantry will not
know you from a field officer—and get as many men to turn their muskets
to the front as you can.'
"Lieutenant,' I responded, 'I will do all I can to help you,' and the insignia
of non-commissioned rank was immediately stripped from my sleeves.
"I put myself under his command and fought with him until he gave the
order to retire. While he was talking with me he was at the same time
calling on the men to make a stand, telling them they could easily hold the
position. He seemed to take in the situation at a glance.
"The enemy having advanced to the first crest of hills, were throwing
their infantry forward with full force, and with the three thousand or more
of men who rallied around this heroic officer, a stand was made on the
rising ground north of Bull Run from which the advance of the enemy was
opposed. We held this position for half an hour, which gave considerable
time for reorganization.
"While riding along the line, helping my unknown superior as best I
could, my horse was shot—the first experience of this kind which had
befallen me.
"Just as the disaster was occurring which culminated in retreat, General
McDowell, on his white horse, galloped up to the guns behind which
Heintzelman was blazing destruction on the Confederates. Alighting from
his horse he sighted the guns and gave a personal superintendence to this
part of the action. An artillery captain, standing by his battery while his
horses were shot down, his pieces in part disabled, and the infantry
deserting him, shed tears in consequence.
chevrons.'
"'Tear off your chevrons,' said this unknown hero,—'the infantry will not
know you from a field officer—and get as many men to turn their muskets
to the front as you can.'
"Lieutenant,' I responded, 'I will do all I can to help you,' and the insignia
of non-commissioned rank was immediately stripped from my sleeves.
"I put myself under his command and fought with him until he gave the
order to retire. While he was talking with me he was at the same time
calling on the men to make a stand, telling them they could easily hold the
position. He seemed to take in the situation at a glance.
"The enemy having advanced to the first crest of hills, were throwing
their infantry forward with full force, and with the three thousand or more
of men who rallied around this heroic officer, a stand was made on the
rising ground north of Bull Run from which the advance of the enemy was
opposed. We held this position for half an hour, which gave considerable
time for reorganization.
"While riding along the line, helping my unknown superior as best I
could, my horse was shot—the first experience of this kind which had
befallen me.
"Just as the disaster was occurring which culminated in retreat, General
McDowell, on his white horse, galloped up to the guns behind which
Heintzelman was blazing destruction on the Confederates. Alighting from
his horse he sighted the guns and gave a personal superintendence to this
part of the action. An artillery captain, standing by his battery while his
horses were shot down, his pieces in part disabled, and the infantry
deserting him, shed tears in consequence.
Page 156
"'You need not feel badly over this affair,' said the general, 'General
McDowell is responsible for this misfortune. Stand by your guns as long as
you can. If the general is blamed, your bravery will be praised.'
"Was there a touch of irony in this remark which met in advance the
grumblings and questionings of the future? Was it the sarcasm of a man
who, having done his utmost, could not yet prevent disaster, and who knew
that an unthinking public sometimes measured loyalty by success?
"Later in the day our regiment—the 'Harris Light Cavalry'—lost a
squadron. Most of them were killed.
"In the deepening twilight we charged the enemy just as they were
forming for a similar attack on us. They were compelled to halt, and Pope
was thus enabled to discover their position and arrange for the next day's
defence.
"On the night of the thirtieth, the enemy occupied the battle-field and
buried the dead of both armies. And thus it was that Bull Run again ran red
with patriot blood and witnessed the retreat of the Union battalions.
"By what strange fatality General Pope was allowed to struggle on alone
against an army twice the size of the Federal force, has not been
satisfactorily explained. One is almost tempted to believe, with astrologists,
that baleful stars sometimes preside with malign influence over the
destinies of battles, as they are said to do over individuals and nations."
After the battle of Manassas, the Harris Light Cavalry was so reduced in
numbers that it was ordered into camp at Hall's Hill, near Washington, with
a view of recruiting its wasted strength and equipment. They remained at
that point until November, when they were again moved forward to form
the principal picket line along the front, prior to the Federal disaster at
Fredericksburg.
McDowell is responsible for this misfortune. Stand by your guns as long as
you can. If the general is blamed, your bravery will be praised.'
"Was there a touch of irony in this remark which met in advance the
grumblings and questionings of the future? Was it the sarcasm of a man
who, having done his utmost, could not yet prevent disaster, and who knew
that an unthinking public sometimes measured loyalty by success?
"Later in the day our regiment—the 'Harris Light Cavalry'—lost a
squadron. Most of them were killed.
"In the deepening twilight we charged the enemy just as they were
forming for a similar attack on us. They were compelled to halt, and Pope
was thus enabled to discover their position and arrange for the next day's
defence.
"On the night of the thirtieth, the enemy occupied the battle-field and
buried the dead of both armies. And thus it was that Bull Run again ran red
with patriot blood and witnessed the retreat of the Union battalions.
"By what strange fatality General Pope was allowed to struggle on alone
against an army twice the size of the Federal force, has not been
satisfactorily explained. One is almost tempted to believe, with astrologists,
that baleful stars sometimes preside with malign influence over the
destinies of battles, as they are said to do over individuals and nations."
After the battle of Manassas, the Harris Light Cavalry was so reduced in
numbers that it was ordered into camp at Hall's Hill, near Washington, with
a view of recruiting its wasted strength and equipment. They remained at
that point until November, when they were again moved forward to form
the principal picket line along the front, prior to the Federal disaster at
Fredericksburg.
Page 157
Burnside, having strongly secured the mountain passes in the
neighborhood, in order to conceal from Lee his real object, made a feint in
the direction of Gordonsville; but the keen eye of the Confederate
generalissimo penetrated his true design and took measures to defeat its
accomplishment. Upon the eighth of this month, a lively encounter between
the Harris Light and a detachment of Confederate cavalry resulted in the
defeat of the latter, and soon after, the regiment joined the main army.
As all know, the battle of Fredericksburg was fought and lost during the
three days intervening between the thirteenth and sixteenth of December.
Burnside's gallant army, in the midst of darkness, rain and tempestuous
wind, came reeling back from a conflict of terrible ferocity and fatality. Six
times in one day Meagher's gallant Irishmen were literally hurled against
Marye's Heights, a point of almost impregnable strength, and which, even if
carried, would still have exposed them to the commanding fire of other and
stronger Confederate positions.
Twenty times had charge and counter-charge swept the tide of battle to
and fro—at what terrible cost, the killed and wounded, strewing the ground
like leaves in the forest, made answer. Twelve thousand men lay dead on
the field when the battle ended, and one thousand prisoners were taken,
besides nine thousand stand of arms.
Although this battle seems to have been well planned by General
Burnside, a want of capacity to meet unforeseen emergencies doubtless
contributed to his defeat. He committed a fatal error at a critical moment, by
sending General Franklin an equivocal recommendation, instead of an order
to attack the enemy in force. The enemy, however, though having nobly
held their ground, could not boast of having advanced their lines by so
much as a foot. There were, indeed, but few even of the Confederate
officers, who knew they had been victorious, and the amazement of their
neighborhood, in order to conceal from Lee his real object, made a feint in
the direction of Gordonsville; but the keen eye of the Confederate
generalissimo penetrated his true design and took measures to defeat its
accomplishment. Upon the eighth of this month, a lively encounter between
the Harris Light and a detachment of Confederate cavalry resulted in the
defeat of the latter, and soon after, the regiment joined the main army.
As all know, the battle of Fredericksburg was fought and lost during the
three days intervening between the thirteenth and sixteenth of December.
Burnside's gallant army, in the midst of darkness, rain and tempestuous
wind, came reeling back from a conflict of terrible ferocity and fatality. Six
times in one day Meagher's gallant Irishmen were literally hurled against
Marye's Heights, a point of almost impregnable strength, and which, even if
carried, would still have exposed them to the commanding fire of other and
stronger Confederate positions.
Twenty times had charge and counter-charge swept the tide of battle to
and fro—at what terrible cost, the killed and wounded, strewing the ground
like leaves in the forest, made answer. Twelve thousand men lay dead on
the field when the battle ended, and one thousand prisoners were taken,
besides nine thousand stand of arms.
Although this battle seems to have been well planned by General
Burnside, a want of capacity to meet unforeseen emergencies doubtless
contributed to his defeat. He committed a fatal error at a critical moment, by
sending General Franklin an equivocal recommendation, instead of an order
to attack the enemy in force. The enemy, however, though having nobly
held their ground, could not boast of having advanced their lines by so
much as a foot. There were, indeed, but few even of the Confederate
officers, who knew they had been victorious, and the amazement of their
Page 158
army was beyond description when the gray dawn of the fourteenth of
December revealed the deserted camps of the Federals, who had withdrawn
their entire command during the night to the north side of the river.
Had General Franklin brought his men into action, as he should have
done, at the critical moment when the issue of the fight was trembling in the
balance, the fortunes of this day would have terminated differently. Had the
splendid divisions of brave Phil. Kearney or "Fighting Joe Hooker" been
ordered into the arena, and lent the inspiration of their presence to this hour
of need, the scales of victory would have turned in an opposite direction.
The "might have beens" always grow thickly on the soil of defeat.
Among the lamented dead of this day's havoc, no loss was more keenly
felt than that of Major-General George Dashiel Bayard. He was standing
among a group of officers around the trunk of an old tree, near the
headquarters of Generals Franklin and Smith, when the enemy suddenly
began to shell a battery near by, and one of the deadly missiles struck this
gallant leader. He was carried to the field-hospital, mortally wounded.
Quietly turning to the surgeon who examined his ghastly wounds, he
asked "if there was any hope." On being informed that there was none, he
proceeded with undisturbed composure, and without a murmur of pain, to
dictate three letters. One of these was to his affianced bride. This day, it was
said, had been appointed for his wedding. The time-hands marked the hour
of eight when this letter was finished, and, as he uttered its closing words,
his spirit fled from the shattered body and left it only cold and tenantless
clay. He was but twenty-eight years of age, of prepossessing appearance
and manners, with as brave a soul as ever defended the flag of the Union,
and a capacity for military usefulness equal to any man in the service.
Gradually he had arisen from one position of honor and responsibility to
another, proving himself tried and true in each promotion, while his cavalry
December revealed the deserted camps of the Federals, who had withdrawn
their entire command during the night to the north side of the river.
Had General Franklin brought his men into action, as he should have
done, at the critical moment when the issue of the fight was trembling in the
balance, the fortunes of this day would have terminated differently. Had the
splendid divisions of brave Phil. Kearney or "Fighting Joe Hooker" been
ordered into the arena, and lent the inspiration of their presence to this hour
of need, the scales of victory would have turned in an opposite direction.
The "might have beens" always grow thickly on the soil of defeat.
Among the lamented dead of this day's havoc, no loss was more keenly
felt than that of Major-General George Dashiel Bayard. He was standing
among a group of officers around the trunk of an old tree, near the
headquarters of Generals Franklin and Smith, when the enemy suddenly
began to shell a battery near by, and one of the deadly missiles struck this
gallant leader. He was carried to the field-hospital, mortally wounded.
Quietly turning to the surgeon who examined his ghastly wounds, he
asked "if there was any hope." On being informed that there was none, he
proceeded with undisturbed composure, and without a murmur of pain, to
dictate three letters. One of these was to his affianced bride. This day, it was
said, had been appointed for his wedding. The time-hands marked the hour
of eight when this letter was finished, and, as he uttered its closing words,
his spirit fled from the shattered body and left it only cold and tenantless
clay. He was but twenty-eight years of age, of prepossessing appearance
and manners, with as brave a soul as ever defended the flag of the Union,
and a capacity for military usefulness equal to any man in the service.
Gradually he had arisen from one position of honor and responsibility to
another, proving himself tried and true in each promotion, while his cavalry
Page 159
comrades especially were watching the developments of his growing power
with unabating enthusiasm.
Briefly, the outlines of his history are as follows:
He was born December eighteenth, 1835, at Seneca Falls, New York,
from whence, in 1842, he removed with his parents to Fairfield, Iowa. From
this place he went to the Dorris Military Institute at St. Louis, Missouri,
where he remained eighteen months.
The family then removed to the East, and settled at Morristown, New
Jersey. From Morristown, he entered West Point Academy. When twenty
years of age, he graduated with the highest honors, and, strange to say, it
was through the offices of Jefferson Davis, then Secretary of War, that he
was at once assigned to a cavalry regiment as second lieutenant. His
subsequent career, so full of brilliance and the true spirit of heroism, is
better known to the country.
Watered by the dews of hallowed remembrance, his fame, as a sweet
flower, still exhales its fragrance, and finds rich soil in the hearts of the
people.
with unabating enthusiasm.
Briefly, the outlines of his history are as follows:
He was born December eighteenth, 1835, at Seneca Falls, New York,
from whence, in 1842, he removed with his parents to Fairfield, Iowa. From
this place he went to the Dorris Military Institute at St. Louis, Missouri,
where he remained eighteen months.
The family then removed to the East, and settled at Morristown, New
Jersey. From Morristown, he entered West Point Academy. When twenty
years of age, he graduated with the highest honors, and, strange to say, it
was through the offices of Jefferson Davis, then Secretary of War, that he
was at once assigned to a cavalry regiment as second lieutenant. His
subsequent career, so full of brilliance and the true spirit of heroism, is
better known to the country.
Watered by the dews of hallowed remembrance, his fame, as a sweet
flower, still exhales its fragrance, and finds rich soil in the hearts of the
people.
Page 160
"How sleep the brave who sink to rest,
By all their country's wishes blest?
When Spring, with dewy fingers cold,
Returns to deck their hallowed mould,
She there shall dress a sweeter sod
Than Fancy's feet have ever trod.
· · · · ·
"By fairy hands their knell is rung,
By forms unseen their dirge is sung,
There Honor comes, a pilgrim gray,
To bless the turf that wraps their clay.
And Freedom shall awhile repair,
To dwell a weeping hermit there."
By all their country's wishes blest?
When Spring, with dewy fingers cold,
Returns to deck their hallowed mould,
She there shall dress a sweeter sod
Than Fancy's feet have ever trod.
· · · · ·
"By fairy hands their knell is rung,
By forms unseen their dirge is sung,
There Honor comes, a pilgrim gray,
To bless the turf that wraps their clay.
And Freedom shall awhile repair,
To dwell a weeping hermit there."
Page 161
CHAPTER XIV.
UNWRITTEN HISTORY.
"What boots a weapon in a withered hand?" — A thunderbolt wasted. — War upon hen-roosts. — A
bit of unpublished history. — A fierce fight with Hampton's cavalry. — "In one red burial
blent." — From camp to home. — Troubles never come singly. — The combat. — The
capture. — A superfluity of Confederate politeness. — Lights and shadows.
While the events we have narrated were occurring, the "Harris Light"
was not idle. Under the command of their favorite Kilpatrick, they made a
dashing raid, and completely encircled the rebels under Lee, penetrating to
within seven miles of Richmond. Such duties as were assigned them were
effectively performed, and yet, General Hooker's object in detaching his
cavalry from the main army remained unaccomplished, either by reason of
General Stoneman's want of comprehension, or want of energy. This
general, instead of hurling his thirteen thousand troopers like a thunderbolt
upon the body of the Confederates, divided and frittered away the strength
under his command by detaching and scattering it into mere scouting
parties, to "raid on smoke-houses and capture hen-roosts." General Hooker
was very naturally exasperated by this conduct. The detachment from the
main army of such a splendid body of horse, was a measure he had taken
after mature deliberation, and with the view of cutting off Lee's
communications with Richmond; thus precluding the possibility of his
being reinforced during the grand attack which Hooker contemplated upon
that leader at Chancelorsville.
UNWRITTEN HISTORY.
"What boots a weapon in a withered hand?" — A thunderbolt wasted. — War upon hen-roosts. — A
bit of unpublished history. — A fierce fight with Hampton's cavalry. — "In one red burial
blent." — From camp to home. — Troubles never come singly. — The combat. — The
capture. — A superfluity of Confederate politeness. — Lights and shadows.
While the events we have narrated were occurring, the "Harris Light"
was not idle. Under the command of their favorite Kilpatrick, they made a
dashing raid, and completely encircled the rebels under Lee, penetrating to
within seven miles of Richmond. Such duties as were assigned them were
effectively performed, and yet, General Hooker's object in detaching his
cavalry from the main army remained unaccomplished, either by reason of
General Stoneman's want of comprehension, or want of energy. This
general, instead of hurling his thirteen thousand troopers like a thunderbolt
upon the body of the Confederates, divided and frittered away the strength
under his command by detaching and scattering it into mere scouting
parties, to "raid on smoke-houses and capture hen-roosts." General Hooker
was very naturally exasperated by this conduct. The detachment from the
main army of such a splendid body of horse, was a measure he had taken
after mature deliberation, and with the view of cutting off Lee's
communications with Richmond; thus precluding the possibility of his
being reinforced during the grand attack which Hooker contemplated upon
that leader at Chancelorsville.
Page 162
The Federal general attributed the loss of that battle in a great degree to
Stoneman's failure to carry out the spirit of his orders. In a letter to the
author, long after that field of carnage had bloomed and blossomed with the
flowers and fruits of Peace, when the heart-burning and fever engendered
by the contest had subsided, and it was possible to obtain access to men's
judgments, General Hooker wrote: "Soon after Stonewall Jackson started to
turn my right (a project of which I was informed by a prisoner), I
despatched a courier to my right corps commander informing him of the
intended movement, and instructing him to put himself in readiness to
receive the attack. This dispatch was dated at nine o'clock a. m., and yet,
when 'Stonewall' did attack, the men of this corps had their arms stacked
some distance from them, and were busily engaged in cooking their supper.
When the attack came these men ran like a flock of sheep. This, in a
wooded country, where a corps ought to be able to check the advance of a
large army. To make this more clear, I must tell you that the corps
commander, General Howard, received the dispatch while on his bed, and,
after reading it, put it in his pocket, where it remained until after the battle
of Gettysburg, without communicating its contents to his division
commander, or to any one!!! My opinion is that not a gun of ours was fired
upon Stonewall Jackson's force until he had passed nearly into the centre of
my army. Judge, if you can, of the consternation throughout that army
caused by this exhibition of negligence and cowardice. One word more, in
regard to the cavalry. I had to have, under the seniority rule of the service, a
wooden man for its commander. If you will turn to the first volume of the
Report of the Committee on the Conduct of the War, you will find my
instructions to General Stoneman, and then you will see the mistake that I
made in informing him of the strength and position of the enemy he would
be likely to encounter on his raid, as that officer only made use of the
Stoneman's failure to carry out the spirit of his orders. In a letter to the
author, long after that field of carnage had bloomed and blossomed with the
flowers and fruits of Peace, when the heart-burning and fever engendered
by the contest had subsided, and it was possible to obtain access to men's
judgments, General Hooker wrote: "Soon after Stonewall Jackson started to
turn my right (a project of which I was informed by a prisoner), I
despatched a courier to my right corps commander informing him of the
intended movement, and instructing him to put himself in readiness to
receive the attack. This dispatch was dated at nine o'clock a. m., and yet,
when 'Stonewall' did attack, the men of this corps had their arms stacked
some distance from them, and were busily engaged in cooking their supper.
When the attack came these men ran like a flock of sheep. This, in a
wooded country, where a corps ought to be able to check the advance of a
large army. To make this more clear, I must tell you that the corps
commander, General Howard, received the dispatch while on his bed, and,
after reading it, put it in his pocket, where it remained until after the battle
of Gettysburg, without communicating its contents to his division
commander, or to any one!!! My opinion is that not a gun of ours was fired
upon Stonewall Jackson's force until he had passed nearly into the centre of
my army. Judge, if you can, of the consternation throughout that army
caused by this exhibition of negligence and cowardice. One word more, in
regard to the cavalry. I had to have, under the seniority rule of the service, a
wooden man for its commander. If you will turn to the first volume of the
Report of the Committee on the Conduct of the War, you will find my
instructions to General Stoneman, and then you will see the mistake that I
made in informing him of the strength and position of the enemy he would
be likely to encounter on his raid, as that officer only made use of the
Page 163
information to avoid the foe. He traveled at night, made extensive detours,
and did not interrupt the traffic on the railroads between Lee's army and
Richmond for a single day. As he was charged to make this duty his
especial object of accomplishment over all others, he had twelve thousand
sabres, double the force the enemy could collect from all quarters. I had
men enough with me to have won Chancelorsville without the cavalry and
other corps, but of what use could a field of battle have been to me when
the enemy could fall back a few miles and post himself on a field
possessing still greater advantages to him? General Grant did this, and is
entitled to all the merit of his soldiership from a grateful country. I believe
if he had sacrificed every officer and soldier of his command in the
attainment of this object, the country would have applauded him. When I
crossed the Rappahannock I aimed to capture General Lee's whole army
and thus end the war, by manœuvring, and not by butchery."
While his superior in command did little that was practically useful with
the cavalry, Kilpatrick covered his little band with glory, and gave the
people of Richmond, a scare as great as Stuart administered to our Quaker
friends in Pennsylvania during his famous foray into the border counties of
the Keystone State.
Their return was almost immediately followed by the second grand
cavalry battle of Brandy Station, June ninth, 1863, a struggle as hotly
contested as any that occurred during the war. In this encounter Sergeant
Willard Glazier took part, leading the first platoon of the first battalion that
crossed the Rappahannock. Matters were now assuming a warlike aspect.
The Valley of the Shenandoah groaned beneath the tramp of the main army
of the Confederacy, under Lee. The Federal general, Pleasanton, and the
Confederate general, Stuart, were in fierce conflict among the Blue Ridge
mountains.
and did not interrupt the traffic on the railroads between Lee's army and
Richmond for a single day. As he was charged to make this duty his
especial object of accomplishment over all others, he had twelve thousand
sabres, double the force the enemy could collect from all quarters. I had
men enough with me to have won Chancelorsville without the cavalry and
other corps, but of what use could a field of battle have been to me when
the enemy could fall back a few miles and post himself on a field
possessing still greater advantages to him? General Grant did this, and is
entitled to all the merit of his soldiership from a grateful country. I believe
if he had sacrificed every officer and soldier of his command in the
attainment of this object, the country would have applauded him. When I
crossed the Rappahannock I aimed to capture General Lee's whole army
and thus end the war, by manœuvring, and not by butchery."
While his superior in command did little that was practically useful with
the cavalry, Kilpatrick covered his little band with glory, and gave the
people of Richmond, a scare as great as Stuart administered to our Quaker
friends in Pennsylvania during his famous foray into the border counties of
the Keystone State.
Their return was almost immediately followed by the second grand
cavalry battle of Brandy Station, June ninth, 1863, a struggle as hotly
contested as any that occurred during the war. In this encounter Sergeant
Willard Glazier took part, leading the first platoon of the first battalion that
crossed the Rappahannock. Matters were now assuming a warlike aspect.
The Valley of the Shenandoah groaned beneath the tramp of the main army
of the Confederacy, under Lee. The Federal general, Pleasanton, and the
Confederate general, Stuart, were in fierce conflict among the Blue Ridge
mountains.
Page 164
SERGEANT GLAZIER AT ALDIE. "Come on boys! One charge, and the day is ours."
At Aldie, on the seventeenth of June, 1863, the "Harris Light" led the
division under Kilpatrick, Glazier's squadron again being the advance guard
—his place at the head of the long column which wound down the road. As
they came upon Aldie, the enemy's advance, under W. H. F. Lee, was
unexpectedly encountered. But Kilpatrick was equal to the occasion.
Dashing to the front, his voice rang out, "Form platoons! trot! march!"
Down through the streets they charged, and along the Middleburg Road,
leading over the low hill beyond. This position was gained so quickly and
gallantly that Fitzhugh Lee, taken by surprise, made no opposition to the
brilliant advance, though immediately afterward he fought for two hours to
regain the lost position, while the guns of his batteries blazed destruction
upon the Federal cavalry. The latter, however, handsomely repelled the
attack.
On the crest of the hill there was a field of haystacks, inclosed in a
barricade of rails. Behind these the enemy occupied a strong position, and
their sharp-shooters had annoyed Kilpatrick's lines to such an extent as to
At Aldie, on the seventeenth of June, 1863, the "Harris Light" led the
division under Kilpatrick, Glazier's squadron again being the advance guard
—his place at the head of the long column which wound down the road. As
they came upon Aldie, the enemy's advance, under W. H. F. Lee, was
unexpectedly encountered. But Kilpatrick was equal to the occasion.
Dashing to the front, his voice rang out, "Form platoons! trot! march!"
Down through the streets they charged, and along the Middleburg Road,
leading over the low hill beyond. This position was gained so quickly and
gallantly that Fitzhugh Lee, taken by surprise, made no opposition to the
brilliant advance, though immediately afterward he fought for two hours to
regain the lost position, while the guns of his batteries blazed destruction
upon the Federal cavalry. The latter, however, handsomely repelled the
attack.
On the crest of the hill there was a field of haystacks, inclosed in a
barricade of rails. Behind these the enemy occupied a strong position, and
their sharp-shooters had annoyed Kilpatrick's lines to such an extent as to
Page 165
prevent their advance on the left. It was well known to the officers of the
"Harris Light" that their regiment had not met Kilpatrick's expectations on
the field of Brandy Station, and on the morning of this battle they had asked
their general for "an opportunity to retrieve their reputation." This chance
came soon enough. Kilpatrick, ordering forward a battalion of the "Harris
Light," and giving the men a few words of encouragement, turned to Major
McIrvin and pointing to the field of haystacks, said: "Major, there is the
opportunity you ask for! Go take that position!" Away dashed the "Harris
Light," and in a moment the enemy was reached and the struggle began.
The horses could not leap the barricade, the men dismounted, scaled the
barriers, and with drawn sabres rushed furiously upon the hidden foe, who
quickly called for quarter. Aldie was by far the most bloody cavalry battle
of the war. The rebel "chivalry" was beaten; Kilpatrick from this moment
took a proud stand among the most famous of the Union cavalry generals,
and the fame of the regiment was greatly enhanced. To quote our young
soldier in "Battles for the Union:" "Many a brave soul suffered death's sad
eclipse at Aldie, and many escaped the storm of bullets when to escape was
miraculous. In looking back upon that desperate day, I have often wondered
by what strange fatality I passed through its rain of fire unhurt; but the field
which brought a harvest of death to so many others marked an era in my
own humble, military history, which I recall with pride and pleasure, for
from the Battle of Aldie I date my first commission. The mantle of rank
which fell from one whom death had garnered on that ground dropped upon
my shoulders, and I was proud and grateful to wear it in my country's
service. I feel proud also of having been a participant in the 'Battle of the
Haystacks,' where the glorious squadrons of the 'Harris Light' swept into the
mad conflict with the same invincible bravery that distinguished them on
"Harris Light" that their regiment had not met Kilpatrick's expectations on
the field of Brandy Station, and on the morning of this battle they had asked
their general for "an opportunity to retrieve their reputation." This chance
came soon enough. Kilpatrick, ordering forward a battalion of the "Harris
Light," and giving the men a few words of encouragement, turned to Major
McIrvin and pointing to the field of haystacks, said: "Major, there is the
opportunity you ask for! Go take that position!" Away dashed the "Harris
Light," and in a moment the enemy was reached and the struggle began.
The horses could not leap the barricade, the men dismounted, scaled the
barriers, and with drawn sabres rushed furiously upon the hidden foe, who
quickly called for quarter. Aldie was by far the most bloody cavalry battle
of the war. The rebel "chivalry" was beaten; Kilpatrick from this moment
took a proud stand among the most famous of the Union cavalry generals,
and the fame of the regiment was greatly enhanced. To quote our young
soldier in "Battles for the Union:" "Many a brave soul suffered death's sad
eclipse at Aldie, and many escaped the storm of bullets when to escape was
miraculous. In looking back upon that desperate day, I have often wondered
by what strange fatality I passed through its rain of fire unhurt; but the field
which brought a harvest of death to so many others marked an era in my
own humble, military history, which I recall with pride and pleasure, for
from the Battle of Aldie I date my first commission. The mantle of rank
which fell from one whom death had garnered on that ground dropped upon
my shoulders, and I was proud and grateful to wear it in my country's
service. I feel proud also of having been a participant in the 'Battle of the
Haystacks,' where the glorious squadrons of the 'Harris Light' swept into the
mad conflict with the same invincible bravery that distinguished them on
Page 166
the field of Brandy Station. Every soldier of the saddle who there fought
under Kilpatrick may justly glory in the laurels won at Aldie."
In the same month followed the engagements of Middleburg and
Upperville, in each of which the "Harris Light" participated with great éclat,
charging in face of the enemy's guns, forming in platoon under fire, and
routing him in splendid style. At Upperville, Kilpatrick received orders to
charge the town. With drawn sabres and shouts which made the mountains
and plains resound, they rushed upon the foe. The encounter was terrific.
The enemy's horse were driven through the village of Paris, and finally
through Ashby's Gap upon their own infantry columns in the Shenandoah
Valley. At Rector's Cross-Roads, where Kilpatrick ordered the "Harris
Light" to charge the enemy's battery, as they were forming, a fatal bullet
pierced Glazier's horse, and it fell dead under him. Fortunately he was not
dragged down in the fall, and as he struck the ground a riderless horse
belonging to an Indiana company came up. Its owner, a sergeant, had been
shot dead, and, rapidly mounting, Lieutenant Glazier rode forward with his
regiment as they valiantly charged the enemy's position.
These actions were succeeded by the battle of Gettysburg (July first,
second and third), in which the disasters of Chancelorsville and
Fredericksburg were fully retrieved, and the rebel army, under Lee, received
a blow so staggering in its effects as to result in a loss of prestige, and all
hope in the ultimate success of their cause. Prior to this battle the
Confederates had warred upon the North aggressively; thenceforward they
were compelled to act upon the defensive. During the progress of this great
and (so far as the ultimate fate of the Confederacy was concerned) decisive
battle, the cavalry, including the brigade to which our subject was attached,
performed brilliant service. They held Stuart's force effectually at bay, and
while the retreat of the rebel army was in progress their services were in
under Kilpatrick may justly glory in the laurels won at Aldie."
In the same month followed the engagements of Middleburg and
Upperville, in each of which the "Harris Light" participated with great éclat,
charging in face of the enemy's guns, forming in platoon under fire, and
routing him in splendid style. At Upperville, Kilpatrick received orders to
charge the town. With drawn sabres and shouts which made the mountains
and plains resound, they rushed upon the foe. The encounter was terrific.
The enemy's horse were driven through the village of Paris, and finally
through Ashby's Gap upon their own infantry columns in the Shenandoah
Valley. At Rector's Cross-Roads, where Kilpatrick ordered the "Harris
Light" to charge the enemy's battery, as they were forming, a fatal bullet
pierced Glazier's horse, and it fell dead under him. Fortunately he was not
dragged down in the fall, and as he struck the ground a riderless horse
belonging to an Indiana company came up. Its owner, a sergeant, had been
shot dead, and, rapidly mounting, Lieutenant Glazier rode forward with his
regiment as they valiantly charged the enemy's position.
These actions were succeeded by the battle of Gettysburg (July first,
second and third), in which the disasters of Chancelorsville and
Fredericksburg were fully retrieved, and the rebel army, under Lee, received
a blow so staggering in its effects as to result in a loss of prestige, and all
hope in the ultimate success of their cause. Prior to this battle the
Confederates had warred upon the North aggressively; thenceforward they
were compelled to act upon the defensive. During the progress of this great
and (so far as the ultimate fate of the Confederacy was concerned) decisive
battle, the cavalry, including the brigade to which our subject was attached,
performed brilliant service. They held Stuart's force effectually at bay, and
while the retreat of the rebel army was in progress their services were in
Page 167
constant requisition. On the first day of the battle, General John Buford,
commanding the Third Cavalry Division, was in position on the
Chambersburg Pike, about two miles west of the village. Early in the
forenoon the vanguard of the rebel army appeared in front of them, and our
dauntless troopers charged the enemy vigorously, and drove them back
upon their reserves.
The second day of the battle was spent by the cavalry in hard, bold and
bloody work, in collision with their old antagonists, Stuart, Lee and
Hampton. Charge succeeded charge; the carbine, pistol and sabre were used
by turns; the artillery thundering long after the infantry around Gettysburg
had sunk to rest exhausted with the carnage of the weary day. Stuart,
however, was driven back on his supports, and badly beaten.
Upon the third day the sun rose bright and warm upon the bleached forms
of the dead strewn over the sanguinary field; upon the wounded, and upon
long, glistening lines of armed men ready to renew the conflict. Each
antagonist, rousing every element of power, seemed resolved upon victory
or death. Finally victory saluted the Union banners, and with great loss the
rebel army sounded the retreat. "Thus," says Glazier in his "Battles for the
Union"—"the Battle of Gettysburg ended—the bloody turning-point of the
rebellion—the bloody baptism of the redeemed republic. Nearly twenty
thousand men from the Union ranks had been killed and wounded, and a
larger number of the rebels, making the enormous aggregate of at least forty
thousand, whose blood was shed to fertilize the Tree of Liberty."
During this sanguinary battle; the cavalry were in daily and hourly
conflict with the enemy's well-trained horse under their respective dashing
leaders. The sabre was no "useless ornament," but a deadly weapon, and
"dead cavalrymen" and their dead chargers, were sufficiently numerous to
have drawn forth an exclamation of approval from even so exacting a
commanding the Third Cavalry Division, was in position on the
Chambersburg Pike, about two miles west of the village. Early in the
forenoon the vanguard of the rebel army appeared in front of them, and our
dauntless troopers charged the enemy vigorously, and drove them back
upon their reserves.
The second day of the battle was spent by the cavalry in hard, bold and
bloody work, in collision with their old antagonists, Stuart, Lee and
Hampton. Charge succeeded charge; the carbine, pistol and sabre were used
by turns; the artillery thundering long after the infantry around Gettysburg
had sunk to rest exhausted with the carnage of the weary day. Stuart,
however, was driven back on his supports, and badly beaten.
Upon the third day the sun rose bright and warm upon the bleached forms
of the dead strewn over the sanguinary field; upon the wounded, and upon
long, glistening lines of armed men ready to renew the conflict. Each
antagonist, rousing every element of power, seemed resolved upon victory
or death. Finally victory saluted the Union banners, and with great loss the
rebel army sounded the retreat. "Thus," says Glazier in his "Battles for the
Union"—"the Battle of Gettysburg ended—the bloody turning-point of the
rebellion—the bloody baptism of the redeemed republic. Nearly twenty
thousand men from the Union ranks had been killed and wounded, and a
larger number of the rebels, making the enormous aggregate of at least forty
thousand, whose blood was shed to fertilize the Tree of Liberty."
During this sanguinary battle; the cavalry were in daily and hourly
conflict with the enemy's well-trained horse under their respective dashing
leaders. The sabre was no "useless ornament," but a deadly weapon, and
"dead cavalrymen" and their dead chargers, were sufficiently numerous to
have drawn forth an exclamation of approval from even so exacting a
Page 168
commander as "Fighting Joe Hooker." Haggerstown, Boonsboro',
Williamsport and Falling Waters, all attested the great efficiency of the
cavalry arm, and at the end of the month it was an assured, confident and
capable body of dragoons, that, according to Captain Glazier, "crossed the
Rapidan for, as they believed, the purpose of a continued advance
movement against the enemy."
And here, parenthetically, we may observe, that he, and other recent
writers (Mr. Lossing being an exception), are scarcely accurate in so
designating the river crossed by them as the Rapidan. It was the chief
tributary of the Rappahannock, while two sister streams, which together
form the Pamunkey, are known to local topography as the North and South
Rapid Anna rivers.
It was a pleasant locality, and the "Harris Light" encamped there for
several weeks, having no occupation more exciting or belligerent than
picket duty. Duties of a more stirring character, were, however, awaiting
them, and as these are intimately associated with the career of the subject of
this biography, the delineation of whose life is the purpose of the writer, we
will give them something more than a cursory notice.
We will first, however, take the opportunity of introducing a letter from
our young cavalryman to his parents, illustrative in some measure of his
intelligence and soldierly qualities, while it is no less so of his sense of filial
duty:
Headquarters Harris Lgt. Cavalry,
Near Hartwood Church, Virginia,
August 22d, 1863.
Dear Father and Mother:
Another birthday has rolled around, and finds me still in the army.
Two years have passed since we were lying quietly in camp near
Williamsport and Falling Waters, all attested the great efficiency of the
cavalry arm, and at the end of the month it was an assured, confident and
capable body of dragoons, that, according to Captain Glazier, "crossed the
Rapidan for, as they believed, the purpose of a continued advance
movement against the enemy."
And here, parenthetically, we may observe, that he, and other recent
writers (Mr. Lossing being an exception), are scarcely accurate in so
designating the river crossed by them as the Rapidan. It was the chief
tributary of the Rappahannock, while two sister streams, which together
form the Pamunkey, are known to local topography as the North and South
Rapid Anna rivers.
It was a pleasant locality, and the "Harris Light" encamped there for
several weeks, having no occupation more exciting or belligerent than
picket duty. Duties of a more stirring character, were, however, awaiting
them, and as these are intimately associated with the career of the subject of
this biography, the delineation of whose life is the purpose of the writer, we
will give them something more than a cursory notice.
We will first, however, take the opportunity of introducing a letter from
our young cavalryman to his parents, illustrative in some measure of his
intelligence and soldierly qualities, while it is no less so of his sense of filial
duty:
Headquarters Harris Lgt. Cavalry,
Near Hartwood Church, Virginia,
August 22d, 1863.
Dear Father and Mother:
Another birthday has rolled around, and finds me still in the army.
Two years have passed since we were lying quietly in camp near
Page 169
Washington. Little did I think at that time that the insurrection, which
was then in process of organization, was of such mighty magnitude as to
be able to continue in its treacherous designs until now. Newspaper
quacks and mercenary correspondents kept facts from the public, and
published falsehoods in their stead. Experience has at last taught us the
true state of things, and we now feel that the great work of putting down
the rebellion is to be accomplished only by energy, perseverance and
unity. Our cause never looked more favorable than to-day. It is no
longer a rumor that Vicksburg and Port Hudson have fallen, but a stern
reality, an actual and glorious victory to our arms, and a sure exposure
of the waning strength of the ill-fated Confederacy. Charleston and
Mobile must soon follow the example of the West, and then the Army of
the Potomac will strike the final blow in Virginia.
Kilpatrick's cavalry is now watching the movements of the enemy on
the Rappahannock—his head-quarters being near Hartwood Church. I
have seen nothing that would interest you much, save a few expeditions
among the bushwhackers of Stafford County.
It may not be uninteresting to you to learn that I have just been
promoted to a lieutenancy, my commission to date from the seventeenth
of June. I have received four successive promotions since my
enlistment. Your son can boast that his Colonel says he has earned his
commission. Political or moneyed influence has had nothing to do with
it. I have been in command of a platoon or company ever since the
thirteenth of last April, and have very frequently been in charge of a
squadron. I conclude by asking you to remember me kindly to all my
friends,
And believe me, as ever, your dutiful son,
Willard.
was then in process of organization, was of such mighty magnitude as to
be able to continue in its treacherous designs until now. Newspaper
quacks and mercenary correspondents kept facts from the public, and
published falsehoods in their stead. Experience has at last taught us the
true state of things, and we now feel that the great work of putting down
the rebellion is to be accomplished only by energy, perseverance and
unity. Our cause never looked more favorable than to-day. It is no
longer a rumor that Vicksburg and Port Hudson have fallen, but a stern
reality, an actual and glorious victory to our arms, and a sure exposure
of the waning strength of the ill-fated Confederacy. Charleston and
Mobile must soon follow the example of the West, and then the Army of
the Potomac will strike the final blow in Virginia.
Kilpatrick's cavalry is now watching the movements of the enemy on
the Rappahannock—his head-quarters being near Hartwood Church. I
have seen nothing that would interest you much, save a few expeditions
among the bushwhackers of Stafford County.
It may not be uninteresting to you to learn that I have just been
promoted to a lieutenancy, my commission to date from the seventeenth
of June. I have received four successive promotions since my
enlistment. Your son can boast that his Colonel says he has earned his
commission. Political or moneyed influence has had nothing to do with
it. I have been in command of a platoon or company ever since the
thirteenth of last April, and have very frequently been in charge of a
squadron. I conclude by asking you to remember me kindly to all my
friends,
And believe me, as ever, your dutiful son,
Willard.
Page 170
It will be remembered that the greater part of the spring of this year
(1863), that is, from the time the Federal army moved from its winter-
quarters in Stafford and King George counties, and all the early summer,
were passed by the belligerent forces in efforts to compel their adversaries
to fall back on their respective capitals. The people and the press on both
sides were clamoring for the accomplishment of something definite, and
when Vicksburg fell, and on the stricken field of Gettysburg, victory
perched upon the Union banners, our hopes seemed on the point of
realization, but the fall of the leaf found the hostile armies still confronting
each other. Lee's force, though fearfully shattered, maintained its
organization, and to all appearance had lost little of its former self-
confidence. General Meade, perhaps the most scientific strategist of all the
generals who had held the chief command of the Army of the Potomac, was
severely criticised, simply because he declined by "raw Haste, half-sister to
Delay," to hazard the ultimate fruition of his well-laid plans; and Captain
Glazier, it must be admitted, was one of his adverse critics. We think the
censure was uncalled for. Wellington had but one Waterloo, and although to
him was due the victory, it was the fresh army of Blucher that pursued the
retreating French, and made defeat irretrievable. But whenever Lee, or
McClellan, Jackson, or Meade obtained a hard-earned victory, the people,
on either side, were dissatisfied because their triumph was not followed up
by, at once and forever, annihilating the foe!
(1863), that is, from the time the Federal army moved from its winter-
quarters in Stafford and King George counties, and all the early summer,
were passed by the belligerent forces in efforts to compel their adversaries
to fall back on their respective capitals. The people and the press on both
sides were clamoring for the accomplishment of something definite, and
when Vicksburg fell, and on the stricken field of Gettysburg, victory
perched upon the Union banners, our hopes seemed on the point of
realization, but the fall of the leaf found the hostile armies still confronting
each other. Lee's force, though fearfully shattered, maintained its
organization, and to all appearance had lost little of its former self-
confidence. General Meade, perhaps the most scientific strategist of all the
generals who had held the chief command of the Army of the Potomac, was
severely criticised, simply because he declined by "raw Haste, half-sister to
Delay," to hazard the ultimate fruition of his well-laid plans; and Captain
Glazier, it must be admitted, was one of his adverse critics. We think the
censure was uncalled for. Wellington had but one Waterloo, and although to
him was due the victory, it was the fresh army of Blucher that pursued the
retreating French, and made defeat irretrievable. But whenever Lee, or
McClellan, Jackson, or Meade obtained a hard-earned victory, the people,
on either side, were dissatisfied because their triumph was not followed up
by, at once and forever, annihilating the foe!
Page 171
CHAPTER XV.
FROM BATTLE-FIELD TO PRISON.
A situation to try the stoutest hearts. — Hail Columbia! — Every man a hero. — Kilpatrick's
ingenuity. — A pen-picture from "Soldiers of the Saddle." — Glazier thanked by his general.
— Cessation of hostilities. — A black day. — Fitzhugh Lee proposes to crush Kilpatrick.-
"Kil's" audacity. — Capture of Lieutenant Glazier. — Petty tyranny. — "Here, Yank, hand me
that thar hat, and overcoat, and boots."
At this period of the war, the Cavalry Corps was separated into three
divisions. Buford with his division fell back by the way of Stevensburg, and
Gregg by Sulphur Springs; leaving Kilpatrick with the brigades of Custer
and Davies, which included the "Harris Light," on the main thoroughfare
along the railroad line. "No sooner," says Glazier, "had Kilpatrick moved
out of Culpepper, than Hampton's cavalry division made a furious attack
upon the 'Harris Light,' then acting as rear-guard, with the evident design of
breaking through upon the main column to disperse, or delay it, so as to
enable a flanking force to intercept our retreat. Gallantly repelling this
assault, the command, on the eleventh of October, advanced to Brandy
Station, where an accumulation of formidable difficulties threatened our
annihilation." It appears that Fitzhugh Lee, with the flower of the
Confederate cavalry, held possession of the only road over which it was
possible for Kilpatrick to retire, while Stuart, at the head of another body of
cavalry, supported by artillery well posted along a line of hills, completely
covered the Federal left. His right was exposed to a galling fire from sharp-
shooters hidden behind the forest; "while just behind them was Hampton's
legion threatening speedy destruction to its surrounded foe." Here was a
FROM BATTLE-FIELD TO PRISON.
A situation to try the stoutest hearts. — Hail Columbia! — Every man a hero. — Kilpatrick's
ingenuity. — A pen-picture from "Soldiers of the Saddle." — Glazier thanked by his general.
— Cessation of hostilities. — A black day. — Fitzhugh Lee proposes to crush Kilpatrick.-
"Kil's" audacity. — Capture of Lieutenant Glazier. — Petty tyranny. — "Here, Yank, hand me
that thar hat, and overcoat, and boots."
At this period of the war, the Cavalry Corps was separated into three
divisions. Buford with his division fell back by the way of Stevensburg, and
Gregg by Sulphur Springs; leaving Kilpatrick with the brigades of Custer
and Davies, which included the "Harris Light," on the main thoroughfare
along the railroad line. "No sooner," says Glazier, "had Kilpatrick moved
out of Culpepper, than Hampton's cavalry division made a furious attack
upon the 'Harris Light,' then acting as rear-guard, with the evident design of
breaking through upon the main column to disperse, or delay it, so as to
enable a flanking force to intercept our retreat. Gallantly repelling this
assault, the command, on the eleventh of October, advanced to Brandy
Station, where an accumulation of formidable difficulties threatened our
annihilation." It appears that Fitzhugh Lee, with the flower of the
Confederate cavalry, held possession of the only road over which it was
possible for Kilpatrick to retire, while Stuart, at the head of another body of
cavalry, supported by artillery well posted along a line of hills, completely
covered the Federal left. His right was exposed to a galling fire from sharp-
shooters hidden behind the forest; "while just behind them was Hampton's
legion threatening speedy destruction to its surrounded foe." Here was a
Page 172
situation to try the stoutest hearts. Nothing daunted, however, by this terrific
array of an enemy very much his superior in numbers, Kilpatrick displayed
that decision and daring which ever characterized him. "His preparations for
a grand charge," for he had determined to cut his way out of this cul-de-sac,
"were soon completed. Forming his division into three lines of battle, he
assigned the right to General Davies, the left to General Custer; and placing
himself, with General Pleasanton, in the centre, advanced with terrible
determination to the contest. Approaching to within a few yards of the
enemy's lines, he ordered the band to strike up a national air, to whose
stirring strains was added the blast of scores of bugles ringing out the
'charge.' Brave hearts became braver, and weak ones waxed strong, until
'pride of country had touched this raging sea of thought, and emotion
kindled an unconquerable principle that affirmed every man a hero until
death.'" The troops filled the air with their battle-cry, and hurled themselves
on their unequal foe. "So swiftly swept forward this tide of animated power
that the Confederates broke and fled, and Kilpatrick thus escaped a disaster
which had seemed inevitable."
"No one"—we quote from "Soldiers of the Saddle,"—"who looked upon
that wonderful panorama, can ever forget it. On the great field were
riderless horses and dying men; clouds of dirt from solid shot and bursting
shells, broken caissons, and overturned ambulances; and long lines of
dragoons dashing into the charge, with their drawn and firmly grasped
sabres glistening in the light of the declining sun; while far beyond the
scene of tumult were the dark green forests skirting the distant
Rappahannock."
array of an enemy very much his superior in numbers, Kilpatrick displayed
that decision and daring which ever characterized him. "His preparations for
a grand charge," for he had determined to cut his way out of this cul-de-sac,
"were soon completed. Forming his division into three lines of battle, he
assigned the right to General Davies, the left to General Custer; and placing
himself, with General Pleasanton, in the centre, advanced with terrible
determination to the contest. Approaching to within a few yards of the
enemy's lines, he ordered the band to strike up a national air, to whose
stirring strains was added the blast of scores of bugles ringing out the
'charge.' Brave hearts became braver, and weak ones waxed strong, until
'pride of country had touched this raging sea of thought, and emotion
kindled an unconquerable principle that affirmed every man a hero until
death.'" The troops filled the air with their battle-cry, and hurled themselves
on their unequal foe. "So swiftly swept forward this tide of animated power
that the Confederates broke and fled, and Kilpatrick thus escaped a disaster
which had seemed inevitable."
"No one"—we quote from "Soldiers of the Saddle,"—"who looked upon
that wonderful panorama, can ever forget it. On the great field were
riderless horses and dying men; clouds of dirt from solid shot and bursting
shells, broken caissons, and overturned ambulances; and long lines of
dragoons dashing into the charge, with their drawn and firmly grasped
sabres glistening in the light of the declining sun; while far beyond the
scene of tumult were the dark green forests skirting the distant
Rappahannock."
Page 173
LIEUTENANT GLAZIER AT BRANDY STATION. "Come on, Boys! We must break that line."
In this action Glazier, who occupied the post of volunteer aide to General
Davies, had his horse shot under him, received a sabre-stroke on the
shoulder, two bullets in his hat, and had his scabbard split by a shot or shell.
His conduct was such as to obtain for him the thanks of his general and a
promise of early promotion. This was the fourth battle of Brandy Station in
which the Harris Light Cavalry had been engaged. The first occurred on
August the twentieth, 1862, the second on June ninth, the third on
September twelfth, and this last action on October eleventh, 1863. They
were followed by a number of spirited engagements between the Federal
cavalry and the cavaliers of the South—the former under Generals Buford
and Kilpatrick, and the latter under Stuart and Wade Hampton. In all of
these both sides behaved gallantly, the result being the masterly retreat of
the Federals across the Rappahannock to the old battle-ground of Bull Run,
where they made a protracted halt.
From this time until the fifteenth of October, nothing of sufficient
importance transpired to require mention here. Upon that day an indecisive
battle was fought at Bristoe Station, which was followed by another calm
In this action Glazier, who occupied the post of volunteer aide to General
Davies, had his horse shot under him, received a sabre-stroke on the
shoulder, two bullets in his hat, and had his scabbard split by a shot or shell.
His conduct was such as to obtain for him the thanks of his general and a
promise of early promotion. This was the fourth battle of Brandy Station in
which the Harris Light Cavalry had been engaged. The first occurred on
August the twentieth, 1862, the second on June ninth, the third on
September twelfth, and this last action on October eleventh, 1863. They
were followed by a number of spirited engagements between the Federal
cavalry and the cavaliers of the South—the former under Generals Buford
and Kilpatrick, and the latter under Stuart and Wade Hampton. In all of
these both sides behaved gallantly, the result being the masterly retreat of
the Federals across the Rappahannock to the old battle-ground of Bull Run,
where they made a protracted halt.
From this time until the fifteenth of October, nothing of sufficient
importance transpired to require mention here. Upon that day an indecisive
battle was fought at Bristoe Station, which was followed by another calm
Page 174
that continued until the nineteenth of October—a black day in the calendar
of Willard Glazier's life.
Far away among the peaceful hills of his native State there fell upon his
father's house a sorrow such as its inmates had never known before. Not
that this family had escaped the ordinary bereavements of human life. On
the contrary, two little children had been taken from them at intervals of
time which seemed to them cruelly brief. But the death of an infant, while a
sad, is a beautiful thing to witness. There is no flower that blooms on a baby
grave that does not speak to the world-worn heart, of Immortality. The
grief, therefore, is gentle in its touch. But with the ebb of a maturer life the
sorrow is of a different character, and when the physician announced to this
worthy couple that their daughter, Elvira, would die, they were stunned by
the blow, and when the event came "they refused" like Rachel "to be
comforted." The child that is going from us is, for the time, the favorite, and
these afflicted parents could not realize that she who had grown up among
them, the ewe lamb of their flock, could be torn from their loving arms, and
go down, like coarser clay, to the dark grave. She was so good, so gentle, so
loving to her kindred, that their simple hearts could not understand how
God could let her die, in the very bloom and beauty of her maidenhood. But
though crushed, they bowed their heads in submission. Their hearts were
almost broken, but they rebelled not against the Hand that chastened them.
Why is it that such examples of tender feeling and unquestioning faith are
seldom found in cities? Is it that "the memories which peaceful country
scenes call up, are not of this world; nor of its thoughts and hopes?" That
"their gentle influences teach us how to weave fresh garlands for the graves
of those we love, purify our thoughts, and beat down old enmities and
hatreds?" And that "beneath all this there lingers in the least reflective mind,
a vague and half-formed consciousness of having held such feelings long
of Willard Glazier's life.
Far away among the peaceful hills of his native State there fell upon his
father's house a sorrow such as its inmates had never known before. Not
that this family had escaped the ordinary bereavements of human life. On
the contrary, two little children had been taken from them at intervals of
time which seemed to them cruelly brief. But the death of an infant, while a
sad, is a beautiful thing to witness. There is no flower that blooms on a baby
grave that does not speak to the world-worn heart, of Immortality. The
grief, therefore, is gentle in its touch. But with the ebb of a maturer life the
sorrow is of a different character, and when the physician announced to this
worthy couple that their daughter, Elvira, would die, they were stunned by
the blow, and when the event came "they refused" like Rachel "to be
comforted." The child that is going from us is, for the time, the favorite, and
these afflicted parents could not realize that she who had grown up among
them, the ewe lamb of their flock, could be torn from their loving arms, and
go down, like coarser clay, to the dark grave. She was so good, so gentle, so
loving to her kindred, that their simple hearts could not understand how
God could let her die, in the very bloom and beauty of her maidenhood. But
though crushed, they bowed their heads in submission. Their hearts were
almost broken, but they rebelled not against the Hand that chastened them.
Why is it that such examples of tender feeling and unquestioning faith are
seldom found in cities? Is it that "the memories which peaceful country
scenes call up, are not of this world; nor of its thoughts and hopes?" That
"their gentle influences teach us how to weave fresh garlands for the graves
of those we love, purify our thoughts, and beat down old enmities and
hatreds?" And that "beneath all this there lingers in the least reflective mind,
a vague and half-formed consciousness of having held such feelings long
Page 175
before, which calls up solemn thoughts of distant times to come, and bends
down pride and worldliness before it?" The physician had said that Elvira
would not live another day, and the mother sat down to the sad task of
writing the mournful news to her soldier son. Meanwhile beyond the
Rappahannock, a scene was on the eve of being enacted, which was
destined to inflict upon her a pain as poignant as that she was, now about to
bestow.
The night of October eighteenth was passed by Kilpatrick's command at
Gainesville, but the first faint streak of dawn saw him and his faithful
followers in the saddle, booted, spurred, and equipped for some enterprise
as yet unexplained to them, but evidently, in their leader's estimation, one of
"pith and moment." At the word of command, the force, including the
"Harris Light," moved forward at a quick trot, taking the road to Warrenton,
and anticipating a brush with Stuart's cavalry who, during the previous ten
hours, had thrown out videttes in their immediate front.
The surprise of the Federals was great to find their advance unimpeded,
and that, instead of offering opposition, the Confederates fell back as
rapidly as their opponents approached. On they dashed, unopposed and
unobstructed, until Buckland Mills was reached. At this point they found
themselves checked, and in a manner that somewhat astounded them. As
they arrived within a stone's throw of that village, Fitzhugh Lee, with his
magnificent following, struck their flank. That astute and valiant officer, it
appears, had cut his way through the Federal infantry at Thoroughfare-Gap,
and accompanied by a battery of flying artillery, swept down upon
Kilpatrick, designing to crush him at a blow. General Stuart, taking in the
situation, and keenly anxious to profit by the advantage thus afforded him,
instantly turned upon and charged the Federals in his front, while, as if to
make their utter annihilation a certainty, the rebel General Gordon, with a
down pride and worldliness before it?" The physician had said that Elvira
would not live another day, and the mother sat down to the sad task of
writing the mournful news to her soldier son. Meanwhile beyond the
Rappahannock, a scene was on the eve of being enacted, which was
destined to inflict upon her a pain as poignant as that she was, now about to
bestow.
The night of October eighteenth was passed by Kilpatrick's command at
Gainesville, but the first faint streak of dawn saw him and his faithful
followers in the saddle, booted, spurred, and equipped for some enterprise
as yet unexplained to them, but evidently, in their leader's estimation, one of
"pith and moment." At the word of command, the force, including the
"Harris Light," moved forward at a quick trot, taking the road to Warrenton,
and anticipating a brush with Stuart's cavalry who, during the previous ten
hours, had thrown out videttes in their immediate front.
The surprise of the Federals was great to find their advance unimpeded,
and that, instead of offering opposition, the Confederates fell back as
rapidly as their opponents approached. On they dashed, unopposed and
unobstructed, until Buckland Mills was reached. At this point they found
themselves checked, and in a manner that somewhat astounded them. As
they arrived within a stone's throw of that village, Fitzhugh Lee, with his
magnificent following, struck their flank. That astute and valiant officer, it
appears, had cut his way through the Federal infantry at Thoroughfare-Gap,
and accompanied by a battery of flying artillery, swept down upon
Kilpatrick, designing to crush him at a blow. General Stuart, taking in the
situation, and keenly anxious to profit by the advantage thus afforded him,
instantly turned upon and charged the Federals in his front, while, as if to
make their utter annihilation a certainty, the rebel General Gordon, with a
Page 176
third body of men (his proximity at that moment not being suspected), bore
down fiercely on their left, threatening to cut Kilpatrick's division in two.
Kilpatrick possessed an extraordinary amount of ingenuity in devising
means of escape from a dangerous position. In the present case his plan was
formed in an instant, and executed as soon as formed. He immediately
changed his front, and, without the slightest hesitation, headed a mad and
desperate charge upon Fitzhugh Lee's advancing column. The merit of the
movement lay in its audacity; it was the only one that promised the remotest
chance of escape to the entrapped Federals. Executed with great rapidity
and desperate decision, the movement resulted in the salvation of the
greater portion of his command. It so happened, however, that the "Harris
Light," originally, be it remembered, forming the vanguard of Kilpatrick's
force, was by this manœuvre thrown round upon the rear, and Stuart, who
was now the pursuer instead of the pursued, had a fine opportunity of
attacking them with his full force, at a great disadvantage to the former—an
opportunity he was not slow to avail himself of.
Kilpatrick's men met the assault manfully, retiring slowly, until at length,
upon the brow of a small hill, they turned at bay, and for a time formed a
living rampart between their retreating comrades and the enemy. Every
attempt to approach and penetrate their line proved instant death to their
assailants, and General Stuart, seeing no chance of otherwise dislodging
them, determined to charge in person, and crush them with an entire
division. Glazier, who had already emptied two saddles, sat coolly upon his
horse, reloading as this formidable body came sweeping down. By this
time, experience of the vicissitudes of a soldier's career, and possibly the
fact that he had hitherto been very fortunate in the numerous conflicts in
which his regiment had been engaged, left him quite composed under fire.
Singling out one of Stuart's men, he covered that cavalier with his revolver,
down fiercely on their left, threatening to cut Kilpatrick's division in two.
Kilpatrick possessed an extraordinary amount of ingenuity in devising
means of escape from a dangerous position. In the present case his plan was
formed in an instant, and executed as soon as formed. He immediately
changed his front, and, without the slightest hesitation, headed a mad and
desperate charge upon Fitzhugh Lee's advancing column. The merit of the
movement lay in its audacity; it was the only one that promised the remotest
chance of escape to the entrapped Federals. Executed with great rapidity
and desperate decision, the movement resulted in the salvation of the
greater portion of his command. It so happened, however, that the "Harris
Light," originally, be it remembered, forming the vanguard of Kilpatrick's
force, was by this manœuvre thrown round upon the rear, and Stuart, who
was now the pursuer instead of the pursued, had a fine opportunity of
attacking them with his full force, at a great disadvantage to the former—an
opportunity he was not slow to avail himself of.
Kilpatrick's men met the assault manfully, retiring slowly, until at length,
upon the brow of a small hill, they turned at bay, and for a time formed a
living rampart between their retreating comrades and the enemy. Every
attempt to approach and penetrate their line proved instant death to their
assailants, and General Stuart, seeing no chance of otherwise dislodging
them, determined to charge in person, and crush them with an entire
division. Glazier, who had already emptied two saddles, sat coolly upon his
horse, reloading as this formidable body came sweeping down. By this
time, experience of the vicissitudes of a soldier's career, and possibly the
fact that he had hitherto been very fortunate in the numerous conflicts in
which his regiment had been engaged, left him quite composed under fire.
Singling out one of Stuart's men, he covered that cavalier with his revolver,
Page 177
and probably, in another instant, would have ended his career; but, just as
his finger gave the final pressure upon the trigger, his horse, riddled with
bullets, fell dead under him, the shot flew wide of its mark, and he fell to
the ground.
CAVALRY-FIGHT AT NEW BALTIMORE—LIEUTENANT GLAZIER TAKEN PRISONER.
His first sensation was of a dense cloud between himself and the sky, and
next of being crushed by tramping hoofs, whole squadrons of horse passing
over his body as he lay prone and helpless. A vague, dreamy sensation of
being a mass of wounds and bruises was succeeded by utter darkness and
oblivion. How long he continued in this comatose state he never knew.
Raised from the ground, a terrible sense of acute bodily pain gradually crept
over him, as he found himself hurried along at a rapid pace. Where he was
going, who had him in charge, what he had done, whether he was in this or
some other world, were matters of which he had no more conception than
the dead charger he had ridden. Pain, pain, nothing but intense pain,
absorbed the whole of his faculties. Gradually his full consciousness
returned. He remembered the fierce onset of the enemy, his fall from his
his finger gave the final pressure upon the trigger, his horse, riddled with
bullets, fell dead under him, the shot flew wide of its mark, and he fell to
the ground.
CAVALRY-FIGHT AT NEW BALTIMORE—LIEUTENANT GLAZIER TAKEN PRISONER.
His first sensation was of a dense cloud between himself and the sky, and
next of being crushed by tramping hoofs, whole squadrons of horse passing
over his body as he lay prone and helpless. A vague, dreamy sensation of
being a mass of wounds and bruises was succeeded by utter darkness and
oblivion. How long he continued in this comatose state he never knew.
Raised from the ground, a terrible sense of acute bodily pain gradually crept
over him, as he found himself hurried along at a rapid pace. Where he was
going, who had him in charge, what he had done, whether he was in this or
some other world, were matters of which he had no more conception than
the dead charger he had ridden. Pain, pain, nothing but intense pain,
absorbed the whole of his faculties. Gradually his full consciousness
returned. He remembered the fierce onset of the enemy, his fall from his
Page 178
horse, and at once concluded that he was a prisoner in the hands of the
enemy! Very soon after, he discovered that, in addition to being deprived of
his arms, he had been stripped of his watch and other valuables.
One of the great annoyances to which a newly captured prisoner was
subjected, arose from the fact that skulkers and sneaks, in order to secure
safe positions, coveted and sought the privilege of quartering them. In his
own words Glazier says:
"The woods in the vicinity were full of skulkers, and, in order to make a
show of having something to do, they would make their appearance in the
rear of the fighting column, and devote themselves sedulously to guarding
the prisoners." He adds, that "privates, corporals and sergeants, in turn, had
them in charge;" and that "each in succession would call them into line,
count them in an officious manner, and issue orders according to their
liking," until some sneak of higher rank came along, assumed the superior
command, and in a tone of authority, would say to the other poltroons:
"Gentlemen, your services are much needed at the front. Go, and do your
duty like soldiers." The result would be an exchange of tyrants, but no
diminution of the petty tyranny. At dusk the prisoners were marched to, and
lodged in, the jail at Warrenton.
Like all Federal soldiers who fell into the enemy's hands, Glazier
complains very bitterly of the small persecutions inflicted by the officers
and men of the Home Guard, and unfortunately these mongrels—a cross
between a civilian and a soldier—were their chief custodians during that
night, and signalized themselves after their fashion. They deprived the
prisoners of their clothing, and, in truth, everything of the slightest value in
the eyes of a thief. One of these swashbucklers attempted to reduce our
young hero's wardrobe to an Arkansas basis, namely, a straw-hat and a pair
enemy! Very soon after, he discovered that, in addition to being deprived of
his arms, he had been stripped of his watch and other valuables.
One of the great annoyances to which a newly captured prisoner was
subjected, arose from the fact that skulkers and sneaks, in order to secure
safe positions, coveted and sought the privilege of quartering them. In his
own words Glazier says:
"The woods in the vicinity were full of skulkers, and, in order to make a
show of having something to do, they would make their appearance in the
rear of the fighting column, and devote themselves sedulously to guarding
the prisoners." He adds, that "privates, corporals and sergeants, in turn, had
them in charge;" and that "each in succession would call them into line,
count them in an officious manner, and issue orders according to their
liking," until some sneak of higher rank came along, assumed the superior
command, and in a tone of authority, would say to the other poltroons:
"Gentlemen, your services are much needed at the front. Go, and do your
duty like soldiers." The result would be an exchange of tyrants, but no
diminution of the petty tyranny. At dusk the prisoners were marched to, and
lodged in, the jail at Warrenton.
Like all Federal soldiers who fell into the enemy's hands, Glazier
complains very bitterly of the small persecutions inflicted by the officers
and men of the Home Guard, and unfortunately these mongrels—a cross
between a civilian and a soldier—were their chief custodians during that
night, and signalized themselves after their fashion. They deprived the
prisoners of their clothing, and, in truth, everything of the slightest value in
the eyes of a thief. One of these swashbucklers attempted to reduce our
young hero's wardrobe to an Arkansas basis, namely, a straw-hat and a pair
Page 179
of spurs, with what success the following dialogue, taken mainly from "The
Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," will indicate.
"Here, Yank," said the guard, "hand me that thar hat, and over-coat, and
boots."
"No, sir, I won't; they are my property. You have no right to take them
from me."
"I have," said the guard. "We have authority from General Stuart to take
from you prisoners whatever we d—d choose."
"That I doubt," said the captive, "and if you are a gentleman you won't be
guilty of stripping a defenceless prisoner."
"I'll show you my authority, you d—d blue-belly," said the ruffian,
drawing his revolver. "Now, take off that coat, or I'll blow your brains out."
By this time Glazier's Northern blood was up, and he grew desperate, so
he angrily answered:
"Blow away then! It is as well to be without brains as without clothing."
So the fellow, who was evidently a contemptible blusterer, whom
General Stuart, had he been aware of his conduct, would have drummed out
of the army, not willing to risk the consequences of actual violence—
sneaked away.
While this little incident was occurring at Warrenton jail, a very different
event was transpiring at his father's house. His sister was dying. It was a
peaceful, hopeful death—the death of a Christian—of one who in her young
life had never by word or deed injured man or woman. Many weeks elapsed
before her imprisoned brother heard of her death, and when the intelligence
at length reached him, he was overwhelmed with grief at her loss.
Upon the morning following the day of his capture, in that dense
darkness that precedes the dawn, the prisoners started on their tramp toward
Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," will indicate.
"Here, Yank," said the guard, "hand me that thar hat, and over-coat, and
boots."
"No, sir, I won't; they are my property. You have no right to take them
from me."
"I have," said the guard. "We have authority from General Stuart to take
from you prisoners whatever we d—d choose."
"That I doubt," said the captive, "and if you are a gentleman you won't be
guilty of stripping a defenceless prisoner."
"I'll show you my authority, you d—d blue-belly," said the ruffian,
drawing his revolver. "Now, take off that coat, or I'll blow your brains out."
By this time Glazier's Northern blood was up, and he grew desperate, so
he angrily answered:
"Blow away then! It is as well to be without brains as without clothing."
So the fellow, who was evidently a contemptible blusterer, whom
General Stuart, had he been aware of his conduct, would have drummed out
of the army, not willing to risk the consequences of actual violence—
sneaked away.
While this little incident was occurring at Warrenton jail, a very different
event was transpiring at his father's house. His sister was dying. It was a
peaceful, hopeful death—the death of a Christian—of one who in her young
life had never by word or deed injured man or woman. Many weeks elapsed
before her imprisoned brother heard of her death, and when the intelligence
at length reached him, he was overwhelmed with grief at her loss.
Upon the morning following the day of his capture, in that dense
darkness that precedes the dawn, the prisoners started on their tramp toward
Page 180
Culpepper, and as the day broke, and the sun mounted above the eastern
hills, their march, which extended to full thirty miles, became a weary and
exhausting journey. Themselves on foot, and compelled to keep up with the
pace of mounted men, it was a tiresome task; but to do so under the burning
rays of a Southern sun was nearly impossible. To make matters worse, in
the present case, the Confederates having sustained a defeat at Bristoe and
Rappahannock Station, the guard was not in the most amiable humor; in
addition to which they were compelled to use haste in order to avoid
capture by the victorious Federals. Glazier gave no thought to his present
discomfort, and to use his own words, "felt relieved when he heard of the
successes of his comrades." Still the annoyance of this compulsory tramp
was felt keenly. The prisoners "being encumbered with heavy high-heeled
cavalry boots," and their feet having become tender from contact with the
mud and water through which they marched, soon became a mass of
blisters, and their sufferings from this cause alone were intense. Six of the
poor fellows succumbed, unable to proceed. After a journey attended with
much mental depression, and bodily agony, the former increased by the
barbarous contumely flung at them by men who emerged from roadside
inns, to stare at them as they passed, the prisoners, including the subject of
our story, entered Richmond, and were at once introduced to the amenities
of "Libby Prison."
hills, their march, which extended to full thirty miles, became a weary and
exhausting journey. Themselves on foot, and compelled to keep up with the
pace of mounted men, it was a tiresome task; but to do so under the burning
rays of a Southern sun was nearly impossible. To make matters worse, in
the present case, the Confederates having sustained a defeat at Bristoe and
Rappahannock Station, the guard was not in the most amiable humor; in
addition to which they were compelled to use haste in order to avoid
capture by the victorious Federals. Glazier gave no thought to his present
discomfort, and to use his own words, "felt relieved when he heard of the
successes of his comrades." Still the annoyance of this compulsory tramp
was felt keenly. The prisoners "being encumbered with heavy high-heeled
cavalry boots," and their feet having become tender from contact with the
mud and water through which they marched, soon became a mass of
blisters, and their sufferings from this cause alone were intense. Six of the
poor fellows succumbed, unable to proceed. After a journey attended with
much mental depression, and bodily agony, the former increased by the
barbarous contumely flung at them by men who emerged from roadside
inns, to stare at them as they passed, the prisoners, including the subject of
our story, entered Richmond, and were at once introduced to the amenities
of "Libby Prison."
Page 181
CHAPTER XVI.
LIBBY PRISON.
"All ye who enter here abandon hope." — Auld lang syne. — Major Turner. — Hope deferred
maketh the heart sick. — Stoicism. — Glazier enters the prison-hospital. — A charnel-house.
— Rebel surgeons. — Prison correspondence. — Specimen of a regulation letter. — The
tailor's joke. — A Roland for an Oliver. — News of death. — Schemes for escape. — The
freemasonry of misfortune. — Plot and counter-plot. — The pursuit of pleasure under
difficulties.
It does not come within the scope of the present work to enter into a
detailed description of the sufferings of the Union prisoners in this place of
durance: those who have a taste for such gloomy themes may gratify it by
reading the first work by our young soldier-author, entitled "The Capture,
Prison-Pen and Escape," in which the horrors of that house of misery are
eloquently described. We may, however, say this much, that if the testimony
of eye-witnesses is to be credited, it was a fearful place, and one over
whose portals the words of Dante might have been appropriately inscribed,
"All ye who enter here abandon hope."
LIBBY PRISON.
"All ye who enter here abandon hope." — Auld lang syne. — Major Turner. — Hope deferred
maketh the heart sick. — Stoicism. — Glazier enters the prison-hospital. — A charnel-house.
— Rebel surgeons. — Prison correspondence. — Specimen of a regulation letter. — The
tailor's joke. — A Roland for an Oliver. — News of death. — Schemes for escape. — The
freemasonry of misfortune. — Plot and counter-plot. — The pursuit of pleasure under
difficulties.
It does not come within the scope of the present work to enter into a
detailed description of the sufferings of the Union prisoners in this place of
durance: those who have a taste for such gloomy themes may gratify it by
reading the first work by our young soldier-author, entitled "The Capture,
Prison-Pen and Escape," in which the horrors of that house of misery are
eloquently described. We may, however, say this much, that if the testimony
of eye-witnesses is to be credited, it was a fearful place, and one over
whose portals the words of Dante might have been appropriately inscribed,
"All ye who enter here abandon hope."
Page 182
LIBBY PRISON.
Of some thousand Northern officers confined here, Glazier, of course,
met several from his own corps, who had been previously captured. He at
first felt his condition very acutely. His roving life amid the magnificent
scenery of Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania was now exchanged for the
gloomy and monotonous routine of a prison; but he writes under date of
October twenty-eighth, in a more reconciled and hopeful strain "I am
gradually," he says, "becoming accustomed to this dungeon life, and I
presume I shall fall into the habit of enjoying myself at times. 'How use
doth breed a habit in a man.' Indeed he can accommodate himself to almost
any clime or any circumstance of life, a gift of adaptation no other living
thing possesses in any such degree." Of one man, in the midst of all his
philosophy, our hero speaks very bitterly. We allude to Major Turner,
military warden of the prison. He describes him as possessed of a
vindictive, depraved, and fiendish nature, and moralizes over the man and
his career in this wise:
Of some thousand Northern officers confined here, Glazier, of course,
met several from his own corps, who had been previously captured. He at
first felt his condition very acutely. His roving life amid the magnificent
scenery of Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania was now exchanged for the
gloomy and monotonous routine of a prison; but he writes under date of
October twenty-eighth, in a more reconciled and hopeful strain "I am
gradually," he says, "becoming accustomed to this dungeon life, and I
presume I shall fall into the habit of enjoying myself at times. 'How use
doth breed a habit in a man.' Indeed he can accommodate himself to almost
any clime or any circumstance of life, a gift of adaptation no other living
thing possesses in any such degree." Of one man, in the midst of all his
philosophy, our hero speaks very bitterly. We allude to Major Turner,
military warden of the prison. He describes him as possessed of a
vindictive, depraved, and fiendish nature, and moralizes over the man and
his career in this wise:
Page 183
"There is nothing more terrible than a human soul grown powerful in sin,
and left to the horrible machinations of the evil one, and its own evil
promptings. Demons developed from germs that might have produced
seraphs, become rank growths, drinking in the healthful stimulants of life
and reproducing them in hideous forms of vice and crime.
"'Souls made of fire, and children of the sun,
With whom revenge is virtue.'
"Thus we see a soul coming pure and plastic from its Maker's hand, yet
afterward standing before the world, stained and hardened."
Slowly and wearily the days and weeks passed on in "Libby," leaving its
drear monotony unbroken, except when the rumor of a prospect of being
exchanged came to flush the faces of the captives with a hope destined not
to be fulfilled while Willard Glazier was in Richmond. The result was that
he at length abandoned all hope of being exchanged, and for a time tried
hard to cultivate and "grow into the luxury of indifference." His experience
told him that "however reprehensible" it might be in ordinary life,
"stoicism, under the circumstances in which he then found himself, was an
actual necessity." His mind appears at this time to have sustained him under
many extreme bodily privations. But despite all his philosophy and
cultivated resignation of spirit, despite the mental resources which he
fortunately possessed in no small degree, and which enabled him to occupy
his time profitably, while others were pacing up and down the room like
caged beasts, feeding upon their own hearts, his bodily health was
materially impaired. The first winter month, with its frosty atmosphere, and
fierce northern blasts, instead of bringing invigoration to his wasted frame,
left him more debilitated; and upon the eighth of December he succumbed
to a disease which had been encroaching upon him for some time, and
and left to the horrible machinations of the evil one, and its own evil
promptings. Demons developed from germs that might have produced
seraphs, become rank growths, drinking in the healthful stimulants of life
and reproducing them in hideous forms of vice and crime.
"'Souls made of fire, and children of the sun,
With whom revenge is virtue.'
"Thus we see a soul coming pure and plastic from its Maker's hand, yet
afterward standing before the world, stained and hardened."
Slowly and wearily the days and weeks passed on in "Libby," leaving its
drear monotony unbroken, except when the rumor of a prospect of being
exchanged came to flush the faces of the captives with a hope destined not
to be fulfilled while Willard Glazier was in Richmond. The result was that
he at length abandoned all hope of being exchanged, and for a time tried
hard to cultivate and "grow into the luxury of indifference." His experience
told him that "however reprehensible" it might be in ordinary life,
"stoicism, under the circumstances in which he then found himself, was an
actual necessity." His mind appears at this time to have sustained him under
many extreme bodily privations. But despite all his philosophy and
cultivated resignation of spirit, despite the mental resources which he
fortunately possessed in no small degree, and which enabled him to occupy
his time profitably, while others were pacing up and down the room like
caged beasts, feeding upon their own hearts, his bodily health was
materially impaired. The first winter month, with its frosty atmosphere, and
fierce northern blasts, instead of bringing invigoration to his wasted frame,
left him more debilitated; and upon the eighth of December he succumbed
to a disease which had been encroaching upon him for some time, and
Page 184
requested to be sent to the hospital. His sensations were far from pleasant
when, for the first time in his life, he found himself seriously ill among
enemies, and in that most dismal of all dismal places, a Prison Infirmary.
"Once in the hospital," he writes, "I found myself soon subjected to its
peculiar influences. There was the ominous stillness, broken only by the
choking cough, or labored groan; the chilling dread, as though one were in
the immediate presence of death, and under the ban of silence; and the
anxious yearning—the almost frantic yearning one feels in the
contemplation of suffering which he is powerless to alleviate. And worse
than all, at last came the hardened feeling which a familiarity with such
scenes produces. This is nothing but an immense charnel-house. We are
constantly in the midst of the dead and dying. Nearly every day some of our
comrades, and on some days several of them, are borne away coffinless and
unshrouded to their unmarked graves. Nor flower, nor cross, nor hallowed
token, gives grace to the dead, or beauty to the grave. I am well aware that
in time of war, on the field of carnage, in camp, where the pestilential fever
rages, or in the crowded prisons of the enemy, human life is but little
valued. Yet there are moments amidst all these scenes, when the importance
of life and the terrors of death, seem to force themselves upon the mind of
every man, with a power which cannot be resisted."
It is pleasant to find that here, as generally in the world with members of
the learned professions, the surgeons were humane and kind; and
remonstrated with the authorities whenever remonstrance on behalf of the
poor sufferers was needed. Of course they could not "minister to a mind
diseased, pluck from the memory a rooted sorrow," or,
"With some sweet oblivious antidote, cleanse
The choked bosom of that perilous stuff
when, for the first time in his life, he found himself seriously ill among
enemies, and in that most dismal of all dismal places, a Prison Infirmary.
"Once in the hospital," he writes, "I found myself soon subjected to its
peculiar influences. There was the ominous stillness, broken only by the
choking cough, or labored groan; the chilling dread, as though one were in
the immediate presence of death, and under the ban of silence; and the
anxious yearning—the almost frantic yearning one feels in the
contemplation of suffering which he is powerless to alleviate. And worse
than all, at last came the hardened feeling which a familiarity with such
scenes produces. This is nothing but an immense charnel-house. We are
constantly in the midst of the dead and dying. Nearly every day some of our
comrades, and on some days several of them, are borne away coffinless and
unshrouded to their unmarked graves. Nor flower, nor cross, nor hallowed
token, gives grace to the dead, or beauty to the grave. I am well aware that
in time of war, on the field of carnage, in camp, where the pestilential fever
rages, or in the crowded prisons of the enemy, human life is but little
valued. Yet there are moments amidst all these scenes, when the importance
of life and the terrors of death, seem to force themselves upon the mind of
every man, with a power which cannot be resisted."
It is pleasant to find that here, as generally in the world with members of
the learned professions, the surgeons were humane and kind; and
remonstrated with the authorities whenever remonstrance on behalf of the
poor sufferers was needed. Of course they could not "minister to a mind
diseased, pluck from the memory a rooted sorrow," or,
"With some sweet oblivious antidote, cleanse
The choked bosom of that perilous stuff
Page 185
That weighs upon the heart;"
but gracious words and sympathizing looks, and the consciousness that he
was once more in the hands of gentlemen, were a source of great comfort to
the patient, after having been brought into daily and hourly contact with the
familiars of Major Turner. Another gratifying circumstance was, that the
Federal surgeons held as prisoners were permitted to attend upon their sick
comrades when they expressed a wish to do so, and that, of course, was
very frequently. Even an hospital has its little events, which although they
appear very trifling in the retrospect, are of considerable importance at the
time of their occurrence. Here these little episodes were not infrequent. At
one time it was the destruction of a box of dainties sent by the Federal
Sanitary Commission for the prisoners; at another, it was the excitement
incident to an exchange of the surgeons held in captivity; and again, it was
the surreptitious acquisition by some of the patients of a daily newspaper,
and the guarded dissemination of such items as it might contain among his
fellow-sufferers; but greatest of all in importance was the receipt of a letter
from home. Even when surrounded by all the incidents of home life, the
postman is ever a welcome visitor; but in the midst of such a dreary
captivity as these men were undergoing, a letter from home was like a
message from heaven.
Their correspondence had, however, its sad as well as its cheerful aspect.
The prisoners were restricted in writing their letters to six lines, by an
arbitrary order from Major Turner, and much ingenuity was exercised in the
effort to crowd into these six lines the thousand and one messages which
many of the writers desired to send to mothers, wives, sisters and
sweethearts. Here is a genuine specimen of a "regulation" letter from a fond
husband to the wife of his bosom:
but gracious words and sympathizing looks, and the consciousness that he
was once more in the hands of gentlemen, were a source of great comfort to
the patient, after having been brought into daily and hourly contact with the
familiars of Major Turner. Another gratifying circumstance was, that the
Federal surgeons held as prisoners were permitted to attend upon their sick
comrades when they expressed a wish to do so, and that, of course, was
very frequently. Even an hospital has its little events, which although they
appear very trifling in the retrospect, are of considerable importance at the
time of their occurrence. Here these little episodes were not infrequent. At
one time it was the destruction of a box of dainties sent by the Federal
Sanitary Commission for the prisoners; at another, it was the excitement
incident to an exchange of the surgeons held in captivity; and again, it was
the surreptitious acquisition by some of the patients of a daily newspaper,
and the guarded dissemination of such items as it might contain among his
fellow-sufferers; but greatest of all in importance was the receipt of a letter
from home. Even when surrounded by all the incidents of home life, the
postman is ever a welcome visitor; but in the midst of such a dreary
captivity as these men were undergoing, a letter from home was like a
message from heaven.
Their correspondence had, however, its sad as well as its cheerful aspect.
The prisoners were restricted in writing their letters to six lines, by an
arbitrary order from Major Turner, and much ingenuity was exercised in the
effort to crowd into these six lines the thousand and one messages which
many of the writers desired to send to mothers, wives, sisters and
sweethearts. Here is a genuine specimen of a "regulation" letter from a fond
husband to the wife of his bosom:
Page 186
My Dear Wife: Yours received—no hope of exchange—send corn-
starch—want socks—no money—rheumatism in left shoulder—pickles
very good—send sausages—God bless you—Kiss the baby—Hail
Columbia! Your devoted husband,
A. D. S.
But the "rule of six" was successfully evaded for a considerable time, by
the manufacture and use of invisible ink. The trick was however at last
discovered, and the way in which Glazier tells the story is so amusing, that
we are tempted to give it in his own words:
"A certain captain writing to a fair and undoubtedly dear friend, could not
brook the idea of being limited to six lines, when he had so much to
communicate; so resorting to the use of invisible ink, he comfortably filled
the sheet with 'soft and winning words,' and then fearing lest his inamorata
would not discover the secret he added this postscript:
"'P.S.—Now, my dear, read this over, and then bake it in the oven and
read it again.'
"This was too much. The rebels thinking if the letter would improve by
baking it might be well to improve it at once, accordingly held it over the
fire. This brought to light four closely written pages of the tenderest and
most heart-rending sentiment."
Ever after all letters sent out by the prisoners were carefully inspected
and subjected to the "ordeal by fire," so that, to use the expressive language
of an old soldier, "that game was played."
Among Glazier's fellow-prisoners at this time was a certain Major
Halsted. He was one of those social anomalies that are not infrequently met
with in this country, a man of obscure origin, a member of a very humble
calling, prior to entering the army, and yet possessing the personal
starch—want socks—no money—rheumatism in left shoulder—pickles
very good—send sausages—God bless you—Kiss the baby—Hail
Columbia! Your devoted husband,
A. D. S.
But the "rule of six" was successfully evaded for a considerable time, by
the manufacture and use of invisible ink. The trick was however at last
discovered, and the way in which Glazier tells the story is so amusing, that
we are tempted to give it in his own words:
"A certain captain writing to a fair and undoubtedly dear friend, could not
brook the idea of being limited to six lines, when he had so much to
communicate; so resorting to the use of invisible ink, he comfortably filled
the sheet with 'soft and winning words,' and then fearing lest his inamorata
would not discover the secret he added this postscript:
"'P.S.—Now, my dear, read this over, and then bake it in the oven and
read it again.'
"This was too much. The rebels thinking if the letter would improve by
baking it might be well to improve it at once, accordingly held it over the
fire. This brought to light four closely written pages of the tenderest and
most heart-rending sentiment."
Ever after all letters sent out by the prisoners were carefully inspected
and subjected to the "ordeal by fire," so that, to use the expressive language
of an old soldier, "that game was played."
Among Glazier's fellow-prisoners at this time was a certain Major
Halsted. He was one of those social anomalies that are not infrequently met
with in this country, a man of obscure origin, a member of a very humble
calling, prior to entering the army, and yet possessing the personal
Page 187
appearance and manners of a man of distinction. He really belonged to that
terribly maligned craft of whose followers it is popularly said, "It takes nine
to make a man,"—he was a tailor. Upon this fact some of the little wits of
the prison, forgetting that one of the bravest of Napoleon's generals, and
one of the most intrepid of America's sons, had each followed the same
occupation, were in the habit of jokingly asking him to repair their old and
dilapidated clothes.
When this jest was first indulged in, those who knew the undaunted spirit
and somewhat irascible temper of the major, expected to hear him blaze out
upon the perpetrator of the mauvaise plaisantrie, or possibly knock him
down. To their surprise, however, he did neither. For a single moment a
gleam of passionate wrath shot up in his eyes, but it was instantly
suppressed, and he joined in the laugh against himself. Seeing, however,
that the victim of the joke did not appear at all disturbed or hurt, other,
better-natured fellows followed in the wake, and the jest of asking the major
to patch a pair of breeches or mend a coat, became somewhat threadbare by
repetition.
It happened, however, that one day the rebel surgeon accidentally tore his
coat across the breast, and turning to Major H. said, he would give him a
bottle of wine if he would repair it. "Yes, sir," said the major, "if you will
furnish me with a needle, thread, and a few other indispensables, I will take
the whole suit and make it look very different." He added, "the fact is, I
would rather do anything than rust in idleness in this d—d prison." Finding
that he spoke seriously, and as if it were an ordinary business, the
Confederate sawbones, who had a lively appreciation of Yankee handicraft,
accepted the offer, and all next day the major was hard at work clipping and
scouring and pressing the surgeon's uniform, every now and then the owner
thereof passing by and smiling approval; and it was remarked that his face
terribly maligned craft of whose followers it is popularly said, "It takes nine
to make a man,"—he was a tailor. Upon this fact some of the little wits of
the prison, forgetting that one of the bravest of Napoleon's generals, and
one of the most intrepid of America's sons, had each followed the same
occupation, were in the habit of jokingly asking him to repair their old and
dilapidated clothes.
When this jest was first indulged in, those who knew the undaunted spirit
and somewhat irascible temper of the major, expected to hear him blaze out
upon the perpetrator of the mauvaise plaisantrie, or possibly knock him
down. To their surprise, however, he did neither. For a single moment a
gleam of passionate wrath shot up in his eyes, but it was instantly
suppressed, and he joined in the laugh against himself. Seeing, however,
that the victim of the joke did not appear at all disturbed or hurt, other,
better-natured fellows followed in the wake, and the jest of asking the major
to patch a pair of breeches or mend a coat, became somewhat threadbare by
repetition.
It happened, however, that one day the rebel surgeon accidentally tore his
coat across the breast, and turning to Major H. said, he would give him a
bottle of wine if he would repair it. "Yes, sir," said the major, "if you will
furnish me with a needle, thread, and a few other indispensables, I will take
the whole suit and make it look very different." He added, "the fact is, I
would rather do anything than rust in idleness in this d—d prison." Finding
that he spoke seriously, and as if it were an ordinary business, the
Confederate sawbones, who had a lively appreciation of Yankee handicraft,
accepted the offer, and all next day the major was hard at work clipping and
scouring and pressing the surgeon's uniform, every now and then the owner
thereof passing by and smiling approval; and it was remarked that his face
Page 188
wore that complacent expression common to all good men when they have
furnished employment for idle hands—and it is not going to cost them
anything.
The same evening, however, when the work, so neatly done, was
finished, the major very quietly slipped it upon his own dignified person,
and taking with him a fellow-prisoner as "hospital steward," coolly walked
past the guard, remarking, to the great consternation of that personage, "My
friend, there are unmistakable indications of cerebro-spinal meningitis in
your eyes. Come over to the hospital as soon as you are relieved, and I will
see what can be done for you," walked out into the street, and neither he nor
the "hospital steward" was heard of again until they reached the Federal
lines.
The devices resorted to, to effect an escape, were as ingenious as they
were numerous, and for a short time the most popular and successful ruse
was for the prisoners to get into the hospital, simulate death, and, while left
unguarded in the dead-house, to escape. The difference, however, between
the tally of the deaths and the burials ultimately attracted the attention of the
authorities, and that was stopped.
It will be remembered that while young Glazier was fighting his last fight
prior to his capture upon the nineteenth of October, the family at home were
gathered around his sister's dying bed, when her gentle spirit winged its
flight to Heaven. From that day until the twenty-ninth of November, he had
received no news of his family, and consequently, up to that time, was
ignorant of her decease. It had been his habit during the weary hours of his
prison life, to overcome the tendency to despair from brooding over his
misfortunes—which is common to all human beings in trouble—to fix his
thought upon the loved ones at home. His imagination constantly conjured
up pictures of his parents, his sisters and brothers, and placed them amid the
furnished employment for idle hands—and it is not going to cost them
anything.
The same evening, however, when the work, so neatly done, was
finished, the major very quietly slipped it upon his own dignified person,
and taking with him a fellow-prisoner as "hospital steward," coolly walked
past the guard, remarking, to the great consternation of that personage, "My
friend, there are unmistakable indications of cerebro-spinal meningitis in
your eyes. Come over to the hospital as soon as you are relieved, and I will
see what can be done for you," walked out into the street, and neither he nor
the "hospital steward" was heard of again until they reached the Federal
lines.
The devices resorted to, to effect an escape, were as ingenious as they
were numerous, and for a short time the most popular and successful ruse
was for the prisoners to get into the hospital, simulate death, and, while left
unguarded in the dead-house, to escape. The difference, however, between
the tally of the deaths and the burials ultimately attracted the attention of the
authorities, and that was stopped.
It will be remembered that while young Glazier was fighting his last fight
prior to his capture upon the nineteenth of October, the family at home were
gathered around his sister's dying bed, when her gentle spirit winged its
flight to Heaven. From that day until the twenty-ninth of November, he had
received no news of his family, and consequently, up to that time, was
ignorant of her decease. It had been his habit during the weary hours of his
prison life, to overcome the tendency to despair from brooding over his
misfortunes—which is common to all human beings in trouble—to fix his
thought upon the loved ones at home. His imagination constantly conjured
up pictures of his parents, his sisters and brothers, and placed them amid the
Page 189
rustic surroundings of his boyhood's home. Even while in the hospital, and
tossing with fever upon his bed, the visions which haunted him were not
visions of red-handed war, but of quiet country life, where his kindred filled
their several spheres of duty. He had never thought of them, except
collectively. Although he had, from time to time, felt apprehensive that
"Elvi" was somewhat delicate, he never had the slightest fear that her life
was thereby endangered. Hence, when the sad news arrived, it came as a
terrible surprise. His sisters had been the objects of his peculiar care. The
relation he had borne to them, young as he was, was that of a father, as well
as brother. He never wearied of devising plans for their intellectual
improvement. He made it his peculiar care that they should be thoroughly
educated, and that, while intellectually robust, none of the soft down and
bloom of true womanhood should be brushed away in the process. They
were his memory's "good angels" even in sleep; for what must have been
his dreams in the midst of such surroundings, if he had not had them to
think of!
The shock on thus learning of his sister's death was a very great one to
young Glazier, and his reflections for a time were bitter. He alludes to the
subject himself in this way: "In the very midst of death I am permitted to
drag out a weary life, while dear ones in a land of health, freedom and
plenty are struck down by the fatal shaft. Her death occurred on the
nineteenth of October, the very day of my capture. I was thrust into prison,
and doubly bound to the groveling discomforts of earth, while she was
released from the prison-house of clay, and received, I believe into the
joyous, freedom of Heaven. Our lives are all in the hands of Him who doeth
all things well. He appoints us a period of existence, and appoints a moment
to depart. All other influences are subordinate to His will. 'What can
preserve our lives, and what destroy!'"
tossing with fever upon his bed, the visions which haunted him were not
visions of red-handed war, but of quiet country life, where his kindred filled
their several spheres of duty. He had never thought of them, except
collectively. Although he had, from time to time, felt apprehensive that
"Elvi" was somewhat delicate, he never had the slightest fear that her life
was thereby endangered. Hence, when the sad news arrived, it came as a
terrible surprise. His sisters had been the objects of his peculiar care. The
relation he had borne to them, young as he was, was that of a father, as well
as brother. He never wearied of devising plans for their intellectual
improvement. He made it his peculiar care that they should be thoroughly
educated, and that, while intellectually robust, none of the soft down and
bloom of true womanhood should be brushed away in the process. They
were his memory's "good angels" even in sleep; for what must have been
his dreams in the midst of such surroundings, if he had not had them to
think of!
The shock on thus learning of his sister's death was a very great one to
young Glazier, and his reflections for a time were bitter. He alludes to the
subject himself in this way: "In the very midst of death I am permitted to
drag out a weary life, while dear ones in a land of health, freedom and
plenty are struck down by the fatal shaft. Her death occurred on the
nineteenth of October, the very day of my capture. I was thrust into prison,
and doubly bound to the groveling discomforts of earth, while she was
released from the prison-house of clay, and received, I believe into the
joyous, freedom of Heaven. Our lives are all in the hands of Him who doeth
all things well. He appoints us a period of existence, and appoints a moment
to depart. All other influences are subordinate to His will. 'What can
preserve our lives, and what destroy!'"
Page 190
From the moment he realized that he was in the hands of the enemy, after
the battle of New Baltimore, Glazier had made up his mind to exercise
sleepless vigilance in seeking for opportunities of escape. He pondered over
the matter until he became a complete enthusiast in his efforts to master the
minute details of the construction and topography of the place of his
confinement, and, by the exercise of that natural freemasonry which enables
kindred spirits to recognize each other, soon effected an understanding upon
the subject with certain of the more daring of his companions in misfortune.
One of these gentlemen was a Lieutenant Tresouthick, an officer of the
Eighteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. In order to comprehend the plan which
they finally determined to carry out, it will be necessary to premise that
Libby Prison was a three-story structure, built over very ample cellarage;
that the stories were each divided into three compartments, as was the
cellar; and that these spaces were all of equal size in length and breadth. For
the purpose of conveying a clear conception of the locus in quo of the
proposed effort, the reader should also be informed that the hospital
occupied the first floor; that Lieutenant Tresouthick was one of the
occupants of the room immediately above it; and that there were sinks built
against the exterior wall of the same height as each story, and running the
entire length of the building. The lieutenant's plan was, that "he should
feign sickness and get into the hospital," says our hero, in describing the
scheme; "and that I, in the meanwhile, should, with a saw-backed knife, cut
a board out of the sink large enough to let us through." This looked feasible
enough, and the two conspirators were beginning to felicitate themselves
upon their approaching freedom, when they discovered that any such
opening as they proposed, would let them out "directly opposite the guard,"
so that plan had to be dropped. Glazier then proposed a plan of operations,
promising better and safer results. It was, that Tresouthick should still carry
the battle of New Baltimore, Glazier had made up his mind to exercise
sleepless vigilance in seeking for opportunities of escape. He pondered over
the matter until he became a complete enthusiast in his efforts to master the
minute details of the construction and topography of the place of his
confinement, and, by the exercise of that natural freemasonry which enables
kindred spirits to recognize each other, soon effected an understanding upon
the subject with certain of the more daring of his companions in misfortune.
One of these gentlemen was a Lieutenant Tresouthick, an officer of the
Eighteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. In order to comprehend the plan which
they finally determined to carry out, it will be necessary to premise that
Libby Prison was a three-story structure, built over very ample cellarage;
that the stories were each divided into three compartments, as was the
cellar; and that these spaces were all of equal size in length and breadth. For
the purpose of conveying a clear conception of the locus in quo of the
proposed effort, the reader should also be informed that the hospital
occupied the first floor; that Lieutenant Tresouthick was one of the
occupants of the room immediately above it; and that there were sinks built
against the exterior wall of the same height as each story, and running the
entire length of the building. The lieutenant's plan was, that "he should
feign sickness and get into the hospital," says our hero, in describing the
scheme; "and that I, in the meanwhile, should, with a saw-backed knife, cut
a board out of the sink large enough to let us through." This looked feasible
enough, and the two conspirators were beginning to felicitate themselves
upon their approaching freedom, when they discovered that any such
opening as they proposed, would let them out "directly opposite the guard,"
so that plan had to be dropped. Glazier then proposed a plan of operations,
promising better and safer results. It was, that Tresouthick should still carry
Page 191
out his original idea of a feigned sickness and consequent admission to the
hospital; that he (Glazier) should procure a piece of rope, eight or ten feet
long, and then, "some dark, rainy night," the pair should "steal down into
the basement"—the outer doors of which were "not locked until ten
o'clock"—and await their opportunity. That, when they once reached the
exterior of the building, and the sentry's back was turned, they should rush
past him on either side, and, with the rope, trip him up, in the hope of being
beyond the reach of his musket before he could fire. This was approved by
the lieutenant, and they made up their minds to try it. Of course, it was
necessary that Lieutenant Tresouthick's illness should come on very
gradually, and progress naturally from bad to worse, until he became a fit
subject for the hospital, so that some time was occupied in preliminary
preparations before any steps could be taken for the execution of their plan.
Meanwhile, through the kindness of one of the surgeons, young Glazier
was furnished with some reading matter, a very great luxury to a man in his
situation and of his tastes. In his more serious hours he re-read the Bible,
and committed to memory daily a portion of "Saint Matthew's Gospel;" and
for relaxation read "Napoleon and his Marshals." This with an occasional
game at chess, checkers, or dominos, games in which the invalids were
permitted to indulge, made the hours pass much more pleasantly than those
spent in the convalescent department. It is true their chess-board was made
with chalk upon the floor, the "men" being pieces wrought out of bone
saved from their soup, and the "checkers" old buttons ripped from their
scanty wardrobe. But these rude implements afforded as much real sport as
if they had been constructed of ivory or gold. The scene must at all times
have been grimly grotesque in this place, for all the trades and professions
had their representatives there, and the lawyers held mock courts,
politicians formed caucuses, gamblers started a square game of faro, and
hospital; that he (Glazier) should procure a piece of rope, eight or ten feet
long, and then, "some dark, rainy night," the pair should "steal down into
the basement"—the outer doors of which were "not locked until ten
o'clock"—and await their opportunity. That, when they once reached the
exterior of the building, and the sentry's back was turned, they should rush
past him on either side, and, with the rope, trip him up, in the hope of being
beyond the reach of his musket before he could fire. This was approved by
the lieutenant, and they made up their minds to try it. Of course, it was
necessary that Lieutenant Tresouthick's illness should come on very
gradually, and progress naturally from bad to worse, until he became a fit
subject for the hospital, so that some time was occupied in preliminary
preparations before any steps could be taken for the execution of their plan.
Meanwhile, through the kindness of one of the surgeons, young Glazier
was furnished with some reading matter, a very great luxury to a man in his
situation and of his tastes. In his more serious hours he re-read the Bible,
and committed to memory daily a portion of "Saint Matthew's Gospel;" and
for relaxation read "Napoleon and his Marshals." This with an occasional
game at chess, checkers, or dominos, games in which the invalids were
permitted to indulge, made the hours pass much more pleasantly than those
spent in the convalescent department. It is true their chess-board was made
with chalk upon the floor, the "men" being pieces wrought out of bone
saved from their soup, and the "checkers" old buttons ripped from their
scanty wardrobe. But these rude implements afforded as much real sport as
if they had been constructed of ivory or gold. The scene must at all times
have been grimly grotesque in this place, for all the trades and professions
had their representatives there, and the lawyers held mock courts,
politicians formed caucuses, gamblers started a square game of faro, and
Page 192
even some ministers of the gospel gathered together a few of the prisoners
each day, who listened to words of hope and comfort from their lips.
On the eighth of December Glazier made this note in his diary: "Getting
into the hospital is no easy matter, but Tresouthick is becoming more and
more sick, and has good hopes." But
"The best o' plans o' mice and men
Gang aft aglee;"
and all hope of escape for our two worthies was interrupted by the
inconvenient fact that a couple of their comrades anticipated them in point
of time, and by so doing aroused the guards to such a state of vigilance, that
our over-sanguine boys saw there was no chance for them. Consequently
Lieutenant Tresouthick's illness vanished as it had come, and he was soon
pronounced convalescent.
each day, who listened to words of hope and comfort from their lips.
On the eighth of December Glazier made this note in his diary: "Getting
into the hospital is no easy matter, but Tresouthick is becoming more and
more sick, and has good hopes." But
"The best o' plans o' mice and men
Gang aft aglee;"
and all hope of escape for our two worthies was interrupted by the
inconvenient fact that a couple of their comrades anticipated them in point
of time, and by so doing aroused the guards to such a state of vigilance, that
our over-sanguine boys saw there was no chance for them. Consequently
Lieutenant Tresouthick's illness vanished as it had come, and he was soon
pronounced convalescent.
Page 193
CHAPTER XVII.
PRISON LIFE.
Mournful news. — How a brave man dies. — New Year's Day. — Jolly under unfavorable
circumstances. — Major Turner pays his respects. — Punishment for singing "villainous
Yankee songs." — Confederate General John Morgan. — Plans for escape. — Digging their
way to freedom. — "Post No. 1, All's well." — Yankee ingenuity. — The tunnel ready. —
Muscle the trump card. — No respect to rank. — Sauve qui peut! — A strategic movement. —
"Guards! guards!" — Absentees from muster. — Disappointed hopes. — Savage treatment of
prisoners. — Was the prison mined?
The Richmond papers occasionally found their way into the hands of the
prisoners, and the following mournful item of news is transcribed from one
of them. The writer of the ensuing letter was a man about thirty years of
age, who was accused by the rebel authorities of having acted as a spy on
behalf of the Union government. A gloom hung over the prison for some
days after the reading of the article:
Castle Thunder, Richmond, Virginia.
Dear Father:—By permission and through the courtesy of Captain
Alexander, I am enabled to write you a few lines. You, who before this
have heard from me in regard to my situation here, can, I trust, bear it,
when I tell you that my days on earth are soon ended.
Last Saturday I was court-martialed, and this evening, a short time
since, I received notice of my sentence from Captain Alexander, who
has since shown me every kindness consistent with his duty.
Writing to my dear parents, I feel there can be no greater comfort
after such tidings, than to tell you that I trust, by the mercy of our
PRISON LIFE.
Mournful news. — How a brave man dies. — New Year's Day. — Jolly under unfavorable
circumstances. — Major Turner pays his respects. — Punishment for singing "villainous
Yankee songs." — Confederate General John Morgan. — Plans for escape. — Digging their
way to freedom. — "Post No. 1, All's well." — Yankee ingenuity. — The tunnel ready. —
Muscle the trump card. — No respect to rank. — Sauve qui peut! — A strategic movement. —
"Guards! guards!" — Absentees from muster. — Disappointed hopes. — Savage treatment of
prisoners. — Was the prison mined?
The Richmond papers occasionally found their way into the hands of the
prisoners, and the following mournful item of news is transcribed from one
of them. The writer of the ensuing letter was a man about thirty years of
age, who was accused by the rebel authorities of having acted as a spy on
behalf of the Union government. A gloom hung over the prison for some
days after the reading of the article:
Castle Thunder, Richmond, Virginia.
Dear Father:—By permission and through the courtesy of Captain
Alexander, I am enabled to write you a few lines. You, who before this
have heard from me in regard to my situation here, can, I trust, bear it,
when I tell you that my days on earth are soon ended.
Last Saturday I was court-martialed, and this evening, a short time
since, I received notice of my sentence from Captain Alexander, who
has since shown me every kindness consistent with his duty.
Writing to my dear parents, I feel there can be no greater comfort
after such tidings, than to tell you that I trust, by the mercy of our
Page 194
Heavenly Father, to die the death of a Christian.
For more than a year, since the commencement of my confinement, I
have been trying to serve him in my own feeble way, and I do not fear
to go to Him.
I would have loved to see you all again; God saw best not; why
should we mourn? Comfort your hearts, my dear parents, by thoughts of
God's mercy unto your son, and bow with reverence beneath the hand of
Him who "doeth all things well."
* * * I sent a ring to my wife by a clergyman, Monday last; I also
sent a telegram to yourself, which will arrive too late, as the time of my
execution is set for the day after to-morrow.
Dear parents: there are but few more moments left me; I will try to
think often of you; God bless and comfort you; remember me kindly
and respectfully to all my dear friends and relatives. Tell Kitty I hope to
meet her again. Take care of Freddy for me; put him often in
remembrance of me.
Dear mother, good-bye. God comfort you, my mother, and bless you
with the love of happy children. Farewell, my father; we meet again by
God's mercy.
Spencer Kellogg.
The following account of the execution is from a Richmond paper:
"At eleven o'clock yesterday forenoon, a detail of one hundred men from
the City Battalion, marched from Castle Thunder with Spencer Kellogg, the
recently condemned spy, in custody.
"The cavalcade reached the scene of execution about half-past twelve
o'clock, where, as usual, a vast concourse of people, of both sexes and all
ages, were congregated. After a few moments spent in preliminary
For more than a year, since the commencement of my confinement, I
have been trying to serve him in my own feeble way, and I do not fear
to go to Him.
I would have loved to see you all again; God saw best not; why
should we mourn? Comfort your hearts, my dear parents, by thoughts of
God's mercy unto your son, and bow with reverence beneath the hand of
Him who "doeth all things well."
* * * I sent a ring to my wife by a clergyman, Monday last; I also
sent a telegram to yourself, which will arrive too late, as the time of my
execution is set for the day after to-morrow.
Dear parents: there are but few more moments left me; I will try to
think often of you; God bless and comfort you; remember me kindly
and respectfully to all my dear friends and relatives. Tell Kitty I hope to
meet her again. Take care of Freddy for me; put him often in
remembrance of me.
Dear mother, good-bye. God comfort you, my mother, and bless you
with the love of happy children. Farewell, my father; we meet again by
God's mercy.
Spencer Kellogg.
The following account of the execution is from a Richmond paper:
"At eleven o'clock yesterday forenoon, a detail of one hundred men from
the City Battalion, marched from Castle Thunder with Spencer Kellogg, the
recently condemned spy, in custody.
"The cavalcade reached the scene of execution about half-past twelve
o'clock, where, as usual, a vast concourse of people, of both sexes and all
ages, were congregated. After a few moments spent in preliminary
Page 195
arrangements, the prisoner was escorted, under guard, to the gallows. While
seated in the hack awaiting the perfection of the arrangements for his
execution, he conversed freely with the utmost nonchalance with Dr.
Burrows, frequently smiling at some remark made either by himself or the
minister.
"Arriving under the gallows, the charges preferred against the accused
and the sentence of the court-martial were read. A short but impressive
prayer was then offered by the minister, at the conclusion of which the
condemned man, unaccompanied, mounted the scaffold.
"In a few moments Detective Capehart followed, and commenced to
adjust the rope over the neck of the condemned, in which he assisted, all the
while talking with the officer. On taking off his hat, to admit the noose over
his head, he threw it one side, and falling off the scaffold, it struck a
gentleman beneath, when the prisoner turned quickly, and bowing, said:
'Excuse me, sir!'
"A negro next came on the scaffold with a ladder, and proceeded to fasten
the rope to the upper beam, the prisoner meanwhile regarding him with the
greatest composure. The rope being fastened, the negro was in the act of
coming down, when the prisoner, looking up at the rope, remarked: 'This
will not break my neck! It is not more than a foot fall! Doctor, I wish you
would come up and arrange this thing!' The rope was then rearranged to his
satisfaction, and the cloth cap placed over his head.
"The condemned man then bowed his head, and engaged a few seconds
in prayer, at the conclusion of which he raised himself, and standing
perfectly erect, pronounced in a clear voice: 'All ready!'
"The drop fell, and the condemned man was launched into eternity!"
seated in the hack awaiting the perfection of the arrangements for his
execution, he conversed freely with the utmost nonchalance with Dr.
Burrows, frequently smiling at some remark made either by himself or the
minister.
"Arriving under the gallows, the charges preferred against the accused
and the sentence of the court-martial were read. A short but impressive
prayer was then offered by the minister, at the conclusion of which the
condemned man, unaccompanied, mounted the scaffold.
"In a few moments Detective Capehart followed, and commenced to
adjust the rope over the neck of the condemned, in which he assisted, all the
while talking with the officer. On taking off his hat, to admit the noose over
his head, he threw it one side, and falling off the scaffold, it struck a
gentleman beneath, when the prisoner turned quickly, and bowing, said:
'Excuse me, sir!'
"A negro next came on the scaffold with a ladder, and proceeded to fasten
the rope to the upper beam, the prisoner meanwhile regarding him with the
greatest composure. The rope being fastened, the negro was in the act of
coming down, when the prisoner, looking up at the rope, remarked: 'This
will not break my neck! It is not more than a foot fall! Doctor, I wish you
would come up and arrange this thing!' The rope was then rearranged to his
satisfaction, and the cloth cap placed over his head.
"The condemned man then bowed his head, and engaged a few seconds
in prayer, at the conclusion of which he raised himself, and standing
perfectly erect, pronounced in a clear voice: 'All ready!'
"The drop fell, and the condemned man was launched into eternity!"
Page 196
Kellogg is said by his captors to have died with the conviction that he
had furnished more valuable information, in the character of a spy, to the
Federal government than any other ten men in the service. But this has been
denied by his friends at the North, who assert that he was innocent of the
charge.
With baseless rumors of a soon-to-be-effected cartel of exchange; the
drawing of lots for the selection of hostages, upon whom the Confederacy
proposed to retaliate for the punishment inflicted upon three Confederates
by the Federal authorities who had sentenced them to imprisonment in the
Illinois State Prison; listening to yarns spun by real or pretended veterans;
playing games of chance; holding spirited debates; reading letters from
home; occasionally poring over the newspaper procured by stealth; or
meditating plans of escape—the balance of the year 1863 wore on to its
close, and still Willard Glazier was a prisoner of war, with no prospect
whatever of a speedy release. Then came New-Year's Day, 1864, and some
little attempt was made to get up a New-Year's dinner—though no extra
rations had been issued. They did their best, however, like Mark Tapley, to
be "jolly under unfavorable circumstances."
Nothing occurred out of the usual routine until the twenty-fourth of
January, when, as the prisoners, including Glazier, were singing "The Star-
Spangled Banner," "Rally Round the Flag, Boys," etc., the door leading into
the street was suddenly flung open, and a squad of armed men filed in.
Turner was at their head, and quickly crossing the room and placing himself
at the door leading up-stairs, to prevent any of the prisoners from making
their escape, began: "Now you d—d boisterous scoundrels, I'll teach you to
begin your d—d howling in this building again. I want you to understand
that you must not drive people crazy out in the streets with your villainous
Yankee songs." He then turned to his men and ordered them to "Take their
had furnished more valuable information, in the character of a spy, to the
Federal government than any other ten men in the service. But this has been
denied by his friends at the North, who assert that he was innocent of the
charge.
With baseless rumors of a soon-to-be-effected cartel of exchange; the
drawing of lots for the selection of hostages, upon whom the Confederacy
proposed to retaliate for the punishment inflicted upon three Confederates
by the Federal authorities who had sentenced them to imprisonment in the
Illinois State Prison; listening to yarns spun by real or pretended veterans;
playing games of chance; holding spirited debates; reading letters from
home; occasionally poring over the newspaper procured by stealth; or
meditating plans of escape—the balance of the year 1863 wore on to its
close, and still Willard Glazier was a prisoner of war, with no prospect
whatever of a speedy release. Then came New-Year's Day, 1864, and some
little attempt was made to get up a New-Year's dinner—though no extra
rations had been issued. They did their best, however, like Mark Tapley, to
be "jolly under unfavorable circumstances."
Nothing occurred out of the usual routine until the twenty-fourth of
January, when, as the prisoners, including Glazier, were singing "The Star-
Spangled Banner," "Rally Round the Flag, Boys," etc., the door leading into
the street was suddenly flung open, and a squad of armed men filed in.
Turner was at their head, and quickly crossing the room and placing himself
at the door leading up-stairs, to prevent any of the prisoners from making
their escape, began: "Now you d—d boisterous scoundrels, I'll teach you to
begin your d—d howling in this building again. I want you to understand
that you must not drive people crazy out in the streets with your villainous
Yankee songs." He then turned to his men and ordered them to "Take their
Page 197
stations around the d—d rascals, and shoot the first man that dared to stir
out of his tracks." Having completed which arrangement, he added to his
helpless victims: "Now, d—n you, stay here until twelve o'clock to-night,
and make a bit of noise or move from your place, if you dare." And he kept
them there until the appointed hour, standing and in silence. "The fires went
out early in the evening, and the cold became intense. Some managed to get
blankets from their friends," in the apartment above, "but the guards soon
put a stop to that. One man called down to a friend through a knot-hole in
the floor, asking him if he wanted a blanket. The guard heard him, cocked
his gun, and aimed at the hole; but a call from below gave the man warning
and he fled." And all this for singing a song written by a Southerner, in
praise of the flag under whose ægis Major Turner was nurtured and
received his military education! It is quite possible that a song identified
with the cause of their supposed enemy might have produced a commotion
among the ignorant rabble in the street, and hence it is perhaps unfair to
blame the commander of the prison for prohibiting the loud singing, which
partook somewhat of the nature of defiance; but he could certainly have
attained his object as effectually in a manner becoming an officer and a
gentleman. Even the victims of the First French Revolution were permitted
to express in song through the bars of the Temple sentiments of utter scorn
for their enemies, and when the Jacobins in their turn marched to the
guillotine they did so, singing the "Marseillaise."
A great sensation was created among the prisoners on the twenty-fifth of
the month on account of a visit made to "Libby" by the famous raider,
General John Morgan, whom Glazier describes as a "large, fine-looking
officer, wearing a full beard and a rebel uniform, trimmed with the usual
amount of gold braid;" but something far more interesting than the visit of
any man, however famous, began to absorb the attention of our imprisoned
out of his tracks." Having completed which arrangement, he added to his
helpless victims: "Now, d—n you, stay here until twelve o'clock to-night,
and make a bit of noise or move from your place, if you dare." And he kept
them there until the appointed hour, standing and in silence. "The fires went
out early in the evening, and the cold became intense. Some managed to get
blankets from their friends," in the apartment above, "but the guards soon
put a stop to that. One man called down to a friend through a knot-hole in
the floor, asking him if he wanted a blanket. The guard heard him, cocked
his gun, and aimed at the hole; but a call from below gave the man warning
and he fled." And all this for singing a song written by a Southerner, in
praise of the flag under whose ægis Major Turner was nurtured and
received his military education! It is quite possible that a song identified
with the cause of their supposed enemy might have produced a commotion
among the ignorant rabble in the street, and hence it is perhaps unfair to
blame the commander of the prison for prohibiting the loud singing, which
partook somewhat of the nature of defiance; but he could certainly have
attained his object as effectually in a manner becoming an officer and a
gentleman. Even the victims of the First French Revolution were permitted
to express in song through the bars of the Temple sentiments of utter scorn
for their enemies, and when the Jacobins in their turn marched to the
guillotine they did so, singing the "Marseillaise."
A great sensation was created among the prisoners on the twenty-fifth of
the month on account of a visit made to "Libby" by the famous raider,
General John Morgan, whom Glazier describes as a "large, fine-looking
officer, wearing a full beard and a rebel uniform, trimmed with the usual
amount of gold braid;" but something far more interesting than the visit of
any man, however famous, began to absorb the attention of our imprisoned
Page 198
hero at this time. He had never ceased to rack his brain with schemes
looking to his escape. A life of captivity was indescribably wearisome to
him. He not only taxed his own ingenuity in the effort to discover some
feasible plan, but eagerly entered into the schemes of others. The result,
however, so far as he was individually concerned, was by no means in
accordance with his hopes; but, as he has given the details in his "Capture,
Prison-Pen, and Escape," we cannot do better (even at the risk of quoting
from that work more freely than we had intended) than to let our readers
have it in his own words, thus:
"Early in the winter, Colonel Thomas E. Rose, of the Seventy-seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers, conceived a plan of escape, and organized a secret
company of twenty-seven, who were to dig their way to freedom.
"Colonel Rose was well calculated to superintend this work, for he had
served in the Mexican War, was taken prisoner by the Mexicans, and after a
short confinement, escaped by tunneling from the prison a sufficient
distance to be clear of the guards. He had served his apprenticeship and was
now prepared to manage and direct. After thorough organization of our
company, with secrecy well enjoined, we adopted the following plan of
operations:
"In the basement of the building just below our cook-room, was a small
unoccupied cellar, which had been closed since our arrival, and was never
entered. From this room or cellar arose a large chimney, which passed
through the cook-room, and so to the top of the building. Our first work was
to make a hole in the chimney from the kitchen, which opening we could
easily conceal by means of some slop-barrels. These barrels we managed
ourselves to empty, so that all danger of detection from this point was
carefully avoided. A short ladder which our considerate jailers had brought
into the rooms for the purpose of raising their flag on the building, was used
looking to his escape. A life of captivity was indescribably wearisome to
him. He not only taxed his own ingenuity in the effort to discover some
feasible plan, but eagerly entered into the schemes of others. The result,
however, so far as he was individually concerned, was by no means in
accordance with his hopes; but, as he has given the details in his "Capture,
Prison-Pen, and Escape," we cannot do better (even at the risk of quoting
from that work more freely than we had intended) than to let our readers
have it in his own words, thus:
"Early in the winter, Colonel Thomas E. Rose, of the Seventy-seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers, conceived a plan of escape, and organized a secret
company of twenty-seven, who were to dig their way to freedom.
"Colonel Rose was well calculated to superintend this work, for he had
served in the Mexican War, was taken prisoner by the Mexicans, and after a
short confinement, escaped by tunneling from the prison a sufficient
distance to be clear of the guards. He had served his apprenticeship and was
now prepared to manage and direct. After thorough organization of our
company, with secrecy well enjoined, we adopted the following plan of
operations:
"In the basement of the building just below our cook-room, was a small
unoccupied cellar, which had been closed since our arrival, and was never
entered. From this room or cellar arose a large chimney, which passed
through the cook-room, and so to the top of the building. Our first work was
to make a hole in the chimney from the kitchen, which opening we could
easily conceal by means of some slop-barrels. These barrels we managed
ourselves to empty, so that all danger of detection from this point was
carefully avoided. A short ladder which our considerate jailers had brought
into the rooms for the purpose of raising their flag on the building, was used
Page 199
to make our descent into the dark room below. Inquiry was made for the
ladder, but as no one seemed to know anything about it, it was inferred that
it had been converted into fuel. At the foot of the ladder another opening
was made through the chimney wall leading into the underground basement
room. By removing a few stones from the wall of this place, we were in a
situation to commence the work of tunneling. The only implements in our
possession were an old trowel and the half of a canteen. The arduous labor
was commenced with only the fragment of a canteen, but with this the
progress was so slow that even the most patient were disheartened.
Fortunately for us a mason came in to repair the prison walls, and going to
dinner before he had finished his work, left his trowel, which in his absence
most mysteriously disappeared. To him it may have been of little account,
to us it was a godsend. With the aid of this implement we were enabled to
make more rapid progress, were greatly encouraged, and worked night and
day with ceaseless energy. Two of our number were kept in the tunnel
almost constantly. One, by a vigorous use of the trowel and canteen, would
advance slowly, placing the loosened earth in an old blanket, which the
other would convey out of the tunnel into a corner of the room, from
whence it started. Our course was due east, under the street, where
constantly paced the sentinels, who at every hour of the night were wont to
cry: 'Post No. 1; all's well!'—'Post No. 2; all's well!' etc. Little did they
dream that Yankee ingenuity and perseverance were perforating the solid
earth under their feet, and opening a path to freedom.
"As we progressed in our work we experienced great difficulty from the
want of pure air to breathe, and to sustain our candles, which refused to
burn. Consequently, one of our party was compelled to stand at the opening,
fanning pure air into the tunnel with his hat. Our atmospheric difficulties
were the more increased by the small size of the hole, which was a little less
ladder, but as no one seemed to know anything about it, it was inferred that
it had been converted into fuel. At the foot of the ladder another opening
was made through the chimney wall leading into the underground basement
room. By removing a few stones from the wall of this place, we were in a
situation to commence the work of tunneling. The only implements in our
possession were an old trowel and the half of a canteen. The arduous labor
was commenced with only the fragment of a canteen, but with this the
progress was so slow that even the most patient were disheartened.
Fortunately for us a mason came in to repair the prison walls, and going to
dinner before he had finished his work, left his trowel, which in his absence
most mysteriously disappeared. To him it may have been of little account,
to us it was a godsend. With the aid of this implement we were enabled to
make more rapid progress, were greatly encouraged, and worked night and
day with ceaseless energy. Two of our number were kept in the tunnel
almost constantly. One, by a vigorous use of the trowel and canteen, would
advance slowly, placing the loosened earth in an old blanket, which the
other would convey out of the tunnel into a corner of the room, from
whence it started. Our course was due east, under the street, where
constantly paced the sentinels, who at every hour of the night were wont to
cry: 'Post No. 1; all's well!'—'Post No. 2; all's well!' etc. Little did they
dream that Yankee ingenuity and perseverance were perforating the solid
earth under their feet, and opening a path to freedom.
"As we progressed in our work we experienced great difficulty from the
want of pure air to breathe, and to sustain our candles, which refused to
burn. Consequently, one of our party was compelled to stand at the opening,
fanning pure air into the tunnel with his hat. Our atmospheric difficulties
were the more increased by the small size of the hole, which was a little less
Page 200
than two feet in diameter, quite irregular in consequence of large stones,
and descended in a line below the horizontal. This severe labor was carried
on without much interruption for more than three weeks, when, at last, the
plan came near being a failure on account of a sad mistake in our
measurement. Our intention was to reach the yard of an old shed, or
warehouse, in which were then stored the boxes sent us by the Christian and
Sanitary Commissions, and by our friends at the North.
"Thinking we had reached the desired point, an opening was made to the
surface, when it was found we were still in the street, outside the fence, and
within a few yards of the sentries. Not discovered by this mishap, the hole
was quickly filled with a pair of old pants and some straw, and the work of
excavation continued to the spot intended.
"The selection of this point was very fortunate, as the guards used to
skulk about this building at night for the purpose of plundering the boxes,
and on the night of the escape, as it happened, they saw every man that
came out; but, supposing them to be friends, only whispered to each other,
that 'the boys were going through the Yankee boxes mighty fast.'
"These whisperings," adds Captain Glazier, "were distinctly heard by
some of our men. The tunnel was about sixty-five feet in length, and was
ready for use February ninth, 1864.
"The company of diggers had arranged that they should make their egress
first, and inform the others just as they were going out. But each man had a
particular friend whom he wished to notify, and, as we were seen packing
our clothing, it soon became suspected among our fellow-prisoners that
something unusual was in the wind. Curiosity, once on the alert, soon
discovered the secret, and then all were jubilant with the hope of escape,
and forthwith commenced packing their poor wardrobes. But egress was so
slow that it soon became evident to the cool calculator that, at best, but a
and descended in a line below the horizontal. This severe labor was carried
on without much interruption for more than three weeks, when, at last, the
plan came near being a failure on account of a sad mistake in our
measurement. Our intention was to reach the yard of an old shed, or
warehouse, in which were then stored the boxes sent us by the Christian and
Sanitary Commissions, and by our friends at the North.
"Thinking we had reached the desired point, an opening was made to the
surface, when it was found we were still in the street, outside the fence, and
within a few yards of the sentries. Not discovered by this mishap, the hole
was quickly filled with a pair of old pants and some straw, and the work of
excavation continued to the spot intended.
"The selection of this point was very fortunate, as the guards used to
skulk about this building at night for the purpose of plundering the boxes,
and on the night of the escape, as it happened, they saw every man that
came out; but, supposing them to be friends, only whispered to each other,
that 'the boys were going through the Yankee boxes mighty fast.'
"These whisperings," adds Captain Glazier, "were distinctly heard by
some of our men. The tunnel was about sixty-five feet in length, and was
ready for use February ninth, 1864.
"The company of diggers had arranged that they should make their egress
first, and inform the others just as they were going out. But each man had a
particular friend whom he wished to notify, and, as we were seen packing
our clothing, it soon became suspected among our fellow-prisoners that
something unusual was in the wind. Curiosity, once on the alert, soon
discovered the secret, and then all were jubilant with the hope of escape,
and forthwith commenced packing their poor wardrobes. But egress was so
slow that it soon became evident to the cool calculator that, at best, but a
Page 201
comparatively small proportion of our number would be fortunate enough
to take their departure from 'Libby' before daylight would forbid any further
efforts in that direction.
"In order to get down the chimney, as well as along the tunnel, it was
necessary to do so in puris naturalibus, wrap our clothing in a bundle, and
push it on before us. As soon as it was seen that only a few could possibly
get out, many, and in fact most, became selfish, and thought only of
attaining their own liberty. All rushed for the mouth of the tunnel, each man
seemingly determined to be first out. By this movement, the organization
formed by the pioneers or working party was broken up, and the workmen,
who were to have had the first opportunity to escape, were not more
favorably situated than those who had never borne a hand in the digging. At
the entrance to the tunnel were hundreds eagerly awaiting their turn.
"Through the intense anxiety and excitement that arose, there was a rush
and a crowd, each one being eager to improve the opportunity. Muscle was
the trump card, and won. The weak had to step aside, or rather they were
pushed aside without apology. No respect was paid to rank or name. A long-
armed second lieutenant had no scruple in taking hold of a pair of shoulders
that wore eagles, and pushing them out of the way. It was sauve qui peut,
and no standing aside for betters—no deference to age, and gray hairs
ceased to be honored. Mere physical force was the test of championship.
Those poor weak ones who gravitated to the outskirts of such an eager
crowding mass—just as the light kernels will find their way to the top of a
shaken measure of wheat—doubtless thought, as they felt themselves
crowded further and further from the door of egress:
"'Oh, it is excellent
To have a giant's strength, but 'tis tyrannous
to take their departure from 'Libby' before daylight would forbid any further
efforts in that direction.
"In order to get down the chimney, as well as along the tunnel, it was
necessary to do so in puris naturalibus, wrap our clothing in a bundle, and
push it on before us. As soon as it was seen that only a few could possibly
get out, many, and in fact most, became selfish, and thought only of
attaining their own liberty. All rushed for the mouth of the tunnel, each man
seemingly determined to be first out. By this movement, the organization
formed by the pioneers or working party was broken up, and the workmen,
who were to have had the first opportunity to escape, were not more
favorably situated than those who had never borne a hand in the digging. At
the entrance to the tunnel were hundreds eagerly awaiting their turn.
"Through the intense anxiety and excitement that arose, there was a rush
and a crowd, each one being eager to improve the opportunity. Muscle was
the trump card, and won. The weak had to step aside, or rather they were
pushed aside without apology. No respect was paid to rank or name. A long-
armed second lieutenant had no scruple in taking hold of a pair of shoulders
that wore eagles, and pushing them out of the way. It was sauve qui peut,
and no standing aside for betters—no deference to age, and gray hairs
ceased to be honored. Mere physical force was the test of championship.
Those poor weak ones who gravitated to the outskirts of such an eager
crowding mass—just as the light kernels will find their way to the top of a
shaken measure of wheat—doubtless thought, as they felt themselves
crowded further and further from the door of egress:
"'Oh, it is excellent
To have a giant's strength, but 'tis tyrannous
Page 202
To use it like a giant!'
"I made several attempts," Glazier continues, "to assert what I considered
my rights, but as I had not, at that time, much muscle to back my claims,
they were not recognized, and thus I spent the whole night in a bootless
struggle for freedom.
"In digging the tunnel we had encountered a large root which we could
not well remove, and the passage at this point was very narrow. Lieutenant
Wallace F. Randolph, Fifth United States Artillery, a corpulent fellow, was
caught fast by the root. There was a man before him, and another behind,
which almost entirely excluded atmospheric circulation, and before they
could pull him out of his unfortunate predicament, Randolph was almost
dead. He was, however, successful at last. This blockade greatly retarded
the line of march, and made the crowd within still more desperate.
"Some of the outsiders in the struggle, who despaired of accomplishing
anything by strength, had recourse to a stratagem. There had been
considerable noise during the struggle for position, and the guards were
expected to make their appearance at any moment. The outsiders, taking
advantage of this apprehension, went to the farther end of the cook-room,
and, in the darkness, made a racket with pots and kettles, which sounded
very much like the clashing of fire-arms; while some of their number in the
crowd sang out: 'Guards! guards!' In an instant every man was gone from
the tunnel, and a frantic rush took place for the single stairway by about five
hundred men. Such a struggling and pressing I have never elsewhere seen,
or participated in. We neither walked up, nor ran up, but were literally lifted
from our feet, and propelled along in a solid mass up the passage, and made
our entrance through the door at the head of the stairs as though shot from a
cannon—most of us not stopping until we struck the wall on the opposite
side of the room. While this was going on, the scamps who had given the
"I made several attempts," Glazier continues, "to assert what I considered
my rights, but as I had not, at that time, much muscle to back my claims,
they were not recognized, and thus I spent the whole night in a bootless
struggle for freedom.
"In digging the tunnel we had encountered a large root which we could
not well remove, and the passage at this point was very narrow. Lieutenant
Wallace F. Randolph, Fifth United States Artillery, a corpulent fellow, was
caught fast by the root. There was a man before him, and another behind,
which almost entirely excluded atmospheric circulation, and before they
could pull him out of his unfortunate predicament, Randolph was almost
dead. He was, however, successful at last. This blockade greatly retarded
the line of march, and made the crowd within still more desperate.
"Some of the outsiders in the struggle, who despaired of accomplishing
anything by strength, had recourse to a stratagem. There had been
considerable noise during the struggle for position, and the guards were
expected to make their appearance at any moment. The outsiders, taking
advantage of this apprehension, went to the farther end of the cook-room,
and, in the darkness, made a racket with pots and kettles, which sounded
very much like the clashing of fire-arms; while some of their number in the
crowd sang out: 'Guards! guards!' In an instant every man was gone from
the tunnel, and a frantic rush took place for the single stairway by about five
hundred men. Such a struggling and pressing I have never elsewhere seen,
or participated in. We neither walked up, nor ran up, but were literally lifted
from our feet, and propelled along in a solid mass up the passage, and made
our entrance through the door at the head of the stairs as though shot from a
cannon—most of us not stopping until we struck the wall on the opposite
side of the room. While this was going on, the scamps who had given the
Page 203
false alarm were quietly passing out of the tunnel! The ruse was soon
discovered, however, and, in a few minutes, there was as great a jam at the
entrance of the tunnel as ever. But, so eager and unthinking were we, that
within half an hour, the same trick was played on us again by others and
then followed another stampede up the stairs. It is a wonder this affair was
not stopped by the guards, but they had no suspicion whatever of what was
going on. This was probably owing to the fact that great noises in the cook-
room were common throughout the night as well as day. It is however
reported that one of the sentinels was heard to call out jocosely to a
comrade on the next beat, 'Hello, Billy! there goes somebody's coffee-pot,
sure.'
"This struggle continued until morning, when the opening in the chimney
was covered, and we went to our several quarters. Here a muster was called
to discover how many had made their escape, when it was found that one
hundred and fifteen were missing. Arrangements were at once made to
account for their absence, and certain men were designated who were to
cross the room slyly during roll-call, and be counted twice.
"For some reason the authorities were late that morning, and did not
make their appearance until about ten o'clock. On the roll being called the
men, according to arrangement, attempted to cross the room, but the
movement was discovered, and so the count showed one hundred and
fifteen short. The clerk thought he had made a mistake, and counted again,
but with the same result. The authorities also thought there must be some
error in the count, and joked little Ross, the prison clerk, who was none of
the brightest, because he could not count a thousand Yankees!
"We were now marched from one room to another, and counted one by
one, but still there were one hundred and fifteen short of the complement.
We, of course, pretended to be as much surprised as the authorities. They
discovered, however, and, in a few minutes, there was as great a jam at the
entrance of the tunnel as ever. But, so eager and unthinking were we, that
within half an hour, the same trick was played on us again by others and
then followed another stampede up the stairs. It is a wonder this affair was
not stopped by the guards, but they had no suspicion whatever of what was
going on. This was probably owing to the fact that great noises in the cook-
room were common throughout the night as well as day. It is however
reported that one of the sentinels was heard to call out jocosely to a
comrade on the next beat, 'Hello, Billy! there goes somebody's coffee-pot,
sure.'
"This struggle continued until morning, when the opening in the chimney
was covered, and we went to our several quarters. Here a muster was called
to discover how many had made their escape, when it was found that one
hundred and fifteen were missing. Arrangements were at once made to
account for their absence, and certain men were designated who were to
cross the room slyly during roll-call, and be counted twice.
"For some reason the authorities were late that morning, and did not
make their appearance until about ten o'clock. On the roll being called the
men, according to arrangement, attempted to cross the room, but the
movement was discovered, and so the count showed one hundred and
fifteen short. The clerk thought he had made a mistake, and counted again,
but with the same result. The authorities also thought there must be some
error in the count, and joked little Ross, the prison clerk, who was none of
the brightest, because he could not count a thousand Yankees!
"We were now marched from one room to another, and counted one by
one, but still there were one hundred and fifteen short of the complement.
We, of course, pretended to be as much surprised as the authorities. They
Page 204
next sent for Major Turner, and he counted us two or three times, but with
an equally unsatisfactory result. He demanded of us where they had gone,
and how they got out; but not a man knew.
"The escape was at once made public, and the papers were filled with the
news, and the most strenuous measures at once adopted to ensure the
recapture of the runaways. The authorities were terribly exasperated, and as
a first step, arrested the guards and threw them into Castle Thunder,
concluding as a matter of course, that they had been bribed. This set the
guards thinking, and one of them remembered he had seen an unusual
number of men in the lot near the Yankee boxes. Latouche, the prison
adjutant, hearing of this, just before nightfall discovered the locality of the
opening. Next, they questioned the prisoners as to where in the building it
began, but could obtain no satisfaction, and not until after a long search, did
they discover the opening in the chimney."
So the "patient toil and vigil long" of poor Glazier went for nothing. The
Confederate authorities seem to have treated the matter very good-
humoredly, frankly expressed their surprise at the ingenuity and patience of
the subterranean engineers, and manfully set about the task of recapturing
the fugitives. Forty-eight were brought in during the next two days, but at
the same time it leaked out among the prisoners that the Unionists under
General Kilpatrick were within the outer line of fortifications, engaging the
rebels, as it was conjectured, with the view of rescuing the prisoners. The
consequence was, there was much excitement among the latter, for the
boom of cannon sounded distinctly in their ears, and that sound was
accepted as the music that heralded their approaching freedom.
All such hopes, however, were doomed to disappointment. The object of
the expedition, which was a combined movement from different points by
General Kilpatrick and Colonel Dahlgren, was defeated in consequence of
an equally unsatisfactory result. He demanded of us where they had gone,
and how they got out; but not a man knew.
"The escape was at once made public, and the papers were filled with the
news, and the most strenuous measures at once adopted to ensure the
recapture of the runaways. The authorities were terribly exasperated, and as
a first step, arrested the guards and threw them into Castle Thunder,
concluding as a matter of course, that they had been bribed. This set the
guards thinking, and one of them remembered he had seen an unusual
number of men in the lot near the Yankee boxes. Latouche, the prison
adjutant, hearing of this, just before nightfall discovered the locality of the
opening. Next, they questioned the prisoners as to where in the building it
began, but could obtain no satisfaction, and not until after a long search, did
they discover the opening in the chimney."
So the "patient toil and vigil long" of poor Glazier went for nothing. The
Confederate authorities seem to have treated the matter very good-
humoredly, frankly expressed their surprise at the ingenuity and patience of
the subterranean engineers, and manfully set about the task of recapturing
the fugitives. Forty-eight were brought in during the next two days, but at
the same time it leaked out among the prisoners that the Unionists under
General Kilpatrick were within the outer line of fortifications, engaging the
rebels, as it was conjectured, with the view of rescuing the prisoners. The
consequence was, there was much excitement among the latter, for the
boom of cannon sounded distinctly in their ears, and that sound was
accepted as the music that heralded their approaching freedom.
All such hopes, however, were doomed to disappointment. The object of
the expedition, which was a combined movement from different points by
General Kilpatrick and Colonel Dahlgren, was defeated in consequence of
Page 205
the treachery of a negro guide, employed by the latter officer, and one of the
effects of this man's treason was the death of that gallant young soldier. The
only result that followed to the prisoners was that the rebels became more
exasperated than ever, and unfortunately for their reputation, they seem,
with regard to the treatment of the few prisoners that fell into their hands on
this occasion, to have behaved rather like savage than civilized people. Not
satisfied with the perpetration of acts of cruelty upon these particular
prisoners, they (according to Captain Glazier's information) undermined the
prison building, and stored beneath the foundation a sufficient quantity of
powder to blow it into fragments. This proceeding he says they called, with
more force than elegance, "preparing the Yankees for hell;" and Major
Turner very grimly informed them that if any further attempt at escape were
made, or efforts for their rescue, the prison would be blown to atoms! It is
not surprising that at such a time, and under the circumstances, the
prisoners looked upon this threat as meant in sober reality; but in all
probability (or at least let us hope), it was used simply as a means of
discouraging attempts upon the part of the incarcerated men, to regain their
liberty by their own efforts or that of their friends.
effects of this man's treason was the death of that gallant young soldier. The
only result that followed to the prisoners was that the rebels became more
exasperated than ever, and unfortunately for their reputation, they seem,
with regard to the treatment of the few prisoners that fell into their hands on
this occasion, to have behaved rather like savage than civilized people. Not
satisfied with the perpetration of acts of cruelty upon these particular
prisoners, they (according to Captain Glazier's information) undermined the
prison building, and stored beneath the foundation a sufficient quantity of
powder to blow it into fragments. This proceeding he says they called, with
more force than elegance, "preparing the Yankees for hell;" and Major
Turner very grimly informed them that if any further attempt at escape were
made, or efforts for their rescue, the prison would be blown to atoms! It is
not surprising that at such a time, and under the circumstances, the
prisoners looked upon this threat as meant in sober reality; but in all
probability (or at least let us hope), it was used simply as a means of
discouraging attempts upon the part of the incarcerated men, to regain their
liberty by their own efforts or that of their friends.
Page 206
THE HOLE IN THE FLOOR.
The raiders captured in the expedition under Kilpatrick and Dahlgren had
been thrust into a cell directly beneath the room in which Glazier was
confined. Contrivances were made to open communication with them for
the purpose, if possible, of alleviating their sufferings, as it was well known
that food was issued to them in very niggardly quantities, and every
indignity the rebels could devise inflicted upon them. After much effort, by
The raiders captured in the expedition under Kilpatrick and Dahlgren had
been thrust into a cell directly beneath the room in which Glazier was
confined. Contrivances were made to open communication with them for
the purpose, if possible, of alleviating their sufferings, as it was well known
that food was issued to them in very niggardly quantities, and every
indignity the rebels could devise inflicted upon them. After much effort, by
Page 207
the aid of a knife, a hole was cut in the floor, sufficiently large to pass a
man's hand, and through this hole Glazier, for several weeks, was
instrumental in furnishing the captives with a share of his own and his
companions' rations, which were eagerly grasped and devoured by the
starving men. No single act of our hero's life afforded him more real
happiness than the service he was thus enabled to render the brave men who
had lost their liberty in the noble effort to capture the prison and release its
inmates.
man's hand, and through this hole Glazier, for several weeks, was
instrumental in furnishing the captives with a share of his own and his
companions' rations, which were eagerly grasped and devoured by the
starving men. No single act of our hero's life afforded him more real
happiness than the service he was thus enabled to render the brave men who
had lost their liberty in the noble effort to capture the prison and release its
inmates.
Page 208
CHAPTER XVIII.
DANVILLE.—MACON.—SAVANNAH.
Belle Boyd, the Confederate spy. — National characteristics. — Colonel Mosby. — Richmond to
Danville. — Sleeping spoon-fashion. — Glazier's "corrective point" suffers. — Saltatory
entrance to a railroad car. — Colonel Joselyn. — Sympathy of North Carolinians. —
Ingenious efforts to escape. — Augusta. — Macon. — Turner again! — "Carelessness" with
firearms. — Tunneling. — Religious revival. — Order from Confederate War Department. —
Murder! — Fourth of July. — Macon to Savannah. — Camp Davidson. — More tunneling.
The celebrated Confederate spy, Belle Boyd, paid a visit to "Libby" in the
latter part of March, and her presence created much comment among the
prisoners. She was not that ideal of grace and gentleness which
"Untutored youth,
Unlearned in the world's false subtleties,"
enthrones within the temple of his heart, but was, notwithstanding, a
remarkable woman. With much of the enthusiasm that characterized "La
Pucelle," she appears to have combined a considerable allowance of
shrewdness, or common sense; a mixture of qualities, by the way, of more
common occurrence than is generally supposed, among the northern and
southern people of our continent. There is little difference between the
"peartness" of the one, and the "smartness" of the other; or the "high tone"
of the South, and the nonchalance of the North. The common national
characteristic of the people of both sections, however, is the power of
adapting themselves to every variety of circumstance. No matter what the
importance, or the insignificance of the occasion, or event, upon which they
DANVILLE.—MACON.—SAVANNAH.
Belle Boyd, the Confederate spy. — National characteristics. — Colonel Mosby. — Richmond to
Danville. — Sleeping spoon-fashion. — Glazier's "corrective point" suffers. — Saltatory
entrance to a railroad car. — Colonel Joselyn. — Sympathy of North Carolinians. —
Ingenious efforts to escape. — Augusta. — Macon. — Turner again! — "Carelessness" with
firearms. — Tunneling. — Religious revival. — Order from Confederate War Department. —
Murder! — Fourth of July. — Macon to Savannah. — Camp Davidson. — More tunneling.
The celebrated Confederate spy, Belle Boyd, paid a visit to "Libby" in the
latter part of March, and her presence created much comment among the
prisoners. She was not that ideal of grace and gentleness which
"Untutored youth,
Unlearned in the world's false subtleties,"
enthrones within the temple of his heart, but was, notwithstanding, a
remarkable woman. With much of the enthusiasm that characterized "La
Pucelle," she appears to have combined a considerable allowance of
shrewdness, or common sense; a mixture of qualities, by the way, of more
common occurrence than is generally supposed, among the northern and
southern people of our continent. There is little difference between the
"peartness" of the one, and the "smartness" of the other; or the "high tone"
of the South, and the nonchalance of the North. The common national
characteristic of the people of both sections, however, is the power of
adapting themselves to every variety of circumstance. No matter what the
importance, or the insignificance of the occasion, or event, upon which they
Page 209
perceive that their opportunity for the attainment of a desired object
depends, they are ready at the right moment to seize and turn it to account;
and while, to-day, the banks of the Ganges or the Tigris are made to yield
up to them the fruits of their industry and produce, to-morrow, when a
modification of the law of demand and supply prevails, we find the same
men following the tide of fortune through humbler but equally useful
channels. We are pre-eminently a practical people, and that this
characteristic to some extent destroys the poetic aspect of American life,
cannot be gainsaid. The homes of our infancy, the graves of our kindred, the
hills upon whose summits we first felt the glory of the morning, the altar at
which we first knelt in prayer, the rustic nook where we listened for the one
step to which our boyish hearts beat sweetest time; have no power to
trammel our migratory proclivities, or to check our local inconstancy. The
sentiments with which such objects are indissolubly connected, are but
tendrils clinging round the parent nest, and the wings of the new-fledged
bird, bursting them asunder, it soars out into the world to contend and battle
with its storms.
One of the least attractive illustrations of this spirit of unrest, is where it
extends to our women, and Miss Belle Boyd's is in our estimation a case in
point.
"Unknown to her the rigid rule,
The dull restraint, the chiding frown,
The weary torture of the school;
The taming of wild nature down.
Her only lore, the legends told
Around the soldiers' fire; at night
Stars rose and set, and seasons rolled;
depends, they are ready at the right moment to seize and turn it to account;
and while, to-day, the banks of the Ganges or the Tigris are made to yield
up to them the fruits of their industry and produce, to-morrow, when a
modification of the law of demand and supply prevails, we find the same
men following the tide of fortune through humbler but equally useful
channels. We are pre-eminently a practical people, and that this
characteristic to some extent destroys the poetic aspect of American life,
cannot be gainsaid. The homes of our infancy, the graves of our kindred, the
hills upon whose summits we first felt the glory of the morning, the altar at
which we first knelt in prayer, the rustic nook where we listened for the one
step to which our boyish hearts beat sweetest time; have no power to
trammel our migratory proclivities, or to check our local inconstancy. The
sentiments with which such objects are indissolubly connected, are but
tendrils clinging round the parent nest, and the wings of the new-fledged
bird, bursting them asunder, it soars out into the world to contend and battle
with its storms.
One of the least attractive illustrations of this spirit of unrest, is where it
extends to our women, and Miss Belle Boyd's is in our estimation a case in
point.
"Unknown to her the rigid rule,
The dull restraint, the chiding frown,
The weary torture of the school;
The taming of wild nature down.
Her only lore, the legends told
Around the soldiers' fire; at night
Stars rose and set, and seasons rolled;
Page 210
Flowers bloomed, and snowflakes fell,
Unquestioned, in her sight!"
Her career was full of adventure and intrepid daring, and she served the
disloyal cause she espoused faithfully and to the bitter end; and then, like
other wandering stars of the troubled sky, sank into oblivion. From the time
of Miss Boyd's visit until the seventh of May, Willard Glazier continued to
lead the same dull life at Libby Prison. The monotony of the hours was
unbroken by any circumstance more exciting than a visit from the
celebrated partisan chief, Mosby, who is described by Glazier as a preux
chevalier, at that time about twenty-eight years of age, in figure slight, with
straight fair hair and closely shaven face, except that "a faded German
moustache overshadowed his upper lip." It does not appear that he was
received as a welcome visitor, although he jocularly remarked to some of
the prisoners who had been captured by his own troopers that he was "glad
to see them there."
Time! what wonders dost thou work. But a few years have passed, and
Mosby, who was erst so malignant a rebel, that even the poor, but loyal,
prisoners, presented him the cold shoulder, is now a confidential friend of
the late Commander in chief of the Union Army! Longstreet, the rebel
General, again swears by the Star-Spangled Banner; and Beauregard, hero
of Sumter and Bull Run, is now an advocate of perfect equality between the
black and white races in his Southern State of Louisiana!
The visit of Colonel Mosby was the last memorable incident of our hero's
sojourn in "Libby." Upon the seventh of May following, the prisoners were
removed thence to Danville, Virginia. Several, in the course of this transit,
effected their escape, but the great majority were safely conveyed to their
new place of imprisonment. The change made no improvement in their
unhappy condition. True, the rations furnished at Danville were of
Unquestioned, in her sight!"
Her career was full of adventure and intrepid daring, and she served the
disloyal cause she espoused faithfully and to the bitter end; and then, like
other wandering stars of the troubled sky, sank into oblivion. From the time
of Miss Boyd's visit until the seventh of May, Willard Glazier continued to
lead the same dull life at Libby Prison. The monotony of the hours was
unbroken by any circumstance more exciting than a visit from the
celebrated partisan chief, Mosby, who is described by Glazier as a preux
chevalier, at that time about twenty-eight years of age, in figure slight, with
straight fair hair and closely shaven face, except that "a faded German
moustache overshadowed his upper lip." It does not appear that he was
received as a welcome visitor, although he jocularly remarked to some of
the prisoners who had been captured by his own troopers that he was "glad
to see them there."
Time! what wonders dost thou work. But a few years have passed, and
Mosby, who was erst so malignant a rebel, that even the poor, but loyal,
prisoners, presented him the cold shoulder, is now a confidential friend of
the late Commander in chief of the Union Army! Longstreet, the rebel
General, again swears by the Star-Spangled Banner; and Beauregard, hero
of Sumter and Bull Run, is now an advocate of perfect equality between the
black and white races in his Southern State of Louisiana!
The visit of Colonel Mosby was the last memorable incident of our hero's
sojourn in "Libby." Upon the seventh of May following, the prisoners were
removed thence to Danville, Virginia. Several, in the course of this transit,
effected their escape, but the great majority were safely conveyed to their
new place of imprisonment. The change made no improvement in their
unhappy condition. True, the rations furnished at Danville were of
Page 211
somewhat better quality, and more liberal in quantity, but the discipline was
equally Draconian, and the penalty of its slightest infraction—death! The
chief source of misery among the captives was want of room, the men being
compelled to sleep "spoon-fashion," and in detachments, many being
compelled to stand up awake while their comrades slept as best they could.
This condition of things, however, did not last long. Early upon the
morning of the twelfth, the prisoners were once more marched out and
started southward. After a journey of twenty-four hours in cattle cars,
exposed most of the time to a drenching rain, they were disembarked and
tramped another twelve miles to Greensboro. Here the mass of weary, wet,
and hopeless patriots were about to be driven, pell-mell, like a herd of
cattle, into a train of filthy cars, when young Glazier thought he espied a
chance of evading his captors. He waited until it appeared to him that the
guard was sufficiently occupied with other duties to overlook his
whereabouts, and then slipped behind a log, where in an instant he lay upon
the ground apparently fast asleep, trusting in the confusion attendant upon
the departure of the train to escape observation. But fortune was against
him. The only result was the infliction upon that portion of his body which
some mothers consider the "corrective point" of their children, of sundry
unceremonious kicks, which, coming from such boots as the "C. S. A." at
that time supplied to their soldiers, were felt to be more persuasive than
agreeable. Of course it became necessary to awaken from his profound
slumber slowly, which made the kicks still more persuasive, and by the time
he was erect, the cars were filled and the doors all closed. The guards
therefore insisted upon his effecting an entrance through the small window,
which he did with certain vigorous assistance from behind, and landed upon
the head and shoulders of Lieutenant-Colonel Joselyn, of the Fifteenth
Massachusetts Infantry, who passed him around in such a way that the other
equally Draconian, and the penalty of its slightest infraction—death! The
chief source of misery among the captives was want of room, the men being
compelled to sleep "spoon-fashion," and in detachments, many being
compelled to stand up awake while their comrades slept as best they could.
This condition of things, however, did not last long. Early upon the
morning of the twelfth, the prisoners were once more marched out and
started southward. After a journey of twenty-four hours in cattle cars,
exposed most of the time to a drenching rain, they were disembarked and
tramped another twelve miles to Greensboro. Here the mass of weary, wet,
and hopeless patriots were about to be driven, pell-mell, like a herd of
cattle, into a train of filthy cars, when young Glazier thought he espied a
chance of evading his captors. He waited until it appeared to him that the
guard was sufficiently occupied with other duties to overlook his
whereabouts, and then slipped behind a log, where in an instant he lay upon
the ground apparently fast asleep, trusting in the confusion attendant upon
the departure of the train to escape observation. But fortune was against
him. The only result was the infliction upon that portion of his body which
some mothers consider the "corrective point" of their children, of sundry
unceremonious kicks, which, coming from such boots as the "C. S. A." at
that time supplied to their soldiers, were felt to be more persuasive than
agreeable. Of course it became necessary to awaken from his profound
slumber slowly, which made the kicks still more persuasive, and by the time
he was erect, the cars were filled and the doors all closed. The guards
therefore insisted upon his effecting an entrance through the small window,
which he did with certain vigorous assistance from behind, and landed upon
the head and shoulders of Lieutenant-Colonel Joselyn, of the Fifteenth
Massachusetts Infantry, who passed him around in such a way that the other
Page 212
occupants of the car were moved to sundry objurgations at the expense of
our young friend more forcible than polite, and partaking little of the nature
of a hospitable reception! However, this is a world of compromises, and
Glazier soon found his level among his fellow-captives.
Their route took them through a portion of North Carolina, where for the
first time they met with unmistakable proofs of sympathy. At one city, on
learning there were "Yankee prisoners" in town, the citizens came out in
large numbers. Many attempted to converse with them, but were forced
back at the point of the bayonet. The prisoners then struck up the "Star-
Spangled Banner," and "Rally Round the Flag," and in each interlude could
see white handkerchiefs waving in the breeze, demonstrations that so
exasperated the Virginia guard that they sent a detail to drive "the d—d tar-
heels" from the field.
The contiguity of friends of course presented a strong temptation to some
to strike for liberty. Every device promising the least chance of escape was
therefore resorted to. Among the most ingenious of these was one so
graphically described by young Glazier that we make no apology for again
using his language:
our young friend more forcible than polite, and partaking little of the nature
of a hospitable reception! However, this is a world of compromises, and
Glazier soon found his level among his fellow-captives.
Their route took them through a portion of North Carolina, where for the
first time they met with unmistakable proofs of sympathy. At one city, on
learning there were "Yankee prisoners" in town, the citizens came out in
large numbers. Many attempted to converse with them, but were forced
back at the point of the bayonet. The prisoners then struck up the "Star-
Spangled Banner," and "Rally Round the Flag," and in each interlude could
see white handkerchiefs waving in the breeze, demonstrations that so
exasperated the Virginia guard that they sent a detail to drive "the d—d tar-
heels" from the field.
The contiguity of friends of course presented a strong temptation to some
to strike for liberty. Every device promising the least chance of escape was
therefore resorted to. Among the most ingenious of these was one so
graphically described by young Glazier that we make no apology for again
using his language:
Page 213
PRISON PEN, MACON, GEORGIA. Tunneling—The narrow path to freedom.
"The night being very dark," he writes, "and the soil where we were
huddled together very sandy and light, many of the prisoners dug holes in
the ground and there buried themselves, hoping thus to escape the
observation of the guard when we should be marched from the field to the
cars. Unfortunately, however, the scheme was exposed by one of the guard
who accidentally stumbled into one of the holes, in the bottom of which he
beheld a 'live Yankee.' Struck with amazement, he shouted out: 'Oh, my G
—, Captain, here is a Yankee buried alive!' Great excitement was the natural
consequence. A general search ensued, torch-lights were used, and the trees
and ground thoroughly inspected. This investigation brought to light several
holes of a similar character, each having deposited therein a Federal
prisoner. The guards were very angry and went about shouting, 'Run them
through! Pick up the d—d hounds!' but their captain, a good-natured sort of
man, stopped all this. 'No,' said he, 'the d—d Yankees have a right to escape
if they can. Let them alone. I'll risk their getting away from me!'"
Some of the burrowers did escape, however, and several others hid
themselves in the foliage and were left behind.
After this nothing eventful occurred upon the way, and on the fifteenth of
the same month, the whole party arrived at Augusta, Georgia, and found the
home guards, to whose custody they were consigned, a bad lot. From that
city they were soon after removed to Macon. Up to this period, amid all the
mortifications of their condition, notwithstanding their tiresome rides and
weary marches; despite the chagrin they naturally felt when well-laid plans
of escape were frustrated by accidents beyond the power of men to foresee,
they still had one source of consolation—there was at least one drop of
balm in Gilead—for had they not gotten rid of—Turner!
"The night being very dark," he writes, "and the soil where we were
huddled together very sandy and light, many of the prisoners dug holes in
the ground and there buried themselves, hoping thus to escape the
observation of the guard when we should be marched from the field to the
cars. Unfortunately, however, the scheme was exposed by one of the guard
who accidentally stumbled into one of the holes, in the bottom of which he
beheld a 'live Yankee.' Struck with amazement, he shouted out: 'Oh, my G
—, Captain, here is a Yankee buried alive!' Great excitement was the natural
consequence. A general search ensued, torch-lights were used, and the trees
and ground thoroughly inspected. This investigation brought to light several
holes of a similar character, each having deposited therein a Federal
prisoner. The guards were very angry and went about shouting, 'Run them
through! Pick up the d—d hounds!' but their captain, a good-natured sort of
man, stopped all this. 'No,' said he, 'the d—d Yankees have a right to escape
if they can. Let them alone. I'll risk their getting away from me!'"
Some of the burrowers did escape, however, and several others hid
themselves in the foliage and were left behind.
After this nothing eventful occurred upon the way, and on the fifteenth of
the same month, the whole party arrived at Augusta, Georgia, and found the
home guards, to whose custody they were consigned, a bad lot. From that
city they were soon after removed to Macon. Up to this period, amid all the
mortifications of their condition, notwithstanding their tiresome rides and
weary marches; despite the chagrin they naturally felt when well-laid plans
of escape were frustrated by accidents beyond the power of men to foresee,
they still had one source of consolation—there was at least one drop of
balm in Gilead—for had they not gotten rid of—Turner!
Page 214
Judge, then, of their mingled horror and despair when they reached the
front gate of Camp Oglethorpe, their future prison, to find that monster
before them, lounging gracefully against the gate entrance, and evidently
delighted with the idea of being in a condition to shock his former victims
with his presence.
The laugh, however, was not entirely his, for, upon mustering them, he
discovered that forty-seven had escaped. Smothering his wrath for the
moment, he welcomed the remainder to their prison-house, with the
gratifying intelligence that it had its dead-line, and all who approached it
had better be ready to meet the contingencies of a future state of rewards
and punishments!
After horrifying them with his presence, he shortly took himself off, and
not long afterward, to their great relief, was ordered back to Richmond.
Before the week had expired, Glazier had an opportunity of estimating
how careless(?) some of his custodians were in handling their firearms,
being an eye-witness of an attempt by a sentinel to shoot Lieutenant Barker,
of the First Rhode Island Cavalry. The bullet, kinder than the boy who sped
it on its errand (for this guard was not over fourteen years of age), passed
over the old man's head. As the latter noted the direction of the lad's aim,
and heard the whistle of the bullet above him, he very temperately asked the
somewhat unnecessary question, "What are you shooting at?" "I am
shooting at you, you d—d old cuss." "What are you shooting at me for?"
mildly inquired the lieutenant. "Because you had your hands on the dead-
line," answered the boy. At this moment the sergeant of the guard came up,
and taking the precocious ruffian by the collar, shook him with considerable
energy, and demanded of him very fiercely, "What the devil are you
shooting at that prisoner for, you little scoundrel?" The boy replied that the
prisoner had his hands on the dead-line. Whereupon the sergeant shook him
front gate of Camp Oglethorpe, their future prison, to find that monster
before them, lounging gracefully against the gate entrance, and evidently
delighted with the idea of being in a condition to shock his former victims
with his presence.
The laugh, however, was not entirely his, for, upon mustering them, he
discovered that forty-seven had escaped. Smothering his wrath for the
moment, he welcomed the remainder to their prison-house, with the
gratifying intelligence that it had its dead-line, and all who approached it
had better be ready to meet the contingencies of a future state of rewards
and punishments!
After horrifying them with his presence, he shortly took himself off, and
not long afterward, to their great relief, was ordered back to Richmond.
Before the week had expired, Glazier had an opportunity of estimating
how careless(?) some of his custodians were in handling their firearms,
being an eye-witness of an attempt by a sentinel to shoot Lieutenant Barker,
of the First Rhode Island Cavalry. The bullet, kinder than the boy who sped
it on its errand (for this guard was not over fourteen years of age), passed
over the old man's head. As the latter noted the direction of the lad's aim,
and heard the whistle of the bullet above him, he very temperately asked the
somewhat unnecessary question, "What are you shooting at?" "I am
shooting at you, you d—d old cuss." "What are you shooting at me for?"
mildly inquired the lieutenant. "Because you had your hands on the dead-
line," answered the boy. At this moment the sergeant of the guard came up,
and taking the precocious ruffian by the collar, shook him with considerable
energy, and demanded of him very fiercely, "What the devil are you
shooting at that prisoner for, you little scoundrel?" The boy replied that the
prisoner had his hands on the dead-line. Whereupon the sergeant shook him
Page 215
again, told him he was a liar—that the lieutenant was not within twenty feet
of the dead-line, and consigned him to the custody of the corporal of the
guard, who marched the young monster away.
Captain Glazier states that he was within ten feet of the lieutenant when
the shot was fired, and that the latter was not within thirty feet of the fatal
line. The incident was not very exhilarating upon the threshold of his new
abode, and the prisoners naturally felt greatly exasperated when they heard
the particulars.
An order was promulgated next morning by the officer commanding,
Captain W. K. Tabb, directing that "any of their number not in ranks at roll-
call should be shot," which was not calculated to make them think more
kindly of their jailers. The fact is, that the prisoners, in pursuance of a
settled determination to lose no opportunity of escape that seemed at all
feasible, had been again making experiments in tunneling, and this
atrocious order was intended as a measure of precaution against similar
schemes in future.
Thus excluded from the relief afforded by such hopeful occupation, their
poor captives had to find other employment for their leisure hours, and at
this time a kind of religious revival took place among them, and if human
prayer could have effected the destruction of the Confederacy, that
organization would certainly have crumbled into dust forthwith. The
enthusiasm was so great that at times the exercises bordered upon tumult,
and greatly incensed their less fervent guards. At one time a huge Western
man poured forth such a rhapsody in favor of Grant and Sherman, and
garnished it with such pungent denunciations of Jefferson Davis, and other
Confederate magnates, that one of the jailers commented thus: "D—d smart
praying, but it won't do! It won't do!"
of the dead-line, and consigned him to the custody of the corporal of the
guard, who marched the young monster away.
Captain Glazier states that he was within ten feet of the lieutenant when
the shot was fired, and that the latter was not within thirty feet of the fatal
line. The incident was not very exhilarating upon the threshold of his new
abode, and the prisoners naturally felt greatly exasperated when they heard
the particulars.
An order was promulgated next morning by the officer commanding,
Captain W. K. Tabb, directing that "any of their number not in ranks at roll-
call should be shot," which was not calculated to make them think more
kindly of their jailers. The fact is, that the prisoners, in pursuance of a
settled determination to lose no opportunity of escape that seemed at all
feasible, had been again making experiments in tunneling, and this
atrocious order was intended as a measure of precaution against similar
schemes in future.
Thus excluded from the relief afforded by such hopeful occupation, their
poor captives had to find other employment for their leisure hours, and at
this time a kind of religious revival took place among them, and if human
prayer could have effected the destruction of the Confederacy, that
organization would certainly have crumbled into dust forthwith. The
enthusiasm was so great that at times the exercises bordered upon tumult,
and greatly incensed their less fervent guards. At one time a huge Western
man poured forth such a rhapsody in favor of Grant and Sherman, and
garnished it with such pungent denunciations of Jefferson Davis, and other
Confederate magnates, that one of the jailers commented thus: "D—d smart
praying, but it won't do! It won't do!"
Page 216
On the morning of the tenth of August, an order from the Confederate
War Department was read before the entire garrison of Camp Oglethorpe,
and caused much excitement. This order directed that a detachment of fifty
prisoners, selected from officers of the highest rank, should be forwarded to
Charleston, in order that they might be placed under the fire of the siege
guns with which the beleaguering Union forces were attempting the
reduction of that city. The order further directed that Generals Scammon,
Wessels, Seymour, Schuyler and Heckman should be included in the
number. The mandate was of course at once executed, and the departure of
the devoted band was the signal for a wild burst of indignant reprobation of
the Confederate authorities. It happened also, at this time, that one of the
sentinels shot and mortally wounded a prisoner. The victim's name was Otto
Grierson, and he had been a general favorite. The excuse assigned for the
murder was that he was endeavoring to escape, but his comrades declared
that at the time the shot was fired, he was fully sixteen feet from the dead-
line, and had made no attempt to escape. Young Glazier and others joined in
a formal report of the facts to the officer in command, but the only result
was that the murderer received promotion, and was granted a furlough!
If the statements of Captain Glazier regarding this and other
contemporaneous outrages are to be relied upon (and he is very strongly
corroborated), the officers commanding this military prison sadly abused
their trust. Even the highest of those officials indulged in such petty
exhibitions of puerile spite as to be altogether unworthy of his station, or
even the name of an American.
On the arrival of the Fourth of July, the prisoners very naturally
determined, as far as their limited resources would permit, to celebrate the
occasion. Accordingly, in true American fashion, a meeting was called, at
which speeches of a patriotic character were made, songs sung, and a
War Department was read before the entire garrison of Camp Oglethorpe,
and caused much excitement. This order directed that a detachment of fifty
prisoners, selected from officers of the highest rank, should be forwarded to
Charleston, in order that they might be placed under the fire of the siege
guns with which the beleaguering Union forces were attempting the
reduction of that city. The order further directed that Generals Scammon,
Wessels, Seymour, Schuyler and Heckman should be included in the
number. The mandate was of course at once executed, and the departure of
the devoted band was the signal for a wild burst of indignant reprobation of
the Confederate authorities. It happened also, at this time, that one of the
sentinels shot and mortally wounded a prisoner. The victim's name was Otto
Grierson, and he had been a general favorite. The excuse assigned for the
murder was that he was endeavoring to escape, but his comrades declared
that at the time the shot was fired, he was fully sixteen feet from the dead-
line, and had made no attempt to escape. Young Glazier and others joined in
a formal report of the facts to the officer in command, but the only result
was that the murderer received promotion, and was granted a furlough!
If the statements of Captain Glazier regarding this and other
contemporaneous outrages are to be relied upon (and he is very strongly
corroborated), the officers commanding this military prison sadly abused
their trust. Even the highest of those officials indulged in such petty
exhibitions of puerile spite as to be altogether unworthy of his station, or
even the name of an American.
On the arrival of the Fourth of July, the prisoners very naturally
determined, as far as their limited resources would permit, to celebrate the
occasion. Accordingly, in true American fashion, a meeting was called, at
which speeches of a patriotic character were made, songs sung, and a
Page 217
miniature flag, containing the full number of stars and stripes, which one of
their number had concealed about his person, was produced, and became an
object of much interest. Instead of magnanimously ignoring all this
harmless enthusiasm, the commander of the prison marched in a company
of guards and violently dispersed the meeting!
On the twenty-seventh of July, six hundred prisoners were counted out,
as they supposed to be added to the others under fire at Charleston, but
really for removal to Camp Davidson, at Savannah, Georgia.
This change proved for the better. In the first place, in lieu of the Sahara
of shadeless sand and clay of their former prison grounds, they found at
"Davidson" a number of fine oaks, beneath the shade of which they were
permitted to recline in peace. In addition to this, and a matter of infinitely
greater importance, their guards were officered by gentlemen. Captain
Glazier states that the authorities here issued tents, cooking utensils, and
decent rations, and adds this tribute to their generally manly conduct toward
the prisoners: "The troops here have seen service, and there is nothing like
the battle-field and the suffering there experienced to teach soldiers
humanity toward each other. Whenever attempts are made to escape, they
give us to understand that they would do the same themselves, under like
circumstances, but are still compelled to punish such infractions of
discipline. They politely ask our pardon for inspecting our quarters, and in a
manner as gentlemanly as possible, remove our blankets from the floor of
our tents in their search for incipient tunnels. All this is very gratifying and
tends to assuage the bitter hatred which former brutality has engendered.
These Georgia boys will be long remembered, and may look for the utmost
kindness and consideration from us if the chances of war ever reverse our
situations."
their number had concealed about his person, was produced, and became an
object of much interest. Instead of magnanimously ignoring all this
harmless enthusiasm, the commander of the prison marched in a company
of guards and violently dispersed the meeting!
On the twenty-seventh of July, six hundred prisoners were counted out,
as they supposed to be added to the others under fire at Charleston, but
really for removal to Camp Davidson, at Savannah, Georgia.
This change proved for the better. In the first place, in lieu of the Sahara
of shadeless sand and clay of their former prison grounds, they found at
"Davidson" a number of fine oaks, beneath the shade of which they were
permitted to recline in peace. In addition to this, and a matter of infinitely
greater importance, their guards were officered by gentlemen. Captain
Glazier states that the authorities here issued tents, cooking utensils, and
decent rations, and adds this tribute to their generally manly conduct toward
the prisoners: "The troops here have seen service, and there is nothing like
the battle-field and the suffering there experienced to teach soldiers
humanity toward each other. Whenever attempts are made to escape, they
give us to understand that they would do the same themselves, under like
circumstances, but are still compelled to punish such infractions of
discipline. They politely ask our pardon for inspecting our quarters, and in a
manner as gentlemanly as possible, remove our blankets from the floor of
our tents in their search for incipient tunnels. All this is very gratifying and
tends to assuage the bitter hatred which former brutality has engendered.
These Georgia boys will be long remembered, and may look for the utmost
kindness and consideration from us if the chances of war ever reverse our
situations."
Page 218
This is a record for Georgia nobler far than any she ever gained upon the
battle-field, albeit her sons were always in the van. All honor to them! Such
victories are well worth the winning.
But pleasant as their Georgia quarters were by comparison with former
experiences, the captives were afflicted with the malade du pays—the
home-sickness that tugged at their hearts, and bade them again and again
risk death for the chance of freedom. Tunnel after tunnel was attempted,
and one, constructed by a select band (sworn to secrecy), was upon the eve
of completion, when a straggling cow blundered upon the frail covering of
turf, and became so securely imbedded in the falling earth that she could
not extricate herself. Her bellowing attracted the attention of the sentinel,
the plot was discovered, and, of course, frustrated.
Despite such disappointments, however, when the time came, as it soon
did, for the prisoners to leave Savannah, they did so with sentiments of
gratitude for the comparatively humane treatment they had received at the
hands of the Georgians, not unmingled, however, with apprehensions
concerning their future, for it was openly rumored that they were destined
to join their former fellow-prisoners now under fire of Gilmore's siege guns
at Charleston.
battle-field, albeit her sons were always in the van. All honor to them! Such
victories are well worth the winning.
But pleasant as their Georgia quarters were by comparison with former
experiences, the captives were afflicted with the malade du pays—the
home-sickness that tugged at their hearts, and bade them again and again
risk death for the chance of freedom. Tunnel after tunnel was attempted,
and one, constructed by a select band (sworn to secrecy), was upon the eve
of completion, when a straggling cow blundered upon the frail covering of
turf, and became so securely imbedded in the falling earth that she could
not extricate herself. Her bellowing attracted the attention of the sentinel,
the plot was discovered, and, of course, frustrated.
Despite such disappointments, however, when the time came, as it soon
did, for the prisoners to leave Savannah, they did so with sentiments of
gratitude for the comparatively humane treatment they had received at the
hands of the Georgians, not unmingled, however, with apprehensions
concerning their future, for it was openly rumored that they were destined
to join their former fellow-prisoners now under fire of Gilmore's siege guns
at Charleston.
Page 219
CHAPTER XIX.
UNDER FIRE AT CHARLESTON.
Under siege. — Charleston Jail. — The Stars and Stripes. — Federal compliments. — Under the
guns. — Roper Hospital. — Yellow Jack. — Sisters of Charity. — Rebel Christianity. — A
Byronic stanza. — Charleston to Columbia. — "Camp Sorghum." — Nemesis. — Another
dash for liberty. — Murder of Lieutenants Young and Parker. — Studying topography. — A
vaticination. — Back to reality.
The next we see of Lieutenant Glazier is in the city of Charleston, South
Carolina, on the twelfth of September, 1864. Coming Street on the morning
of that day was crowded with people of every variety of calling, from the
priest and sister of charity, out on their merciful errands, to the riff-raff and
sans-culottes out on no errand at all but to help the excitement. The city was
under siege.
At the end of the street a body of six hundred emaciated, broken-spirited,
ragged men, escorted by a strong guard, marched along, and the busiest of
the pedestrians paused to gaze upon them as they passed. Coarse and
scurrilous was the greeting the captives received from the motley and
shameless groups. A few of the more respectable citizens, however, spoke
words of grace to them, and some added hopeful predictions of the final
triumph of the Union cause. The prisoners were hurried forward to the yard
of Charleston Jail, where for the first time in many weary months they
beheld the glorious flag of their country floating in the breeze over Morris
Island. Weak as they were the patriotic sentiment was still strong within and
they gave one rousing cheer! Some, despite the curses of their guard,
dancing like children, while others wept tears of joy.
UNDER FIRE AT CHARLESTON.
Under siege. — Charleston Jail. — The Stars and Stripes. — Federal compliments. — Under the
guns. — Roper Hospital. — Yellow Jack. — Sisters of Charity. — Rebel Christianity. — A
Byronic stanza. — Charleston to Columbia. — "Camp Sorghum." — Nemesis. — Another
dash for liberty. — Murder of Lieutenants Young and Parker. — Studying topography. — A
vaticination. — Back to reality.
The next we see of Lieutenant Glazier is in the city of Charleston, South
Carolina, on the twelfth of September, 1864. Coming Street on the morning
of that day was crowded with people of every variety of calling, from the
priest and sister of charity, out on their merciful errands, to the riff-raff and
sans-culottes out on no errand at all but to help the excitement. The city was
under siege.
At the end of the street a body of six hundred emaciated, broken-spirited,
ragged men, escorted by a strong guard, marched along, and the busiest of
the pedestrians paused to gaze upon them as they passed. Coarse and
scurrilous was the greeting the captives received from the motley and
shameless groups. A few of the more respectable citizens, however, spoke
words of grace to them, and some added hopeful predictions of the final
triumph of the Union cause. The prisoners were hurried forward to the yard
of Charleston Jail, where for the first time in many weary months they
beheld the glorious flag of their country floating in the breeze over Morris
Island. Weak as they were the patriotic sentiment was still strong within and
they gave one rousing cheer! Some, despite the curses of their guard,
dancing like children, while others wept tears of joy.
Page 220
CHARLESTON JAIL—CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA.
The jail, as Captain Glazier describes it, was a large octagonal building of
four stories, surmounted by a tower. In the rear was a large workshop, in
appearance like a bastile, where some of the prisoners were confined. As a
lugubrious accessory to his own quarters, he had a remarkably clear view of
a gallows, erected directly in front of his fragment of a tent. "The ground
floor of the jail was occupied by ordinary criminal convicts; the second
story by Confederate officers and soldiers, under punishment for military
offences; the third by negro prisoners, and the fourth by Federal and
Confederate deserters, and it is complimentary to the good sense of the
rebels that deserters from either side were treated by them with equal
severity." He gives a sad account of the terrible condition of the negro
soldiers and their officers who were captured at Fort Wagner, and says the
hospital at this place was "a lazar-house of indescribable misery."
On the twenty-second of September, Glazier makes the following note on
the progress of the siege:
The jail, as Captain Glazier describes it, was a large octagonal building of
four stories, surmounted by a tower. In the rear was a large workshop, in
appearance like a bastile, where some of the prisoners were confined. As a
lugubrious accessory to his own quarters, he had a remarkably clear view of
a gallows, erected directly in front of his fragment of a tent. "The ground
floor of the jail was occupied by ordinary criminal convicts; the second
story by Confederate officers and soldiers, under punishment for military
offences; the third by negro prisoners, and the fourth by Federal and
Confederate deserters, and it is complimentary to the good sense of the
rebels that deserters from either side were treated by them with equal
severity." He gives a sad account of the terrible condition of the negro
soldiers and their officers who were captured at Fort Wagner, and says the
hospital at this place was "a lazar-house of indescribable misery."
On the twenty-second of September, Glazier makes the following note on
the progress of the siege:
Page 221
"Shelling is kept up vigorously. From sixty to a hundred huge, smoking
two-hundred-pounders convey Federal compliments daily to the doomed
city."
It appears, however, that, for the most part, the destructive effects of this
bombardment were confined to what was known as the "burnt district," and
caused little damage to the inhabited portion of the city.
Seven days after the above entry in his journal his heart was gladdened
by an order for removal, with his fellow-prisoner and messmate, Lieutenant
Richardson, to Roper Hospital; a place much more tolerable as to its
situation and appointments, though still within shell-range of the
bombarding force. Prior to the transfer, a parole was obtained from each, by
which they pledged themselves, while in their new quarters, to make no
attempt to escape.
Here our prisoner found opportunity under the usual restrictions for
writing the following letter home:
[Only one page allowed.]
C. S. Military Prison,
Charleston, South Carolina,
Roper Hospital, October 4th, 1864.
My Dear Mother:
For a long time you have doubtless waited with anxiety some
intelligence of your absent son, which would tell you of his health, and
his prospects of release from the disagreeable restraints of prison life;
and I am now delighted to find this opportunity of writing to you. Since
my last letter, which was dated at Libby Prison, I have been confined at
Danville, Virginia; Macon and Savannah, Georgia; and at this point. My
health for the most part has been very poor, which I attribute to the
inactivity of prison life. I have also suffered much for want of clothing.
two-hundred-pounders convey Federal compliments daily to the doomed
city."
It appears, however, that, for the most part, the destructive effects of this
bombardment were confined to what was known as the "burnt district," and
caused little damage to the inhabited portion of the city.
Seven days after the above entry in his journal his heart was gladdened
by an order for removal, with his fellow-prisoner and messmate, Lieutenant
Richardson, to Roper Hospital; a place much more tolerable as to its
situation and appointments, though still within shell-range of the
bombarding force. Prior to the transfer, a parole was obtained from each, by
which they pledged themselves, while in their new quarters, to make no
attempt to escape.
Here our prisoner found opportunity under the usual restrictions for
writing the following letter home:
[Only one page allowed.]
C. S. Military Prison,
Charleston, South Carolina,
Roper Hospital, October 4th, 1864.
My Dear Mother:
For a long time you have doubtless waited with anxiety some
intelligence of your absent son, which would tell you of his health, and
his prospects of release from the disagreeable restraints of prison life;
and I am now delighted to find this opportunity of writing to you. Since
my last letter, which was dated at Libby Prison, I have been confined at
Danville, Virginia; Macon and Savannah, Georgia; and at this point. My
health for the most part has been very poor, which I attribute to the
inactivity of prison life. I have also suffered much for want of clothing.
Page 222
I have a pair of shoes on to-day that I bought more than a year ago; have
run about barefoot for days and weeks during the past summer; many of
my comrades have been compelled to do the same. I do not look for a
general exchange before winter, though I hope and pray that it may take
place to-morrow. There is now an opportunity for sending boxes to
prisoners. I should be glad to receive one from home if convenient.
Please give my love to all the family circle. Remember me to my
friends, and believe me ever
Your affectionate son,
Willard.
The days passed anxiously with Glazier, when the yellow fever began its
inroads upon the prisoners. He had now, at the same moment, to face death
at the hands of man, and by the pestilence—a condition of things to which
the bravest spirit might succumb. One great source of consolation was
derived from the visits of the Sisters of Charity, who were always found
where suffering and peril prevailed. Writing of these angelic women,
Captain Glazier says:—"Confined as we are, so far away from every home
comfort and influence, and from all that makes life worth living, how
quickly do we notice the first kind word, the passing friendly glance! Can
any prisoner confined here ever forget the 'Sisters of Charity?' Ask the poor
private now suffering in the loathsome hospital so near us, while burning
with fever, or racked with pain, if he can forget the kind look, the gracious
word given him by that sister. Many are the bunches of grapes—many the
sip of their pure juice, that the sufferer gets from her hands. They seem,
they are 'ministering angels;' and while all around us are our avowed
enemies, they remain true to every instinct of womanhood. They dare lift
the finger to help, they do relieve many a sufferer. All through the South our
sick and wounded soldiers have had reason to bless the 'Sisters of Charity.'
run about barefoot for days and weeks during the past summer; many of
my comrades have been compelled to do the same. I do not look for a
general exchange before winter, though I hope and pray that it may take
place to-morrow. There is now an opportunity for sending boxes to
prisoners. I should be glad to receive one from home if convenient.
Please give my love to all the family circle. Remember me to my
friends, and believe me ever
Your affectionate son,
Willard.
The days passed anxiously with Glazier, when the yellow fever began its
inroads upon the prisoners. He had now, at the same moment, to face death
at the hands of man, and by the pestilence—a condition of things to which
the bravest spirit might succumb. One great source of consolation was
derived from the visits of the Sisters of Charity, who were always found
where suffering and peril prevailed. Writing of these angelic women,
Captain Glazier says:—"Confined as we are, so far away from every home
comfort and influence, and from all that makes life worth living, how
quickly do we notice the first kind word, the passing friendly glance! Can
any prisoner confined here ever forget the 'Sisters of Charity?' Ask the poor
private now suffering in the loathsome hospital so near us, while burning
with fever, or racked with pain, if he can forget the kind look, the gracious
word given him by that sister. Many are the bunches of grapes—many the
sip of their pure juice, that the sufferer gets from her hands. They seem,
they are 'ministering angels;' and while all around us are our avowed
enemies, they remain true to every instinct of womanhood. They dare lift
the finger to help, they do relieve many a sufferer. All through the South our
sick and wounded soldiers have had reason to bless the 'Sisters of Charity.'
Page 223
They have ministered to their wants and performed those kind womanly
offices which are better to the sick than medicine, and are so peculiarly
soothing to the dying. These noble women have attended their sick-beds
when other Christian ladies of the South looked on unpityingly, and turned
away without even tendering the cheap charity of a kind word. They have
done what others were too scornful and cruel to do—they have done what
others did not dare do. They were, for some inscrutable reason, permitted to
bestow their charities wherever charities were needed. Their bounties were
bestowed indiscriminately on Federal and Confederate sufferers, and
evidenced a broad philanthropy untainted by party-feeling or religious
bigotry. Many a poor soldier has followed them from ward to ward with
tearful eyes.... Were other Christian denominations in the South as active in
aiding us as the Catholics have been, I might have some faith in 'Rebel
Christianity.'"
This is no mean tribute to the beneficent influences of the Catholic
church, albeit the pen of a Protestant records it; but the facts fully justify
him. Protestant England had one—the Church of Rome has her legions of
Florence Nightingales. They are found in the camp, and the hospital, and
the prison—wherever human sympathy can palliate human suffering; they
are to be found where even wives and mothers flee before the dreaded
pestilence, and these ministers of divine love, like light and air, and the
dews of Heaven, visit alike the rich and poor, the sinner and the saint; the
only claim they recognize being the claim of suffering and misfortune.
Willard Glazier remained under the guns of his friends until the fifth of
October, and during his sojourn here had various opportunities of forming
an acquaintance with vagrant shot and shell that struck or exploded near the
hospital building, but fortunately did no greater damage to its inmates than
create "a scare."
offices which are better to the sick than medicine, and are so peculiarly
soothing to the dying. These noble women have attended their sick-beds
when other Christian ladies of the South looked on unpityingly, and turned
away without even tendering the cheap charity of a kind word. They have
done what others were too scornful and cruel to do—they have done what
others did not dare do. They were, for some inscrutable reason, permitted to
bestow their charities wherever charities were needed. Their bounties were
bestowed indiscriminately on Federal and Confederate sufferers, and
evidenced a broad philanthropy untainted by party-feeling or religious
bigotry. Many a poor soldier has followed them from ward to ward with
tearful eyes.... Were other Christian denominations in the South as active in
aiding us as the Catholics have been, I might have some faith in 'Rebel
Christianity.'"
This is no mean tribute to the beneficent influences of the Catholic
church, albeit the pen of a Protestant records it; but the facts fully justify
him. Protestant England had one—the Church of Rome has her legions of
Florence Nightingales. They are found in the camp, and the hospital, and
the prison—wherever human sympathy can palliate human suffering; they
are to be found where even wives and mothers flee before the dreaded
pestilence, and these ministers of divine love, like light and air, and the
dews of Heaven, visit alike the rich and poor, the sinner and the saint; the
only claim they recognize being the claim of suffering and misfortune.
Willard Glazier remained under the guns of his friends until the fifth of
October, and during his sojourn here had various opportunities of forming
an acquaintance with vagrant shot and shell that struck or exploded near the
hospital building, but fortunately did no greater damage to its inmates than
create "a scare."
Page 224
What was much more serious was the prevalence of the deadly fever,
which was of a most malignant type, and carried off, among its many
victims, the Confederate commander and his adjutant. The prisoners
therefore were removed—the authorities assigning as their reason for the
step, the "danger to which they would be exposed on account of the fever;"
and although, at the time, it appeared an anomaly to the prisoners, "after
bringing them there to be murdered by their own guns, to remove them for
the purpose of saving them from death in another shape,"—yet it is possible
such was the case. At all events they were removed, and their "Poet
Laureate"—Lieutenant Ogden, of Wisconsin—wrote a farewell poem,
containing among others, the following "Byronic" stanza:
"Thy Sanctuaries are forsaken now;
Dark mould and moss cling to thy fretted towers;
Deep rents and seams, where struggling lichens grow,
And no sweet voice of prayer at vestal hours;
But voice of screaming shot and bursting shell,
Thy deep damnation and thy doom foretell.
The 'fire' has left a pile of broken walls,
And Night-hags revel in thy ruined halls!"
Who will say that a dread Nemesis has not overtaken the metropolis of
the Palmetto State? Streets, once the busy scene of commerce and industry,
now covered with grass, in this city of secession—formerly the head and
front of treason and rebellion and the defiant advocate of human slavery!
Escorted by the Thirty-second Georgia Volunteers, Glazier and his fifteen
hundred companions were marched through the principal streets of the city
to the depot, where they took the cars for Columbia, the State capital. None
will ever forget the parade of ragged and bearded men through King Street.
which was of a most malignant type, and carried off, among its many
victims, the Confederate commander and his adjutant. The prisoners
therefore were removed—the authorities assigning as their reason for the
step, the "danger to which they would be exposed on account of the fever;"
and although, at the time, it appeared an anomaly to the prisoners, "after
bringing them there to be murdered by their own guns, to remove them for
the purpose of saving them from death in another shape,"—yet it is possible
such was the case. At all events they were removed, and their "Poet
Laureate"—Lieutenant Ogden, of Wisconsin—wrote a farewell poem,
containing among others, the following "Byronic" stanza:
"Thy Sanctuaries are forsaken now;
Dark mould and moss cling to thy fretted towers;
Deep rents and seams, where struggling lichens grow,
And no sweet voice of prayer at vestal hours;
But voice of screaming shot and bursting shell,
Thy deep damnation and thy doom foretell.
The 'fire' has left a pile of broken walls,
And Night-hags revel in thy ruined halls!"
Who will say that a dread Nemesis has not overtaken the metropolis of
the Palmetto State? Streets, once the busy scene of commerce and industry,
now covered with grass, in this city of secession—formerly the head and
front of treason and rebellion and the defiant advocate of human slavery!
Escorted by the Thirty-second Georgia Volunteers, Glazier and his fifteen
hundred companions were marched through the principal streets of the city
to the depot, where they took the cars for Columbia, the State capital. None
will ever forget the parade of ragged and bearded men through King Street.
Page 225
But the Georgian guards, while strictly attentive to duty, showed the
politeness and demeanor of gentlemen. He says of them, at this point in the
history of his imprisonment, "the Georgia troops seem to be by far the most
civil and gentlemanly of all the Southern army. They were the most
respectable in appearance, most intelligent and liberal in conversation, and
to a greater extent than others, recognized the principle that a man is a man
under whatever circumstances he may be placed, and is entitled to humane
treatment. They very generally addressed the prisoners as 'gentlemen.'"
The same kind of unventilated and filthy cattle-cars were employed in
their transportation as had been used in their various previous removals. All
suffered from want of water, air and space. The arrival of the captives at
Columbia took place in the midst of a drenching rain-storm, and during the
entire night, with scarcely any clothing, no rations, and no shelter, they
were exposed to the merciless elements, while not twenty yards off, in front
of their camping ground, glared the muzzles of a park of loaded artillery.
The prisoners, being in a starving condition, looked the picture of despair. A
discovery however was made of some bacon suspended to the rafters of the
building that enclosed them, in one corner separated by a partition. As the
famished men looked through the bars of a window and saw this tempting
food, their eyes watered, and their inventive faculties were aroused. Hooks,
strings and poles were brought into requisition, and in a short time most of
the meat, by Yankee talent, was transferred from the rafters of the building
to the stomachs of the prisoners!
The day following, they were moved to a spot about two miles from the
town, and bivouacked in an open field, without any shelter whatever.
Surrounded by the usual cordon of sentries, and menaced with the
customary "dead-line," they were turned loose to provide for themselves,
neither axe, spade, nor cooking utensils being supplied them. Two days
politeness and demeanor of gentlemen. He says of them, at this point in the
history of his imprisonment, "the Georgia troops seem to be by far the most
civil and gentlemanly of all the Southern army. They were the most
respectable in appearance, most intelligent and liberal in conversation, and
to a greater extent than others, recognized the principle that a man is a man
under whatever circumstances he may be placed, and is entitled to humane
treatment. They very generally addressed the prisoners as 'gentlemen.'"
The same kind of unventilated and filthy cattle-cars were employed in
their transportation as had been used in their various previous removals. All
suffered from want of water, air and space. The arrival of the captives at
Columbia took place in the midst of a drenching rain-storm, and during the
entire night, with scarcely any clothing, no rations, and no shelter, they
were exposed to the merciless elements, while not twenty yards off, in front
of their camping ground, glared the muzzles of a park of loaded artillery.
The prisoners, being in a starving condition, looked the picture of despair. A
discovery however was made of some bacon suspended to the rafters of the
building that enclosed them, in one corner separated by a partition. As the
famished men looked through the bars of a window and saw this tempting
food, their eyes watered, and their inventive faculties were aroused. Hooks,
strings and poles were brought into requisition, and in a short time most of
the meat, by Yankee talent, was transferred from the rafters of the building
to the stomachs of the prisoners!
The day following, they were moved to a spot about two miles from the
town, and bivouacked in an open field, without any shelter whatever.
Surrounded by the usual cordon of sentries, and menaced with the
customary "dead-line," they were turned loose to provide for themselves,
neither axe, spade, nor cooking utensils being supplied them. Two days
Page 226
after their arrival some corn-meal and sorghum were issued, the latter a
substitute for molasses. A great many suffered from diarrhœa and dysentery
in consequence, and the place from this circumstance acquired the sobriquet
of "Camp Sorghum."
They had no quarters to protect them from the cold November storms,
only huts constructed by themselves of brush and pine boughs. The
treatment at "Camp Sorghum" was so exceptionally brutal, that almost
every dark night starving men would run the guard and risk their lives to
escape dying by inches. Sometimes as many as thirty or forty would run in
one night. Generally some daring fellow would act as forlorn hope and rush
past the sentries, drawing their fire, at the imminent risk of forfeiting his
own life, his comrades joining him before the guards could reload their
rifles. The latter would then fire a volley into the camp, killing or wounding
some of the prisoners. Lieutenant Young, of the Fourth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, was thus shot dead whilst sitting at his hut, and according to
Captain Glazier, "no reason for this atrocity was apparent, and none was
assigned by the guards." The poor young fellow had been a prisoner twenty-
two months. About this time the guards accidentally killed two of their own
men, in their reckless and savage shooting, and afterwards observed more
care in firing at the prisoners.
Hounds were kept near the prison to track escaped fugitives. Lieutenant
Parker, while attempting to escape, was so much torn and bitten by these
dogs that he died the day after his recapture.
Mingled with thoughts of home, and the friends gathered around loved
firesides, there had by this time arisen in young Glazier's mind a stern
determination to win his freedom, or, in the effort, forfeit his life.
As the weather grew colder, the possession of wood became a matter of
necessity, and some of the prisoners were paroled to pass beyond the lines,
substitute for molasses. A great many suffered from diarrhœa and dysentery
in consequence, and the place from this circumstance acquired the sobriquet
of "Camp Sorghum."
They had no quarters to protect them from the cold November storms,
only huts constructed by themselves of brush and pine boughs. The
treatment at "Camp Sorghum" was so exceptionally brutal, that almost
every dark night starving men would run the guard and risk their lives to
escape dying by inches. Sometimes as many as thirty or forty would run in
one night. Generally some daring fellow would act as forlorn hope and rush
past the sentries, drawing their fire, at the imminent risk of forfeiting his
own life, his comrades joining him before the guards could reload their
rifles. The latter would then fire a volley into the camp, killing or wounding
some of the prisoners. Lieutenant Young, of the Fourth Pennsylvania
Cavalry, was thus shot dead whilst sitting at his hut, and according to
Captain Glazier, "no reason for this atrocity was apparent, and none was
assigned by the guards." The poor young fellow had been a prisoner twenty-
two months. About this time the guards accidentally killed two of their own
men, in their reckless and savage shooting, and afterwards observed more
care in firing at the prisoners.
Hounds were kept near the prison to track escaped fugitives. Lieutenant
Parker, while attempting to escape, was so much torn and bitten by these
dogs that he died the day after his recapture.
Mingled with thoughts of home, and the friends gathered around loved
firesides, there had by this time arisen in young Glazier's mind a stern
determination to win his freedom, or, in the effort, forfeit his life.
As the weather grew colder, the possession of wood became a matter of
necessity, and some of the prisoners were paroled to pass beyond the lines,
Page 227
and gather such broken branches and pieces of bark in the neighboring
woods as they could carry back into camp. Glazier availed himself of this
privilege, and stored up an abundance of fuel. But a more important
acquisition than fuel to him was the knowledge he obtained of the
topography of the surrounding country. One great difficulty he foresaw in
getting away arose from the sorry condition of his shoes, which were nearly
soleless. He succeeded, however, in obtaining the rim of an old regulation-
hat, and out of this fashioned a serviceable pair of soles for his worn-out
brogans, and thus removed one obstacle from his path.
We need feel no surprise that he and many of his companions thought no
risk too great to run for the chance of effecting their escape. Their treatment
by this time had become so bad as to be almost unendurable. For example,
to avoid being frozen to death, they were compelled to run around all night,
and only when the sun arose in the morning dare they venture to recline
themselves on the ground to sleep. The truth is, that our friend, in common
with many of his comrades, had arrived at the desperate conclusion that no
fate, even death by shooting, or by hounds, could be worse than the misery
and suffering he was now enduring. It was not alone that they were starved
and shelterless, sick and unattended, nearly naked, with no hope of being
clad; it was not alone that they were immersed, day and night, in filth and
squalor like hogs, with no prospect of relief to cheer them; but, in addition
to all this suffering of their own, they were compelled to witness the
sufferings of others—to hear their sighs and groans, and look upon faces
that hard usage and despair had made ghastly and terrible. They would greet
in the morning a man sick and emaciated perhaps, but still a human being,
erect and in God's image, who, in the evening of the same day, would
disappear from among them, making a desperate dash for freedom. The
following day a broken, nerveless, shivering wretch would be dragged into
woods as they could carry back into camp. Glazier availed himself of this
privilege, and stored up an abundance of fuel. But a more important
acquisition than fuel to him was the knowledge he obtained of the
topography of the surrounding country. One great difficulty he foresaw in
getting away arose from the sorry condition of his shoes, which were nearly
soleless. He succeeded, however, in obtaining the rim of an old regulation-
hat, and out of this fashioned a serviceable pair of soles for his worn-out
brogans, and thus removed one obstacle from his path.
We need feel no surprise that he and many of his companions thought no
risk too great to run for the chance of effecting their escape. Their treatment
by this time had become so bad as to be almost unendurable. For example,
to avoid being frozen to death, they were compelled to run around all night,
and only when the sun arose in the morning dare they venture to recline
themselves on the ground to sleep. The truth is, that our friend, in common
with many of his comrades, had arrived at the desperate conclusion that no
fate, even death by shooting, or by hounds, could be worse than the misery
and suffering he was now enduring. It was not alone that they were starved
and shelterless, sick and unattended, nearly naked, with no hope of being
clad; it was not alone that they were immersed, day and night, in filth and
squalor like hogs, with no prospect of relief to cheer them; but, in addition
to all this suffering of their own, they were compelled to witness the
sufferings of others—to hear their sighs and groans, and look upon faces
that hard usage and despair had made ghastly and terrible. They would greet
in the morning a man sick and emaciated perhaps, but still a human being,
erect and in God's image, who, in the evening of the same day, would
disappear from among them, making a desperate dash for freedom. The
following day a broken, nerveless, shivering wretch would be dragged into
Page 228
their midst, blood-stained, faint, and with the gashes of a blood-hound's
teeth covering his face and throat.
Thus it was that existence became unbearable. Their own sufferings were
hard, but to continue for many long months looking upon the sufferings of
others added to their misery beyond endurance. Accordingly, when
Thanksgiving-day arrived, and the excitement created by Sherman's "march
to the sea" had reached its highest point, Glazier and a fellow-prisoner,
named Lieutenant Lemon, determined that they would wait no longer the
slow process of tunneling, but make a bold effort for liberty—or die in the
attempt.
"It was customary," says the former, "to extend the guard-line in the
morning for the purpose of allowing prisoners (as previously stated) to
collect fuel on a piece of timbered land just opposite the camp, and it was
our intention this morning to take a shovel, when permitted to pass to the
woods, and make a hole in the ground large enough to receive our two
'skeletons,' and then enlist the services of some friend, who would cover us
up with brush and leaves, so that, when the guard was withdrawn, we would
be left without the camp." The plan looked feasible, and, if successful, it
would not be a difficult matter to reach Augusta, Georgia, at which point
they hoped to find themselves within Sherman's lines. The fates, however,
decreed otherwise. Their scheme was rendered abortive by the simple fact,
that upon that particular morning, the line was not extended at all. Why it
was not, is purely a matter of conjecture. Possibly, "the morning being
unusually cold and raw," the guard did not care to leave their own snug
tents along the line of the encampment, with no greater inducement than
that of increasing the comfort of their Yankee prisoners, who, for that day,
were left without any fires at all; but, be this as it may, the guard-line was
not extended as was usual, and thus the plot of our young friends was
teeth covering his face and throat.
Thus it was that existence became unbearable. Their own sufferings were
hard, but to continue for many long months looking upon the sufferings of
others added to their misery beyond endurance. Accordingly, when
Thanksgiving-day arrived, and the excitement created by Sherman's "march
to the sea" had reached its highest point, Glazier and a fellow-prisoner,
named Lieutenant Lemon, determined that they would wait no longer the
slow process of tunneling, but make a bold effort for liberty—or die in the
attempt.
"It was customary," says the former, "to extend the guard-line in the
morning for the purpose of allowing prisoners (as previously stated) to
collect fuel on a piece of timbered land just opposite the camp, and it was
our intention this morning to take a shovel, when permitted to pass to the
woods, and make a hole in the ground large enough to receive our two
'skeletons,' and then enlist the services of some friend, who would cover us
up with brush and leaves, so that, when the guard was withdrawn, we would
be left without the camp." The plan looked feasible, and, if successful, it
would not be a difficult matter to reach Augusta, Georgia, at which point
they hoped to find themselves within Sherman's lines. The fates, however,
decreed otherwise. Their scheme was rendered abortive by the simple fact,
that upon that particular morning, the line was not extended at all. Why it
was not, is purely a matter of conjecture. Possibly, "the morning being
unusually cold and raw," the guard did not care to leave their own snug
tents along the line of the encampment, with no greater inducement than
that of increasing the comfort of their Yankee prisoners, who, for that day,
were left without any fires at all; but, be this as it may, the guard-line was
not extended as was usual, and thus the plot of our young friends was
Page 229
frustrated for the time being. They agreed to "watch, pray and act" at the
very first opportunity that presented. It was not long before that opportunity
came.
Early upon the day following that of their disappointment, the
conspirators arranged that each should make a reconnaissance of the lines,
discover the weak points of the enemy, and, that being accomplished,
rendezvous at a given spot, ready to act upon any likely plan that might
suggest itself to them. Glazier had become a tolerably expert
physiognomist, and singled out an unsophisticated-looking giant, who was
patrolling a certain beat, as the best man among the line of sentries on
whom to practise an imposition. This individual was evidently a good-
natured lout, not long in the service, and very much resembling our
conception of "Jonas Chuzzlewit," in respect to his having been "put away
and forgotten for half a century." It is only necessary to add that his owners
"had stuck a musket in his hand, and placed him on guard." Yet there was
some pluck in him. He was just the sort of man who, led by a good officer,
would fight like a lion, but whose animal instincts had so befogged his
intellect that, if left to his own resources, he would be as likely to ruin
friend as foe.
very first opportunity that presented. It was not long before that opportunity
came.
Early upon the day following that of their disappointment, the
conspirators arranged that each should make a reconnaissance of the lines,
discover the weak points of the enemy, and, that being accomplished,
rendezvous at a given spot, ready to act upon any likely plan that might
suggest itself to them. Glazier had become a tolerably expert
physiognomist, and singled out an unsophisticated-looking giant, who was
patrolling a certain beat, as the best man among the line of sentries on
whom to practise an imposition. This individual was evidently a good-
natured lout, not long in the service, and very much resembling our
conception of "Jonas Chuzzlewit," in respect to his having been "put away
and forgotten for half a century." It is only necessary to add that his owners
"had stuck a musket in his hand, and placed him on guard." Yet there was
some pluck in him. He was just the sort of man who, led by a good officer,
would fight like a lion, but whose animal instincts had so befogged his
intellect that, if left to his own resources, he would be as likely to ruin
friend as foe.
Page 230
THE ESCAPE FROM COLUMBIA—CROSSING THE DEAD LINE.
When Glazier rejoined his comrade, he described this man, and the
friends agreed that they would boldly cross the "dead-line" immediately in
front of him, be ready to answer promptly his challenge, and, by the
audacity of their movement, attempt to deceive him in regard to their real
character and purpose. With such a man as they had to deal with, this
scheme was certain to result in one of two things: he would let them pass,
or he would kill them both; therefore, courage and sang-froid were matters
of first necessity.
Accordingly, with the utmost coolness, and laughing and chatting
together, they sauntered up to and upon the fatal line. The sentinel looked at
them in amazement. He then brought his piece to bear upon Glazier
completely covering his person, and, with the usual order to "Halt!" added:
"Whar in hell are you going, Yanks?" As if his dignity was seriously
offended by this demand, our hero answered this question by asking
another: "Do you halt paroled prisoners here?" "His meek 'No, sir!'" Glazier
relates, "was not yet lost in the distance when I boldly crossed the dreaded
When Glazier rejoined his comrade, he described this man, and the
friends agreed that they would boldly cross the "dead-line" immediately in
front of him, be ready to answer promptly his challenge, and, by the
audacity of their movement, attempt to deceive him in regard to their real
character and purpose. With such a man as they had to deal with, this
scheme was certain to result in one of two things: he would let them pass,
or he would kill them both; therefore, courage and sang-froid were matters
of first necessity.
Accordingly, with the utmost coolness, and laughing and chatting
together, they sauntered up to and upon the fatal line. The sentinel looked at
them in amazement. He then brought his piece to bear upon Glazier
completely covering his person, and, with the usual order to "Halt!" added:
"Whar in hell are you going, Yanks?" As if his dignity was seriously
offended by this demand, our hero answered this question by asking
another: "Do you halt paroled prisoners here?" "His meek 'No, sir!'" Glazier
relates, "was not yet lost in the distance when I boldly crossed the dreaded
Page 231
line, adding: 'Then let my friend in the rear follow me;' and so we passed,
while the sentinel murmured 'All right!' And right it was, for now we were
free, breathing the fresh air, untainted by the breath of hundreds of
famishing, diseased and dying men."
They could not proceed very far without falling in with numbers of the
paroled prisoners. This they did, but their presence excited no suspicion or
comment, as they assumed to belong to the party. They applied themselves
to gathering wood and piling it apparently for transportation, and gradually
crept on and on until they reached a point beyond the vision of the gray-
jackets, when off they started at the top of their speed; and although before
long they were compelled to reduce their pace, they put several miles
behind them in a space of time that at any other period of their lives, or
under any other circumstances, would have seemed impossible. Pausing to
regain breath, they turned, and Columbia was no longer within sight. This,
in itself, was a relief, for the place was associated in their minds with the
intense misery they had suffered within its boundaries.
Could these men have foreseen the not very distant future, they would
have known that every sigh and groan that cruelty had wrung from them in
that place of torture would be avenged; they would have seen loyal soldiers
swarming in its streets, their old comrades in misery torn from the grasp of
their merciless jailers, and the soulless "Southern Chivalry" thrust into their
place; they would have seen red-handed vengeance doom that city of blood
to destruction, and the glaring tongues of fire lap up the costly goods and
edifices of its vile and relentless citizens; and those who had no mercy for
them in their wretchedness and famine, now awe-struck on finding that the
men they had so barbarously trampled upon had now the power and the will
to retort upon them with interest; they would have seen brothers in arms,
who until now had been merciful to their enemies when in their power,
while the sentinel murmured 'All right!' And right it was, for now we were
free, breathing the fresh air, untainted by the breath of hundreds of
famishing, diseased and dying men."
They could not proceed very far without falling in with numbers of the
paroled prisoners. This they did, but their presence excited no suspicion or
comment, as they assumed to belong to the party. They applied themselves
to gathering wood and piling it apparently for transportation, and gradually
crept on and on until they reached a point beyond the vision of the gray-
jackets, when off they started at the top of their speed; and although before
long they were compelled to reduce their pace, they put several miles
behind them in a space of time that at any other period of their lives, or
under any other circumstances, would have seemed impossible. Pausing to
regain breath, they turned, and Columbia was no longer within sight. This,
in itself, was a relief, for the place was associated in their minds with the
intense misery they had suffered within its boundaries.
Could these men have foreseen the not very distant future, they would
have known that every sigh and groan that cruelty had wrung from them in
that place of torture would be avenged; they would have seen loyal soldiers
swarming in its streets, their old comrades in misery torn from the grasp of
their merciless jailers, and the soulless "Southern Chivalry" thrust into their
place; they would have seen red-handed vengeance doom that city of blood
to destruction, and the glaring tongues of fire lap up the costly goods and
edifices of its vile and relentless citizens; and those who had no mercy for
them in their wretchedness and famine, now awe-struck on finding that the
men they had so barbarously trampled upon had now the power and the will
to retort upon them with interest; they would have seen brothers in arms,
who until now had been merciful to their enemies when in their power,
Page 232
suddenly transformed into ravenous wolves, fierce and terrible in their
righteous wrath at the treatment their less fortunate brothers had met with in
this city of blood. The Avenger had come! and not one house but would fall
a smouldering heap of ruins. They would have foreseen this city ablaze with
burning homes for its sins against humanity; its men, so lately drunk with
pride and satiated with cruelty to their countrymen; its women divested of
all womanly attributes, and invested with those of demons, now all cowed
and humbled in the dust! They would have seen one noted instance of the
interference of a just Providence that occurred amid all this dreadful
saturnalia—a woman, pale, but beautiful of feature, delicate of form, madly
rushing to and fro in front of her blazing house, crying for her child that lay
within it. They would have seen a poor, emaciated prisoner, roused to
exhibit strength and courage by the hope of saving life, rush in and drag the
cradle and its innocent living freight from the very jaws of death, while
burning rafters crashed and fell upon him; they would have seen him place
the babe in its mother's arms, and they would have seen that mother turn
with streaming eyes to thank the saviour of her child, and then start back
conscience-smitten, and scream and fall, seeing in her child's preserver a
man who in the prison had once implored her for a piece of bread because
he was starving, and she spat upon him because he was of Northern race!!
Could they have seen the future of the coming months, they would have
seen all this and more. But no such prevision was vouchsafed them. Their
thoughts were now of themselves. They felt that the shade of a deadly peril
encompassed them. Columbia and its prison were hidden from their sight,
but still they were so near that at any moment the hounds might scent them,
and if recaptured, all the horrors they had undergone would be light
compared with the fate they must submit to in the future.
righteous wrath at the treatment their less fortunate brothers had met with in
this city of blood. The Avenger had come! and not one house but would fall
a smouldering heap of ruins. They would have foreseen this city ablaze with
burning homes for its sins against humanity; its men, so lately drunk with
pride and satiated with cruelty to their countrymen; its women divested of
all womanly attributes, and invested with those of demons, now all cowed
and humbled in the dust! They would have seen one noted instance of the
interference of a just Providence that occurred amid all this dreadful
saturnalia—a woman, pale, but beautiful of feature, delicate of form, madly
rushing to and fro in front of her blazing house, crying for her child that lay
within it. They would have seen a poor, emaciated prisoner, roused to
exhibit strength and courage by the hope of saving life, rush in and drag the
cradle and its innocent living freight from the very jaws of death, while
burning rafters crashed and fell upon him; they would have seen him place
the babe in its mother's arms, and they would have seen that mother turn
with streaming eyes to thank the saviour of her child, and then start back
conscience-smitten, and scream and fall, seeing in her child's preserver a
man who in the prison had once implored her for a piece of bread because
he was starving, and she spat upon him because he was of Northern race!!
Could they have seen the future of the coming months, they would have
seen all this and more. But no such prevision was vouchsafed them. Their
thoughts were now of themselves. They felt that the shade of a deadly peril
encompassed them. Columbia and its prison were hidden from their sight,
but still they were so near that at any moment the hounds might scent them,
and if recaptured, all the horrors they had undergone would be light
compared with the fate they must submit to in the future.
Page 233
Fortunately for the purpose of our fugitives, the settlements, whether
towns or villages, in that part of the country, were "few and far between."
The residences of the planters were also distant from each other and few in
number, and the ravines and swamps which abound there, while in many
respects disagreeable and dangerous lurking spots, were still the safest
refuges for hunted men. The wilder the country, the better it promised to
Glazier and his comrade fleeing for their lives. Their greatest fear was the
dreaded blood-hound. Our friends knew they could defeat most of the
devices of human ingenuity in tracking them, but they were apprehensive
that the instinct of the brutes, which a depraved humanity had enlisted in its
service, might render abortive all their plans and precautions. They did their
best, however, to baffle their canine foes, and nightfall found them hurrying
forward on the Lexington Court-house Road.
towns or villages, in that part of the country, were "few and far between."
The residences of the planters were also distant from each other and few in
number, and the ravines and swamps which abound there, while in many
respects disagreeable and dangerous lurking spots, were still the safest
refuges for hunted men. The wilder the country, the better it promised to
Glazier and his comrade fleeing for their lives. Their greatest fear was the
dreaded blood-hound. Our friends knew they could defeat most of the
devices of human ingenuity in tracking them, but they were apprehensive
that the instinct of the brutes, which a depraved humanity had enlisted in its
service, might render abortive all their plans and precautions. They did their
best, however, to baffle their canine foes, and nightfall found them hurrying
forward on the Lexington Court-house Road.
Page 234
CHAPTER XX.
THE ESCAPE FROM COLUMBIA.
THE ESCAPE FROM COLUMBIA.
Page 235
Mysterious voices. — "I reckon deys Yankees." — "Who comes
there?" — The Lady of the Manor. — A weird spectacle. — The
struggle through the swamp. — A reflection on Southern swamps in
general. — "Tired nature's sweet restorer."
The attention of the fugitives was suddenly arrested by the sound of
human voices in their immediate rear. It occurred to both at once to
discover as quickly as possible if the speakers were white or black, and they
accordingly listened in the hope of learning their color by their dialect. This
was by no means easy, the vernacular of the poorer class of whites in that
section of the country very much resembling the ordinary dialect of the
negroes. The comrades, however, concluded to risk a halt until the strangers
came up. Glazier then saluted them with the remark that it was "a pleasant
night," with the view of drawing them out before committing himself.
"Indeed 'tis!" was the reply. This failed to convey the desired information as
to the color of the strangers, and they thought it wiser to hurry forward than
prolong the conversation at some risk to their safety. Before they had
advanced many steps, however, they were agreeably surprised by hearing
one of the same party remark to another, "I reckon deys Yankees," followed
by the response, "Golly, I hope to God dey is!" Glazier immediately turned
and inquired, "Do you know who I am?" "I reckon I dunno yer, massa," was
the reply. "Have you ever seen a Yankee?" asked Glazier. "Lord bress yer,
marser, I've seen a right smart heap ov um down at Clumby." "Well," said
Glazier, "do we look like them?" "How'n de debbil can I tell dat in de dark,
marser?" answered the now unmistakable negro, "but I spec' yer talk jest
like' em." "We are Yankees," responded Glazier, "and have just escaped
from Columbia. My good fellow, can't you do something for us?" "Ob
there?" — The Lady of the Manor. — A weird spectacle. — The
struggle through the swamp. — A reflection on Southern swamps in
general. — "Tired nature's sweet restorer."
The attention of the fugitives was suddenly arrested by the sound of
human voices in their immediate rear. It occurred to both at once to
discover as quickly as possible if the speakers were white or black, and they
accordingly listened in the hope of learning their color by their dialect. This
was by no means easy, the vernacular of the poorer class of whites in that
section of the country very much resembling the ordinary dialect of the
negroes. The comrades, however, concluded to risk a halt until the strangers
came up. Glazier then saluted them with the remark that it was "a pleasant
night," with the view of drawing them out before committing himself.
"Indeed 'tis!" was the reply. This failed to convey the desired information as
to the color of the strangers, and they thought it wiser to hurry forward than
prolong the conversation at some risk to their safety. Before they had
advanced many steps, however, they were agreeably surprised by hearing
one of the same party remark to another, "I reckon deys Yankees," followed
by the response, "Golly, I hope to God dey is!" Glazier immediately turned
and inquired, "Do you know who I am?" "I reckon I dunno yer, massa," was
the reply. "Have you ever seen a Yankee?" asked Glazier. "Lord bress yer,
marser, I've seen a right smart heap ov um down at Clumby." "Well," said
Glazier, "do we look like them?" "How'n de debbil can I tell dat in de dark,
marser?" answered the now unmistakable negro, "but I spec' yer talk jest
like' em." "We are Yankees," responded Glazier, "and have just escaped
from Columbia. My good fellow, can't you do something for us?" "Ob
Page 236
course!" said our colored friend, promptly. "I'll do all I can for you, marster.
I no nigga if I didn't 'sist de Yankees."
THE ESCAPE—FED BY NEGROES IN A SWAMP.
The fugitives had heard so much from their fellow-prisoners of the
sympathy exhibited by the colored people of the South for Federal soldiers,
that they hesitated not for a moment to place the fullest confidence in these
humble friends. They thereupon explained their precise situation, and told
them the story of their recent escape. They also learned from the negroes
that they were returning to their masters, having come from Columbia,
where they had been working upon a new prison stockade, now abandoned
on account of the expected approach of General Sherman.
The name of their "Master" was Steadman, and, slave-fashion, one of the
men was named "Ben Steadman." They were directing their steps to Mr.
Steadman's plantation on the Augusta Road, and the fugitives therefore
decided to keep in their company and use them as guides. In the nature of
things, unless guided by some one accustomed to traveling in a country so
I no nigga if I didn't 'sist de Yankees."
THE ESCAPE—FED BY NEGROES IN A SWAMP.
The fugitives had heard so much from their fellow-prisoners of the
sympathy exhibited by the colored people of the South for Federal soldiers,
that they hesitated not for a moment to place the fullest confidence in these
humble friends. They thereupon explained their precise situation, and told
them the story of their recent escape. They also learned from the negroes
that they were returning to their masters, having come from Columbia,
where they had been working upon a new prison stockade, now abandoned
on account of the expected approach of General Sherman.
The name of their "Master" was Steadman, and, slave-fashion, one of the
men was named "Ben Steadman." They were directing their steps to Mr.
Steadman's plantation on the Augusta Road, and the fugitives therefore
decided to keep in their company and use them as guides. In the nature of
things, unless guided by some one accustomed to traveling in a country so
Page 237
bare of landmarks, they would lose ground continually, even if they ever
reached their destination.
One of the negroes with that shrewdness engendered by slavery, in which
cunning is the only protection against injury; and strength and courage
count for nothing; suggested that so large a party would attract attention,
and the safety of the two officers might be endangered. It was therefore
finally determined that Ben should act as guide, and the other darkies take a
different route home. Another advantage to be derived from dividing the
party was that in the event of the fugitives being pursued, the double trail
would mystify the hounds. Ere long Ben reached a bridle-path, which
plunged into the wood, and as it offered superior advantages on account of
its narrowness and privacy, and from the fact of its leading to the plantation
of a well-known planter and therefore less likely to be suspected of being
the road taken by escaped prisoners, the little party concluded that this was
their safest route. They therefore hurried forward upon their way, Ben
preceding them in the double capacity of guide and scout. A few miles from
its commencement this path led to a blind road, which Ben informed them
was seldom traveled by any in the night-time but men of his own race, so
they turned into it, and had become quite joyful and careless, when
suddenly the challenge, "Who goes there?" rang out in the stillness, and the
next moment Ben was halted by the sentry of a Confederate picket
consisting of eight men, who had bivouacked just off the road. Ben boldly
advanced, and our two friends, it must be admitted, with more discretion
than valor, started off like lightning, their "guide" meanwhile amusing the
guard with a description of how "Dem two oder dam niggas got skeered,
kase dey thought Mars Sentinel must be a dam Yank!"
No harm could come to Ben, as he was in a condition to prove that two
other negroes had left Columbia with him, and the fugitives therefore
reached their destination.
One of the negroes with that shrewdness engendered by slavery, in which
cunning is the only protection against injury; and strength and courage
count for nothing; suggested that so large a party would attract attention,
and the safety of the two officers might be endangered. It was therefore
finally determined that Ben should act as guide, and the other darkies take a
different route home. Another advantage to be derived from dividing the
party was that in the event of the fugitives being pursued, the double trail
would mystify the hounds. Ere long Ben reached a bridle-path, which
plunged into the wood, and as it offered superior advantages on account of
its narrowness and privacy, and from the fact of its leading to the plantation
of a well-known planter and therefore less likely to be suspected of being
the road taken by escaped prisoners, the little party concluded that this was
their safest route. They therefore hurried forward upon their way, Ben
preceding them in the double capacity of guide and scout. A few miles from
its commencement this path led to a blind road, which Ben informed them
was seldom traveled by any in the night-time but men of his own race, so
they turned into it, and had become quite joyful and careless, when
suddenly the challenge, "Who goes there?" rang out in the stillness, and the
next moment Ben was halted by the sentry of a Confederate picket
consisting of eight men, who had bivouacked just off the road. Ben boldly
advanced, and our two friends, it must be admitted, with more discretion
than valor, started off like lightning, their "guide" meanwhile amusing the
guard with a description of how "Dem two oder dam niggas got skeered,
kase dey thought Mars Sentinel must be a dam Yank!"
No harm could come to Ben, as he was in a condition to prove that two
other negroes had left Columbia with him, and the fugitives therefore
Page 238
feeling that he was safe, concealed themselves among the brush and
awaited events. Ben shortly passed their place of hiding, in custody, en
route to the Reserve, and our friends were not a little amused, despite their
danger, to hear Ben's vigorous denunciation of "dem two cowardly niggas,"
who had taken to their heels!
A few moments only elapsed before they were made aware, by certain
unmistakable tokens, that they were in dangerous proximity to the
Confederate encampment, and although nearly famished, for they had eaten
nothing since morning, it was deemed safest to lie perdu; so, thanking the
good Providence which had sped them thus far on their journey, they lay
down and slept.
The enemy's camp, which upon closer inspection, turned out to be simply
the resting-place of a local patrol, unconnected with any regular command,
broke up early in the morning, and Glazier and his companion once more
had a clear road. Although hungry from long fasting, they ran swiftly over
the swampy ground, and felt so elated to find themselves again in a state of
freedom, that they laughed and joked like boys released from school, and
pushed on until the verge of an extensive morass was reached and passed,
and they found themselves in a section of country well wooded and
watered, the alternate hills and vales presenting a pleasing variety to the
eye.
awaited events. Ben shortly passed their place of hiding, in custody, en
route to the Reserve, and our friends were not a little amused, despite their
danger, to hear Ben's vigorous denunciation of "dem two cowardly niggas,"
who had taken to their heels!
A few moments only elapsed before they were made aware, by certain
unmistakable tokens, that they were in dangerous proximity to the
Confederate encampment, and although nearly famished, for they had eaten
nothing since morning, it was deemed safest to lie perdu; so, thanking the
good Providence which had sped them thus far on their journey, they lay
down and slept.
The enemy's camp, which upon closer inspection, turned out to be simply
the resting-place of a local patrol, unconnected with any regular command,
broke up early in the morning, and Glazier and his companion once more
had a clear road. Although hungry from long fasting, they ran swiftly over
the swampy ground, and felt so elated to find themselves again in a state of
freedom, that they laughed and joked like boys released from school, and
pushed on until the verge of an extensive morass was reached and passed,
and they found themselves in a section of country well wooded and
watered, the alternate hills and vales presenting a pleasing variety to the
eye.
Page 239
PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE UNDER DIFFICULTIES.
There was here also a public road, but it would have been dangerous to
travel thereon, and they therefore strode on beneath the trees and
umbrageous undergrowth of the wood. Having had no breakfast,
"blueberries" were not precisely the diet they would have selected for
dinner, but as necessitas non habet leges, they quietly munched their
berries, and we may hope felt grateful that matters were no worse. After a
There was here also a public road, but it would have been dangerous to
travel thereon, and they therefore strode on beneath the trees and
umbrageous undergrowth of the wood. Having had no breakfast,
"blueberries" were not precisely the diet they would have selected for
dinner, but as necessitas non habet leges, they quietly munched their
berries, and we may hope felt grateful that matters were no worse. After a
Page 240
while they made a sudden detour, crossing the high-road, and by so doing,
again broke the trail. Next they came to a clearing, but the sight of a planter
leaning against a fence, soon sent them back to the friendly shelter of the
wood. Late in the afternoon they came to a large plantation on the border of
which was a copse, in which they lay down and watched for the opportunity
of communicating with some of the house slaves. At the expiration of about
an hour, a lady, probably the mistress of the estate, passed within a few
yards of them, accompanied by a troupe of merry children. They however
went on their way, utterly unconscious of the close proximity of two terrible
Yankees!
Here our fugitives remained quietly concealed until night, and then
cautiously crept away. They proceeded onward until they found themselves
near a junction of cross-roads. Arrived at this junction, matters looked
serious. Unlike mariners, they had no compass; unlike Indians, they were
inexpert at discerning a trail; and what was more appalling, they distinctly
saw reared up against the moonlit sky—a gallows! Our two friends
approached this object very cautiously. It was not an unusual thing to hang
spies, and not unfrequently those mistaken for spies, but to hang them on a
regularly constructed gibbet was not usual; and therefore while Lemon
insisted that the black and skeleton-like object that loomed against the
horizon was a gallows, he still entertained some doubt upon the subject, and
determined to satisfy himself by a closer inspection.
The weird object before them proved to be an innocent guide-board—the
article of all others they most needed at that moment. Like the celebrated
laws of Nero, however, the directions were posted very high, but Lemon
being tall, our hero mounted on his shoulders and by the light of the moon
deciphered the inscription. They had now no difficulty in choosing their
way. On they pushed therefore; and during the black darkness of the night,
again broke the trail. Next they came to a clearing, but the sight of a planter
leaning against a fence, soon sent them back to the friendly shelter of the
wood. Late in the afternoon they came to a large plantation on the border of
which was a copse, in which they lay down and watched for the opportunity
of communicating with some of the house slaves. At the expiration of about
an hour, a lady, probably the mistress of the estate, passed within a few
yards of them, accompanied by a troupe of merry children. They however
went on their way, utterly unconscious of the close proximity of two terrible
Yankees!
Here our fugitives remained quietly concealed until night, and then
cautiously crept away. They proceeded onward until they found themselves
near a junction of cross-roads. Arrived at this junction, matters looked
serious. Unlike mariners, they had no compass; unlike Indians, they were
inexpert at discerning a trail; and what was more appalling, they distinctly
saw reared up against the moonlit sky—a gallows! Our two friends
approached this object very cautiously. It was not an unusual thing to hang
spies, and not unfrequently those mistaken for spies, but to hang them on a
regularly constructed gibbet was not usual; and therefore while Lemon
insisted that the black and skeleton-like object that loomed against the
horizon was a gallows, he still entertained some doubt upon the subject, and
determined to satisfy himself by a closer inspection.
The weird object before them proved to be an innocent guide-board—the
article of all others they most needed at that moment. Like the celebrated
laws of Nero, however, the directions were posted very high, but Lemon
being tall, our hero mounted on his shoulders and by the light of the moon
deciphered the inscription. They had now no difficulty in choosing their
way. On they pushed therefore; and during the black darkness of the night,
Page 241
crept through the tangled underwood, and over swamps where loathsome,
crawling things that shun by day the presence of man, now seemed to seek
his acquaintance. How mysterious are these dense untrodden forests of the
South! The very air one breathes is living. Throughout the day a million
chirping, whirring, twittering sounds, salute the ear. The short grass beneath
the forest trees moves, writhes, and creeps with microscopic life, until the
brain grows dizzy at the sight. At night it is no less marvellous to hear the
myriad denizens of the swamps and woods; and terrible when your tread on
some soft, velvety substance reveals a sleeping snake, who, at the same
moment, attacks you with his poisonous fang, mayhap, fatally.
It is a singular, but well-accredited fact, that these great Southern swamps
have been yearly deteriorating, while the surrounding country has been
growing in civilization. Old writers tell us that the reptile life now infesting
them in such rank luxuriance had scarcely any existence one hundred years
ago. Colonel Byrd writes of the "Dismal Swamp:" "Since the surveyors
have entered the Dismal Swamp they have seen no living creature; neither
bird, beast, insect nor reptile, came to view. Not even a turkey-buzzard will
venture to fly over it, no more than the Italian vulture will venture to fly
over the filthy lake of Avernus; or the birds of the Holy Land over the Salt
Sea where Sodom and Gomorrah once stood." And yet, in the present day,
insect and reptile life swarms there in every form through all the hours of
the day and night!
Our fugitive friends, however, felt little inclination to philosophize upon
this subject. The hope of coming liberty strengthened their limbs, and they
bent all their energy to the task of moving forward; walking, running,
creeping, until the dawn of day approached, when weary and footsore they
sought some secure spot and lay down and slept—perchance to dream of
"Home, sweet Home"—perchance of "Camp Sorghum," and its "chivalric"
crawling things that shun by day the presence of man, now seemed to seek
his acquaintance. How mysterious are these dense untrodden forests of the
South! The very air one breathes is living. Throughout the day a million
chirping, whirring, twittering sounds, salute the ear. The short grass beneath
the forest trees moves, writhes, and creeps with microscopic life, until the
brain grows dizzy at the sight. At night it is no less marvellous to hear the
myriad denizens of the swamps and woods; and terrible when your tread on
some soft, velvety substance reveals a sleeping snake, who, at the same
moment, attacks you with his poisonous fang, mayhap, fatally.
It is a singular, but well-accredited fact, that these great Southern swamps
have been yearly deteriorating, while the surrounding country has been
growing in civilization. Old writers tell us that the reptile life now infesting
them in such rank luxuriance had scarcely any existence one hundred years
ago. Colonel Byrd writes of the "Dismal Swamp:" "Since the surveyors
have entered the Dismal Swamp they have seen no living creature; neither
bird, beast, insect nor reptile, came to view. Not even a turkey-buzzard will
venture to fly over it, no more than the Italian vulture will venture to fly
over the filthy lake of Avernus; or the birds of the Holy Land over the Salt
Sea where Sodom and Gomorrah once stood." And yet, in the present day,
insect and reptile life swarms there in every form through all the hours of
the day and night!
Our fugitive friends, however, felt little inclination to philosophize upon
this subject. The hope of coming liberty strengthened their limbs, and they
bent all their energy to the task of moving forward; walking, running,
creeping, until the dawn of day approached, when weary and footsore they
sought some secure spot and lay down and slept—perchance to dream of
"Home, sweet Home"—perchance of "Camp Sorghum," and its "chivalric"
Page 242
guards—perchance of the dreadful blood-hounds whose fatal scent might
even then be on their trail!
even then be on their trail!
Page 243
CHAPTER XXI.
LOYALTY OF THE NEGROES.
Startled by hounds. — An unpleasant predicament. — A Christian gentlewoman. — Appeal to Mrs.
Colonel Taylor. — "She did all she could." — A meal fit for the gods. — Aunt Katy. — "Lor'
bress ye, marsters!" — Uncle Zeb's prayer. — Hoe-cake and pinders. — Woodcraft versus
astronomy. — Canine foes. — Characteristics of the slave. — Meeting escaped prisoners. —
Danger. — Retreat and concealment.
It is the morning of November twenty-eighth, 1864. The sun has just
risen above the eastern hills, and his slanting beams fall upon the goodly
heritage of Colonel Alexander Taylor, "C. S. A." There are, as yet, none of
the usual features here of a war-stricken country; everything around is rich
and substantial. The residence is a stately mansion in the Elizabethan style,
and the lady who, accompanied by two sweet children, walks the broad
piazza, is evidently a refined gentlewoman. The colonel himself, like a
gallant (but mistaken) knight, has "gone to the wars."
She marvels what makes "Rupert," a noble hound, that but a moment ago
stretched himself at full length across the hallway, rise and bound over the
lawn, barking loudly and fiercely as he runs. She calls him—at first gently,
and then peremptorily, until the old hound with evident reluctance obeys the
summons, and crouches at her feet. She then directs a negro, whose tokens
of age and long service are as pronounced as those of his canine rival, to
find out what there is in the clump of trees beyond the north hedge, to
excite "Rupert's" anger. The venerable negro, with the deliberateness of his
race, proceeds in the direction indicated, but is saved the necessity of much
exertion, by the startling appearance of a young soldier in a motley uniform
LOYALTY OF THE NEGROES.
Startled by hounds. — An unpleasant predicament. — A Christian gentlewoman. — Appeal to Mrs.
Colonel Taylor. — "She did all she could." — A meal fit for the gods. — Aunt Katy. — "Lor'
bress ye, marsters!" — Uncle Zeb's prayer. — Hoe-cake and pinders. — Woodcraft versus
astronomy. — Canine foes. — Characteristics of the slave. — Meeting escaped prisoners. —
Danger. — Retreat and concealment.
It is the morning of November twenty-eighth, 1864. The sun has just
risen above the eastern hills, and his slanting beams fall upon the goodly
heritage of Colonel Alexander Taylor, "C. S. A." There are, as yet, none of
the usual features here of a war-stricken country; everything around is rich
and substantial. The residence is a stately mansion in the Elizabethan style,
and the lady who, accompanied by two sweet children, walks the broad
piazza, is evidently a refined gentlewoman. The colonel himself, like a
gallant (but mistaken) knight, has "gone to the wars."
She marvels what makes "Rupert," a noble hound, that but a moment ago
stretched himself at full length across the hallway, rise and bound over the
lawn, barking loudly and fiercely as he runs. She calls him—at first gently,
and then peremptorily, until the old hound with evident reluctance obeys the
summons, and crouches at her feet. She then directs a negro, whose tokens
of age and long service are as pronounced as those of his canine rival, to
find out what there is in the clump of trees beyond the north hedge, to
excite "Rupert's" anger. The venerable negro, with the deliberateness of his
race, proceeds in the direction indicated, but is saved the necessity of much
exertion, by the startling appearance of a young soldier in a motley uniform
Page 244
of gray and blue—his coat of one color—his nether garments of another!
He advances boldly toward the house, and the lady scrutinizes the intruder.
The result of her examination shows her visitor to be a slight, but sinewy
young man, with a frank and honest expression, and seemingly not more
than eighteen years of age. The motley stranger drew near, and bowing
gracefully saluted her with, "Good-morning, madam."
The lady at once returned the salutation with a genial smile, that sent a
thrill of pleasure and confidence to his heart. Without further ceremony he
thereupon frankly and fearlessly informed Mrs. Taylor that he and his
companion were escaped Union prisoners; that they were in a condition of
starvation; and appealed respectfully but most urgently to her as a woman,
for humanity's sake, to assist them in their sore need by giving them food.
She at first hesitated, startled by such a request from such a source. Her
husband, she said, was an officer in the Confederate service, and if it
became known that she had assisted those whom his government counted
enemies, it would possibly bring reproach upon him. Our young hero (for
he it was) then addressed her somewhat after the fashion of the unfortunate
Ulysses in his appeal to the goddess Calypso; recounted his misfortunes
briefly, touched on the terrible fate that awaited him and his companion,
should they be recaptured, and all doubtless in such moving terms that, like
Desdemona, the lady must have thought, if she did not exclaim:
"'Twas pitiful—'twas wondrous pitiful!"
This is evident from the fact that she scarcely awaited the end of his
story, before assuring him that "she would do all she could," following up
that assurance in a few moments by offering the manly and polite youth
before her an abundant supply of fresh and excellent food; which, she took
the precaution of adding, was for himself and his comrade, fearing possibly,
He advances boldly toward the house, and the lady scrutinizes the intruder.
The result of her examination shows her visitor to be a slight, but sinewy
young man, with a frank and honest expression, and seemingly not more
than eighteen years of age. The motley stranger drew near, and bowing
gracefully saluted her with, "Good-morning, madam."
The lady at once returned the salutation with a genial smile, that sent a
thrill of pleasure and confidence to his heart. Without further ceremony he
thereupon frankly and fearlessly informed Mrs. Taylor that he and his
companion were escaped Union prisoners; that they were in a condition of
starvation; and appealed respectfully but most urgently to her as a woman,
for humanity's sake, to assist them in their sore need by giving them food.
She at first hesitated, startled by such a request from such a source. Her
husband, she said, was an officer in the Confederate service, and if it
became known that she had assisted those whom his government counted
enemies, it would possibly bring reproach upon him. Our young hero (for
he it was) then addressed her somewhat after the fashion of the unfortunate
Ulysses in his appeal to the goddess Calypso; recounted his misfortunes
briefly, touched on the terrible fate that awaited him and his companion,
should they be recaptured, and all doubtless in such moving terms that, like
Desdemona, the lady must have thought, if she did not exclaim:
"'Twas pitiful—'twas wondrous pitiful!"
This is evident from the fact that she scarcely awaited the end of his
story, before assuring him that "she would do all she could," following up
that assurance in a few moments by offering the manly and polite youth
before her an abundant supply of fresh and excellent food; which, she took
the precaution of adding, was for himself and his comrade, fearing possibly,
Page 245
from Glazier's famished look, he might consume it all himself! She further
assured her visitor that she would keep the secret of his having been there;
while he, in return, protested that should the varying fortunes of war give
him the opportunity of serving her husband, he would do so at the risk of
his life. With his haversack amply replenished, an appetite like a wolf, faith
in the goodness of God strengthened, and belief in the perfection of some,
at least, of the fairest portion of creation greatly confirmed by this
interview, he rejoined Lieutenant Lemon, and the comrades proceeded
forthwith to their meal which was enjoyed with a zest known only to the
starving. Before reclining himself under the glittering stars, Glazier made
this entry in his diary: "Oh! ye who sleep on beds of down, in your
curtained chambers, and rise at your leisure to feast upon the good things
provided ... you never knew the luxury of a night of rest, nor the sweets of a
meal seasoned by hunger, and the grateful remembrance that it was
provided by woman's kindly heart, which, wherever it may beat, sooner or
later responds to the tale of misfortune."
After a sleep so profound as to extend several hours beyond the time they
had agreed upon as best adapted for the resumption of their journey, they
found themselves much refreshed and strengthened, so much so that by
sunrise they had reached a small stream known as Black Creek, one of the
tributaries of the North Edisto River. Here, in crossing a bridge, they very
opportunely encountered a colored laborer, who was on his way to work,
and who cheerfully turned aside to guide them to a hut, where he assured
them they could remain in safety throughout the day. The proprietor of this
refuge for hunted wayfarers was a certain "Aunt Katy"—an aged negress,
whose heart and hut, and such fare as her scanty larder contained, were
always at the disposal of the distressed. Hearing that the strangers were
Union soldiers who had escaped from Columbia, she approached them with
assured her visitor that she would keep the secret of his having been there;
while he, in return, protested that should the varying fortunes of war give
him the opportunity of serving her husband, he would do so at the risk of
his life. With his haversack amply replenished, an appetite like a wolf, faith
in the goodness of God strengthened, and belief in the perfection of some,
at least, of the fairest portion of creation greatly confirmed by this
interview, he rejoined Lieutenant Lemon, and the comrades proceeded
forthwith to their meal which was enjoyed with a zest known only to the
starving. Before reclining himself under the glittering stars, Glazier made
this entry in his diary: "Oh! ye who sleep on beds of down, in your
curtained chambers, and rise at your leisure to feast upon the good things
provided ... you never knew the luxury of a night of rest, nor the sweets of a
meal seasoned by hunger, and the grateful remembrance that it was
provided by woman's kindly heart, which, wherever it may beat, sooner or
later responds to the tale of misfortune."
After a sleep so profound as to extend several hours beyond the time they
had agreed upon as best adapted for the resumption of their journey, they
found themselves much refreshed and strengthened, so much so that by
sunrise they had reached a small stream known as Black Creek, one of the
tributaries of the North Edisto River. Here, in crossing a bridge, they very
opportunely encountered a colored laborer, who was on his way to work,
and who cheerfully turned aside to guide them to a hut, where he assured
them they could remain in safety throughout the day. The proprietor of this
refuge for hunted wayfarers was a certain "Aunt Katy"—an aged negress,
whose heart and hut, and such fare as her scanty larder contained, were
always at the disposal of the distressed. Hearing that the strangers were
Union soldiers who had escaped from Columbia, she approached them with
Page 246
the following salutation: "Gor A'mighty bress yer, marsters; dis is de yeah
ob jubilee, shua, when de Yankees come to Aunt Katy's. Come in, marsters,
come in!"
Accordingly they entered, and, by some occult process, the fact of their
presence soon became known to the entire slave population of the
neighborhood, who came flocking in throughout the day. Such an important
occasion would have been incomplete without a prayer-meeting, Aunt Katy
herself being a pillar of the Colored Methodist Church, and it was not long
before the whole assemblage were on their knees, invoking every
imaginable blessing upon the cause of the Union and its defenders, and
every evil upon its opponents. Among other things Captain Glazier records,
as a feature of this impromptu prayer-meeting, is the petition of a venerable
prototype of "Uncle Tom," named Zebulon, "who appeared to be a ruling
spirit in the party." This good man's enthusiasm burst forth as follows:
"Oh Lor' Gor A'mighty! We'se you-ah chillen as much as de white folks
am, and we spec yo to heah us widout delay, Lor'; cause we all is in right
smart ob a hurry. Dese yere gemmen has runned away from de Seceshers,
and wants ter git back to de Norf! Dey has no time to wait! Ef it's 'cordin' to
de des'nation of great heben to help 'em et'll be 'bout necessary for dat ar
help to come right soon.
"De hounds and de rebels is on dar track. Take de smell out ob de dogs'
noses, O Lor'! and let 'Gypshun darkness come down ober de eyesights ob
de rebels. Comfoozle 'em, O Lor'! dey is cruel, and makes haste to shed
blood. Dey has long 'pressed de black man, and groun' him in de dust, and
now I reck'n dey 'spects dat dey am agwine to serve de Yankees in de same
way.
"'Sist dese gemmen in time ob trouble, and lift 'em fru all danger on to de
udder side ob Jordan dry-shod.
ob jubilee, shua, when de Yankees come to Aunt Katy's. Come in, marsters,
come in!"
Accordingly they entered, and, by some occult process, the fact of their
presence soon became known to the entire slave population of the
neighborhood, who came flocking in throughout the day. Such an important
occasion would have been incomplete without a prayer-meeting, Aunt Katy
herself being a pillar of the Colored Methodist Church, and it was not long
before the whole assemblage were on their knees, invoking every
imaginable blessing upon the cause of the Union and its defenders, and
every evil upon its opponents. Among other things Captain Glazier records,
as a feature of this impromptu prayer-meeting, is the petition of a venerable
prototype of "Uncle Tom," named Zebulon, "who appeared to be a ruling
spirit in the party." This good man's enthusiasm burst forth as follows:
"Oh Lor' Gor A'mighty! We'se you-ah chillen as much as de white folks
am, and we spec yo to heah us widout delay, Lor'; cause we all is in right
smart ob a hurry. Dese yere gemmen has runned away from de Seceshers,
and wants ter git back to de Norf! Dey has no time to wait! Ef it's 'cordin' to
de des'nation of great heben to help 'em et'll be 'bout necessary for dat ar
help to come right soon.
"De hounds and de rebels is on dar track. Take de smell out ob de dogs'
noses, O Lor'! and let 'Gypshun darkness come down ober de eyesights ob
de rebels. Comfoozle 'em, O Lor'! dey is cruel, and makes haste to shed
blood. Dey has long 'pressed de black man, and groun' him in de dust, and
now I reck'n dey 'spects dat dey am agwine to serve de Yankees in de same
way.
"'Sist dese gemmen in time ob trouble, and lift 'em fru all danger on to de
udder side ob Jordan dry-shod.
Page 247
"And raise de radiance ob your face on all de Yankees what's shut up in
de Souf. Send some Moses, O Lor'! to guide 'em frue de Red Sea ob
'flickshun into de promised land.
"Send Mr. Sherman's company sweepin' down frue dese yere parts to
scare de rebels till dey flee like de Midians, and slew darselves to sabe dar
lives.
"Let a little de best of heben's best judgments res' on Massa Lincum, and
may de year ob Jubilee come sure.
"O Lor'! bless de gin'rals ob de Norf—O Lor'! bless de kunnels—O Lor'!
bless de brigerdeers—O Lor'! bless de capt'ins—O Lor'! bless de Yankees
right smart. O Lor'! eberlastin'. Amen."
UNCLE ZEB'S PRAYER.
This very pertinent supplication and much more in the same vein, was
listened to with marked approval by the audience—a sonorous and
prolonged "Amen!" in which our friends heartily participated, greeting the
conclusion of Uncle Zeb's prayer. Our subject, in describing the particulars
of his escape, remarks that, notwithstanding the fact that the secret of their
de Souf. Send some Moses, O Lor'! to guide 'em frue de Red Sea ob
'flickshun into de promised land.
"Send Mr. Sherman's company sweepin' down frue dese yere parts to
scare de rebels till dey flee like de Midians, and slew darselves to sabe dar
lives.
"Let a little de best of heben's best judgments res' on Massa Lincum, and
may de year ob Jubilee come sure.
"O Lor'! bless de gin'rals ob de Norf—O Lor'! bless de kunnels—O Lor'!
bless de brigerdeers—O Lor'! bless de capt'ins—O Lor'! bless de Yankees
right smart. O Lor'! eberlastin'. Amen."
UNCLE ZEB'S PRAYER.
This very pertinent supplication and much more in the same vein, was
listened to with marked approval by the audience—a sonorous and
prolonged "Amen!" in which our friends heartily participated, greeting the
conclusion of Uncle Zeb's prayer. Our subject, in describing the particulars
of his escape, remarks that, notwithstanding the fact that the secret of their
Page 248
retreat was known to some thirty or forty of these poor slaves, neither he
nor his companion entertained the shadow of a doubt that the secret would
be safe with them; and adds that, in addition to their good faith, they
possessed a remarkable talent for concealment.
The Steadman plantation was only three miles from Aunt Katy's hut, and
accordingly, Ben being sent for, soon made his appearance, and proffered
his valuable services as guide. The offer was thankfully accepted; but,
despite the preference of Glazier and his companion for the swamp as the
safest place of concealment, Ben prevailed upon them to visit his cabin,
where they were hospitably entertained by his wife and children. Having
been duly inspected as curiosities "from de Norf," our friends were pleased
to hear Ben instruct his little daughter to run up to the house of his mistress
and "snatch a paper." She soon afterward came running back with the
Augusta Constitutionalist, published that morning.
Having gathered from the newspaper a sufficiently intelligible idea of the
relative position of Sherman and his opponents, the fugitives bade farewell
to the family, and proceeded upon their way, crossing the river by ten
o'clock; and shortly after—Ben having parted from them—in consequence
of the complicated directions of numerous blind-roads, they became
confused, and, instead of pushing forward beyond the South Edisto, as they
had planned to do, halted early in the afternoon and "pitched their tent" for
the remainder of the day and night—said tent having the sky for its roof as
usual.
Their camping-ground upon this occasion was in the heart of a dense
pine wood, where, notwithstanding the grim and spectral surroundings, they
slept soundly until after midnight, and then arose refreshed and ready for
another day's march on the road to freedom. Hoe-cake and pinders (anglicè,
nor his companion entertained the shadow of a doubt that the secret would
be safe with them; and adds that, in addition to their good faith, they
possessed a remarkable talent for concealment.
The Steadman plantation was only three miles from Aunt Katy's hut, and
accordingly, Ben being sent for, soon made his appearance, and proffered
his valuable services as guide. The offer was thankfully accepted; but,
despite the preference of Glazier and his companion for the swamp as the
safest place of concealment, Ben prevailed upon them to visit his cabin,
where they were hospitably entertained by his wife and children. Having
been duly inspected as curiosities "from de Norf," our friends were pleased
to hear Ben instruct his little daughter to run up to the house of his mistress
and "snatch a paper." She soon afterward came running back with the
Augusta Constitutionalist, published that morning.
Having gathered from the newspaper a sufficiently intelligible idea of the
relative position of Sherman and his opponents, the fugitives bade farewell
to the family, and proceeded upon their way, crossing the river by ten
o'clock; and shortly after—Ben having parted from them—in consequence
of the complicated directions of numerous blind-roads, they became
confused, and, instead of pushing forward beyond the South Edisto, as they
had planned to do, halted early in the afternoon and "pitched their tent" for
the remainder of the day and night—said tent having the sky for its roof as
usual.
Their camping-ground upon this occasion was in the heart of a dense
pine wood, where, notwithstanding the grim and spectral surroundings, they
slept soundly until after midnight, and then arose refreshed and ready for
another day's march on the road to freedom. Hoe-cake and pinders (anglicè,
Page 249
peanuts) formed their only repast, which they found sufficiently luxurious
under the circumstances.
It now became necessary to find their bearings. There was no star plainly
visible, and they had not yet learned to take the moon as a guide. Moreover,
the heavenly bodies in Southern latitudes have so different an appearance
from those seen at the North, that they were frequently in doubt as to the
points of the compass. "I remember," writes Captain Glazier, "that it caused
me great grief to find that the North Star was much nearer the horizon, and
seemed to have lost that prominence which is given to it in higher latitudes,
where it is a guide, standing far above tree-top and mountain."
What the lofty stars failed to teach, however, they learned from humbler
signs. Glazier, in his youth, acquired the lesson in woodcraft, that moss
hangs heaviest upon the northern side of tree trunks; and then the streams in
this part of the continent, for the most part, flow towards the southeast, so
that our friends were not altogether without indications of their position
with regard to the points of the compass.
They were greatly annoyed by a serious obstacle to their safe progress,
which presented itself in the shape of a vast multitude of dogs, of all sizes
and every variety of breed. There were dogs of high degree, dogs of low
degree, and mongrel curs of no degree; and all these animals in common
were in possession of one ambition, namely, to nose out and hunt a Yankee!
Consequently, from the deep-mouthed baying of the blood-hound, or the
mastiff, to the sniff and snarl of the rat-terrier, their music was not agreeable
to the fugitives, who had, however, to contend with this difficulty, and
surmount it.
Confining themselves to the pathless forest, the roads were now
frequently lost sight of for miles. Occasionally, in the effort to shun the
under the circumstances.
It now became necessary to find their bearings. There was no star plainly
visible, and they had not yet learned to take the moon as a guide. Moreover,
the heavenly bodies in Southern latitudes have so different an appearance
from those seen at the North, that they were frequently in doubt as to the
points of the compass. "I remember," writes Captain Glazier, "that it caused
me great grief to find that the North Star was much nearer the horizon, and
seemed to have lost that prominence which is given to it in higher latitudes,
where it is a guide, standing far above tree-top and mountain."
What the lofty stars failed to teach, however, they learned from humbler
signs. Glazier, in his youth, acquired the lesson in woodcraft, that moss
hangs heaviest upon the northern side of tree trunks; and then the streams in
this part of the continent, for the most part, flow towards the southeast, so
that our friends were not altogether without indications of their position
with regard to the points of the compass.
They were greatly annoyed by a serious obstacle to their safe progress,
which presented itself in the shape of a vast multitude of dogs, of all sizes
and every variety of breed. There were dogs of high degree, dogs of low
degree, and mongrel curs of no degree; and all these animals in common
were in possession of one ambition, namely, to nose out and hunt a Yankee!
Consequently, from the deep-mouthed baying of the blood-hound, or the
mastiff, to the sniff and snarl of the rat-terrier, their music was not agreeable
to the fugitives, who had, however, to contend with this difficulty, and
surmount it.
Confining themselves to the pathless forest, the roads were now
frequently lost sight of for miles. Occasionally, in the effort to shun the
Page 250
high-road, they would come suddenly upon a dwelling, and the inevitable
lank, yellow dog would pounce out upon them, and add wings to their feet.
It was always a pleasant interruption of their lonely tramp to meet any
negroes. These people, so patient under oppression, so humble under
correction, were ever faithful and devoted to those whom they believed to
be the friends of their race. Our hero, of course, had rare opportunities of
observing the characteristics of this people. Simple, harmless and gentle,
crimes of violence among them were very rare, and the cruelties practised
upon them seem rather to have opened their hearts to sympathy than to have
hardened them into vindictiveness.
With the aid of many of these devoted people, Glazier and his friend
reached and crossed the North Edisto, the latter a task of some magnitude.
The river, at the point where they reached it, is not a single stream, but a
maze of creeks and bayous, all of which it was necessary to cross in order
to attain the opposite bank of what is known as the South Edisto River.
While passing over a bridge that spanned one of the creeks, Glazier heard
footsteps upon another bridge in their rear; and so trained and acute does
the ear of man become when disciplined in such a school of perilous
experiences, that he knew at once they had nothing to fear from those who
followed; for, instead of the bold, firm tread of the man who hunts, it was
the uncertain, hesitating, half-halting step of the hunted.
"Escaped prisoners," whispered our two friends simultaneously, and
Glazier, stepping boldly forth, gave the challenge, "Who goes there!"
"With a trembling start," says our fugitive hero, "the foremost man
replied, 'Friends!'
"'Halt, friends! and advance one,'" commanded Lieutenant Glazier.
lank, yellow dog would pounce out upon them, and add wings to their feet.
It was always a pleasant interruption of their lonely tramp to meet any
negroes. These people, so patient under oppression, so humble under
correction, were ever faithful and devoted to those whom they believed to
be the friends of their race. Our hero, of course, had rare opportunities of
observing the characteristics of this people. Simple, harmless and gentle,
crimes of violence among them were very rare, and the cruelties practised
upon them seem rather to have opened their hearts to sympathy than to have
hardened them into vindictiveness.
With the aid of many of these devoted people, Glazier and his friend
reached and crossed the North Edisto, the latter a task of some magnitude.
The river, at the point where they reached it, is not a single stream, but a
maze of creeks and bayous, all of which it was necessary to cross in order
to attain the opposite bank of what is known as the South Edisto River.
While passing over a bridge that spanned one of the creeks, Glazier heard
footsteps upon another bridge in their rear; and so trained and acute does
the ear of man become when disciplined in such a school of perilous
experiences, that he knew at once they had nothing to fear from those who
followed; for, instead of the bold, firm tread of the man who hunts, it was
the uncertain, hesitating, half-halting step of the hunted.
"Escaped prisoners," whispered our two friends simultaneously, and
Glazier, stepping boldly forth, gave the challenge, "Who goes there!"
"With a trembling start," says our fugitive hero, "the foremost man
replied, 'Friends!'
"'Halt, friends! and advance one,'" commanded Lieutenant Glazier.
Page 251
Very cautiously, and with the manner of one ready to turn at any moment
and dash into the recesses of the swamp, one of the strangers came forward
to within a few feet of his interrogator, and craning his body over, peered
nervously into his face. Thereupon a mutual recognition as Federals was the
result, and Lemon discovered that one of the new comers had been a
fellow-prisoner with himself. This made matters pleasant, and although it
was mutually agreed that it would be wise to separate, and take different
routes, both parties unconsciously protracted the meeting until they were
startled into caution by perceiving almost directly in front of them,
surrounding a large fire, a Confederate encampment. "It proved to be a
squad of tax-gatherers, going about the country with quartermasters'
wagons, collecting supplies."
Further progress was now impossible. The enemy occupied the only
practicable road in front, and they were flanked on both sides by large
ponds of water. Our party thereupon stealthily retreated into the woods,
where they finally concluded to make themselves contented for the
remainder of the night.
and dash into the recesses of the swamp, one of the strangers came forward
to within a few feet of his interrogator, and craning his body over, peered
nervously into his face. Thereupon a mutual recognition as Federals was the
result, and Lemon discovered that one of the new comers had been a
fellow-prisoner with himself. This made matters pleasant, and although it
was mutually agreed that it would be wise to separate, and take different
routes, both parties unconsciously protracted the meeting until they were
startled into caution by perceiving almost directly in front of them,
surrounding a large fire, a Confederate encampment. "It proved to be a
squad of tax-gatherers, going about the country with quartermasters'
wagons, collecting supplies."
Further progress was now impossible. The enemy occupied the only
practicable road in front, and they were flanked on both sides by large
ponds of water. Our party thereupon stealthily retreated into the woods,
where they finally concluded to make themselves contented for the
remainder of the night.
Page 252
CHAPTER XXII.
PROGRESS OF THE FUGITIVES.
Parting company. — Thirst and no water. — Hoping for the end. — The boy and the chicken. —
Conversation of ladies overheard. — The fugitives pursued. — The sleeping village. —
Captain Bryant. — The alba sus. — Justifiable murder, and a delicious meal. — Darkies and
their prayers. — Man proposes; God disposes. — An adventure. — A ruse de guerre. —
Across the Savannah.
On emerging from their place of concealment, the following morning, the
road proved to be once more open. The tax-collectors had departed. Warned
by the experience of the previous night the newly found friends reluctantly
parted company, Glazier and Lemon pursuing a separate route from the
others.
Our friends had suffered much in various ways since they shook the dust
of Columbia from their feet, but now a dire misfortune overtook them in the
total absence of water. The waters of the swamps were poisonous, and their
longing desire and hope was that they might soon come upon a spring or
stream to slake their burning thirst, which threatened to unfit them for the
exertion necessary.
The land, in the region of country they had now entered, was waste and
arid—for the most part sand, a few stunted trees being the sole vegetation.
These trees had nothing pleasant in their appearance, as forest trees usually
have. The branches seemed destitute of sap, as the leaves were of verdure;
they had not reached maturity, and yet possessed none of the lithe grace of
saplings.
PROGRESS OF THE FUGITIVES.
Parting company. — Thirst and no water. — Hoping for the end. — The boy and the chicken. —
Conversation of ladies overheard. — The fugitives pursued. — The sleeping village. —
Captain Bryant. — The alba sus. — Justifiable murder, and a delicious meal. — Darkies and
their prayers. — Man proposes; God disposes. — An adventure. — A ruse de guerre. —
Across the Savannah.
On emerging from their place of concealment, the following morning, the
road proved to be once more open. The tax-collectors had departed. Warned
by the experience of the previous night the newly found friends reluctantly
parted company, Glazier and Lemon pursuing a separate route from the
others.
Our friends had suffered much in various ways since they shook the dust
of Columbia from their feet, but now a dire misfortune overtook them in the
total absence of water. The waters of the swamps were poisonous, and their
longing desire and hope was that they might soon come upon a spring or
stream to slake their burning thirst, which threatened to unfit them for the
exertion necessary.
The land, in the region of country they had now entered, was waste and
arid—for the most part sand, a few stunted trees being the sole vegetation.
These trees had nothing pleasant in their appearance, as forest trees usually
have. The branches seemed destitute of sap, as the leaves were of verdure;
they had not reached maturity, and yet possessed none of the lithe grace of
saplings.
Page 253
Our fugitives were parched, fevered, and weak before they emerged from
this inhospitable tract of country, but at length reached a point where the
vegetation was fresher, and finally, to their great joy, discovered a spring.
Here, to use Glazier's own words, they realized "the value of cold water to a
thirsty soul." "The stream ran through a ravine nearly a hundred feet in
depth, while high up on the banks were groves of pines."
After their passage through the "Desert," they were in excellent condition
to appreciate the wild and solemn grandeur of the spot they had now
reached, and for a considerable time they could not make up their minds to
leave the place. At length, however, they resumed their journey. December
second found the two friends still far from their destination, and by no
means out of danger. It was one week only since they bade adieu to
Columbia, and yet many weeks seemed to them to have passed. Still they
were making considerable progress, and had by this time reached a swamp
near Aiken, South Carolina.
Having journeyed all night since quitting the secluded ravine, they were
ready once more to cast themselves upon the soft moss under a venerable
tree, near which was a bubbling spring. Here they slept soundly until dawn,
when a colored boy passing down a road which came within their range of
vision, attracted attention. The boy was carrying a basket, and they were
suffering very seriously again from hunger. Lemon followed, and called to
him: "Hold on, my boy; I want to see you!" The lad muttered something,
but the only word they could distinguish was "chicken!" He then ran off as
fast as his legs would carry him. The lieutenant, with great emphasis,
endeavored to reassure him, but it was of no use. He ran as if a legion of
evil spirits was at his heels, and Lemon returned to his comrade very much
disappointed and chagrined. "Now they are sure to overtake us," said he,
"we shall be prisoners again before night!"
this inhospitable tract of country, but at length reached a point where the
vegetation was fresher, and finally, to their great joy, discovered a spring.
Here, to use Glazier's own words, they realized "the value of cold water to a
thirsty soul." "The stream ran through a ravine nearly a hundred feet in
depth, while high up on the banks were groves of pines."
After their passage through the "Desert," they were in excellent condition
to appreciate the wild and solemn grandeur of the spot they had now
reached, and for a considerable time they could not make up their minds to
leave the place. At length, however, they resumed their journey. December
second found the two friends still far from their destination, and by no
means out of danger. It was one week only since they bade adieu to
Columbia, and yet many weeks seemed to them to have passed. Still they
were making considerable progress, and had by this time reached a swamp
near Aiken, South Carolina.
Having journeyed all night since quitting the secluded ravine, they were
ready once more to cast themselves upon the soft moss under a venerable
tree, near which was a bubbling spring. Here they slept soundly until dawn,
when a colored boy passing down a road which came within their range of
vision, attracted attention. The boy was carrying a basket, and they were
suffering very seriously again from hunger. Lemon followed, and called to
him: "Hold on, my boy; I want to see you!" The lad muttered something,
but the only word they could distinguish was "chicken!" He then ran off as
fast as his legs would carry him. The lieutenant, with great emphasis,
endeavored to reassure him, but it was of no use. He ran as if a legion of
evil spirits was at his heels, and Lemon returned to his comrade very much
disappointed and chagrined. "Now they are sure to overtake us," said he,
"we shall be prisoners again before night!"
Page 254
"Never fear," was the reply of his cooler companion; "as long as there is
a swamp in the neighborhood, we'll lead them a lively dance."
So the friends gathered up their belongings, and in a few minutes put a
considerable distance between themselves and their resting-place of the
preceding night. Finally they concealed themselves in a swamp about a mile
distant. A road bordered the margin of their sanctuary so closely, that they
distinctly overheard a conversation between three ladies who passed. The
chasing of a negro boy by a Yankee was the topic of their discourse.
This information made our friends more cautious, and it is well they were
so, for, towards evening, several mounted men armed with guns were seen
by them upon the main road leading to Aiken; their evident purpose being
to intercept the fugitives, of whose presence in their neighborhood the boy
had made report.
Forewarned was forearmed, and our hero and his companion determined
to give the enemy a wide berth. Again, therefore, plunging into the recesses
of a neighboring swamp, they went quietly to sleep, and slept until
midnight, when Glazier awoke to see thousands of stars glittering through
the spectral branches of the pines, and away off toward the western horizon,
a flood of silvery effulgence from the waning moon.
Entranced by the beauty of the scene, he awoke his comrade, and all
around being buried in profound silence, they proceeded on their way. It
was not long before they found themselves upon the outskirts of the village
of Aiken, and no practicable path upon either side presenting itself, but one
resource remained, namely, to steal cautiously through, although this
involved the imminent risk of discovery. On, therefore, they walked until
they came to the border of the village. They found it dumb with sleep. Not a
sound disturbed the silence. The very dogs, their usually sleepless foes,
appeared for once to have become wearied and gone to rest.
a swamp in the neighborhood, we'll lead them a lively dance."
So the friends gathered up their belongings, and in a few minutes put a
considerable distance between themselves and their resting-place of the
preceding night. Finally they concealed themselves in a swamp about a mile
distant. A road bordered the margin of their sanctuary so closely, that they
distinctly overheard a conversation between three ladies who passed. The
chasing of a negro boy by a Yankee was the topic of their discourse.
This information made our friends more cautious, and it is well they were
so, for, towards evening, several mounted men armed with guns were seen
by them upon the main road leading to Aiken; their evident purpose being
to intercept the fugitives, of whose presence in their neighborhood the boy
had made report.
Forewarned was forearmed, and our hero and his companion determined
to give the enemy a wide berth. Again, therefore, plunging into the recesses
of a neighboring swamp, they went quietly to sleep, and slept until
midnight, when Glazier awoke to see thousands of stars glittering through
the spectral branches of the pines, and away off toward the western horizon,
a flood of silvery effulgence from the waning moon.
Entranced by the beauty of the scene, he awoke his comrade, and all
around being buried in profound silence, they proceeded on their way. It
was not long before they found themselves upon the outskirts of the village
of Aiken, and no practicable path upon either side presenting itself, but one
resource remained, namely, to steal cautiously through, although this
involved the imminent risk of discovery. On, therefore, they walked until
they came to the border of the village. They found it dumb with sleep. Not a
sound disturbed the silence. The very dogs, their usually sleepless foes,
appeared for once to have become wearied and gone to rest.
Page 255
There is something solemn about a sleeping town. The solitude of the
swamp and wood is solemn; but the ghostly stillness of a town, where all its
inhabitants lie buried in sleep, and no sign or sound proclaims the presence
of life in man or beast, is of so weird a character as to produce a sensation
of awe, akin to fear. The shadows that enwrapped them as they came
beneath the buildings, and the fitful gleams of moonlight that fell upon
them when streets were crossed, seemed not lights and shadows at all, but
strange, intangible things. And when at length they reached the outer limit
of the village, and the distant woods were seen by the moon's rays, our
travellers felt as if they had been wandering in a graveyard, where the
tombs were houses, and they wished they were in the swamp again, where
such uncanny fancies never troubled them. When the toad and lizard,
snakes and other loathsome things, crawled around their swampy bed, they
cared nothing; but the dead silence of a cloudless night, brooding over a
swarm of their fellow-beings, brought with it a feeling they could not
account for or understand; and therefore it was with a sense of great relief
they found themselves at the outer edge of the town.
Their satisfaction, however, was somewhat moderated when, at a sudden
turn of the road, they abruptly came upon a man and a boy, who were
picking their way with such velvety tread that the two parties were face to
face before either was aware of the proximity of the other. The strangers
appeared to be the more alarmed, for they were just making a secret and
rapid detour with the view of debouching into a side street, when, feeling
sure that none but fugitives would be so anxious to escape an interview,
Glazier hailed them:
"Don't be uneasy, boys! We're friends! We're Yankees!"
His conjecture proved correct. The strangers were Captain Bryant, of the
Fifth New York Cavalry, and a friend. "They had," says Captain Glazier, "a
swamp and wood is solemn; but the ghostly stillness of a town, where all its
inhabitants lie buried in sleep, and no sign or sound proclaims the presence
of life in man or beast, is of so weird a character as to produce a sensation
of awe, akin to fear. The shadows that enwrapped them as they came
beneath the buildings, and the fitful gleams of moonlight that fell upon
them when streets were crossed, seemed not lights and shadows at all, but
strange, intangible things. And when at length they reached the outer limit
of the village, and the distant woods were seen by the moon's rays, our
travellers felt as if they had been wandering in a graveyard, where the
tombs were houses, and they wished they were in the swamp again, where
such uncanny fancies never troubled them. When the toad and lizard,
snakes and other loathsome things, crawled around their swampy bed, they
cared nothing; but the dead silence of a cloudless night, brooding over a
swarm of their fellow-beings, brought with it a feeling they could not
account for or understand; and therefore it was with a sense of great relief
they found themselves at the outer edge of the town.
Their satisfaction, however, was somewhat moderated when, at a sudden
turn of the road, they abruptly came upon a man and a boy, who were
picking their way with such velvety tread that the two parties were face to
face before either was aware of the proximity of the other. The strangers
appeared to be the more alarmed, for they were just making a secret and
rapid detour with the view of debouching into a side street, when, feeling
sure that none but fugitives would be so anxious to escape an interview,
Glazier hailed them:
"Don't be uneasy, boys! We're friends! We're Yankees!"
His conjecture proved correct. The strangers were Captain Bryant, of the
Fifth New York Cavalry, and a friend. "They had," says Captain Glazier, "a
Page 256
negro guide, who was to secrete them in a hut until the next night, when
they were to proceed, as we had done, and reach the line of freedom by the
nearest route."
The interview was brief, the parties differing as to which was the most
expedient route, and the discussion terminated by each taking the one he
thought best. Glazier and his comrade made off to a swamp, and upon
securing a safe resting-place, were overjoyed to find a venerable sow and
her litter approaching. They greeted the porcine mother, says our friend,
"otherwise than did wandering Æneas the alba sus lying under the hollow
trees of ancient Italy," for, "enticing them with crumbs of hoe-cake," they
both in unison struck a juvenile porker on the head with a heavy stick, and a
mammoth knife, the gift of Uncle Zeb, came into requisition, and did good
service. Over the embers of a fire kindled in a hole in the ground, they
roasted the little fellow, and made a delicious meal.
They had scarcely finished their unexpected feast, when the thud of an
axe in the distance smote on their ears, and Glazier crept cautiously out to
reconnoitre. The wood-cutter proved to be a colored lad, and having a vivid
recollection of their scampering friend of "chicken" fame, he hailed him in
this wise: "Hello, Sambo!"
This manner of salute left the party addressed, in doubt as to the colors
under which the young white stranger served. Off went his hat, therefore,
and he stood grinning and waiting to hear more. Our hero walked quickly
up to him, and frankly explained the situation, concluding, as usual, with a
request for information and aid. Both were promptly tendered, and shortly
after, the fugitives were concealed in a corn-fodder house. Here, in the
evening, a motley and humorous delegation of darkies waited upon them
and after ventilating their sage opinions upon the conduct of the war,
they were to proceed, as we had done, and reach the line of freedom by the
nearest route."
The interview was brief, the parties differing as to which was the most
expedient route, and the discussion terminated by each taking the one he
thought best. Glazier and his comrade made off to a swamp, and upon
securing a safe resting-place, were overjoyed to find a venerable sow and
her litter approaching. They greeted the porcine mother, says our friend,
"otherwise than did wandering Æneas the alba sus lying under the hollow
trees of ancient Italy," for, "enticing them with crumbs of hoe-cake," they
both in unison struck a juvenile porker on the head with a heavy stick, and a
mammoth knife, the gift of Uncle Zeb, came into requisition, and did good
service. Over the embers of a fire kindled in a hole in the ground, they
roasted the little fellow, and made a delicious meal.
They had scarcely finished their unexpected feast, when the thud of an
axe in the distance smote on their ears, and Glazier crept cautiously out to
reconnoitre. The wood-cutter proved to be a colored lad, and having a vivid
recollection of their scampering friend of "chicken" fame, he hailed him in
this wise: "Hello, Sambo!"
This manner of salute left the party addressed, in doubt as to the colors
under which the young white stranger served. Off went his hat, therefore,
and he stood grinning and waiting to hear more. Our hero walked quickly
up to him, and frankly explained the situation, concluding, as usual, with a
request for information and aid. Both were promptly tendered, and shortly
after, the fugitives were concealed in a corn-fodder house. Here, in the
evening, a motley and humorous delegation of darkies waited upon them
and after ventilating their sage opinions upon the conduct of the war,
Page 257
organized a prayer-meeting; and, if the fervor of human prayer availeth,
they doubtless damaged the cause of Secession materially that evening.
The topographical knowledge of these well-meaning friends appears to
have been at fault for had Glazier followed the route they advised, instead
of striking the railroad running from Charleston to Augusta, on the west
side of Aiken, which would have enabled them, by pursuing it to the
westward, to reach Augusta, they would have struck it on the east side, and
consequently by mistake have followed it towards Charleston, precisely the
place to which they did not want to go.
"How far is it, my boy, by this road, to Drainside?" asked a mud-splashed
traveler of a shrewd lad by the roadside.
"If you keep on the way you are heading, and can manage the Atlantic
and Pacific on horseback," replied the boy, "it is 23,999 miles. If you turn
your horse's head and go right back, it is one mile."
Our friends were in a somewhat similar condition. Soon, however, in the
darkness, they came to a small village, where a freight train was in waiting
for an early start. They tried to conceal themselves on board this train, but
very fortunately for their safety they could not find a hiding-place in or
under the cars, and shortly afterwards discovered that Charleston was its
destination and not Augusta. Had they boarded this train they would
certainly have been recaptured in Charleston and sent back to
imprisonment. "A merciful Providence interposed," Glazier writes. "Thus
'man proposes,' often to his own ruin, but 'God disposes,' always to His own
glory, and the good of his creatures."
A blood-hound was on their track in the course of the night, the deep
bayings being plainly audible, but his scent being at fault, the trail of the
fugitives was lost, and he shortly barked himself out of hearing.
they doubtless damaged the cause of Secession materially that evening.
The topographical knowledge of these well-meaning friends appears to
have been at fault for had Glazier followed the route they advised, instead
of striking the railroad running from Charleston to Augusta, on the west
side of Aiken, which would have enabled them, by pursuing it to the
westward, to reach Augusta, they would have struck it on the east side, and
consequently by mistake have followed it towards Charleston, precisely the
place to which they did not want to go.
"How far is it, my boy, by this road, to Drainside?" asked a mud-splashed
traveler of a shrewd lad by the roadside.
"If you keep on the way you are heading, and can manage the Atlantic
and Pacific on horseback," replied the boy, "it is 23,999 miles. If you turn
your horse's head and go right back, it is one mile."
Our friends were in a somewhat similar condition. Soon, however, in the
darkness, they came to a small village, where a freight train was in waiting
for an early start. They tried to conceal themselves on board this train, but
very fortunately for their safety they could not find a hiding-place in or
under the cars, and shortly afterwards discovered that Charleston was its
destination and not Augusta. Had they boarded this train they would
certainly have been recaptured in Charleston and sent back to
imprisonment. "A merciful Providence interposed," Glazier writes. "Thus
'man proposes,' often to his own ruin, but 'God disposes,' always to His own
glory, and the good of his creatures."
A blood-hound was on their track in the course of the night, the deep
bayings being plainly audible, but his scent being at fault, the trail of the
fugitives was lost, and he shortly barked himself out of hearing.
Page 258
When daybreak came and a passenger train filled with rebel soldiers and
recruits swept past them, setting up a savage yell at sight of the pedestrians,
it was feared by the latter that the train might be stopped with a view to
their capture, so they once more concealed themselves in the wood.
The sound of heavy cannonading reassured them as to the proximity of
Federal troops; but, where was Augusta? Accurate information on this point
was absolutely essential before further progress was made; and Lemon was
commissioned to obtain it. He was so far successful that he learned from
some negro wood-choppers—much to the chagrin of both—that they had
been walking all night in the opposite direction from Augusta, that is, on the
direct road to Charleston! They also learned, what was much more
cheering, that they could cross the Savannah River, at a point twenty miles
below Augusta, at Point Comfort; that Sherman was making straight for
Savannah, and therefore their chances of ultimately falling in with his army
were by no means impaired.
No time was lost in moving forward in the direction indicated, and during
the night our hero met with an adventure which we cannot do better than
relate in his own words; he says: "We came to a fork in the road, and after
debating some time as to which course we should pursue, I leaped over the
fence and made for a negro hut, while several hounds from the plantation
house followed hard on my track. I managed, by some tall running, to come
in a few feet ahead, and bolted into the shanty without warning or formality,
slamming the door behind me to keep out the dogs. A great stupid negro
was standing before the fire, his hands and face buried in fresh pork and
hoe-cake, which he was making poor work at eating. His broad, fat
countenance glistened with an unguent distilled partly from within and
partly from without. Turning my eyes from the negro to the untidy hearth,
recruits swept past them, setting up a savage yell at sight of the pedestrians,
it was feared by the latter that the train might be stopped with a view to
their capture, so they once more concealed themselves in the wood.
The sound of heavy cannonading reassured them as to the proximity of
Federal troops; but, where was Augusta? Accurate information on this point
was absolutely essential before further progress was made; and Lemon was
commissioned to obtain it. He was so far successful that he learned from
some negro wood-choppers—much to the chagrin of both—that they had
been walking all night in the opposite direction from Augusta, that is, on the
direct road to Charleston! They also learned, what was much more
cheering, that they could cross the Savannah River, at a point twenty miles
below Augusta, at Point Comfort; that Sherman was making straight for
Savannah, and therefore their chances of ultimately falling in with his army
were by no means impaired.
No time was lost in moving forward in the direction indicated, and during
the night our hero met with an adventure which we cannot do better than
relate in his own words; he says: "We came to a fork in the road, and after
debating some time as to which course we should pursue, I leaped over the
fence and made for a negro hut, while several hounds from the plantation
house followed hard on my track. I managed, by some tall running, to come
in a few feet ahead, and bolted into the shanty without warning or formality,
slamming the door behind me to keep out the dogs. A great stupid negro
was standing before the fire, his hands and face buried in fresh pork and
hoe-cake, which he was making poor work at eating. His broad, fat
countenance glistened with an unguent distilled partly from within and
partly from without. Turning my eyes from the negro to the untidy hearth,
Page 259
they were greeted, as were also my olfactories, with a skillet of pork frying
over the coals.
"Without troubling him to answer any questions, I opened the mouth of
my haversack and poured into it the dripping contents of the skillet. I next
observed that the ashes on the hearth had a suspiciously fat appearance,
and, taking the tongs, began raking among them. My suspicions were
verified, for two plump-looking hoe-cakes came to light, which were also
deposited in the haversack.
"Looking around still farther I saw what I had not observed before,
Dinah's black head, as she peered out from among the bed-clothes, rolling
two of the most astonished white eyes that ever asked the question, 'What's
you g'wine to do next?' Not seeing any practical way in which I could
answer her mute question, I said to Sambo, 'Call the dogs into the house.'
This he did hastily. I then asked, 'Uncle, what road must this rebel take for
Tinker Creek?' 'De right han' one, out dar', I reckon,' he answered. Again
bidding him keep the hounds in the house till morning, I rushed out to the
road and joined my companion. We made lively tracks for about three
miles, after which we took it more leisurely, stopping to rest and refresh
ourselves at every stream that crossed the road."
The winter was by this time fairly upon them, and sleeping in the open
air by no means a pleasant experience. They therefore made long marches,
and by the aid of an occasional friendly push from their negro allies at
length arrived in the vicinity of Point Comfort. This was on the seventh of
December, and the twelfth day of their pilgrimage. After being somewhat
alarmed by the proximity of a pack of dogs, with which some boys were
hunting, they escaped discovery, and securing another negro for a guide,
they on the same night found themselves upon the banks of the Savannah
River.
over the coals.
"Without troubling him to answer any questions, I opened the mouth of
my haversack and poured into it the dripping contents of the skillet. I next
observed that the ashes on the hearth had a suspiciously fat appearance,
and, taking the tongs, began raking among them. My suspicions were
verified, for two plump-looking hoe-cakes came to light, which were also
deposited in the haversack.
"Looking around still farther I saw what I had not observed before,
Dinah's black head, as she peered out from among the bed-clothes, rolling
two of the most astonished white eyes that ever asked the question, 'What's
you g'wine to do next?' Not seeing any practical way in which I could
answer her mute question, I said to Sambo, 'Call the dogs into the house.'
This he did hastily. I then asked, 'Uncle, what road must this rebel take for
Tinker Creek?' 'De right han' one, out dar', I reckon,' he answered. Again
bidding him keep the hounds in the house till morning, I rushed out to the
road and joined my companion. We made lively tracks for about three
miles, after which we took it more leisurely, stopping to rest and refresh
ourselves at every stream that crossed the road."
The winter was by this time fairly upon them, and sleeping in the open
air by no means a pleasant experience. They therefore made long marches,
and by the aid of an occasional friendly push from their negro allies at
length arrived in the vicinity of Point Comfort. This was on the seventh of
December, and the twelfth day of their pilgrimage. After being somewhat
alarmed by the proximity of a pack of dogs, with which some boys were
hunting, they escaped discovery, and securing another negro for a guide,
they on the same night found themselves upon the banks of the Savannah
River.
Page 260
THE ESCAPE—CROSSING THE SAVANNAH AT MIDNIGHT.
A colored man's cabin, as usual, sheltered them during the day, and their
host and his dusky neighbors (many of whom flocked around to see the
Yankees, as was their custom) proving to be fishermen well acquainted with
the river, our friends prevailed upon one of their number to undertake the
task of carrying them across. The first difficulty that presented itself was,
where to find a boat; but their host remembered, he said, a place upon one
of the tributaries of the Savannah where one lay, not exactly in good sailing
trim it is true, for the authorities had ordered the destruction of boats along
all the streams where escaped prisoners were likely to seek a passage, and
this craft had not escaped their vigilance; but he thought, by the liberal use
of pitch and cotton, materials easily obtainable in that neighborhood, it
could be made sufficiently water-tight to answer their purpose. Accordingly,
accompanied by their friendly Charon, with his pitch-pot and cotton, they
reached the spot indicated and found the boat.
It was in a very dilapidated state, but "all night long the faithful fellow
worked, caulking and pitching," while the fugitives "lay concealed in an old
A colored man's cabin, as usual, sheltered them during the day, and their
host and his dusky neighbors (many of whom flocked around to see the
Yankees, as was their custom) proving to be fishermen well acquainted with
the river, our friends prevailed upon one of their number to undertake the
task of carrying them across. The first difficulty that presented itself was,
where to find a boat; but their host remembered, he said, a place upon one
of the tributaries of the Savannah where one lay, not exactly in good sailing
trim it is true, for the authorities had ordered the destruction of boats along
all the streams where escaped prisoners were likely to seek a passage, and
this craft had not escaped their vigilance; but he thought, by the liberal use
of pitch and cotton, materials easily obtainable in that neighborhood, it
could be made sufficiently water-tight to answer their purpose. Accordingly,
accompanied by their friendly Charon, with his pitch-pot and cotton, they
reached the spot indicated and found the boat.
It was in a very dilapidated state, but "all night long the faithful fellow
worked, caulking and pitching," while the fugitives "lay concealed in an old
Page 261
hollow beech log."
It was long after midnight before he had finished his task, and launched
the boat into the stream. She looked very shaky, but the extemporized
shipwright reassured them by saying confidently:
"She's ready, massa. I'll soon land you in Georgey."
They were scarcely, however, in the boat before she commenced to leak;
there was no help for it, so our adventurers betook themselves to bailing the
water out as fast as it entered, and the zealous negro pulled away with all
his might. They kept her afloat until within a short distance of the wished-
for shore, and then, seeing that if they did not quit her she would certainly
quit them, the two passengers leaped out, and managed with some difficulty
to ascend the beach.
It was long after midnight before he had finished his task, and launched
the boat into the stream. She looked very shaky, but the extemporized
shipwright reassured them by saying confidently:
"She's ready, massa. I'll soon land you in Georgey."
They were scarcely, however, in the boat before she commenced to leak;
there was no help for it, so our adventurers betook themselves to bailing the
water out as fast as it entered, and the zealous negro pulled away with all
his might. They kept her afloat until within a short distance of the wished-
for shore, and then, seeing that if they did not quit her she would certainly
quit them, the two passengers leaped out, and managed with some difficulty
to ascend the beach.
Page 262
CHAPTER XXIII.
THE PERILS OF AN ESCAPE.
Alligators. — A detachment of Southern chivalry. — A scare. — Repairs neatly executed. —
Misery and despair. — Virtue its own reward. — Hunger and desperation. — Audacity. — A
Confederate officer. — "A good Union man." — "Two sights and a jambye." — A narrow
escape.
Captain Glazier and his companion were not insensible to the danger they
incurred of being drawn under the water by an alligator; animals they knew
to be numerous and voracious in that river, and were therefore not slow in
quitting its banks. So, bidding a hearty good-bye to their humble
companion, who was already busy re-caulking his boat for the home
voyage, they once more plunged into the recesses of the swamps, intending
to push forward as far as possible before the morning dawned.
They wended their way through a Southern cypress swamp. Some
distance back from the river they could perceive a large plantation-house,
with its out-buildings and accessories, protected by groups of oak and
beech; but they dared not approach it. Under the far-reaching and sheltering
cypress they pursued their way.
The cypress here attains considerable height, the branches issuing from a
trunk formed like a cone; but occasionally they are to be seen of very
stunted growth. Around the full-sized tree are frequently to be found a
whole family of dwarfs, nature having arrested their growth when from one
to ten feet high. These would present an unsightly look, were it not for the
THE PERILS OF AN ESCAPE.
Alligators. — A detachment of Southern chivalry. — A scare. — Repairs neatly executed. —
Misery and despair. — Virtue its own reward. — Hunger and desperation. — Audacity. — A
Confederate officer. — "A good Union man." — "Two sights and a jambye." — A narrow
escape.
Captain Glazier and his companion were not insensible to the danger they
incurred of being drawn under the water by an alligator; animals they knew
to be numerous and voracious in that river, and were therefore not slow in
quitting its banks. So, bidding a hearty good-bye to their humble
companion, who was already busy re-caulking his boat for the home
voyage, they once more plunged into the recesses of the swamps, intending
to push forward as far as possible before the morning dawned.
They wended their way through a Southern cypress swamp. Some
distance back from the river they could perceive a large plantation-house,
with its out-buildings and accessories, protected by groups of oak and
beech; but they dared not approach it. Under the far-reaching and sheltering
cypress they pursued their way.
The cypress here attains considerable height, the branches issuing from a
trunk formed like a cone; but occasionally they are to be seen of very
stunted growth. Around the full-sized tree are frequently to be found a
whole family of dwarfs, nature having arrested their growth when from one
to ten feet high. These would present an unsightly look, were it not for the
Page 263
mantle of Spanish moss that envelops, and gives them a graceful and
picturesque appearance.
Large alligators lay along the bayous, and on every prostrate log,
watching the movements of Glazier and his companion. "They were," he
says, "apparently pleased at our misfortunes, and sent towards us loving,
hungry glances." As soon as approached, these "wardens of the marshes"
would hobble to the edge of a bayou, and allow themselves to fall in; their
eyes remaining above water blinking at the invaders, as if inviting them to
follow. They were probably, as Glazier observes, "a detachment of Southern
chivalry doing duty on their own grounds."
Finally, emerging from the swamp they entered a corn-field, and
discovered a delicious spring; and not far off, a friendly negro. They
arranged to meet him here at eight o'clock, at which hour he returned and
piloted them to some of his friends a short distance off. They were several
times upon the point of being discovered—once by a planter, and again by a
number of white children, who, attended by their nurse, and a pack of curs,
approached within a few feet of their hiding-place. Our friends gradually
edged themselves towards a thicket, which was distant about four miles
from Briar Creek, the latter being eighteen miles from Millen—the junction
of the Augusta branch and the main line of the Central Railway of Georgia.
At this thicket, feeling very weary, our fugitives threw themselves on the
ground, and were soon asleep. Nothing occurred to disturb their slumber;
but, on awaking, their consternation was great to find themselves guarded
by sentinels! Four large hounds stood looking down at them with an air of
responsibility for their safe-keeping; snuffing occasionally at their persons
to discover, probably, if they had the scent of game. This indicated an
alarming condition of things. And the fear fell upon them that the owner of
the hounds had discovered them while they slept, and they were again
picturesque appearance.
Large alligators lay along the bayous, and on every prostrate log,
watching the movements of Glazier and his companion. "They were," he
says, "apparently pleased at our misfortunes, and sent towards us loving,
hungry glances." As soon as approached, these "wardens of the marshes"
would hobble to the edge of a bayou, and allow themselves to fall in; their
eyes remaining above water blinking at the invaders, as if inviting them to
follow. They were probably, as Glazier observes, "a detachment of Southern
chivalry doing duty on their own grounds."
Finally, emerging from the swamp they entered a corn-field, and
discovered a delicious spring; and not far off, a friendly negro. They
arranged to meet him here at eight o'clock, at which hour he returned and
piloted them to some of his friends a short distance off. They were several
times upon the point of being discovered—once by a planter, and again by a
number of white children, who, attended by their nurse, and a pack of curs,
approached within a few feet of their hiding-place. Our friends gradually
edged themselves towards a thicket, which was distant about four miles
from Briar Creek, the latter being eighteen miles from Millen—the junction
of the Augusta branch and the main line of the Central Railway of Georgia.
At this thicket, feeling very weary, our fugitives threw themselves on the
ground, and were soon asleep. Nothing occurred to disturb their slumber;
but, on awaking, their consternation was great to find themselves guarded
by sentinels! Four large hounds stood looking down at them with an air of
responsibility for their safe-keeping; snuffing occasionally at their persons
to discover, probably, if they had the scent of game. This indicated an
alarming condition of things. And the fear fell upon them that the owner of
the hounds had discovered them while they slept, and they were again
Page 264
prisoners. But their alarm soon subsided. No human being appeared; and
the dogs seemed to consider their responsibility at an end, now that the
slumberers were awake; and walking around them in the most natural
manner, with much show of dignity, trooped away without even a parting
salute, but greatly to the relief of our alarmed friends. They were soon after
confronted by another source of affright. This was the approach of a large
cavalry patrol, which came so near their place of concealment, that they
were compelled to forego a fire, cold as it was, and eat their sweet potatoes
raw—the only rations left them. They however escaped observation.
They knew nothing of the whereabouts of General Sherman; but certain
unmistakable indications satisfied them that they were now approaching the
scene of military operations. Bridges destroyed, while others were under the
guard of bodies of soldiers; large herds of stock driven by the planters
themselves to the recesses of the swamps and forests for protection; the
hurrying across country of men on horseback and afoot, and the general
appearance of excitement and unrest that prevailed around them, convinced
Glazier and his companion that the formidable Sherman was not very
distant.
It was hard to be deprived of the comfort of a fire at such an inclement
season, for the weather had become intensely cold, and rain fell incessantly.
A merciful Providence, however, directed their steps towards a spot where
an aged negro was cutting wood and warming himself at a fire by turns, and
they were thus enabled to thaw their frozen garments and gather some
warmth in their numbed limbs. With the aid of the old negro, they
improvised a rude tent by means of their blankets, and on leaving for his
supper, he promised to return in the evening with some hoe-cakes. This
promise he faithfully fulfilled, and remained to cobble Glazier's shoes into a
the dogs seemed to consider their responsibility at an end, now that the
slumberers were awake; and walking around them in the most natural
manner, with much show of dignity, trooped away without even a parting
salute, but greatly to the relief of our alarmed friends. They were soon after
confronted by another source of affright. This was the approach of a large
cavalry patrol, which came so near their place of concealment, that they
were compelled to forego a fire, cold as it was, and eat their sweet potatoes
raw—the only rations left them. They however escaped observation.
They knew nothing of the whereabouts of General Sherman; but certain
unmistakable indications satisfied them that they were now approaching the
scene of military operations. Bridges destroyed, while others were under the
guard of bodies of soldiers; large herds of stock driven by the planters
themselves to the recesses of the swamps and forests for protection; the
hurrying across country of men on horseback and afoot, and the general
appearance of excitement and unrest that prevailed around them, convinced
Glazier and his companion that the formidable Sherman was not very
distant.
It was hard to be deprived of the comfort of a fire at such an inclement
season, for the weather had become intensely cold, and rain fell incessantly.
A merciful Providence, however, directed their steps towards a spot where
an aged negro was cutting wood and warming himself at a fire by turns, and
they were thus enabled to thaw their frozen garments and gather some
warmth in their numbed limbs. With the aid of the old negro, they
improvised a rude tent by means of their blankets, and on leaving for his
supper, he promised to return in the evening with some hoe-cakes. This
promise he faithfully fulfilled, and remained to cobble Glazier's shoes into a
Page 265
condition of comparative comfort. During the day the shoes had threatened
to part company with their owner and leave him barefoot.
The aforesaid shoes having been subjected to the process of repair, our
hero at first demurred to their liberal dimensions, but learned, partly from
the cobbler and partly from experience, that as the 'possum skin (which
formed the uppers) began to dry, it acquired the hardness and durability of
horn; and hence, extra space became necessary. The shoes lasted him till the
end of his adventures, and are still preserved as a memento of auld lang
syne.
The following day was passed in the swamp, a wretched, dispiriting,
drizzling rain, falling from morn till night, bringing the temperature down
to zero. They recommenced their journey at dark despite the weather;
preferring to push ahead rather than seek shelter again, with their friends,
and so delay their progress. Thus they tramped wearily along, until the
small town of Alexander was reached, and by this time their condition had
become so desperate, that they knocked at the first cabin they came to. A
white woman, in reply to their inquiry, as to which was the road to Millen,
said "she did not know." And now, for the first time since their escape from
Columbia, a feeling of despair took possession of them. They were cold,
hungry, worn out, nearly naked, and shelterless, and such was their misery
and despair, that had they not suddenly stumbled upon a large frame
building used by negro laborers on the railroad, they would have been
recaptured from utter powerlessness to seek concealment, or have fallen by
the wayside and died.
Here, however, they met with a generous reception, and obtained the
information they sought. After exchanging some kind words with these
humble people, who heartily sympathized with them, Glazier and his
comrade proceeded on their way.
to part company with their owner and leave him barefoot.
The aforesaid shoes having been subjected to the process of repair, our
hero at first demurred to their liberal dimensions, but learned, partly from
the cobbler and partly from experience, that as the 'possum skin (which
formed the uppers) began to dry, it acquired the hardness and durability of
horn; and hence, extra space became necessary. The shoes lasted him till the
end of his adventures, and are still preserved as a memento of auld lang
syne.
The following day was passed in the swamp, a wretched, dispiriting,
drizzling rain, falling from morn till night, bringing the temperature down
to zero. They recommenced their journey at dark despite the weather;
preferring to push ahead rather than seek shelter again, with their friends,
and so delay their progress. Thus they tramped wearily along, until the
small town of Alexander was reached, and by this time their condition had
become so desperate, that they knocked at the first cabin they came to. A
white woman, in reply to their inquiry, as to which was the road to Millen,
said "she did not know." And now, for the first time since their escape from
Columbia, a feeling of despair took possession of them. They were cold,
hungry, worn out, nearly naked, and shelterless, and such was their misery
and despair, that had they not suddenly stumbled upon a large frame
building used by negro laborers on the railroad, they would have been
recaptured from utter powerlessness to seek concealment, or have fallen by
the wayside and died.
Here, however, they met with a generous reception, and obtained the
information they sought. After exchanging some kind words with these
humble people, who heartily sympathized with them, Glazier and his
comrade proceeded on their way.
Page 266
Everything went well until they unexpectedly came to the banks of a
considerable stream, and, after a careful search, failed to discover any
practicable means of crossing it, except by fording. The fact of its being
fordable gave rise to an incident with a moral, and as the gallant captain
relates the story we will quote his own words:
"Sitting," he writes, "on a log, and ruminating over our chances, a very
selfish piece of strategy suggested itself. Accordingly, I said to Lemon,
'There is no use of both getting wet; we can carry each other over these
streams. If you will carry me over this, I will carry you over the next,' I
said, 'these streams,' although only one was before us, and the most
prominent thought in my mind was that, in all probability, there would be
no other.
"Lemon somehow failed to see the point, and consented. Accordingly,
taking off our shoes, I mounted on the lieutenant's shoulders, as school-boys
sometimes carry each other, and he staggered through the stream with me,
doing no worse than wetting my feet. This worked well. I congratulated
myself, and gave a generous sympathy to Lemon in his shiverings. The
chances were ten to one, I thought, that the carrying business was at an end,
when suddenly another stream, wider than the first, rose up in the darkness
before us. There was no use in wincing, and I stripped for the task. The
lieutenant ascended to the position he had fairly earned. I plunged into the
water. The middle of the stream was reached in safety, when, through no
fault of mine, either the water became too deep, or my back became too
weak for the burden, and the consequence was, the worthy gentleman was
nearly as well soaked as myself when we reached the opposite shore.
Selfishness, as well as virtue, sometimes brings its own reward."
They crossed three other streams during the night, but, by mutual
consent, the carrying contract was canceled, and each did his own wading.
considerable stream, and, after a careful search, failed to discover any
practicable means of crossing it, except by fording. The fact of its being
fordable gave rise to an incident with a moral, and as the gallant captain
relates the story we will quote his own words:
"Sitting," he writes, "on a log, and ruminating over our chances, a very
selfish piece of strategy suggested itself. Accordingly, I said to Lemon,
'There is no use of both getting wet; we can carry each other over these
streams. If you will carry me over this, I will carry you over the next,' I
said, 'these streams,' although only one was before us, and the most
prominent thought in my mind was that, in all probability, there would be
no other.
"Lemon somehow failed to see the point, and consented. Accordingly,
taking off our shoes, I mounted on the lieutenant's shoulders, as school-boys
sometimes carry each other, and he staggered through the stream with me,
doing no worse than wetting my feet. This worked well. I congratulated
myself, and gave a generous sympathy to Lemon in his shiverings. The
chances were ten to one, I thought, that the carrying business was at an end,
when suddenly another stream, wider than the first, rose up in the darkness
before us. There was no use in wincing, and I stripped for the task. The
lieutenant ascended to the position he had fairly earned. I plunged into the
water. The middle of the stream was reached in safety, when, through no
fault of mine, either the water became too deep, or my back became too
weak for the burden, and the consequence was, the worthy gentleman was
nearly as well soaked as myself when we reached the opposite shore.
Selfishness, as well as virtue, sometimes brings its own reward."
They crossed three other streams during the night, but, by mutual
consent, the carrying contract was canceled, and each did his own wading.
Page 267
"Thus," adds the captain, "another grand scheme for human elevation fell to
the ground!"
Weary and wet to the skin, they persevered in their onward course, until
they reached another cypress swamp, and discovered a road through it,
which had evidently been the scene of a recently fought battle. Fences and
buildings were razed to the ground, while fragments of military equipments
were scattered about profusely—broken muskets, spent cartridges, and dead
cattle; all told the story of a late conflict.
Our fugitives had no means of learning at the time any particulars of the
supposed fight, but were afterward informed that less than a week previous
to their being on the spot, General Kilpatrick's cavalry and the Seventeenth
Army Corps had swept like an avalanche along that road.
The temperature by this time had somewhat moderated, and Glazier and
his companion, thinking it unlikely the road would be much used for a time,
concluded that they might with safety lie down and obtain some necessary
rest and sleep. In their exhausted condition, they slept through the day and
the greater part of the following night, arousing themselves with difficulty
for the work still before them.
Judging from the fact that many of the dead horses seen on the road bore
the brand of the "United States," and from other indications, they arrived at
the conclusion that the Union forces were not very distant, and that they
themselves were now possibly in the wake of Sherman's army. This being
the case, the hope revived in their breasts of soon joining their friends—
unless they had the misfortune to be picked up by the enemy's scouts.
Hence, having lost so much of the night, they decided to travel this time by
day, and at once put their determination into practice. Glazier and his friend
soon discovered, however, that they were not expedited in their journey to
the ground!"
Weary and wet to the skin, they persevered in their onward course, until
they reached another cypress swamp, and discovered a road through it,
which had evidently been the scene of a recently fought battle. Fences and
buildings were razed to the ground, while fragments of military equipments
were scattered about profusely—broken muskets, spent cartridges, and dead
cattle; all told the story of a late conflict.
Our fugitives had no means of learning at the time any particulars of the
supposed fight, but were afterward informed that less than a week previous
to their being on the spot, General Kilpatrick's cavalry and the Seventeenth
Army Corps had swept like an avalanche along that road.
The temperature by this time had somewhat moderated, and Glazier and
his companion, thinking it unlikely the road would be much used for a time,
concluded that they might with safety lie down and obtain some necessary
rest and sleep. In their exhausted condition, they slept through the day and
the greater part of the following night, arousing themselves with difficulty
for the work still before them.
Judging from the fact that many of the dead horses seen on the road bore
the brand of the "United States," and from other indications, they arrived at
the conclusion that the Union forces were not very distant, and that they
themselves were now possibly in the wake of Sherman's army. This being
the case, the hope revived in their breasts of soon joining their friends—
unless they had the misfortune to be picked up by the enemy's scouts.
Hence, having lost so much of the night, they decided to travel this time by
day, and at once put their determination into practice. Glazier and his friend
soon discovered, however, that they were not expedited in their journey to
Page 268
any great extent—the streams being greatly swollen by the recent rains,
formed a serious obstacle to their further progress.
They also felt that traveling by daylight was attended with much hazard
to their safety. One advantage of journeying through a part of the country
lately traversed by an invading army, was found in the fact of there being
much smouldering fire along their line of march, and thus our friends ran no
risk of attracting attention by approaching these fires at their several
halting-places. This circumstance afforded one element of comfort—
warmth. But another, still more important, was lacking, namely—food.
They had traveled the entire day without meeting a single negro, and
hence, their commissariat was non est, and gaunt hunger created in them a
sense of desperation. In this state they reached, after sunset, a plantation,
where no house appeared but a number of humble shanties; and, weary,
starving and desperate, they boldly advanced to the door of the best-looking
cabin, and knocked for admission.
"Who's thar?" was answered in a tone, common to the poor whites and
blacks of that section, that afforded no indication of the color of the speaker.
That, however, was the first thing to determine before proceeding further.
So our hero replied, interrogatively: "Are you black or white in there?"
"Thar aint no niggahs heah," was the response, and the indignant tone of its
delivery placed it beyond doubt that they had fallen upon a family of "poor
whites." Glazier thereupon changed his voice to that of the "high-toned"
rebel, and asked why he kept an officer of the Confederate army waiting for
admittance. The man reluctantly opened the door, and the soi-disant
Confederate demanded in an imperious tone, "How long is it since our army
passed here?"
"What army?" was the cautious query, before an answer was vouchsafed.
formed a serious obstacle to their further progress.
They also felt that traveling by daylight was attended with much hazard
to their safety. One advantage of journeying through a part of the country
lately traversed by an invading army, was found in the fact of there being
much smouldering fire along their line of march, and thus our friends ran no
risk of attracting attention by approaching these fires at their several
halting-places. This circumstance afforded one element of comfort—
warmth. But another, still more important, was lacking, namely—food.
They had traveled the entire day without meeting a single negro, and
hence, their commissariat was non est, and gaunt hunger created in them a
sense of desperation. In this state they reached, after sunset, a plantation,
where no house appeared but a number of humble shanties; and, weary,
starving and desperate, they boldly advanced to the door of the best-looking
cabin, and knocked for admission.
"Who's thar?" was answered in a tone, common to the poor whites and
blacks of that section, that afforded no indication of the color of the speaker.
That, however, was the first thing to determine before proceeding further.
So our hero replied, interrogatively: "Are you black or white in there?"
"Thar aint no niggahs heah," was the response, and the indignant tone of its
delivery placed it beyond doubt that they had fallen upon a family of "poor
whites." Glazier thereupon changed his voice to that of the "high-toned"
rebel, and asked why he kept an officer of the Confederate army waiting for
admittance. The man reluctantly opened the door, and the soi-disant
Confederate demanded in an imperious tone, "How long is it since our army
passed here?"
"What army?" was the cautious query, before an answer was vouchsafed.
Page 269
"Why the rebel army, of course!"
The man hereupon stated that Wheeler's cavalry had passed by a week
before, following Sherman's rear guard.
"How far is it to General Wheeler's headquarters?" asked Lieutenant
Glazier.
"I dun'no!" growled the other; "but I guess it's a right smart distance."
To other questions, as to the possibility of obtaining one or more horses
and mules, and even a suggestion that something to eat would not be
unwelcome, the fellow protested that the —— Yankees had stripped the
country of everything, and left them neither horses, mules, nor anything to
eat. Through the intervention of his wife, however, Glazier finally obtained
some bread and sweet potatoes; and, delivering a lecture to him upon the
gross ingratitude of treating in such a niggardly manner a soldier who had
left a home of opulence and comfort, to battle for his rights and liberties,
with much more of a similar audacious character, he left the house.
Time, however, was too precious to be wasted, and, at the conclusion of
the meal, they hurriedly resumed their march.
A solitary planter passed them, returning their carefully-worded
salutation, and, evidently mistaking them for Confederates, volunteered the
information that "our cavalry"—meaning Wheeler's, had passed that point
last Tuesday. He was barely out of view, when they overtook a couple of
negroes going to their work; and of them Glazier inquired the distance to
the nearest plantation, receiving for answer, "Jess a mile, massa." "Are there
any white folks there?" asked our hero. "Narry one, massa," was the reply;
adding, "Dat ar planter is what dey call a Beeswaxer"—meaning a
Bushwacker, "and Massa Sherman took dem all orf." Not wishing to
commit themselves by imprudently revealing their true character, Glazier
The man hereupon stated that Wheeler's cavalry had passed by a week
before, following Sherman's rear guard.
"How far is it to General Wheeler's headquarters?" asked Lieutenant
Glazier.
"I dun'no!" growled the other; "but I guess it's a right smart distance."
To other questions, as to the possibility of obtaining one or more horses
and mules, and even a suggestion that something to eat would not be
unwelcome, the fellow protested that the —— Yankees had stripped the
country of everything, and left them neither horses, mules, nor anything to
eat. Through the intervention of his wife, however, Glazier finally obtained
some bread and sweet potatoes; and, delivering a lecture to him upon the
gross ingratitude of treating in such a niggardly manner a soldier who had
left a home of opulence and comfort, to battle for his rights and liberties,
with much more of a similar audacious character, he left the house.
Time, however, was too precious to be wasted, and, at the conclusion of
the meal, they hurriedly resumed their march.
A solitary planter passed them, returning their carefully-worded
salutation, and, evidently mistaking them for Confederates, volunteered the
information that "our cavalry"—meaning Wheeler's, had passed that point
last Tuesday. He was barely out of view, when they overtook a couple of
negroes going to their work; and of them Glazier inquired the distance to
the nearest plantation, receiving for answer, "Jess a mile, massa." "Are there
any white folks there?" asked our hero. "Narry one, massa," was the reply;
adding, "Dat ar planter is what dey call a Beeswaxer"—meaning a
Bushwacker, "and Massa Sherman took dem all orf." Not wishing to
commit themselves by imprudently revealing their true character, Glazier
Page 270
asked them indifferently, if they had seen any of Wheeler's cavalry lately.
To which one of them responded, "Dar's right smart of dem down at Mars'
Brown's, free mile from de swamp, and dey's hazin' de country all 'round."
This intelligence was not encouraging, but our friends thought it the
wiser course to proceed at once to the plantation the negro had described.
They soon reached the place, and, finding that the dwelling of the owner
was closed, they, without delay, advanced to the nearest of the smaller
tenements, such as were usually occupied by slaves.
Glazier did not pause to knock at the door, but boldly raised the latch and
entered. He expected to see the usual negro auntie with her brood of
pickaninnies, or to meet the friendly glance of one of the males, and
therefore walked in very confidently, and with a pleasant smile. This,
however, soon changed to a look of amazement, when he found himself
face to face with a Confederate officer in full uniform. Quick as lightning,
our hero determined upon his course.
"Ah, sir!" he exclaimed, with all the coolness he could assume, "I
perceive we are in the same service. I can only hope you have not been so
unfortunate as myself."
"How unfortunate may you have been, sir?" the vis à vis inquired.
"Why, at the late cavalry fight at Waynesboro', I lost my horse, having
him shot under me. I have not had the good fortune to obtain another, and
the consequence is, that I have been compelled to walk the whole distance
to this point."
"I reckon, then, stranger, our cases are not altogether dissimilar," the
Confederate rejoined; "I had my horse killed there, too, but luckily got a
mule."
To which one of them responded, "Dar's right smart of dem down at Mars'
Brown's, free mile from de swamp, and dey's hazin' de country all 'round."
This intelligence was not encouraging, but our friends thought it the
wiser course to proceed at once to the plantation the negro had described.
They soon reached the place, and, finding that the dwelling of the owner
was closed, they, without delay, advanced to the nearest of the smaller
tenements, such as were usually occupied by slaves.
Glazier did not pause to knock at the door, but boldly raised the latch and
entered. He expected to see the usual negro auntie with her brood of
pickaninnies, or to meet the friendly glance of one of the males, and
therefore walked in very confidently, and with a pleasant smile. This,
however, soon changed to a look of amazement, when he found himself
face to face with a Confederate officer in full uniform. Quick as lightning,
our hero determined upon his course.
"Ah, sir!" he exclaimed, with all the coolness he could assume, "I
perceive we are in the same service. I can only hope you have not been so
unfortunate as myself."
"How unfortunate may you have been, sir?" the vis à vis inquired.
"Why, at the late cavalry fight at Waynesboro', I lost my horse, having
him shot under me. I have not had the good fortune to obtain another, and
the consequence is, that I have been compelled to walk the whole distance
to this point."
"I reckon, then, stranger, our cases are not altogether dissimilar," the
Confederate rejoined; "I had my horse killed there, too, but luckily got a
mule."
Page 271
A MUTUAL SURPRISE.
In anticipation of an inquiry which, if addressed to himself, might lead to
unpleasant complications, Glazier now asked: "What command he was
attached to?" "Forty-third Alabama Mounted Infantry," said the other; and
then put a similar question. "Third South Carolina Cavalry," said Glazier,
feeling that he would be more at home as a trooper than an infantry soldier.
To carry out his assumed character, he added some remarks regarding
Sherman's barbarities, and was just congratulating himself upon the
gullibility of the Confederate, when his apprehensions were revived by a
remark, that it was "strange a rebel officer should be dressed in a Federal
uniform."
"Not at all, sir," was the quick response, "a poor fellow must wear what
he can get in times like these. I have not had a full equipment since I
entered the service, and hang me, if I ever expect to get one. In the fight at
Waynesboro' we captured a few Yanks, and I just stripped one fellow after
he died, and took his clothes."
This explanation appeared to satisfy the rebel officer, as he remarked,
"that was a good idea, and I wish I had been as sensible myself." After
In anticipation of an inquiry which, if addressed to himself, might lead to
unpleasant complications, Glazier now asked: "What command he was
attached to?" "Forty-third Alabama Mounted Infantry," said the other; and
then put a similar question. "Third South Carolina Cavalry," said Glazier,
feeling that he would be more at home as a trooper than an infantry soldier.
To carry out his assumed character, he added some remarks regarding
Sherman's barbarities, and was just congratulating himself upon the
gullibility of the Confederate, when his apprehensions were revived by a
remark, that it was "strange a rebel officer should be dressed in a Federal
uniform."
"Not at all, sir," was the quick response, "a poor fellow must wear what
he can get in times like these. I have not had a full equipment since I
entered the service, and hang me, if I ever expect to get one. In the fight at
Waynesboro' we captured a few Yanks, and I just stripped one fellow after
he died, and took his clothes."
This explanation appeared to satisfy the rebel officer, as he remarked,
"that was a good idea, and I wish I had been as sensible myself." After
Page 272
inquiry about the probability of obtaining some "grub" from the auntie,
whose hut he supposed the place to be, and receiving a discouraging reply,
Glazier was advised to call upon a Mr. Brown. The property of this loyal
gentleman had been protected from seizure by General Sherman, on
account of his having claimed to be a "good Union man," and by General
Wheeler, because he was a "good rebel," and his larder was described to be,
in consequence, well stocked. Our hero prepared to depart, first earnestly
inquiring the road to Mr. Brown's residence.
"About two sights and a jambye," said the Alabamian, which interpreted,
meant, twice as far as they could see, and the width of a swamp.
Having obtained all the information he desired, without the remotest
intention of availing himself of the "good Union man's" hospitality, Glazier
said "good-day," and rejoined his friend. They made the best of their way
along a path, until a turn carried them out of the rebel officer's sight, then
wheeled suddenly round, and ran rapidly for a considerable distance in the
opposite direction to Mr. Brown's.
whose hut he supposed the place to be, and receiving a discouraging reply,
Glazier was advised to call upon a Mr. Brown. The property of this loyal
gentleman had been protected from seizure by General Sherman, on
account of his having claimed to be a "good Union man," and by General
Wheeler, because he was a "good rebel," and his larder was described to be,
in consequence, well stocked. Our hero prepared to depart, first earnestly
inquiring the road to Mr. Brown's residence.
"About two sights and a jambye," said the Alabamian, which interpreted,
meant, twice as far as they could see, and the width of a swamp.
Having obtained all the information he desired, without the remotest
intention of availing himself of the "good Union man's" hospitality, Glazier
said "good-day," and rejoined his friend. They made the best of their way
along a path, until a turn carried them out of the rebel officer's sight, then
wheeled suddenly round, and ran rapidly for a considerable distance in the
opposite direction to Mr. Brown's.
Page 273
CHAPTER XXIV.
RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST.
Fugitive slaves. — A rebel planter. — The Big Ebenezer. — A sound of oars. — A ruse de guerre.
— Burial of a dead soldier. — A free ride. — Groping in the dark. — "Who goes there!" —
Recaptured. — Nil desperandum. — James Brooks. — Contraband of war. — Confederate
murders. — In the saddle again. — A dash for freedom. — Again captured. — Tried as a spy.
Our hero had been somewhat impressed with the subdued tone and
manner of the Confederate officer with whom he had lately parted. To some
extent he manifested a discouraged and cowed bearing, and this, taken with
some other circumstances in their recent experience, led our friends to hope
that the end was not very remote.
After bidding adieu to the Confederate, they walked about two miles
before discovering a place of concealment in another swamp. Here they
unexpectedly came upon a party of negroes sleeping around a large fire.
They proved to be fugitive slaves, who had abandoned their homes in Burke
County, Georgia, to follow in the rear of Sherman's army. They had formed
part of a body of several hundred persons of all ages and both sexes, who
had escaped and sought refuge upon an island in Big Ebenezer Creek, and
had been inhumanly shelled out by the Confederates. Thence they had
scattered over the country in small bands, and the present detached party
were working their way back to their masters. Captain Glazier despatched
one of them with a haversack in search of some food among the resident
colored people, and the result was so far satisfactory that our friends were
put in possession of a good supply of sweet potatoes.
RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST.
Fugitive slaves. — A rebel planter. — The Big Ebenezer. — A sound of oars. — A ruse de guerre.
— Burial of a dead soldier. — A free ride. — Groping in the dark. — "Who goes there!" —
Recaptured. — Nil desperandum. — James Brooks. — Contraband of war. — Confederate
murders. — In the saddle again. — A dash for freedom. — Again captured. — Tried as a spy.
Our hero had been somewhat impressed with the subdued tone and
manner of the Confederate officer with whom he had lately parted. To some
extent he manifested a discouraged and cowed bearing, and this, taken with
some other circumstances in their recent experience, led our friends to hope
that the end was not very remote.
After bidding adieu to the Confederate, they walked about two miles
before discovering a place of concealment in another swamp. Here they
unexpectedly came upon a party of negroes sleeping around a large fire.
They proved to be fugitive slaves, who had abandoned their homes in Burke
County, Georgia, to follow in the rear of Sherman's army. They had formed
part of a body of several hundred persons of all ages and both sexes, who
had escaped and sought refuge upon an island in Big Ebenezer Creek, and
had been inhumanly shelled out by the Confederates. Thence they had
scattered over the country in small bands, and the present detached party
were working their way back to their masters. Captain Glazier despatched
one of them with a haversack in search of some food among the resident
colored people, and the result was so far satisfactory that our friends were
put in possession of a good supply of sweet potatoes.
Page 274
After another march, and while still in the swamp, they heard wood-
choppers, and Lemon started to reconnoitre. Guided by the sound of the
axe, he approached a small clearing, and seeing a negro, as he had expected,
wielding the axe, walked forward to him, but was suddenly startled by
observing a burly white man sitting on a log, smoking and looking on. They
eyed each other for a moment in silence, when presently the planter
demanded in a blustering voice, "What are you doing here, in a blue
uniform?" Lemon was not slow to answer in a corresponding tone, "I am
serving my country, as every loyal man should do: what have you to say
about it?"
"I believe you're a d—d Yankee," said the planter. "You're welcome to
your opinion, old Blowhard," responded Lemon. "This is a free country; I
am a Yankee—all but the d—d—and now what do you propose to do about
it?" (All this in an assumed tone of bluster, as the best adapted to the
situation.) "We'll see! we'll see!" rejoined the planter, and at once started in
a direct line for his house. Lemon lost no time, but returned as quickly as
possible to his comrade, and without any deliberation they evacuated the
enemy's country with as much expedition as their tired legs were capable of
exerting. Their ears were soon saluted with the music of a pack of hounds
let loose on their track by the burly rebel, and the affair would have had a
disastrous ending if they had not opportunely encountered a considerable
stream, and by wading through it for nearly a mile, succeeded in cutting off
the scent of the hounds.
The planter had raised a hue and cry for miles around, and our hunted
friends, from their covert, saw mounted men patrolling the corduroy road
through the swamp, seemingly under the belief that the "Yankees" would be
driven to use this highway eventually, and thus fall an easy prey into their
hands. The man-hunters, however, found themselves at fault, for our hero
choppers, and Lemon started to reconnoitre. Guided by the sound of the
axe, he approached a small clearing, and seeing a negro, as he had expected,
wielding the axe, walked forward to him, but was suddenly startled by
observing a burly white man sitting on a log, smoking and looking on. They
eyed each other for a moment in silence, when presently the planter
demanded in a blustering voice, "What are you doing here, in a blue
uniform?" Lemon was not slow to answer in a corresponding tone, "I am
serving my country, as every loyal man should do: what have you to say
about it?"
"I believe you're a d—d Yankee," said the planter. "You're welcome to
your opinion, old Blowhard," responded Lemon. "This is a free country; I
am a Yankee—all but the d—d—and now what do you propose to do about
it?" (All this in an assumed tone of bluster, as the best adapted to the
situation.) "We'll see! we'll see!" rejoined the planter, and at once started in
a direct line for his house. Lemon lost no time, but returned as quickly as
possible to his comrade, and without any deliberation they evacuated the
enemy's country with as much expedition as their tired legs were capable of
exerting. Their ears were soon saluted with the music of a pack of hounds
let loose on their track by the burly rebel, and the affair would have had a
disastrous ending if they had not opportunely encountered a considerable
stream, and by wading through it for nearly a mile, succeeded in cutting off
the scent of the hounds.
The planter had raised a hue and cry for miles around, and our hunted
friends, from their covert, saw mounted men patrolling the corduroy road
through the swamp, seemingly under the belief that the "Yankees" would be
driven to use this highway eventually, and thus fall an easy prey into their
hands. The man-hunters, however, found themselves at fault, for our hero
Page 275
had learned, in the hard school of experience, to anticipate all such
contingencies. He and Lemon therefore secreted themselves until late in the
night, determined to rob them of their game.
It was approaching midnight, December fifteenth, when the fugitives
crept cautiously to the margin of the swamp. A large fire denoted the
position of the planter's picket. They ventured out through the mud and
water with the purpose of flanking the enemy on their left—a hazardous
proceeding, and attended with much suffering from the intense coldness of
the water. In two hours, however, they had reached a point on the opposite
side of the encampment, and fearing discovery and pursuit, soon placed two
or three miles between themselves and the foe. Sometimes they were made
cognizant of the nearness of the parties in search of them, by overhearing
their conversation, which treated mainly of Sherman's march to the sea,
how it would affect the Confederacy, and similar interesting topics.
Our friends passed the last picket at the edge of the swamp, but deeming
it unwise to relax in speed or vigilance, pushed forward to the banks of the
Big Ebenezer, which advanced them three miles further.
Here, upon the charred abutment of a burned bridge, Glazier and his
friend paused, and with the dark river in their front, debated how they were
to reach the other side. The dawn was just breaking, and through the rising
mist they could discern the opposite shore, but no practicable mode of
reaching it. They must not, however, remain here after daybreak, and
therefore sought and found a place of concealment, again in the hateful
swamp, but not far from the river's bank. They were soon enjoying the rest
and sleep of the weary.
Lemon was startled from his slumber by a sound resembling that of oars.
He awoke Glazier, and both listened intently, at a loss to understand the
meaning of such a sound in such a place. In a few minutes the noise ceased,
contingencies. He and Lemon therefore secreted themselves until late in the
night, determined to rob them of their game.
It was approaching midnight, December fifteenth, when the fugitives
crept cautiously to the margin of the swamp. A large fire denoted the
position of the planter's picket. They ventured out through the mud and
water with the purpose of flanking the enemy on their left—a hazardous
proceeding, and attended with much suffering from the intense coldness of
the water. In two hours, however, they had reached a point on the opposite
side of the encampment, and fearing discovery and pursuit, soon placed two
or three miles between themselves and the foe. Sometimes they were made
cognizant of the nearness of the parties in search of them, by overhearing
their conversation, which treated mainly of Sherman's march to the sea,
how it would affect the Confederacy, and similar interesting topics.
Our friends passed the last picket at the edge of the swamp, but deeming
it unwise to relax in speed or vigilance, pushed forward to the banks of the
Big Ebenezer, which advanced them three miles further.
Here, upon the charred abutment of a burned bridge, Glazier and his
friend paused, and with the dark river in their front, debated how they were
to reach the other side. The dawn was just breaking, and through the rising
mist they could discern the opposite shore, but no practicable mode of
reaching it. They must not, however, remain here after daybreak, and
therefore sought and found a place of concealment, again in the hateful
swamp, but not far from the river's bank. They were soon enjoying the rest
and sleep of the weary.
Lemon was startled from his slumber by a sound resembling that of oars.
He awoke Glazier, and both listened intently, at a loss to understand the
meaning of such a sound in such a place. In a few minutes the noise ceased,
Page 276
and looking cautiously from their hiding-place, they observed two men pass
near them, having the appearance of messengers or couriers, with
despatches, which they could plainly see in their hands. It at once occurred
to our hero and his companion that the boat in which these men had rowed
themselves up the river, could be made available for crossing to its opposite
bank. They found it moored to a tree, and at once embarked and crossed the
stream. To prevent pursuit they cast the boat adrift, and as speedily as
possible left "Big Ebenezer" behind them.
At a short distance from the river side Lemon stumbled over the dead
body of a soldier, which, upon examination, proved to be that of a Federal.
Our friends having no means of placing the body underground, concluded
to bury it in the river, and thus prevent to some extent its desecration by
dogs or other carrion-seeking animals that might find it exposed. This was
the best they could do under the circumstances, and thus the poor body
found a sailor's, if not a soldier's grave.
They had advanced not many paces again when they discovered two
horses tied to a tree, possibly the property of the two couriers whose boat
they had previously utilized. These they looked upon as fair spoil in an
enemy's country, and with little compunction and less ceremony mounted
and started on their way. A few miles brought them to the verge of the
wood, and the day was now breaking. They therefore reluctantly
dismounted, turned their steeds adrift for fear of detection, and trudged
forward on foot once more.
Soon they had reason to congratulate themselves on their prudence in
dismounting. Another quarter of a mile brought within view a Confederate
picket, but they were not themselves observed. They accordingly sought a
hiding-place among the thick undergrowth, and were soon asleep,
near them, having the appearance of messengers or couriers, with
despatches, which they could plainly see in their hands. It at once occurred
to our hero and his companion that the boat in which these men had rowed
themselves up the river, could be made available for crossing to its opposite
bank. They found it moored to a tree, and at once embarked and crossed the
stream. To prevent pursuit they cast the boat adrift, and as speedily as
possible left "Big Ebenezer" behind them.
At a short distance from the river side Lemon stumbled over the dead
body of a soldier, which, upon examination, proved to be that of a Federal.
Our friends having no means of placing the body underground, concluded
to bury it in the river, and thus prevent to some extent its desecration by
dogs or other carrion-seeking animals that might find it exposed. This was
the best they could do under the circumstances, and thus the poor body
found a sailor's, if not a soldier's grave.
They had advanced not many paces again when they discovered two
horses tied to a tree, possibly the property of the two couriers whose boat
they had previously utilized. These they looked upon as fair spoil in an
enemy's country, and with little compunction and less ceremony mounted
and started on their way. A few miles brought them to the verge of the
wood, and the day was now breaking. They therefore reluctantly
dismounted, turned their steeds adrift for fear of detection, and trudged
forward on foot once more.
Soon they had reason to congratulate themselves on their prudence in
dismounting. Another quarter of a mile brought within view a Confederate
picket, but they were not themselves observed. They accordingly sought a
hiding-place among the thick undergrowth, and were soon asleep,
Page 277
remaining so until midnight. They then turned the flank of the picket and
proceeded on their journey.
Long immunity from the peril of recapture had now inspired Glazier and
his friend with hope and full confidence in successfully attaining the end of
their struggles. The swamp, the river, the alligator, the man-hunter, and
worse than all, the blood-hound, had been met and successfully overcome
or evaded; and after three long weeks of travel from the execrable and
inhuman people, who had held them as prisoners of war, and treated them
worse than dogs, they now found themselves within twenty miles of
Savannah.
Resting himself upon a fallen tree, clad in rags, hungry and reduced
almost to the proportions of a skeleton by long fasting, Glazier with his
companion were able to congratulate themselves upon their wonderful
preservation thus far. All seemed to foreshadow their final triumph, and
their spirits were cheered, notwithstanding that food had not passed their
lips for the past thirty-six hours, with the exception of a few grains of corn
picked up by the way. Probably within the brief space of twenty-four hours
they would be again free and under the protection of the glorious flag, in
whose defence they had fought and suffered so much.
Flushed with their past success and elated with hope for the future they
recommenced their march. They had no exact information as to the position
of the Federal army, and were in fact groping their way in the dark—
figuratively as well as literally—every sense on the alert to avoid the
enemy's picket lines.
On reaching Little Ebenezer Creek about midnight they were chagrined
to find the bridge destroyed, but after reconnoitring for a time, were
satisfied that the coast was clear on the opposite side. Finding some broken
planks they constructed a raft and paddled themselves across the stream.
proceeded on their journey.
Long immunity from the peril of recapture had now inspired Glazier and
his friend with hope and full confidence in successfully attaining the end of
their struggles. The swamp, the river, the alligator, the man-hunter, and
worse than all, the blood-hound, had been met and successfully overcome
or evaded; and after three long weeks of travel from the execrable and
inhuman people, who had held them as prisoners of war, and treated them
worse than dogs, they now found themselves within twenty miles of
Savannah.
Resting himself upon a fallen tree, clad in rags, hungry and reduced
almost to the proportions of a skeleton by long fasting, Glazier with his
companion were able to congratulate themselves upon their wonderful
preservation thus far. All seemed to foreshadow their final triumph, and
their spirits were cheered, notwithstanding that food had not passed their
lips for the past thirty-six hours, with the exception of a few grains of corn
picked up by the way. Probably within the brief space of twenty-four hours
they would be again free and under the protection of the glorious flag, in
whose defence they had fought and suffered so much.
Flushed with their past success and elated with hope for the future they
recommenced their march. They had no exact information as to the position
of the Federal army, and were in fact groping their way in the dark—
figuratively as well as literally—every sense on the alert to avoid the
enemy's picket lines.
On reaching Little Ebenezer Creek about midnight they were chagrined
to find the bridge destroyed, but after reconnoitring for a time, were
satisfied that the coast was clear on the opposite side. Finding some broken
planks they constructed a raft and paddled themselves across the stream.
Page 278
They were now on the Savannah River Road, over which Kilpatrick's
cavalry and the Fourteenth Army Corps had passed but a week before. Old
camping-grounds were numerous along their way, and each was examined
closely for any bread or other eatables they thought might have been left by
the army.
RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST.
They were closely engaged in this search, when "Who comes there?"
was gruffly shouted by a voice near them.
"Friends," promptly answered Glazier.
"Advance one!" commanded the picket.
"I advanced promptly," writes Captain Glazier, in the history of his
capture and imprisonment, "and arriving near my captors found them to be
mounted infantry. They were sitting upon their horses in the shade of some
cypress-trees. One asked, 'Who are you?' to which I replied, 'A scout to
General Hardie, and must not be detained, as I have important information
for the general.'
cavalry and the Fourteenth Army Corps had passed but a week before. Old
camping-grounds were numerous along their way, and each was examined
closely for any bread or other eatables they thought might have been left by
the army.
RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST.
They were closely engaged in this search, when "Who comes there?"
was gruffly shouted by a voice near them.
"Friends," promptly answered Glazier.
"Advance one!" commanded the picket.
"I advanced promptly," writes Captain Glazier, in the history of his
capture and imprisonment, "and arriving near my captors found them to be
mounted infantry. They were sitting upon their horses in the shade of some
cypress-trees. One asked, 'Who are you?' to which I replied, 'A scout to
General Hardie, and must not be detained, as I have important information
for the general.'
Page 279
"The picket replied, 'I'm instructed to take every person to the officer of
the picket that approaches this post after dark.'
"'I can't help it, sir. It is not customary to arrest scouts, and I must pass
on.'
"'You cannot; I must obey orders. I do not doubt the truth of your
assertion; but until you have seen the lieutenant, you will not be allowed to
pass this post.'
"Finding that I had met a good soldier I saw that it was useless to trifle
with him, and tried to console myself with the thought that I should be able
to dupe the officer; and as we were hurried on towards the reserve of the
picket my mind was occupied in arranging a plan for our defence, as spies
to the great rebel chief. Arrived at the reserve we found nearly all asleep,
including the lieutenant, in close proximity to a large rail-fire.
"A little rough shaking soon roused him up, and, rubbing his eyes, he
asked, 'What's wanted?'
"I quickly answered, 'I'm surprised, sir, that scouts to our generals should
be arrested by your picket.'
"He said, 'My instructions are positive, and no man can pass this post
without examination.'
"'Very well, then,' I said, 'be good enough to examine us at once.'
"'Have you passes?'
"'No, sir; not at present. We had papers when we left the general's
headquarters; but having been scouting in Northern Georgia, for the past
two weeks, our papers are worn out and lost.'
"'You have some papers about you, I suppose?'
the picket that approaches this post after dark.'
"'I can't help it, sir. It is not customary to arrest scouts, and I must pass
on.'
"'You cannot; I must obey orders. I do not doubt the truth of your
assertion; but until you have seen the lieutenant, you will not be allowed to
pass this post.'
"Finding that I had met a good soldier I saw that it was useless to trifle
with him, and tried to console myself with the thought that I should be able
to dupe the officer; and as we were hurried on towards the reserve of the
picket my mind was occupied in arranging a plan for our defence, as spies
to the great rebel chief. Arrived at the reserve we found nearly all asleep,
including the lieutenant, in close proximity to a large rail-fire.
"A little rough shaking soon roused him up, and, rubbing his eyes, he
asked, 'What's wanted?'
"I quickly answered, 'I'm surprised, sir, that scouts to our generals should
be arrested by your picket.'
"He said, 'My instructions are positive, and no man can pass this post
without examination.'
"'Very well, then,' I said, 'be good enough to examine us at once.'
"'Have you passes?'
"'No, sir; not at present. We had papers when we left the general's
headquarters; but having been scouting in Northern Georgia, for the past
two weeks, our papers are worn out and lost.'
"'You have some papers about you, I suppose?'
Page 280
"Thinking that by answering in the affirmative, and producing quickly an
old package of letters which had been received while in Libby Prison, that
none of them would be examined, I hastily drew them from the side-pocket
of my jacket and held them before me, saying, 'I hope here are enough, sir.'
"The lieutenant's curiosity led him to take one which had been received
from Colonel Clarence Buel, of Troy, New York. He held it near the fire,
and noticing the date, turned his eyes towards me and again to the letter; the
second glance seemed to satisfy him that I was not a rebel, and he remarked
very indignantly, 'Then you are scouting for General Hardie, are you? I
believe you are a d—d Yankee spy! and if you were to get your deserts I
should hang you to the first tree I come to,' Said I, 'Lieutenant, do not be too
hasty. I can convince you that I have been a prisoner of war, and if you are a
true soldier I shall be treated as such.'
"Becoming a little more mild he gave us to understand that we should
start at ten o'clock the next morning for Springfield, the headquarters of
General Wheeler.
"After detailing a special guard for the prisoners, and instructing them to
be on the alert, the lieutenant laid himself down by the fire, leaving us to
reflect upon the hardness of fate, and the uncertainties attending an effort to
escape the clutches of a vigilant enemy."
Glazier did not despair, but at the first opportunity communicated to
Lemon his determination to reach the Federal lines at all risks; he would
never return to South Carolina a prisoner; the horrors of prison-life and the
privations and sufferings they had already endured, should never be
repeated in his case, but rather—welcome death! Their enemies—albeit
fellow-countrymen and Americans—were inhuman and barbarous, and
before putting himself in their hands again, he would submit to be hung by
bushwhackers, or torn to pieces by blood-hounds. Their case was now
old package of letters which had been received while in Libby Prison, that
none of them would be examined, I hastily drew them from the side-pocket
of my jacket and held them before me, saying, 'I hope here are enough, sir.'
"The lieutenant's curiosity led him to take one which had been received
from Colonel Clarence Buel, of Troy, New York. He held it near the fire,
and noticing the date, turned his eyes towards me and again to the letter; the
second glance seemed to satisfy him that I was not a rebel, and he remarked
very indignantly, 'Then you are scouting for General Hardie, are you? I
believe you are a d—d Yankee spy! and if you were to get your deserts I
should hang you to the first tree I come to,' Said I, 'Lieutenant, do not be too
hasty. I can convince you that I have been a prisoner of war, and if you are a
true soldier I shall be treated as such.'
"Becoming a little more mild he gave us to understand that we should
start at ten o'clock the next morning for Springfield, the headquarters of
General Wheeler.
"After detailing a special guard for the prisoners, and instructing them to
be on the alert, the lieutenant laid himself down by the fire, leaving us to
reflect upon the hardness of fate, and the uncertainties attending an effort to
escape the clutches of a vigilant enemy."
Glazier did not despair, but at the first opportunity communicated to
Lemon his determination to reach the Federal lines at all risks; he would
never return to South Carolina a prisoner; the horrors of prison-life and the
privations and sufferings they had already endured, should never be
repeated in his case, but rather—welcome death! Their enemies—albeit
fellow-countrymen and Americans—were inhuman and barbarous, and
before putting himself in their hands again, he would submit to be hung by
bushwhackers, or torn to pieces by blood-hounds. Their case was now
Page 281
desperate, and for his part he would take the first chance that offered of
getting away. Our hero thought he could count on Lemon's concurrence and
co-operation. The men of the picket told him they had been arrested at the
outpost; and it was now clear that if the fugitives had been so fortunate as to
pass this picket, they could have reached the Federal lines in less than an
hour. Only a step intervened between captivity and freedom—the thought
was very disheartening.
An instance of exceptional kindness on the part of a Confederate must
not be omitted here. James Brooks, one of the picket, came to the prisoners
and invited them to partake of some hoe-cake and bacon. He said he had
been out foraging, and would share his plunder with them. Having been
without food for forty-eight hours, save a few ears of corn, they eagerly
embraced the generous offer. The hoe-cake was produced and partaken of
ravenously and thankfully. The other men of the picket were disgusted at
the liberality of their comrade, calling him a "blue belly," and a fool to give
good bread to a couple of d—d Yanks. Like a true man, however, he made
no reply to their brutal taunts, and gave the captives a most excellent
breakfast.
Having finished their welcome meal, they asked permission to bathe
themselves, under guard, in a little stream not many rods from the reserve,
which request was granted. Here the prisoners in their desperation offered
the guard one hundred dollars in Confederate scrip, which had been given
them by their negro friends, to assist them in making their escape. The
guards seemed to distrust each other, and declined the proposal. They,
however, said they would be right glad to have the money, but feared to
take it, as they were held responsible for the safe return of the prisoners.
The offer of the bribe was reported to the lieutenant, who at once ordered
the delinquents to be searched, and all the scrip found upon them was
getting away. Our hero thought he could count on Lemon's concurrence and
co-operation. The men of the picket told him they had been arrested at the
outpost; and it was now clear that if the fugitives had been so fortunate as to
pass this picket, they could have reached the Federal lines in less than an
hour. Only a step intervened between captivity and freedom—the thought
was very disheartening.
An instance of exceptional kindness on the part of a Confederate must
not be omitted here. James Brooks, one of the picket, came to the prisoners
and invited them to partake of some hoe-cake and bacon. He said he had
been out foraging, and would share his plunder with them. Having been
without food for forty-eight hours, save a few ears of corn, they eagerly
embraced the generous offer. The hoe-cake was produced and partaken of
ravenously and thankfully. The other men of the picket were disgusted at
the liberality of their comrade, calling him a "blue belly," and a fool to give
good bread to a couple of d—d Yanks. Like a true man, however, he made
no reply to their brutal taunts, and gave the captives a most excellent
breakfast.
Having finished their welcome meal, they asked permission to bathe
themselves, under guard, in a little stream not many rods from the reserve,
which request was granted. Here the prisoners in their desperation offered
the guard one hundred dollars in Confederate scrip, which had been given
them by their negro friends, to assist them in making their escape. The
guards seemed to distrust each other, and declined the proposal. They,
however, said they would be right glad to have the money, but feared to
take it, as they were held responsible for the safe return of the prisoners.
The offer of the bribe was reported to the lieutenant, who at once ordered
the delinquents to be searched, and all the scrip found upon them was
Page 282
confiscated, as contraband of war, and appropriated to rebel uses, leaving
our two unfortunate friends penniless. They were further threatened with
condign punishment for offering to bribe the guard. One said "Shoot them;"
another, "Let 'em stretch hemp;" several recommended that they be taken to
the swamp and "sent after Sherman's raiders,"—referring, probably, to the
manner in which they had disposed of some of the Federal sick, who had
been left in the rear of the army. Of this incident Glazier writes: "I had been
told by the negroes that fifteen of our sick, who fell into the hands of the
rebels but a few days before our recapture, were taken to a swamp, where
their throats were cut, and their bodies thrown into a slough hole. I cannot
vouch for the truth of this statement, but it came to me from many whose
veracity I have no reason to question."
Let us in the name of humanity doubt it!
THE ESCAPE AND PURSUIT.
At ten o'clock A. M. a mounted guard, consisting of a corporal and two
men, were detailed to march the prisoners to the headquarters of General
Wheeler. They had not proceeded far when Glazier assumed to be footsore,
our two unfortunate friends penniless. They were further threatened with
condign punishment for offering to bribe the guard. One said "Shoot them;"
another, "Let 'em stretch hemp;" several recommended that they be taken to
the swamp and "sent after Sherman's raiders,"—referring, probably, to the
manner in which they had disposed of some of the Federal sick, who had
been left in the rear of the army. Of this incident Glazier writes: "I had been
told by the negroes that fifteen of our sick, who fell into the hands of the
rebels but a few days before our recapture, were taken to a swamp, where
their throats were cut, and their bodies thrown into a slough hole. I cannot
vouch for the truth of this statement, but it came to me from many whose
veracity I have no reason to question."
Let us in the name of humanity doubt it!
THE ESCAPE AND PURSUIT.
At ten o'clock A. M. a mounted guard, consisting of a corporal and two
men, were detailed to march the prisoners to the headquarters of General
Wheeler. They had not proceeded far when Glazier assumed to be footsore,
Page 283
and pleaded his utter inability to walk any further. Believing this, one of the
guards dismounted and helped him into the saddle. Our hero was no sooner
mounted than he decided that, come what would, he would make his
escape. In a few moments the guard who was on foot espied a black squirrel
darting across the road, and oblivious of his responsibility, gave chase to it,
Glazier looking on and biding his time. The squirrel soon ran up a tree, and
leaped from bough to bough with its usual agility. Suddenly it halted on a
prominent branch, seeming to bid defiance to its pursuer. The carbine was
instantly raised, and discharged. Without waiting to note the result, Glazier,
feeling that now was his opportunity, dashed off at a gallop, urging his horse
to the top of his speed. Before the squirrel-hunter could reload, he was
many yards away. The corporal in charge fired his revolver, and at each
discharge of the weapon, shouted to the fugitive to halt! but Glazier gave no
heed to the summons, and might have succeeded in reaching the swamps
and defied recapture, if he had not unfortunately galloped into a rebel camp!
Baffled, he turned his horse, and endeavored to cross an open field, but the
corporal continued to shout, "Halt that d—d Yankee!" when a body of
Texan Rangers from General Iverson's cavalry division, some mounted and
some dismounted, gave chase, hooting and yelping, and finally overtook
and compelled him to surrender.
The guard whose horse Lieutenant Glazier had ridden came up and
vented his rage at the escapade in no measured language. The Texans,
however, enjoyed the fun of the thing, and laughed at, and ridiculed him.
Said one, "You are a d—d smart soldier to let a blue-belly get away from
you—and on your own horse too!" Another joined in with, "Say, Corporal,
which of them nags can run fastest?" Nothing of course was said about the
squirrel!
guards dismounted and helped him into the saddle. Our hero was no sooner
mounted than he decided that, come what would, he would make his
escape. In a few moments the guard who was on foot espied a black squirrel
darting across the road, and oblivious of his responsibility, gave chase to it,
Glazier looking on and biding his time. The squirrel soon ran up a tree, and
leaped from bough to bough with its usual agility. Suddenly it halted on a
prominent branch, seeming to bid defiance to its pursuer. The carbine was
instantly raised, and discharged. Without waiting to note the result, Glazier,
feeling that now was his opportunity, dashed off at a gallop, urging his horse
to the top of his speed. Before the squirrel-hunter could reload, he was
many yards away. The corporal in charge fired his revolver, and at each
discharge of the weapon, shouted to the fugitive to halt! but Glazier gave no
heed to the summons, and might have succeeded in reaching the swamps
and defied recapture, if he had not unfortunately galloped into a rebel camp!
Baffled, he turned his horse, and endeavored to cross an open field, but the
corporal continued to shout, "Halt that d—d Yankee!" when a body of
Texan Rangers from General Iverson's cavalry division, some mounted and
some dismounted, gave chase, hooting and yelping, and finally overtook
and compelled him to surrender.
The guard whose horse Lieutenant Glazier had ridden came up and
vented his rage at the escapade in no measured language. The Texans,
however, enjoyed the fun of the thing, and laughed at, and ridiculed him.
Said one, "You are a d—d smart soldier to let a blue-belly get away from
you—and on your own horse too!" Another joined in with, "Say, Corporal,
which of them nags can run fastest?" Nothing of course was said about the
squirrel!
Page 284
On Lemon and his guard coming up they resumed their march to
headquarters—Glazier's lameness exciting no further sympathy, nor the
offer of another mount.
The escort with their charge reached General Wheeler's headquarters in
the afternoon, and the report handed in stated that, "the two prisoners had
been captured while attempting to pass the out-post, under the pretence of
being scouts to General Hardie."
Wheeler ordered them at once into his presence and questioned them
closely.
Captain Glazier thus graphically relates the interview:
"'Then you are scouting for Confederate generals?' said Wheeler.
"I replied, 'We would have rejoiced if we could have convinced your out-
post that we were.'
"'None of your impudence, sir! Remember that you are a prisoner.'
"'Very true; but when you ask questions, you must expect answers.'
"'What are you doing with that gray jacket?'
"'I wear it, sir, to protect myself from the sun and storm.'
"'Where did you get it?'
"'One of the guards at Columbia was kind enough to give it to me, when
he saw that I was suffering for the want of clothing to cover my nakedness.'
"'He could not have been a true rebel, to assist a Yankee in making his
escape.'
"'He knew nothing of my intention to escape; and I believe he was at
least a kind-hearted man.'
"'Why don't you wear the Federal uniform? Are the Yankees ashamed of
it?'
headquarters—Glazier's lameness exciting no further sympathy, nor the
offer of another mount.
The escort with their charge reached General Wheeler's headquarters in
the afternoon, and the report handed in stated that, "the two prisoners had
been captured while attempting to pass the out-post, under the pretence of
being scouts to General Hardie."
Wheeler ordered them at once into his presence and questioned them
closely.
Captain Glazier thus graphically relates the interview:
"'Then you are scouting for Confederate generals?' said Wheeler.
"I replied, 'We would have rejoiced if we could have convinced your out-
post that we were.'
"'None of your impudence, sir! Remember that you are a prisoner.'
"'Very true; but when you ask questions, you must expect answers.'
"'What are you doing with that gray jacket?'
"'I wear it, sir, to protect myself from the sun and storm.'
"'Where did you get it?'
"'One of the guards at Columbia was kind enough to give it to me, when
he saw that I was suffering for the want of clothing to cover my nakedness.'
"'He could not have been a true rebel, to assist a Yankee in making his
escape.'
"'He knew nothing of my intention to escape; and I believe he was at
least a kind-hearted man.'
"'Why don't you wear the Federal uniform? Are the Yankees ashamed of
it?'
Page 285
"'By no means, sir! What few garments were spared me at the time of my
capture were worn out during a long imprisonment, and the clothing which
was sent on to Richmond by our Government during the winter of 1863 for
distribution among the prisoners, was, for the most part, appropriated by
your authorities.'
"'Like most of your contemptible Yankee crew, I believe you to be a lying
scoundrel, and you shall answer to the charge of spy.'
"'Very well, sir, I am compelled to await your pleasure; but you have
heard nothing but the truth.'
"'Guard! take the prisoners to the jail, place them in a cell, and keep them
in close confinement until further orders.'"
The above colloquy between Wheeler and his prisoners reflects small
credit upon him as a leader of "Southern Chivalry."
capture were worn out during a long imprisonment, and the clothing which
was sent on to Richmond by our Government during the winter of 1863 for
distribution among the prisoners, was, for the most part, appropriated by
your authorities.'
"'Like most of your contemptible Yankee crew, I believe you to be a lying
scoundrel, and you shall answer to the charge of spy.'
"'Very well, sir, I am compelled to await your pleasure; but you have
heard nothing but the truth.'
"'Guard! take the prisoners to the jail, place them in a cell, and keep them
in close confinement until further orders.'"
The above colloquy between Wheeler and his prisoners reflects small
credit upon him as a leader of "Southern Chivalry."
Page 286
CHAPTER XXV.
FINAL ESCAPE FROM CAPTIVITY.
In jail. — White trash. — Yankees. — Off to Waynesboro. — No rations. Calling the roll. —
Sylvania. — Plan for escape. — Lieutenant John W. Wright. — A desperate project. —
Escaped! — Giving chase. — The pursuers baffled. — Old Richard. — "Pooty hard case,
massa." — Rebel deserters. — The sound of cannon. — Personating a rebel officer. — Mrs.
Keyton. — Renewed hope. — A Confederate outpost. — Bloodhounds. — Uncle Philip. —
March Dasher. — Suspicion disarmed. — "Now I'ze ready, gemmen." — Stars and stripes. —
Glorious freedom. — Home!
In obedience to orders, Glazier and his comrade were at once marched
off to the county jail at Springfield, Georgia, then in the hands of the
military authorities. They were the only military prisoners confined there,
and were allowed the privilege of leaving their cell and going into the yard
for fresh air. They were not a little amused by the crowds of wondering
citizens who visited the jail to view the "two live Yanks."
These worthy citizens were greatly exercised that the prisoners should be
permitted to leave their cells, and called on the jailer to remove them from
the yard or they would take the keys into their own hands; but the officer in
command told them that he was personally responsible for their safe-
custody, and refused to remove them. These white Georgians were a very
primitive class of people. Utterly illiterate and uninformed, their mode of
speech was as bad as that of the most ignorant slaves on the plantations.
The term "white trash," whatever its origin, was a most appropriate
designation. No care had been taken to educate them—no school-houses
built; education being confined to the few whose wealth enabled them to
FINAL ESCAPE FROM CAPTIVITY.
In jail. — White trash. — Yankees. — Off to Waynesboro. — No rations. Calling the roll. —
Sylvania. — Plan for escape. — Lieutenant John W. Wright. — A desperate project. —
Escaped! — Giving chase. — The pursuers baffled. — Old Richard. — "Pooty hard case,
massa." — Rebel deserters. — The sound of cannon. — Personating a rebel officer. — Mrs.
Keyton. — Renewed hope. — A Confederate outpost. — Bloodhounds. — Uncle Philip. —
March Dasher. — Suspicion disarmed. — "Now I'ze ready, gemmen." — Stars and stripes. —
Glorious freedom. — Home!
In obedience to orders, Glazier and his comrade were at once marched
off to the county jail at Springfield, Georgia, then in the hands of the
military authorities. They were the only military prisoners confined there,
and were allowed the privilege of leaving their cell and going into the yard
for fresh air. They were not a little amused by the crowds of wondering
citizens who visited the jail to view the "two live Yanks."
These worthy citizens were greatly exercised that the prisoners should be
permitted to leave their cells, and called on the jailer to remove them from
the yard or they would take the keys into their own hands; but the officer in
command told them that he was personally responsible for their safe-
custody, and refused to remove them. These white Georgians were a very
primitive class of people. Utterly illiterate and uninformed, their mode of
speech was as bad as that of the most ignorant slaves on the plantations.
The term "white trash," whatever its origin, was a most appropriate
designation. No care had been taken to educate them—no school-houses
built; education being confined to the few whose wealth enabled them to
Page 287
send their children to Northern schools, or to engage a private tutor.
Discovering that the prisoners were harmless, many of these people asked
them questions of a curious and comical nature. They thought Yankees were
imps of darkness, possessed of horns and hoof, and, seeing that the
prisoners were formed not unlike themselves, were with difficulty
persuaded that they were "Yankees." Their idea of the causes and character
of the war was ludicrous in the extreme, and will hardly bear description—
the negroes themselves being far better informed upon this, as they were
upon most other subjects.
A very brief examination before a hastily convened board of officers
resulted in a finding that the captives were "escaped prisoners of war," and
not "spies." They were accordingly asked, where they were captured, where
imprisoned, when they escaped, etc.; and then a strong guard from the
Second Georgia Cavalry was detailed to convey them, with fifteen other
prisoners from the Fourteenth Army Corps, to Waynesboro.
From the other prisoners Glazier gleaned much useful information
concerning the situation of the Union lines, and also learned where the rebel
troops were stationed in Sherman's rear. Should he attempt another escape,
this knowledge would be valuable. The rebel escort cared very little for the
wants of their prisoners, and issued no rations whatever to them—they
themselves being entirely dependent on foraging for their own supplies. As
the unfortunate prisoners could not forage for themselves they had to go
without, a condition of things that spoke little for the soldierly feeling of the
guard. All attempts to elude the vigilance of the latter during the day had
failed, and as darkness drew on, Glazier and his friend felt in very low
spirits. They came to a halt a few minutes before dark, and were quartered
in an old building for the night.
Discovering that the prisoners were harmless, many of these people asked
them questions of a curious and comical nature. They thought Yankees were
imps of darkness, possessed of horns and hoof, and, seeing that the
prisoners were formed not unlike themselves, were with difficulty
persuaded that they were "Yankees." Their idea of the causes and character
of the war was ludicrous in the extreme, and will hardly bear description—
the negroes themselves being far better informed upon this, as they were
upon most other subjects.
A very brief examination before a hastily convened board of officers
resulted in a finding that the captives were "escaped prisoners of war," and
not "spies." They were accordingly asked, where they were captured, where
imprisoned, when they escaped, etc.; and then a strong guard from the
Second Georgia Cavalry was detailed to convey them, with fifteen other
prisoners from the Fourteenth Army Corps, to Waynesboro.
From the other prisoners Glazier gleaned much useful information
concerning the situation of the Union lines, and also learned where the rebel
troops were stationed in Sherman's rear. Should he attempt another escape,
this knowledge would be valuable. The rebel escort cared very little for the
wants of their prisoners, and issued no rations whatever to them—they
themselves being entirely dependent on foraging for their own supplies. As
the unfortunate prisoners could not forage for themselves they had to go
without, a condition of things that spoke little for the soldierly feeling of the
guard. All attempts to elude the vigilance of the latter during the day had
failed, and as darkness drew on, Glazier and his friend felt in very low
spirits. They came to a halt a few minutes before dark, and were quartered
in an old building for the night.
Page 288
In passing through a large swamp, just before halting, the water was so
deep that each man had to wade through as he best could. The guard exerted
themselves to their utmost to keep them together, but in spite of their efforts
to do so, one of the prisoners fell out, and his absence was overlooked by
the sergeant, although noticed by his fellow-prisoners, who succeeded in
convincing the sergeant that all were present. The mode was this: Glazier
found out the absent man's name, and then volunteered to call the roll from
a list in the sergeant's possession. It being dark, a piece of pitch-pine was
lighted, and the list handed to Glazier, who proceeded to call the names. All
answered, except the absentee, when, according to previous arrangement,
each affirmed that no such man had been among them. The sergeant
sapiently concluded that the name had found its way upon the roster by
some error, and nothing further was said about it. Had this little ruse not
been resorted to, great efforts would have been made to recover the fugitive.
Picked men would have been detailed, hounds called out from the nearest
plantation, and a very short time would have convinced the unfortunate
victim how little hope there was for him who sought to shun the horrors of
prison-life by an escape.
deep that each man had to wade through as he best could. The guard exerted
themselves to their utmost to keep them together, but in spite of their efforts
to do so, one of the prisoners fell out, and his absence was overlooked by
the sergeant, although noticed by his fellow-prisoners, who succeeded in
convincing the sergeant that all were present. The mode was this: Glazier
found out the absent man's name, and then volunteered to call the roll from
a list in the sergeant's possession. It being dark, a piece of pitch-pine was
lighted, and the list handed to Glazier, who proceeded to call the names. All
answered, except the absentee, when, according to previous arrangement,
each affirmed that no such man had been among them. The sergeant
sapiently concluded that the name had found its way upon the roster by
some error, and nothing further was said about it. Had this little ruse not
been resorted to, great efforts would have been made to recover the fugitive.
Picked men would have been detailed, hounds called out from the nearest
plantation, and a very short time would have convinced the unfortunate
victim how little hope there was for him who sought to shun the horrors of
prison-life by an escape.
Page 289
THE ESCAPE FROM SYLVANIA, GEORGIA—RUNNING THE GUARD.
We do not propose entering into any detail of this march into captivity,
more especially as our hero has himself fully and graphically described it in
his "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape," compiled from a diary kept during
the whole period of his adventurous career, and published in 1865. We will
merely state here that on Monday, December nineteenth, 1864, after a
dreary march of twenty-five miles, the captives found themselves encamped
for the night at the little village of Sylvania, Georgia; half-way between the
point of their departure and that of their destination, Waynesboro.
Glazier's mind, during the whole of the day, had been preoccupied with
but one subject—how to escape!—this problem excluding every other
thought or consideration of himself or his surroundings.
Early in the evening the prisoners were stationed on the porch of a large
unoccupied building, and here it was determined they should pass the night.
The villagers of Sylvania knew little of the sad realities of war, having
hitherto happily escaped the visits of the armed hosts. They surrounded the
men of the escort, and plied them with many curious questions, which were
good-naturedly answered with as much, or as little exaggeration as good
soldiers usually indulge in when confronted with greenhorns. Their
attention, thus agreeably occupied by the simple-minded villagers, was in
some degree removed from their charge, and this little circumstance seemed
propitious to Glazier, who was watching intently his opportunity.
The sergeant had notified the prisoners that his foragers had returned
with a quantity of sweet potatoes and some corn-bread; that the former
would be issued to the "Yanks," and the latter to the guard. Orders also were
given to place all the food at one end of the porch, where a fire had been
kindled of rail fence; and the potatoes were to be served to the prisoners
from that point.
We do not propose entering into any detail of this march into captivity,
more especially as our hero has himself fully and graphically described it in
his "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape," compiled from a diary kept during
the whole period of his adventurous career, and published in 1865. We will
merely state here that on Monday, December nineteenth, 1864, after a
dreary march of twenty-five miles, the captives found themselves encamped
for the night at the little village of Sylvania, Georgia; half-way between the
point of their departure and that of their destination, Waynesboro.
Glazier's mind, during the whole of the day, had been preoccupied with
but one subject—how to escape!—this problem excluding every other
thought or consideration of himself or his surroundings.
Early in the evening the prisoners were stationed on the porch of a large
unoccupied building, and here it was determined they should pass the night.
The villagers of Sylvania knew little of the sad realities of war, having
hitherto happily escaped the visits of the armed hosts. They surrounded the
men of the escort, and plied them with many curious questions, which were
good-naturedly answered with as much, or as little exaggeration as good
soldiers usually indulge in when confronted with greenhorns. Their
attention, thus agreeably occupied by the simple-minded villagers, was in
some degree removed from their charge, and this little circumstance seemed
propitious to Glazier, who was watching intently his opportunity.
The sergeant had notified the prisoners that his foragers had returned
with a quantity of sweet potatoes and some corn-bread; that the former
would be issued to the "Yanks," and the latter to the guard. Orders also were
given to place all the food at one end of the porch, where a fire had been
kindled of rail fence; and the potatoes were to be served to the prisoners
from that point.
Page 290
Glazier, under the pretence of desiring to use the fire for the purpose of
roasting the potatoes, obtained leave for all to remain outside on the porch
until after supper. This concession reluctantly granted, hope sprang in his
breast that the opportunity he so ardently sought was now at hand. Quickly
he determined upon his plan of operation, and seeing Lieutenant John W.
Wright, of the Tenth Iowa Volunteers, near him, whispered in his ear an
outline of his desperate project, and invited the latter to join in putting it
into execution. To this proposition, without a moment's consideration,
Wright consented.
The two candidates for freedom then sauntered towards the end of the
porch, conversing loudly and cheerfully upon general topics, and thus
excited no suspicion of their intentions. The hungry prisoners gathered
around the ration-board, when Glazier covertly signaled his companion, and
each suddenly clutched a good handful of the corn-bread. Under cover of
the increasing darkness, and screened from observation by the men who
stood between them and the guard, they quietly but rapidly, in a stooping
position, stole away, making for the edge of a neighboring wood. Not a
word was spoken, and in less time than it takes to record it, they were
concealed among the foliage and undergrowth; and, befriended by the
darkness, were completely masked from the observation of the enemy.
Fortunately their flight was unobserved until after the distribution of the
rations, when the guard missed their corn-bread. This seemed to be felt
more than the loss of their prisoners, the sergeant exclaiming, in
euphemistic southern (according to Glazier), "By dog on't! the d—d Yankee
officers have done gone and took all our corn-bread. I'll have them, if it
costs me a horse!"
Calling out a corporal and four men, he quickly ordered them to go to the
nearest plantation for hounds, and to "bring back the two Yanks dead or
roasting the potatoes, obtained leave for all to remain outside on the porch
until after supper. This concession reluctantly granted, hope sprang in his
breast that the opportunity he so ardently sought was now at hand. Quickly
he determined upon his plan of operation, and seeing Lieutenant John W.
Wright, of the Tenth Iowa Volunteers, near him, whispered in his ear an
outline of his desperate project, and invited the latter to join in putting it
into execution. To this proposition, without a moment's consideration,
Wright consented.
The two candidates for freedom then sauntered towards the end of the
porch, conversing loudly and cheerfully upon general topics, and thus
excited no suspicion of their intentions. The hungry prisoners gathered
around the ration-board, when Glazier covertly signaled his companion, and
each suddenly clutched a good handful of the corn-bread. Under cover of
the increasing darkness, and screened from observation by the men who
stood between them and the guard, they quietly but rapidly, in a stooping
position, stole away, making for the edge of a neighboring wood. Not a
word was spoken, and in less time than it takes to record it, they were
concealed among the foliage and undergrowth; and, befriended by the
darkness, were completely masked from the observation of the enemy.
Fortunately their flight was unobserved until after the distribution of the
rations, when the guard missed their corn-bread. This seemed to be felt
more than the loss of their prisoners, the sergeant exclaiming, in
euphemistic southern (according to Glazier), "By dog on't! the d—d Yankee
officers have done gone and took all our corn-bread. I'll have them, if it
costs me a horse!"
Calling out a corporal and four men, he quickly ordered them to go to the
nearest plantation for hounds, and to "bring back the two Yanks dead or
Page 291
alive," adding that he "guessed they had taken the Springfield road," which
was the nearest route to the Federal lines.
It happened, however, that the peremptory orders of the sergeant were
overheard by Glazier and Wright, who were hidden not many yards away in
the wood. Instead, therefore, of proceeding on the direct road by way of
Springfield, they retraced their steps in the dark, and by this means baffled
their pursuers. Having reached the Middle Ground Road, over which they
had lately passed, they bounded over it to avoid leaving their foot-prints,
and thus broke the trail. They were now in a large and densely-wooded
swamp, and, effectually concealed by the umbrageous covering, sat down to
a council of war.
We may here state that Lieutenant Lemon, the late faithful companion of
our hero, had been prevented from participating in the plan of escape, and
was eventually taken back to be re-tortured in his old quarters at Columbia.
Wright was also an escaped prisoner from Columbia, whom Glazier had
often met during his imprisonment there. He escaped from "Camp
Sorghum" a few days after Lemon and Glazier, but unfortunately was
recaptured just when he felt that he was about to bid adieu to his captivity.
Lieutenant Wright possessed one advantage for the dangerous and
desperate enterprise they had now re-entered upon—he knew the country.
By his advice, therefore, it was agreed to remain quietly concealed in the
swamp until night, when he would lead the way to the hut of a negro who
had befriended him during his previous attempt to escape.
About midnight he piloted Glazier to the hut of "Old Richard," a worthy
and kind-hearted negro, who had supplied him with hoe-cake and bacon
just before his recapture. Richard was in ecstasies on beholding his friend,
Massa Wright, again, whom he knew to have been retaken, and with due
formality, our hero was introduced. On being asked for some bacon and
was the nearest route to the Federal lines.
It happened, however, that the peremptory orders of the sergeant were
overheard by Glazier and Wright, who were hidden not many yards away in
the wood. Instead, therefore, of proceeding on the direct road by way of
Springfield, they retraced their steps in the dark, and by this means baffled
their pursuers. Having reached the Middle Ground Road, over which they
had lately passed, they bounded over it to avoid leaving their foot-prints,
and thus broke the trail. They were now in a large and densely-wooded
swamp, and, effectually concealed by the umbrageous covering, sat down to
a council of war.
We may here state that Lieutenant Lemon, the late faithful companion of
our hero, had been prevented from participating in the plan of escape, and
was eventually taken back to be re-tortured in his old quarters at Columbia.
Wright was also an escaped prisoner from Columbia, whom Glazier had
often met during his imprisonment there. He escaped from "Camp
Sorghum" a few days after Lemon and Glazier, but unfortunately was
recaptured just when he felt that he was about to bid adieu to his captivity.
Lieutenant Wright possessed one advantage for the dangerous and
desperate enterprise they had now re-entered upon—he knew the country.
By his advice, therefore, it was agreed to remain quietly concealed in the
swamp until night, when he would lead the way to the hut of a negro who
had befriended him during his previous attempt to escape.
About midnight he piloted Glazier to the hut of "Old Richard," a worthy
and kind-hearted negro, who had supplied him with hoe-cake and bacon
just before his recapture. Richard was in ecstasies on beholding his friend,
Massa Wright, again, whom he knew to have been retaken, and with due
formality, our hero was introduced. On being asked for some bacon and
Page 292
sweet potatoes to put with their corn-bread, he replied: "Pooty hard case,
massa; but dis yer darkey'll do de best he can. Can't get nuffin' on this
plantation, but reckon I can buy some 'tatoes down at Massa Smith's, three
miles from yer, and will go down thar after I finish my task to-morrer. As to
meat," he said, "you know, massa, dat in the Souf de slave takes what de
white folks frows away, and I reckon you all couldn't eat a tainted ham dat
ole massa gib me t'other day; but if you can, God knows dis chile gibs it to
you wid all his heart." Having become, from long fasting, almost entirely
indifferent to the sense of taste, our friends gave Old Richard to understand
that the ham would be welcome.
The important question of rations having been thus satisfactorily
arranged, Richard was asked to guide the fugitives to some place of hiding,
where no rebel could find them. Accordingly, they were conducted to a
swamp, and soon discovered a secure place of concealment for the day.
"The whippoorwill and turtle-dove," Captain Glazier writes, "enlivened the
hours with their inspiring notes, and as night began to approach, the gloomy
owl, from the tree-tops, uttered his solemn warning cry. The pine and
cypress, swayed by the breeze, moaned a perpetual chorus, and under their
teaching we learned, during the long, dreary hours, how much we were
indebted to these dismal wilds, that concealed both friend and foe.
"Here the rebel deserter concealed himself from his pursuers. Here the
loyalist found a hiding-place from the rebel conscripting officer. Here the
trembling negro had his first taste of freedom. Here the escaped Union
prisoner was enabled to baffle blood-hounds and human-hounds, and make
his way to the Federal lines."
The day wore away at length, and as darkness was approaching, Old
Richard, true to his promise, was on hand with the supplies. He gave the
fugitives all he had been able to purchase with his small means, and they,
massa; but dis yer darkey'll do de best he can. Can't get nuffin' on this
plantation, but reckon I can buy some 'tatoes down at Massa Smith's, three
miles from yer, and will go down thar after I finish my task to-morrer. As to
meat," he said, "you know, massa, dat in the Souf de slave takes what de
white folks frows away, and I reckon you all couldn't eat a tainted ham dat
ole massa gib me t'other day; but if you can, God knows dis chile gibs it to
you wid all his heart." Having become, from long fasting, almost entirely
indifferent to the sense of taste, our friends gave Old Richard to understand
that the ham would be welcome.
The important question of rations having been thus satisfactorily
arranged, Richard was asked to guide the fugitives to some place of hiding,
where no rebel could find them. Accordingly, they were conducted to a
swamp, and soon discovered a secure place of concealment for the day.
"The whippoorwill and turtle-dove," Captain Glazier writes, "enlivened the
hours with their inspiring notes, and as night began to approach, the gloomy
owl, from the tree-tops, uttered his solemn warning cry. The pine and
cypress, swayed by the breeze, moaned a perpetual chorus, and under their
teaching we learned, during the long, dreary hours, how much we were
indebted to these dismal wilds, that concealed both friend and foe.
"Here the rebel deserter concealed himself from his pursuers. Here the
loyalist found a hiding-place from the rebel conscripting officer. Here the
trembling negro had his first taste of freedom. Here the escaped Union
prisoner was enabled to baffle blood-hounds and human-hounds, and make
his way to the Federal lines."
The day wore away at length, and as darkness was approaching, Old
Richard, true to his promise, was on hand with the supplies. He gave the
fugitives all he had been able to purchase with his small means, and they,
Page 293
after asking God to bless him for his kindness, departed. Our friends
trudged away, rejoicing, notwithstanding their fatigue, and the bodily
weakness of Glazier. For the latter had by this time been reduced in weight
to not more than ninety pounds, his usual weight having been about one
hundred and forty-five. He was still, however, filled with indomitable
"pluck," and a determination to conquer the situation, with all its dread
horrors, and return to his colors. Wright, on the other hand, had a splendid
physique, and cared little for hardships that would have intimidated, or
perhaps killed, an ordinary man. On several occasions he picked Glazier up
and generously bore him upon his broad shoulders over the worst parts of
the swamp, the latter being too weak to make his way alone without falling
into the slough-holes.
They were startled, in the course of this night, on seeing two men, who,
by their conversation, which was overheard, proved to be rebel deserters
from Wheeler's command. Our friends deemed it the wisest plan to secrete
themselves behind a log until the men had passed.
At break of day they again concealed themselves, and rested between the
roots of an ancient cypress. Their ears were now greeted with the distant
boom of heavy cannon, which came from the direction of Savannah. This
helped in directing their course for the following night, and also announced
to them in plain language that they were not very far from the friends they
longed to meet.
Refreshed and hopeful they started as the shades of evening fell,
determined, if possible, to accomplish a good march before daylight.
They had not, however, proceeded far, when a large plantation became
visible, the white mansion gleaming through the trees. Wright recognizing
the place, suggested that Glazier might procure a good supper, and
something for the haversack, if he would boldly call and personate a rebel
trudged away, rejoicing, notwithstanding their fatigue, and the bodily
weakness of Glazier. For the latter had by this time been reduced in weight
to not more than ninety pounds, his usual weight having been about one
hundred and forty-five. He was still, however, filled with indomitable
"pluck," and a determination to conquer the situation, with all its dread
horrors, and return to his colors. Wright, on the other hand, had a splendid
physique, and cared little for hardships that would have intimidated, or
perhaps killed, an ordinary man. On several occasions he picked Glazier up
and generously bore him upon his broad shoulders over the worst parts of
the swamp, the latter being too weak to make his way alone without falling
into the slough-holes.
They were startled, in the course of this night, on seeing two men, who,
by their conversation, which was overheard, proved to be rebel deserters
from Wheeler's command. Our friends deemed it the wisest plan to secrete
themselves behind a log until the men had passed.
At break of day they again concealed themselves, and rested between the
roots of an ancient cypress. Their ears were now greeted with the distant
boom of heavy cannon, which came from the direction of Savannah. This
helped in directing their course for the following night, and also announced
to them in plain language that they were not very far from the friends they
longed to meet.
Refreshed and hopeful they started as the shades of evening fell,
determined, if possible, to accomplish a good march before daylight.
They had not, however, proceeded far, when a large plantation became
visible, the white mansion gleaming through the trees. Wright recognizing
the place, suggested that Glazier might procure a good supper, and
something for the haversack, if he would boldly call and personate a rebel
Page 294
officer, trusting to his face and ready wit to carry him through. He had
heard from some negroes that the only occupant was a Mrs. Keyton and
some young children, the wife and family of the planter, who was an officer
in the rebel army; and further that there were no hounds about the place.
Glazier, with characteristic promptness, acquiesced; and the following is
a description of the interview, extracted from the diary, which amid all his
wanderings and trials he never failed to keep regularly written up:
"After hearing Wright's description, and having agreed upon signals of
danger, should any occur, I started on my foraging expedition, with a good
degree of assurance.
"Stepping up to the door of the mansion, I rapped, and the lady soon
made her appearance. She seemed both refined and intelligent. I asked, 'Can
you give this rebel a supper?' She replied, 'You shall have the best the house
affords,' and invited me to step in and take a seat by the fire. I did so,
saying, as I took my seat, 'Madam, I am shocked at the dastardly conduct of
General Sherman in his march through Georgia. It has been characterized
by nothing but what should excite revenge, and move to action, every man
possessing a true Southern spirit. Our aged citizens, who have banded
together for mutual protection, have been treated as bushwackers—have
been driven from their homes, and their property confiscated. Our hounds,
always true to the interests of the South, have been shot down by the road-
side for no other reason than that they were used in tracking escaped
prisoners—'
"Interrupting me here, the lady remarked, much to my surprise, that she
could not see that the Yankees were much worse than the Confederates,
after all. She added: "'When the Yankee army passed through this State,
they took from the rich the supplies necessary for their sustenance; and
when our cavalry followed they took nearly all that was left, seeming to
heard from some negroes that the only occupant was a Mrs. Keyton and
some young children, the wife and family of the planter, who was an officer
in the rebel army; and further that there were no hounds about the place.
Glazier, with characteristic promptness, acquiesced; and the following is
a description of the interview, extracted from the diary, which amid all his
wanderings and trials he never failed to keep regularly written up:
"After hearing Wright's description, and having agreed upon signals of
danger, should any occur, I started on my foraging expedition, with a good
degree of assurance.
"Stepping up to the door of the mansion, I rapped, and the lady soon
made her appearance. She seemed both refined and intelligent. I asked, 'Can
you give this rebel a supper?' She replied, 'You shall have the best the house
affords,' and invited me to step in and take a seat by the fire. I did so,
saying, as I took my seat, 'Madam, I am shocked at the dastardly conduct of
General Sherman in his march through Georgia. It has been characterized
by nothing but what should excite revenge, and move to action, every man
possessing a true Southern spirit. Our aged citizens, who have banded
together for mutual protection, have been treated as bushwackers—have
been driven from their homes, and their property confiscated. Our hounds,
always true to the interests of the South, have been shot down by the road-
side for no other reason than that they were used in tracking escaped
prisoners—'
"Interrupting me here, the lady remarked, much to my surprise, that she
could not see that the Yankees were much worse than the Confederates,
after all. She added: "'When the Yankee army passed through this State,
they took from the rich the supplies necessary for their sustenance; and
when our cavalry followed they took nearly all that was left, seeming to
Page 295
care but little for our wants, and often depriving defenceless women and
children of their last morsel of bread.'
"'I regret, madam, that the conduct of our troops has been such as to give
you reason for complaint.'
"'I, too, regret that our men have not proved themselves worthy of a
cause which they appear so willing to defend.'
"'Remember,' I continued, 'that our commissary department has been
completely wrecked, and that we are entirely dependent upon the people for
the subsistence of a large army.'
"By the sad expression of her countenance, which accompanied and
followed this remark, I saw clearly that she felt we had reached a crisis in
the war, when Providence was turning the tables, and she accordingly
interrogated:
"'And what do you think of present prospects?'
"I quickly responded, 'Our future looks dark—our cause appears almost
hopeless, but the sacrifices of our gallant dead remain unavenged.
Therefore, we must fight while there is a man left, and die in the last ditch.'
"'If there be no longer any hope of success, sir, I should say that it would
be better to lay down our arms at once, and go back under the old flag.'
"'Madam, we must fight, we must fight!'
"'But it is wickedness and worse than madness to continue this awful
massacre of human beings, without some prospect of ultimate success.'
"'Very true; but we have lost all in this struggle, and must sell our lives as
dearly as possible.'
"By this time the good lady seemed to have waxed enthusiastic, and
warm as the fire over which the servant was preparing my supper, and she
children of their last morsel of bread.'
"'I regret, madam, that the conduct of our troops has been such as to give
you reason for complaint.'
"'I, too, regret that our men have not proved themselves worthy of a
cause which they appear so willing to defend.'
"'Remember,' I continued, 'that our commissary department has been
completely wrecked, and that we are entirely dependent upon the people for
the subsistence of a large army.'
"By the sad expression of her countenance, which accompanied and
followed this remark, I saw clearly that she felt we had reached a crisis in
the war, when Providence was turning the tables, and she accordingly
interrogated:
"'And what do you think of present prospects?'
"I quickly responded, 'Our future looks dark—our cause appears almost
hopeless, but the sacrifices of our gallant dead remain unavenged.
Therefore, we must fight while there is a man left, and die in the last ditch.'
"'If there be no longer any hope of success, sir, I should say that it would
be better to lay down our arms at once, and go back under the old flag.'
"'Madam, we must fight, we must fight!'
"'But it is wickedness and worse than madness to continue this awful
massacre of human beings, without some prospect of ultimate success.'
"'Very true; but we have lost all in this struggle, and must sell our lives as
dearly as possible.'
"By this time the good lady seemed to have waxed enthusiastic, and
warm as the fire over which the servant was preparing my supper, and she
Page 296
answered:
"'My husband is a captain in the Twenty-fifth Georgia Infantry. He is the
father of these children, and is very dear to both them and me. Long have I
prayed that he might be spared to return to his family, but fear that we shall
never be permitted to see him again. When he entered the army, I admired
his patriotism, and was glad to see him go in defence of what I supposed to
be the true interests of the southern people; but we have been deceived from
the beginning by our military and political leaders. It is time to open our
eyes, and see what obstinacy has brought us. We are conquered. Let us
return to the rule of the Federal government, ere we are ruined.'
"Madam, your sympathies appear to be largely with the Yankees.'
"'It is not strange, sir; I was born and educated in New England;—and
your speech would indicate that you too are not a native of the South.'
"'You are right; I am a New Yorker by birth, but have been for a
considerable time in South Carolina.'
"After partaking of the frugal meal set before me, which consisted of
corn-bread and sweet potatoes, I thanked the lady for her kindness, and told
her that I regretted very deeply that I was not in a situation to remunerate
her for so much trouble. Noticing my blue pants as I arose from the table,
she remarked:
"'It is impossible for me to know our men from the Yankees by the
uniform; but a few days since, two soldiers asked me to get them some
supper, claiming to be scouts to General Wheeler; they told many very
plausible stories, and the next day, to my astonishment, I was charged with
harboring Yankee spies.'
"'I do not wonder that you find it difficult to distinguish the Yankee from
the Confederate soldier, for in these trying times a poor rebel is compelled
"'My husband is a captain in the Twenty-fifth Georgia Infantry. He is the
father of these children, and is very dear to both them and me. Long have I
prayed that he might be spared to return to his family, but fear that we shall
never be permitted to see him again. When he entered the army, I admired
his patriotism, and was glad to see him go in defence of what I supposed to
be the true interests of the southern people; but we have been deceived from
the beginning by our military and political leaders. It is time to open our
eyes, and see what obstinacy has brought us. We are conquered. Let us
return to the rule of the Federal government, ere we are ruined.'
"Madam, your sympathies appear to be largely with the Yankees.'
"'It is not strange, sir; I was born and educated in New England;—and
your speech would indicate that you too are not a native of the South.'
"'You are right; I am a New Yorker by birth, but have been for a
considerable time in South Carolina.'
"After partaking of the frugal meal set before me, which consisted of
corn-bread and sweet potatoes, I thanked the lady for her kindness, and told
her that I regretted very deeply that I was not in a situation to remunerate
her for so much trouble. Noticing my blue pants as I arose from the table,
she remarked:
"'It is impossible for me to know our men from the Yankees by the
uniform; but a few days since, two soldiers asked me to get them some
supper, claiming to be scouts to General Wheeler; they told many very
plausible stories, and the next day, to my astonishment, I was charged with
harboring Yankee spies.'
"'I do not wonder that you find it difficult to distinguish the Yankee from
the Confederate soldier, for in these trying times a poor rebel is compelled
Page 297
to wear anything he can get. The dead are always stripped, and at this
season of the year, we find the Federal uniform far more comfortable than
our own.'
"'It must be an awful extremity that could tempt men to strip the dying
and the dead!'
"'We have become so much accustomed to such practices, that we are
unmoved by scenes which might appall and sicken those who have never
served in our ranks.'
"'I sincerely hope that these murderous practices will soon be at an end.'
"Feeling that I had been absent from my comrade long enough, and that it
was time to make my departure, I arose, saying,
"'I must go, madam; may I know to whom I am so much indebted for my
supper and kind entertainment this evening?'
"'Mrs. James Keyton. And what may I call your name?'
"'Willard Glazier, Fifty-third Alabama Mounted Infantry.'
"'Should you chance to meet the Twenty-fifth Georgia, please inquire for
Captain Keyton, and say to him that his wife and children are well, and
send their love.'
"'He shall certainly have your message if it is my good fortune to meet
him. Good-night.'"
Leaving Mrs. Keyton with her fears for the rebel cause in general, and
her husband in particular, Glazier hurried out to find his friend Wright
pacing up and down the road in a bad humor at having been kept so long
waiting; but setting their faces in the direction of Springfield, they at once
started on their march. They soon found themselves approaching the rebel
forces in General Sherman's rear, and determined at all risks to obtain
season of the year, we find the Federal uniform far more comfortable than
our own.'
"'It must be an awful extremity that could tempt men to strip the dying
and the dead!'
"'We have become so much accustomed to such practices, that we are
unmoved by scenes which might appall and sicken those who have never
served in our ranks.'
"'I sincerely hope that these murderous practices will soon be at an end.'
"Feeling that I had been absent from my comrade long enough, and that it
was time to make my departure, I arose, saying,
"'I must go, madam; may I know to whom I am so much indebted for my
supper and kind entertainment this evening?'
"'Mrs. James Keyton. And what may I call your name?'
"'Willard Glazier, Fifty-third Alabama Mounted Infantry.'
"'Should you chance to meet the Twenty-fifth Georgia, please inquire for
Captain Keyton, and say to him that his wife and children are well, and
send their love.'
"'He shall certainly have your message if it is my good fortune to meet
him. Good-night.'"
Leaving Mrs. Keyton with her fears for the rebel cause in general, and
her husband in particular, Glazier hurried out to find his friend Wright
pacing up and down the road in a bad humor at having been kept so long
waiting; but setting their faces in the direction of Springfield, they at once
started on their march. They soon found themselves approaching the rebel
forces in General Sherman's rear, and determined at all risks to obtain
Page 298
information of the two armies. They were at General Iverson's headquarters,
and at one time were within fifteen paces of the house he occupied.
Cautiously concealing themselves behind trees they reached a spot within
earshot of the provost-guard, and overheard their conversation. The
prospects of the war were freely discussed, and the fall of Savannah. The
conclusion forced on the minds of our friends was that the Confederate
cause was losing ground, and its armies would soon be compelled to
surrender to the Union force.
Glazier and his comrade left the spot inspired with renewed courage.
Six miles on their road to Springfield found daylight approaching, and
the fugitives hurriedly secreted themselves among some tall swamp grass.
They were suddenly aroused by the baying of a blood-hound, and
immediately sprang to their feet.
"We are followed!" exclaimed Wright.
"What do you propose to do?" quickly asked Glazier.
"I am undecided," was the unsatisfactory reply.
"It is my opinion," said Glazier, promptly, "that if we are not off at once
we shall be prisoners."
"Well, off it is!" spoke Wright; and both struck off in a southeasterly
direction in double quick time. Fences and ditches were leaped, and streams
forded, the hounds approaching so nearly that their baying could be
distinctly heard by the fugitives; but fortunately, or providentially, they
came to a large creek, and jumping in, waded along its course for a distance
of some sixty rods, then emerging, pursued their journey in the direction
they had intended. About one o'clock they concluded they had out-
generaled the bushwhackers and their hounds. Elated by success they
became less cautious and did not halt. About two o'clock Glazier was
and at one time were within fifteen paces of the house he occupied.
Cautiously concealing themselves behind trees they reached a spot within
earshot of the provost-guard, and overheard their conversation. The
prospects of the war were freely discussed, and the fall of Savannah. The
conclusion forced on the minds of our friends was that the Confederate
cause was losing ground, and its armies would soon be compelled to
surrender to the Union force.
Glazier and his comrade left the spot inspired with renewed courage.
Six miles on their road to Springfield found daylight approaching, and
the fugitives hurriedly secreted themselves among some tall swamp grass.
They were suddenly aroused by the baying of a blood-hound, and
immediately sprang to their feet.
"We are followed!" exclaimed Wright.
"What do you propose to do?" quickly asked Glazier.
"I am undecided," was the unsatisfactory reply.
"It is my opinion," said Glazier, promptly, "that if we are not off at once
we shall be prisoners."
"Well, off it is!" spoke Wright; and both struck off in a southeasterly
direction in double quick time. Fences and ditches were leaped, and streams
forded, the hounds approaching so nearly that their baying could be
distinctly heard by the fugitives; but fortunately, or providentially, they
came to a large creek, and jumping in, waded along its course for a distance
of some sixty rods, then emerging, pursued their journey in the direction
they had intended. About one o'clock they concluded they had out-
generaled the bushwhackers and their hounds. Elated by success they
became less cautious and did not halt. About two o'clock Glazier was
Page 299
startled by seeing his companion drop suddenly and silently behind a tree.
Glazier followed, watching the movements of Wright, and presently saw
that they were within a few rods of a Confederate picket. Before they had
time to move a cavalry patrol came up to the post with instructions, and, as
soon as he had passed, our friends crawled upon their hands and knees into
the friendly swamp, and thus screened themselves from their enemy.
The hounds, however, were a source of greater danger to the fugitives
than the rebel pickets; the training and scent of the former having been so
perfected and developed by long and cruel use in the recapture of fugitive
slaves, that, to evade them, was almost an impossibility. Hence the sense of
caution was strained to the utmost both by night and day on the part of our
friends.
The use of blood-hounds in warfare is considered barbarous in every
country pretending to civilization, even if they are employed against a
foreign foe. How much more so, in a war waged between fellow-citizens of
one blood, one history, one language, and in numerous instances, bearing
domestic or family relations to each other; and this, in support of a cause,
the righteousness of which was doubted by many who found themselves
unwillingly compelled to give in their adherence at the dictation of a few
ambitious men. For this sin a righteous God has judged them! A cause thus
supported deserved defeat in the estimation of just men of every nation,
apart from all political considerations.
Captain Glazier and his friend congratulated themselves on having so far
eluded, by every expedient known to them, the sanguinary fangs of these
barbarous instruments of warfare; and after nightfall continued their route,
passing the picket in the darkness.
Soon after they encountered a colored friend, known among his people as
"Uncle Philip." This good darkey informed them that the Federal forces had
Glazier followed, watching the movements of Wright, and presently saw
that they were within a few rods of a Confederate picket. Before they had
time to move a cavalry patrol came up to the post with instructions, and, as
soon as he had passed, our friends crawled upon their hands and knees into
the friendly swamp, and thus screened themselves from their enemy.
The hounds, however, were a source of greater danger to the fugitives
than the rebel pickets; the training and scent of the former having been so
perfected and developed by long and cruel use in the recapture of fugitive
slaves, that, to evade them, was almost an impossibility. Hence the sense of
caution was strained to the utmost both by night and day on the part of our
friends.
The use of blood-hounds in warfare is considered barbarous in every
country pretending to civilization, even if they are employed against a
foreign foe. How much more so, in a war waged between fellow-citizens of
one blood, one history, one language, and in numerous instances, bearing
domestic or family relations to each other; and this, in support of a cause,
the righteousness of which was doubted by many who found themselves
unwillingly compelled to give in their adherence at the dictation of a few
ambitious men. For this sin a righteous God has judged them! A cause thus
supported deserved defeat in the estimation of just men of every nation,
apart from all political considerations.
Captain Glazier and his friend congratulated themselves on having so far
eluded, by every expedient known to them, the sanguinary fangs of these
barbarous instruments of warfare; and after nightfall continued their route,
passing the picket in the darkness.
Soon after they encountered a colored friend, known among his people as
"Uncle Philip." This good darkey informed them that the Federal forces had
Page 300
possession of Cherokee Hill, on the Savannah River Road, only eight miles
distant—news which afforded them inexpressible joy! Uncle Philip was
asked if he would guide them to the lines; and replied: "I'ze neber ben down
dar, massa, sense Massa Sherman's company went to Savannah; but I
reckon you-uns can git Massa Jones, a free cullered man, to take you ober.
He's a mighty bright pusson, and understands de swamps jest like a book."
On reaching Jones' hut his wife informed them that her husband was out
scouting, but was expected back about eleven o'clock. She urged our friends
to enter and await his return, as he was always glad to do all in his power
for the Yankees. Fearing the rebel scouts might discover them, they, at first,
hesitated, but consented on Mrs. Jones promising to be on the alert. She
accordingly volunteered her two boys, one of eight years and the other six,
for out-post duty, charging them strictly to notify her immediately if they
saw any one approaching, so that she might conceal the fugitives. Auntie
then promptly placed before them a bountiful supply of hoe-cake and
parched corn, the best her humble cot afforded, and most welcome to the
famished men.
Jones returned at the appointed hour, but informed his guests that, while
very willing to guide them, he was not sufficiently acquainted with the
safest route to do so; and referred them to a friend of his, who would
accompany them, and whom he could strongly recommend as a competent
and safe guide. On visiting this man he also pleaded ignorance of any safe
route; but mentioned the name of still another "friend of the Yankees," who,
he said, had come up from the Union lines that morning and would
willingly return with them. This friendly negro also was found. He was a
genuine negro, as black as ebony and very devout in his mode of speech.
His name was "March Dasher." "I'll do it, massa, if God be my helper!" he
answered to their eager inquiry.
distant—news which afforded them inexpressible joy! Uncle Philip was
asked if he would guide them to the lines; and replied: "I'ze neber ben down
dar, massa, sense Massa Sherman's company went to Savannah; but I
reckon you-uns can git Massa Jones, a free cullered man, to take you ober.
He's a mighty bright pusson, and understands de swamps jest like a book."
On reaching Jones' hut his wife informed them that her husband was out
scouting, but was expected back about eleven o'clock. She urged our friends
to enter and await his return, as he was always glad to do all in his power
for the Yankees. Fearing the rebel scouts might discover them, they, at first,
hesitated, but consented on Mrs. Jones promising to be on the alert. She
accordingly volunteered her two boys, one of eight years and the other six,
for out-post duty, charging them strictly to notify her immediately if they
saw any one approaching, so that she might conceal the fugitives. Auntie
then promptly placed before them a bountiful supply of hoe-cake and
parched corn, the best her humble cot afforded, and most welcome to the
famished men.
Jones returned at the appointed hour, but informed his guests that, while
very willing to guide them, he was not sufficiently acquainted with the
safest route to do so; and referred them to a friend of his, who would
accompany them, and whom he could strongly recommend as a competent
and safe guide. On visiting this man he also pleaded ignorance of any safe
route; but mentioned the name of still another "friend of the Yankees," who,
he said, had come up from the Union lines that morning and would
willingly return with them. This friendly negro also was found. He was a
genuine negro, as black as ebony and very devout in his mode of speech.
His name was "March Dasher." "I'll do it, massa, if God be my helper!" he
answered to their eager inquiry.
Page 301
Glazier and his comrade were impatient to start at once, but upon this
point Dasher was inexorable. "Dis chile knows whar de pickets is in de day-
time," he emphatically declared, "but knows nuffin 'bout 'em arter dark;"
and absolutely declined to take the risk of falling within the Confederate
lines—an act of prudence and firmness for which he was to be much
commended.
A fear of treachery was aroused when Dasher tried to induce them to
remain in his hut till morning, but this was immediately and entirely
removed when he and his household at a signal, fell on their knees, and
joined in simple but fervent prayer to the Almighty, as a friend of the
friendless—beseeching Him to protect and prosper them in their efforts to
flee from their enemies; and much more of a nature to disarm any suspicion
of their fidelity and good-will to the Union cause.
Our friends, however, declined to remain in the hut, fearing a surprise
from the outpost; and at the conclusion of the prayer, betook themselves to
a pine thicket with the joint resolution of giving their dark friend no peace
until he started with them to the Federal lines.
About one o'clock in the morning, Wright, impatient of delay, proceeded
to the hut, and arousing Dasher, told him that day had just begun to break.
He came to the door, and pointing to the stars in the unclouded sky,
remarked, with a good-tempered smile, "I reck'n it's good many hours yet
till break ob day, massa. Yer can't fool March on de time; his clock neber
breaks down. It's jest right ebery time." Wright returned to his lair in the
thicket, remarking irritably, as he threw himself down, "Glazier, you might
as well undertake to move a mountain, as to get the start of that colored
individual!"
At the first peep of dawn, punctual to his promise, Dasher thrust his
black, good-humored face into the thicket, and announced:
point Dasher was inexorable. "Dis chile knows whar de pickets is in de day-
time," he emphatically declared, "but knows nuffin 'bout 'em arter dark;"
and absolutely declined to take the risk of falling within the Confederate
lines—an act of prudence and firmness for which he was to be much
commended.
A fear of treachery was aroused when Dasher tried to induce them to
remain in his hut till morning, but this was immediately and entirely
removed when he and his household at a signal, fell on their knees, and
joined in simple but fervent prayer to the Almighty, as a friend of the
friendless—beseeching Him to protect and prosper them in their efforts to
flee from their enemies; and much more of a nature to disarm any suspicion
of their fidelity and good-will to the Union cause.
Our friends, however, declined to remain in the hut, fearing a surprise
from the outpost; and at the conclusion of the prayer, betook themselves to
a pine thicket with the joint resolution of giving their dark friend no peace
until he started with them to the Federal lines.
About one o'clock in the morning, Wright, impatient of delay, proceeded
to the hut, and arousing Dasher, told him that day had just begun to break.
He came to the door, and pointing to the stars in the unclouded sky,
remarked, with a good-tempered smile, "I reck'n it's good many hours yet
till break ob day, massa. Yer can't fool March on de time; his clock neber
breaks down. It's jest right ebery time." Wright returned to his lair in the
thicket, remarking irritably, as he threw himself down, "Glazier, you might
as well undertake to move a mountain, as to get the start of that colored
individual!"
At the first peep of dawn, punctual to his promise, Dasher thrust his
black, good-humored face into the thicket, and announced:
Page 302
"Now I'ze ready, gemmen, to take you right plum into Mr. Sherman's
company by 'sun-up;'" and as Sol began to gild the tree-tops and the distant
eastern hills, the trio came within sight of the Federal camp, and witnessed
the "Stars and Stripes," floating triumphantly in the breeze!
What pen can describe their emotions, when—after more than fourteen
long months' suffering from imprisonment, starvation, nakedness, bodily
and mental prostration, and every inhumanity short of being murdered, like
many of their imprisoned comrades, in cold blood—they again hailed
friends and found freedom at last within their grasp! Words would fail to tell
their joy. Let us leave it to the reader to imagine.
On first approaching the camp they were supposed, by their motley attire,
to be deserters from the enemy; and, as true soldiers and deserters never
fraternize, no signal of welcome was offered by the "boys in blue." The
suspicions of the latter, however, were allayed on seeing Glazier and his
companion wave their caps: then they were beckoned to come forward. And
when it was discovered that they were escaped prisoners, an enthusiastic
grip was given to each by every soldier present, accompanied by cordial
congratulations on their successful escape from the barbarous enemy who
had had them in custody.
"Each man," writes Glazier, "took us by the hand, congratulating us on
our eventful and successful escape, while we cheered the boys for the
glorious work they had accomplished for the Union. Haversacks were
opened and placed at our disposal. There was a great demand for hard-tack
and coffee; but the beauty of it all was, Major Turner was not there, to say
what he often repeated, 'Reduce their rations; I'll teach the d—d scoundrels
not to attempt to escape!'
"I cannot forget," he adds, "the sea of emotion that well-nigh
overwhelmed me, as soon as I could realize the fact that I was no longer a
company by 'sun-up;'" and as Sol began to gild the tree-tops and the distant
eastern hills, the trio came within sight of the Federal camp, and witnessed
the "Stars and Stripes," floating triumphantly in the breeze!
What pen can describe their emotions, when—after more than fourteen
long months' suffering from imprisonment, starvation, nakedness, bodily
and mental prostration, and every inhumanity short of being murdered, like
many of their imprisoned comrades, in cold blood—they again hailed
friends and found freedom at last within their grasp! Words would fail to tell
their joy. Let us leave it to the reader to imagine.
On first approaching the camp they were supposed, by their motley attire,
to be deserters from the enemy; and, as true soldiers and deserters never
fraternize, no signal of welcome was offered by the "boys in blue." The
suspicions of the latter, however, were allayed on seeing Glazier and his
companion wave their caps: then they were beckoned to come forward. And
when it was discovered that they were escaped prisoners, an enthusiastic
grip was given to each by every soldier present, accompanied by cordial
congratulations on their successful escape from the barbarous enemy who
had had them in custody.
"Each man," writes Glazier, "took us by the hand, congratulating us on
our eventful and successful escape, while we cheered the boys for the
glorious work they had accomplished for the Union. Haversacks were
opened and placed at our disposal. There was a great demand for hard-tack
and coffee; but the beauty of it all was, Major Turner was not there, to say
what he often repeated, 'Reduce their rations; I'll teach the d—d scoundrels
not to attempt to escape!'
"I cannot forget," he adds, "the sea of emotion that well-nigh
overwhelmed me, as soon as I could realize the fact that I was no longer a
Page 303
prisoner, and especially when I beheld the starry banner floating
triumphantly over the invincibles who had followed their great General
down to the sea."
Our hero and his friend became objects of much curiosity, while their
eventful escape was the subject of general conversation and comment by
the brave boys who pressed around them, and who proved to be a
detachment of the One Hundred and First Illinois Volunteers, Twentieth
Army Corps. Their most intimate friends would have failed to recognize
them. Glazier was clad in an old gray jacket and blue pants, with a
venerable and dilapidated hat which had seen a prodigious amount of
service of a nondescript kind; while a tattered gray blanket that had done
duty for many a month as a bed by day and a cloak by night, and was now
in the last stage of dissolution from age and general infirmity, completed his
unmilitary and unpretentious toilet. Having at first no one to identify them,
Glazier and his companion were as strangers among friends, and necessarily
without official recognition. At length, however, after much searching, they
found Lieutenant Wright's old company, and thus the refugees became
officially identified and recognized as Federal officers.
In company with Lieutenant E. H. Fales, who had been his fellow-
prisoner at Charleston, and effected his escape, Glazier proceeded on
horseback to the headquarters of General Kilpatrick. The General, cordially
welcoming and congratulating Glazier on his happy escape, at once
furnished him with the documents necessary to secure his transportation to
the North. His term of service having expired, he was anxious to revisit his
family, who thought him dead, and bidding an affectionate adieu to his
friend Wright, he and Lieutenant Fales embarked on a steamship on
December twenty-ninth for home. After experiencing the effects of a severe
storm at sea, the vessel arrived at the wharf of the metropolitan city, and our
triumphantly over the invincibles who had followed their great General
down to the sea."
Our hero and his friend became objects of much curiosity, while their
eventful escape was the subject of general conversation and comment by
the brave boys who pressed around them, and who proved to be a
detachment of the One Hundred and First Illinois Volunteers, Twentieth
Army Corps. Their most intimate friends would have failed to recognize
them. Glazier was clad in an old gray jacket and blue pants, with a
venerable and dilapidated hat which had seen a prodigious amount of
service of a nondescript kind; while a tattered gray blanket that had done
duty for many a month as a bed by day and a cloak by night, and was now
in the last stage of dissolution from age and general infirmity, completed his
unmilitary and unpretentious toilet. Having at first no one to identify them,
Glazier and his companion were as strangers among friends, and necessarily
without official recognition. At length, however, after much searching, they
found Lieutenant Wright's old company, and thus the refugees became
officially identified and recognized as Federal officers.
In company with Lieutenant E. H. Fales, who had been his fellow-
prisoner at Charleston, and effected his escape, Glazier proceeded on
horseback to the headquarters of General Kilpatrick. The General, cordially
welcoming and congratulating Glazier on his happy escape, at once
furnished him with the documents necessary to secure his transportation to
the North. His term of service having expired, he was anxious to revisit his
family, who thought him dead, and bidding an affectionate adieu to his
friend Wright, he and Lieutenant Fales embarked on a steamship on
December twenty-ninth for home. After experiencing the effects of a severe
storm at sea, the vessel arrived at the wharf of the metropolitan city, and our
Page 304
hero adds: "I awoke to the glorious realization that I was again breathing
the air of my native State. There was exhilaration and rapture in the
thought, which I could not repress, and that moment is fixed as a golden era
in my memory. I hope never to become so hardened that that patriotic and
Christian exultation will be an unpleasant recollection."
There have probably been few hearts that beat higher with martial ardor,
than that of Willard Glazier; but at that moment the thought of "Battle's red
carnival" was merged in the gentler recollection of kindred and friends, rest
and home.
the air of my native State. There was exhilaration and rapture in the
thought, which I could not repress, and that moment is fixed as a golden era
in my memory. I hope never to become so hardened that that patriotic and
Christian exultation will be an unpleasant recollection."
There have probably been few hearts that beat higher with martial ardor,
than that of Willard Glazier; but at that moment the thought of "Battle's red
carnival" was merged in the gentler recollection of kindred and friends, rest
and home.
Page 305
CHAPTER XXVI.
GLAZIER RE-ENTERS THE SERVICE.
Glazier's determination to re-enter the army. — Letter to Colonel Harhaus. — Testimonial from
Colonel Clarence Buel. — Letter from Hon. Martin I. Townsend to governor of New York. —
Letter from General Davies. — Letter from General Kilpatrick. — Application for new
commission successful. — Home. — The mother fails to recognize her son. — Supposed to be
dead. — Recognized by his sister Marjorie. — Filial and fraternal love, — Reports himself to
his commanding officer for duty. — Close of the war and of Glazier's military career. — Seeks
a new object in life. — An idea occurs to him. — Becomes an author, and finds a publisher.
Home, with its rest, its peaceful enjoyments and endearments, was no
abiding place for our young soldier while his bleeding country still battled
for the right, and called upon her sons for self-denying service in her cause.
He had registered a vow to remain in the army until relieved by death, or
the termination of the war. His heart and soul were in the Union cause, and
finding that at the expiration of his term of service he had been mustered
out, he had determined before proceeding to his home to apply for another
commission, and, if possible, resume his place at the front.
The following letter, which we think stamps his earnest loyalty to the
cause he had espoused, and for which he had already suffered so much, was
addressed to his friend and patron:
GLAZIER RE-ENTERS THE SERVICE.
Glazier's determination to re-enter the army. — Letter to Colonel Harhaus. — Testimonial from
Colonel Clarence Buel. — Letter from Hon. Martin I. Townsend to governor of New York. —
Letter from General Davies. — Letter from General Kilpatrick. — Application for new
commission successful. — Home. — The mother fails to recognize her son. — Supposed to be
dead. — Recognized by his sister Marjorie. — Filial and fraternal love, — Reports himself to
his commanding officer for duty. — Close of the war and of Glazier's military career. — Seeks
a new object in life. — An idea occurs to him. — Becomes an author, and finds a publisher.
Home, with its rest, its peaceful enjoyments and endearments, was no
abiding place for our young soldier while his bleeding country still battled
for the right, and called upon her sons for self-denying service in her cause.
He had registered a vow to remain in the army until relieved by death, or
the termination of the war. His heart and soul were in the Union cause, and
finding that at the expiration of his term of service he had been mustered
out, he had determined before proceeding to his home to apply for another
commission, and, if possible, resume his place at the front.
The following letter, which we think stamps his earnest loyalty to the
cause he had espoused, and for which he had already suffered so much, was
addressed to his friend and patron:
Page 306
Astor House, New York,
January 10th, 1865.
Colonel Otto Harhaus,
Late of the Harris Light Cavalry:
Dear Colonel: Having reached our lines, an escaped prisoner, on the
twenty-third of last month, I at once took steps to ascertain my position
in the old regiment, and regret to say, was informed at the war
department that as my term of service had expired during my
imprisonment; and, as I had not remustered previous to capture, I was
now regarded supernumerary. I wish to remain in the service until the
close of the war, and so expressed myself before I fell into the hands of
the enemy. Fourteen months in rebel prisons has not increased my
respect for "Southern chivalry"—in short I have some old scores to
settle.
I write, Colonel, to ascertain if you will be kind enough to advise me
what steps I had better take to secure a new commission in the Cavalry
Corps, and to ask if you will favor me with a letter of recommendation
to Governor Fenton. It was suggested to me at Washington that I should
place my case before him, and, if I conclude to do so, a note from you
will be of great value.
I learn through Captain Downing that I was commissioned a first
lieutenant upon your recommendation soon after my capture. If so, I
avail myself of this opportunity to acknowledge my deep sense of the
favor, and to thank you very cordially for remembering me at a time
when I was entirely dependent upon your impartial decisions for
advancement in your command.
I made my escape from the rebel prison at Columbia, South Carolina,
November twenty-sixth, 1864, was recaptured December fifteenth by a
January 10th, 1865.
Colonel Otto Harhaus,
Late of the Harris Light Cavalry:
Dear Colonel: Having reached our lines, an escaped prisoner, on the
twenty-third of last month, I at once took steps to ascertain my position
in the old regiment, and regret to say, was informed at the war
department that as my term of service had expired during my
imprisonment; and, as I had not remustered previous to capture, I was
now regarded supernumerary. I wish to remain in the service until the
close of the war, and so expressed myself before I fell into the hands of
the enemy. Fourteen months in rebel prisons has not increased my
respect for "Southern chivalry"—in short I have some old scores to
settle.
I write, Colonel, to ascertain if you will be kind enough to advise me
what steps I had better take to secure a new commission in the Cavalry
Corps, and to ask if you will favor me with a letter of recommendation
to Governor Fenton. It was suggested to me at Washington that I should
place my case before him, and, if I conclude to do so, a note from you
will be of great value.
I learn through Captain Downing that I was commissioned a first
lieutenant upon your recommendation soon after my capture. If so, I
avail myself of this opportunity to acknowledge my deep sense of the
favor, and to thank you very cordially for remembering me at a time
when I was entirely dependent upon your impartial decisions for
advancement in your command.
I made my escape from the rebel prison at Columbia, South Carolina,
November twenty-sixth, 1864, was recaptured December fifteenth by a
Page 307
Confederate outpost near Springfield, Georgia; escaped a second time
the following day and was retaken by a detachment of Texan cavalry
under General Wheeler; was tried as a spy at Springfield; escaped a
third time from Sylvania on the nineteenth of December, and reached
the Federal lines near Savannah, four days later, and twenty-eight days
after my escape from Columbia. I was at General Kilpatrick's
headquarters on the Ogeechee, December twenty-sixth. The general was
in the most exuberant spirits, and entertained me with stories of the
Great March from Atlanta to the sea. He desired to be remembered to all
the officers and men of his old cavalry division in Virginia.
I expect to be mustered out of service to-day, and if so, shall start this
evening for my home in Northern New York, which I have not visited
since entering the army three years ago.
Soliciting a response at your earliest convenience,
I have the honor to remain, Colonel,
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Willard Glazier.
Impatient of delay in the gratification of his ardent and patriotic desire to
rejoin the army, Glazier also addressed an earnest letter to Hon. M. I.
Townsend, of his native State, accompanying it with the following glowing
testimonial from his late superior officer and companion in arms, Colonel
Clarence Buel:
Saratoga Springs, New York,
February 14th, 1865.
Hon. Martin I. Townsend:
Dear Sir: It is with great pleasure that I introduce to your
acquaintance my friend Lieutenant Willard Glazier. He entered the
the following day and was retaken by a detachment of Texan cavalry
under General Wheeler; was tried as a spy at Springfield; escaped a
third time from Sylvania on the nineteenth of December, and reached
the Federal lines near Savannah, four days later, and twenty-eight days
after my escape from Columbia. I was at General Kilpatrick's
headquarters on the Ogeechee, December twenty-sixth. The general was
in the most exuberant spirits, and entertained me with stories of the
Great March from Atlanta to the sea. He desired to be remembered to all
the officers and men of his old cavalry division in Virginia.
I expect to be mustered out of service to-day, and if so, shall start this
evening for my home in Northern New York, which I have not visited
since entering the army three years ago.
Soliciting a response at your earliest convenience,
I have the honor to remain, Colonel,
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Willard Glazier.
Impatient of delay in the gratification of his ardent and patriotic desire to
rejoin the army, Glazier also addressed an earnest letter to Hon. M. I.
Townsend, of his native State, accompanying it with the following glowing
testimonial from his late superior officer and companion in arms, Colonel
Clarence Buel:
Saratoga Springs, New York,
February 14th, 1865.
Hon. Martin I. Townsend:
Dear Sir: It is with great pleasure that I introduce to your
acquaintance my friend Lieutenant Willard Glazier. He entered the
Page 308
service as a private in my company in the "Harris Light Cavalry," and
was promoted for services in the field to his present rank. I considered
him one of the very best and most promising young officers whom I
knew, and his career has only strengthened my opinion of his merits.
After a period of long and gallant service in the field he had the
misfortune to be taken prisoner in a desperate cavalry fight, and has but
recently returned home after escaping from a terrible confinement of
more than a year in the prison pens at Richmond, Danville, Macon,
Savannah, Charleston, and Columbia. I wish you would take time to
hear the modest recital which he makes of his experience in Southern
prisons, and of his escape; and I feel sure you will agree with me, that
he is worthy of any interest you may take in him.
He is desirous of re-entering the service as soon as he can procure a
commission in any way equal to his deserts; and I told him that I knew
of no one who could give him more valuable aid than yourself in his
patriotic purpose. I do most cordially commend him to your
consideration, and shall esteem anything you may do for him as a great
personal favor. With very sincere regards,
I am, your obedient friend and servant,
Clarence Buel.
Hon. Martin I. Townsend, on receipt of Colonel Buel's flattering
introduction, at once interested himself in Glazier's behalf; and after fully
investigating his military record handed him the following to the Governor
of New York State:
Troy, New York,
February 15th, 1865.
His Excellency R. E. Fenton, Governor of New York:
was promoted for services in the field to his present rank. I considered
him one of the very best and most promising young officers whom I
knew, and his career has only strengthened my opinion of his merits.
After a period of long and gallant service in the field he had the
misfortune to be taken prisoner in a desperate cavalry fight, and has but
recently returned home after escaping from a terrible confinement of
more than a year in the prison pens at Richmond, Danville, Macon,
Savannah, Charleston, and Columbia. I wish you would take time to
hear the modest recital which he makes of his experience in Southern
prisons, and of his escape; and I feel sure you will agree with me, that
he is worthy of any interest you may take in him.
He is desirous of re-entering the service as soon as he can procure a
commission in any way equal to his deserts; and I told him that I knew
of no one who could give him more valuable aid than yourself in his
patriotic purpose. I do most cordially commend him to your
consideration, and shall esteem anything you may do for him as a great
personal favor. With very sincere regards,
I am, your obedient friend and servant,
Clarence Buel.
Hon. Martin I. Townsend, on receipt of Colonel Buel's flattering
introduction, at once interested himself in Glazier's behalf; and after fully
investigating his military record handed him the following to the Governor
of New York State:
Troy, New York,
February 15th, 1865.
His Excellency R. E. Fenton, Governor of New York:
Page 309
Dear Sir: Willard Glazier, late of the "Harris Light Cavalry," who
served with honor as a lieutenant in that regiment, is a most excellent
young patriot, and has many well-wishers in our city. He desires to enter
the service again. I take the liberty to solicit for him a commission. No
appointment would be more popular here, and I undertake to say,
without hesitation, that I know of no more deserving young officer. His
heart was always warm in the service, and he now has fifteen months of
most barbarous cruelty, practised on him while a prisoner, to avenge.
Very respectfully yours,
Martin I. Townsend.
His former commanders, Generals H. E. Davies and Judson Kilpatrick,
also bore their willing testimony to the qualifications and merits of our
young subaltern in the following handsome manner:
Headquarters, First Brigade, Cavalry Division,
Near Culpepper, Va.,
February 16th, 1865.
To His Excellency Hon. R. E. Fenton:
Lieutenant Willard Glazier, formerly of the Second New York
Cavalry, served in the regiment under my immediate command, for
more than two years, until his capture by the enemy.
He joined the regiment as an enlisted man, and served in that capacity
with courage and ability, and for good conduct was recommended for
and received a commission as second lieutenant. As an officer he did his
duty well, and on several occasions behaved with great gallantry, and
with good judgment. Owing to a long imprisonment, I learn he has been
rendered supernumerary in his regiment, and mustered out of service. I
can recommend him highly as an officer, and as well worthy to receive
a commission.
served with honor as a lieutenant in that regiment, is a most excellent
young patriot, and has many well-wishers in our city. He desires to enter
the service again. I take the liberty to solicit for him a commission. No
appointment would be more popular here, and I undertake to say,
without hesitation, that I know of no more deserving young officer. His
heart was always warm in the service, and he now has fifteen months of
most barbarous cruelty, practised on him while a prisoner, to avenge.
Very respectfully yours,
Martin I. Townsend.
His former commanders, Generals H. E. Davies and Judson Kilpatrick,
also bore their willing testimony to the qualifications and merits of our
young subaltern in the following handsome manner:
Headquarters, First Brigade, Cavalry Division,
Near Culpepper, Va.,
February 16th, 1865.
To His Excellency Hon. R. E. Fenton:
Lieutenant Willard Glazier, formerly of the Second New York
Cavalry, served in the regiment under my immediate command, for
more than two years, until his capture by the enemy.
He joined the regiment as an enlisted man, and served in that capacity
with courage and ability, and for good conduct was recommended for
and received a commission as second lieutenant. As an officer he did his
duty well, and on several occasions behaved with great gallantry, and
with good judgment. Owing to a long imprisonment, I learn he has been
rendered supernumerary in his regiment, and mustered out of service. I
can recommend him highly as an officer, and as well worthy to receive
a commission.
Page 310
Very respectfully,
H. E. Davies, Jr.,
Brigadier-General U. S. Volunteers.
Headquarters Cavalry Command, M. D. M.,
Near Savannah, Georgia, December 27th, 1864.
Lieutenant Willard Glazier, Harris Light Cavalry:
Lieutenant: I take great pleasure in expressing to you my high
appreciation of your many soldierly qualities. I well remember the fact
that you were once a private in the old regiment I had the honor to
command; and that by attention to duty and good conduct alone, you
received promotion. You have my best wishes for your future
advancement, and may command my influence at all times.
Very respectfully and truly yours,
Judson Kilpatrick,
Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers.
His application was crowned with success, and upon the twenty-fifth of
February, 1865, he received his commission as First Lieutenant in the
Twenty-sixth Regiment, New York Cavalry.
Not until this important matter was satisfactorily arranged would our
young lieutenant turn his face towards home. He had been absent about
three years, and a report had reached his family that he had died in prison at
Columbia.
With his commission in his pocket, he now allowed thoughts of home to
occupy his mind, and proceeded thither without the loss of a moment. On
reaching the homestead which had been the scene of his birth, and of the
adventures of his boyhood, he knocked and entered, and his mother met
him at the threshold. Three years between the ages of sixteen and nineteen,
especially after vicissitudes and sufferings such as he had endured, effect
H. E. Davies, Jr.,
Brigadier-General U. S. Volunteers.
Headquarters Cavalry Command, M. D. M.,
Near Savannah, Georgia, December 27th, 1864.
Lieutenant Willard Glazier, Harris Light Cavalry:
Lieutenant: I take great pleasure in expressing to you my high
appreciation of your many soldierly qualities. I well remember the fact
that you were once a private in the old regiment I had the honor to
command; and that by attention to duty and good conduct alone, you
received promotion. You have my best wishes for your future
advancement, and may command my influence at all times.
Very respectfully and truly yours,
Judson Kilpatrick,
Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers.
His application was crowned with success, and upon the twenty-fifth of
February, 1865, he received his commission as First Lieutenant in the
Twenty-sixth Regiment, New York Cavalry.
Not until this important matter was satisfactorily arranged would our
young lieutenant turn his face towards home. He had been absent about
three years, and a report had reached his family that he had died in prison at
Columbia.
With his commission in his pocket, he now allowed thoughts of home to
occupy his mind, and proceeded thither without the loss of a moment. On
reaching the homestead which had been the scene of his birth, and of the
adventures of his boyhood, he knocked and entered, and his mother met
him at the threshold. Three years between the ages of sixteen and nineteen,
especially after vicissitudes and sufferings such as he had endured, effect
Page 311
changes in the features and height and general appearance, much more
pronounced than a similar interval would produce at a later or an earlier
period of life. The mother did not recognize her son; and seeing this, he did
not announce himself, but inquired if any news had recently been received
of her son Willard, who, he said, was in the same regiment as himself. She
answered that her son was dead—she had seen his name in the death-record
of the prison of Columbia, and asked earnestly concerning him. By this
time his sister Marjorie, with three years added to her stature, but still in her
teens, entered the room, and, looking fixedly at the stranger's solemn
countenance, exclaimed, with a thrilling outcry: "Why, that's Will!" The
spell was broken, and mother and son, sister and brother, amid smiles and
sobs, embraced, and the young soldier, "who was dead and is alive," was
welcomed to the fond hearts of those who had grieved over his loss.
Filial and fraternal love was a trait in Glazier's character which claims a
few words. A dutiful son and an affectionate brother, he had never neglected
an opportunity of assisting and furthering the interests of his family. Before
entering the army he had contributed of his scant earnings as a teacher
towards the education of his three sisters, and during his service in the war
had, from time to time, as he received his pay, made remittances home for
the same unselfish purpose. On being mustered out of the army, the
government had paid him the sum of $500, and this sum he now generously
handed over to his parents to be also expended in perfecting the education
of his sisters.
Lieutenant Glazier now hastened to report himself to the commanding
officer of his regiment, and displayed all his wonted energy and devotion to
the cause of the Union. He served faithfully and honorably until the mighty
hosts of the Federal army melted back into quiet citizenship, with nothing to
pronounced than a similar interval would produce at a later or an earlier
period of life. The mother did not recognize her son; and seeing this, he did
not announce himself, but inquired if any news had recently been received
of her son Willard, who, he said, was in the same regiment as himself. She
answered that her son was dead—she had seen his name in the death-record
of the prison of Columbia, and asked earnestly concerning him. By this
time his sister Marjorie, with three years added to her stature, but still in her
teens, entered the room, and, looking fixedly at the stranger's solemn
countenance, exclaimed, with a thrilling outcry: "Why, that's Will!" The
spell was broken, and mother and son, sister and brother, amid smiles and
sobs, embraced, and the young soldier, "who was dead and is alive," was
welcomed to the fond hearts of those who had grieved over his loss.
Filial and fraternal love was a trait in Glazier's character which claims a
few words. A dutiful son and an affectionate brother, he had never neglected
an opportunity of assisting and furthering the interests of his family. Before
entering the army he had contributed of his scant earnings as a teacher
towards the education of his three sisters, and during his service in the war
had, from time to time, as he received his pay, made remittances home for
the same unselfish purpose. On being mustered out of the army, the
government had paid him the sum of $500, and this sum he now generously
handed over to his parents to be also expended in perfecting the education
of his sisters.
Lieutenant Glazier now hastened to report himself to the commanding
officer of his regiment, and displayed all his wonted energy and devotion to
the cause of the Union. He served faithfully and honorably until the mighty
hosts of the Federal army melted back into quiet citizenship, with nothing to
Page 312
distinguish them from other citizens but their scars and the proud
consciousness of having served and saved their country.
This brief history of the military career of a remarkable man would not
be complete without some account of his life subsequent to the dissolution
of the great army of volunteers. Willard Glazier's conduct as a soldier
formed an earnest of his future good citizenship—his devotion to duty at
the front, a foreshadow of his enterprise and success in the business of life.
Having been honorably mustered out, he lost no time in looking about for
an occupation. Joining the volunteer army when a mere youth, his
opportunities of learning a profession had been very limited, and he
consequently now found himself without any permanent means of support.
His education had been necessarily interrupted by the breaking out of the
war, and his chief anxiety, now that the struggle was over, was to enter
college and complete his studies.
This desire was very intense in our young citizen-soldier, and absorbed
all his thoughts; but where to find the means for its accomplishment he was
at a loss to discover. In ponderings upon this subject from day to day, an
idea suddenly occurred to him, which formed an epoch in his life, and the
development of which has proved it to have been the basis of a successful
and useful career. The idea that has borne fruit was this: During the period
of his service in the war he had kept a diary. Herein he had recorded his
experiences from day to day, adding such brief comments as the events
called for, and time and opportunity permitted. This diary he always kept
upon his person, and while on a long and hurried march, or in a battle with
the enemy, his vade mecum would be, of necessity, occasionally neglected,
consciousness of having served and saved their country.
This brief history of the military career of a remarkable man would not
be complete without some account of his life subsequent to the dissolution
of the great army of volunteers. Willard Glazier's conduct as a soldier
formed an earnest of his future good citizenship—his devotion to duty at
the front, a foreshadow of his enterprise and success in the business of life.
Having been honorably mustered out, he lost no time in looking about for
an occupation. Joining the volunteer army when a mere youth, his
opportunities of learning a profession had been very limited, and he
consequently now found himself without any permanent means of support.
His education had been necessarily interrupted by the breaking out of the
war, and his chief anxiety, now that the struggle was over, was to enter
college and complete his studies.
This desire was very intense in our young citizen-soldier, and absorbed
all his thoughts; but where to find the means for its accomplishment he was
at a loss to discover. In ponderings upon this subject from day to day, an
idea suddenly occurred to him, which formed an epoch in his life, and the
development of which has proved it to have been the basis of a successful
and useful career. The idea that has borne fruit was this: During the period
of his service in the war he had kept a diary. Herein he had recorded his
experiences from day to day, adding such brief comments as the events
called for, and time and opportunity permitted. This diary he always kept
upon his person, and while on a long and hurried march, or in a battle with
the enemy, his vade mecum would be, of necessity, occasionally neglected,
Page 313
no sooner did the opportunity offer than his mind wandered back over the
few days' interval since the previous entry, and each event of interest was
duly chronicled. Again during the period of his confinement in Southern
prisons, sick, and subjected to most inhuman treatment and privation, and
while escaping from his brutal captors, concealed in the swamps during the
day, tired, hungry, and cold, his diary was never forgotten, albeit, the entries
were frequently made under the greatest difficulties, such as to most men
would have proved insurmountable.
This journal was now in his possession. He had stirred the souls of
relatives and friends by reading from it accounts of bloody scenes through
which he had passed; of cruelties practised upon him and his brother-
patriots in Southern bastiles; of his various attempts to escape, and pursuit
by blood-hounds and their barbarous masters. The story of his war
experiences entranced hundreds of eager listeners around his home, and the
idea that now occurred to him, while anxiously pondering the ways and
means of paying his college fees, was, that his story might possibly, by the
aid of his diary, be arranged in the form of a book, and if he were fortunate
enough to find a sale for it, the profits would probably furnish the very
thing he stood so much in need of.
Prompt in everything, the thought no sooner occurred to the young
candidate for college honors than he proceeded to reduce it to action. He
forthwith commenced arranging the facts and dates from the diary;
constructed sentences in plain Saxon English; the work grew upon him; he
"fought his battles o'er again;" was again captured, imprisoned and escaped;
the work continued to grow, and at the end of six weeks' hard application,
always keeping his object in view, Willard Glazier, the young cavalryman,
found himself an author—i. e., in manuscript.
few days' interval since the previous entry, and each event of interest was
duly chronicled. Again during the period of his confinement in Southern
prisons, sick, and subjected to most inhuman treatment and privation, and
while escaping from his brutal captors, concealed in the swamps during the
day, tired, hungry, and cold, his diary was never forgotten, albeit, the entries
were frequently made under the greatest difficulties, such as to most men
would have proved insurmountable.
This journal was now in his possession. He had stirred the souls of
relatives and friends by reading from it accounts of bloody scenes through
which he had passed; of cruelties practised upon him and his brother-
patriots in Southern bastiles; of his various attempts to escape, and pursuit
by blood-hounds and their barbarous masters. The story of his war
experiences entranced hundreds of eager listeners around his home, and the
idea that now occurred to him, while anxiously pondering the ways and
means of paying his college fees, was, that his story might possibly, by the
aid of his diary, be arranged in the form of a book, and if he were fortunate
enough to find a sale for it, the profits would probably furnish the very
thing he stood so much in need of.
Prompt in everything, the thought no sooner occurred to the young
candidate for college honors than he proceeded to reduce it to action. He
forthwith commenced arranging the facts and dates from the diary;
constructed sentences in plain Saxon English; the work grew upon him; he
"fought his battles o'er again;" was again captured, imprisoned and escaped;
the work continued to grow, and at the end of six weeks' hard application,
always keeping his object in view, Willard Glazier, the young cavalryman,
found himself an author—i. e., in manuscript.
Page 314
Not a little surprised and gratified to discover that he possessed the gift of
putting his thoughts in a readable form, he now felt hopeful that the day was
not distant when the desire of his soul to enter college would be realized.
putting his thoughts in a readable form, he now felt hopeful that the day was
not distant when the desire of his soul to enter college would be realized.
Page 315
CHAPTER XXVII.
CAREER AS AN AUTHOR.
Glazier in search of a publisher for "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape." — Spends his last dollar. —
Lieutenant Richardson a friend in need. — Joel Munsell, of Albany, consents to publish. —
The author solicits subscriptions for his work before publication. — Succeeds. — Captain
Hampton. — R. H. Ferguson. — Captain F. C. Lord. — Publication and sale of first edition. —
Great success. — Pays his publisher in full. — Still greater successes. — Finally attains an
enormous sale. — Style of the work. — Extracts. — Opinions of the press.
Still very young, and knowing nothing of the trade of the Publisher,
Glazier found his way to the Empire City, and, manuscript in hand,
presented himself before some of her leading publishers—among them, the
Harpers, Appletons, Carleton, Sheldon and others.
To these gentlemen he showed his manuscript, and received courteous
recognition from each; but the terms they offered were not of a character to
tempt him. They would publish his book and pay him a small royalty on
their sales. His faith in his manuscript led him to expect more substantial
results. The subject of the work was one of absorbing interest at the time,
and if he had handled it properly, he knew the book must meet with a
commensurate sale. He therefore determined, if possible, to find a publisher
willing to make it to his order, and leave him to manipulate the sale himself.
He was already in possession of many unsolicited orders for it, and
although knowing nothing of the subscription-book business, determined
that, when printed, his book should be brought out by subscription.
Meanwhile, he was, unfortunately, like many incipient authors, without
capital, and could not therefore remain longer in New York for lack of
CAREER AS AN AUTHOR.
Glazier in search of a publisher for "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape." — Spends his last dollar. —
Lieutenant Richardson a friend in need. — Joel Munsell, of Albany, consents to publish. —
The author solicits subscriptions for his work before publication. — Succeeds. — Captain
Hampton. — R. H. Ferguson. — Captain F. C. Lord. — Publication and sale of first edition. —
Great success. — Pays his publisher in full. — Still greater successes. — Finally attains an
enormous sale. — Style of the work. — Extracts. — Opinions of the press.
Still very young, and knowing nothing of the trade of the Publisher,
Glazier found his way to the Empire City, and, manuscript in hand,
presented himself before some of her leading publishers—among them, the
Harpers, Appletons, Carleton, Sheldon and others.
To these gentlemen he showed his manuscript, and received courteous
recognition from each; but the terms they offered were not of a character to
tempt him. They would publish his book and pay him a small royalty on
their sales. His faith in his manuscript led him to expect more substantial
results. The subject of the work was one of absorbing interest at the time,
and if he had handled it properly, he knew the book must meet with a
commensurate sale. He therefore determined, if possible, to find a publisher
willing to make it to his order, and leave him to manipulate the sale himself.
He was already in possession of many unsolicited orders for it, and
although knowing nothing of the subscription-book business, determined
that, when printed, his book should be brought out by subscription.
Meanwhile, he was, unfortunately, like many incipient authors, without
capital, and could not therefore remain longer in New York for lack of
Page 316
means, having literally nothing left wherewith to defray even his board or
procure a lodging. He was, consequently, compelled to leave if he could
obtain the means of doing so. He had arrived in New York with sanguine
expectations of readily meeting with a publisher, but discovered, from bitter
experience, as many others have done, that authors and publishers not
unfrequently view their interests from divergent points. Courteous but cool,
they offered the unknown author little encouragement, who, but for this,
would have made the metropolis the starting-point in his successful literary
career.
At this juncture he called on Lieutenant Arthur Richardson, an old
comrade of the "Harris Light," who had also been his fellow-prisoner, and
was then residing in New York. To him he confided his difficulty in finding
a publisher for his book, and his extremely straitened circumstances, at the
same time stating his strong wish to return, if possible, to Albany, where he
was known. Without ceremony and without conditions Richardson
generously handed him twenty dollars, and, with this godsend in hand,
Glazier at once returned to Albany.
Arrived in the capital of his native State, he lost no time in calling on the
bookmen of that city, and among them, fortunately, on Mr. Joel Munsell, of
82 State street. This gentleman, well known for his learning and probity
throughout the State, and far beyond its limits, combined the profession of
an author with the more lucrative one of publisher and bookseller, and was
pre-eminently in good standing as a worthy citizen and man of business.
Glazier introduced himself, and once more produced his fateful
manuscript for inspection. Mr. Munsell glanced at it through his glasses,
and candidly admitted the subject to be one of great interest, adding that he
also thought the manuscript was carefully written, and spoke in general
complimentary terms of the author and his production.
procure a lodging. He was, consequently, compelled to leave if he could
obtain the means of doing so. He had arrived in New York with sanguine
expectations of readily meeting with a publisher, but discovered, from bitter
experience, as many others have done, that authors and publishers not
unfrequently view their interests from divergent points. Courteous but cool,
they offered the unknown author little encouragement, who, but for this,
would have made the metropolis the starting-point in his successful literary
career.
At this juncture he called on Lieutenant Arthur Richardson, an old
comrade of the "Harris Light," who had also been his fellow-prisoner, and
was then residing in New York. To him he confided his difficulty in finding
a publisher for his book, and his extremely straitened circumstances, at the
same time stating his strong wish to return, if possible, to Albany, where he
was known. Without ceremony and without conditions Richardson
generously handed him twenty dollars, and, with this godsend in hand,
Glazier at once returned to Albany.
Arrived in the capital of his native State, he lost no time in calling on the
bookmen of that city, and among them, fortunately, on Mr. Joel Munsell, of
82 State street. This gentleman, well known for his learning and probity
throughout the State, and far beyond its limits, combined the profession of
an author with the more lucrative one of publisher and bookseller, and was
pre-eminently in good standing as a worthy citizen and man of business.
Glazier introduced himself, and once more produced his fateful
manuscript for inspection. Mr. Munsell glanced at it through his glasses,
and candidly admitted the subject to be one of great interest, adding that he
also thought the manuscript was carefully written, and spoke in general
complimentary terms of the author and his production.
Page 317
Glazier, elated with this praise, at once asked to have the work
stereotyped and made into a book of some four hundred pages, with ten
illustrations. Mr. Munsell would be only too ready to fill the order, but
politely suggested, as a preliminary condition, an advance of two hundred
dollars! Our author modestly confessed, without hesitation, that he was not
worth two hundred cents; had no means of obtaining such a sum, and could
therefore advance nothing. The worthy old gentleman was startled, and
answered that such was the custom of the trade. He then inquired if Glazier
had any friends who would endorse a note for the amount at thirty days.
The reply was that he had none; that he would exert himself to obtain a
small sum from army friends, and if he succeeded, would hand it over to
him; that his only capital at present was his conduct and character as a
soldier, for testimony to which he would refer to his late commanding
officer, "and," he added, "faith in the success of my book." He further
offered to solicit subscriptions for the book himself before publication, and
report the result to the publisher.
INTERVIEW WITH JOEL MUNSELL.
stereotyped and made into a book of some four hundred pages, with ten
illustrations. Mr. Munsell would be only too ready to fill the order, but
politely suggested, as a preliminary condition, an advance of two hundred
dollars! Our author modestly confessed, without hesitation, that he was not
worth two hundred cents; had no means of obtaining such a sum, and could
therefore advance nothing. The worthy old gentleman was startled, and
answered that such was the custom of the trade. He then inquired if Glazier
had any friends who would endorse a note for the amount at thirty days.
The reply was that he had none; that he would exert himself to obtain a
small sum from army friends, and if he succeeded, would hand it over to
him; that his only capital at present was his conduct and character as a
soldier, for testimony to which he would refer to his late commanding
officer, "and," he added, "faith in the success of my book." He further
offered to solicit subscriptions for the book himself before publication, and
report the result to the publisher.
INTERVIEW WITH JOEL MUNSELL.
Page 318
Mr. Munsell, pleased with his appearance and ingenuousness, hinted at
the purchase of the manuscript, but the proposal being respectfully
declined, inquired, if the writer undertook to sell the book himself, would
he "stick to it." "Yes!" was the emphatic answer, "until everything is fully
paid for."
The reply of Munsell was equally prompt and decisive: "I have never in
all the years I have been in business published a work under such
circumstances, but I will get that book out for you." Glazier thanked the
worthy man, and expressed a hope that he would never have occasion to
regret his generous deed; he would place the manuscript in his hands
forthwith.
He then set out to solicit subscriptions for his work, and without
prospectus, circular, or any of the usual paraphernalia of a solicitor—with
nothing but his own unsupported representations of the quality of his
projected book, succeeded in obtaining a very considerable number of
orders. These he hastened to hand over to Joel Munsell, who was now
confirmed in his good opinion of the writer, and the promising character of
the venture.
Thus our young soldier-author was fortunate enough to find a publisher
and a friend in need. A contract was drawn up, and feeling that his prospects
were now somewhat assured, he ventured to write to his comrade, and late
fellow-prisoner, Captain Hampton, of Rochester, New York, for the loan of
fifty dollars. This sum was promptly sent him, and he at once handed it over
to his publisher. Mr. R. H. Ferguson, late of the "Harris Light," also
generously came forward to the assistance of his former comrade and tent-
mate, and advanced him one hundred dollars to help on the work.
It may be stated here, that the friendship of Ferguson and Glazier dated
from before the war, while the latter, a mere youth, was teaching school
the purchase of the manuscript, but the proposal being respectfully
declined, inquired, if the writer undertook to sell the book himself, would
he "stick to it." "Yes!" was the emphatic answer, "until everything is fully
paid for."
The reply of Munsell was equally prompt and decisive: "I have never in
all the years I have been in business published a work under such
circumstances, but I will get that book out for you." Glazier thanked the
worthy man, and expressed a hope that he would never have occasion to
regret his generous deed; he would place the manuscript in his hands
forthwith.
He then set out to solicit subscriptions for his work, and without
prospectus, circular, or any of the usual paraphernalia of a solicitor—with
nothing but his own unsupported representations of the quality of his
projected book, succeeded in obtaining a very considerable number of
orders. These he hastened to hand over to Joel Munsell, who was now
confirmed in his good opinion of the writer, and the promising character of
the venture.
Thus our young soldier-author was fortunate enough to find a publisher
and a friend in need. A contract was drawn up, and feeling that his prospects
were now somewhat assured, he ventured to write to his comrade, and late
fellow-prisoner, Captain Hampton, of Rochester, New York, for the loan of
fifty dollars. This sum was promptly sent him, and he at once handed it over
to his publisher. Mr. R. H. Ferguson, late of the "Harris Light," also
generously came forward to the assistance of his former comrade and tent-
mate, and advanced him one hundred dollars to help on the work.
It may be stated here, that the friendship of Ferguson and Glazier dated
from before the war, while the latter, a mere youth, was teaching school
Page 319
near Troy, in Rensselaer County, New York: that together, on the summons
to arms, they enlisted in the Harris Light Cavalry; together went to the seat
of war; that both fell into the hands of the rebels and had experience of
Southern prisons; and that both effected their escape after the endurance of
much suffering. Finally, their friendship and common career resulted in a
business connection which was attended with considerable success, Mr.
Ferguson having become the publisher of some of Captain Glazier's
subsequent writings. Captain Frederick C. Lord, of Naugatuck, Connecticut,
also contributed to Glazier's need, and enabled him by the opportune loan of
twenty-five dollars to defray his board bill while waiting anxiously upon
Munsell in the reading of proofs, and soliciting subscriptions in advance.
To return to the first work of our young author, now in the hands of Joel
Munsell, of Albany, which was entitled "The Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape;" the first edition consisted of five hundred copies, which Glazier by
his energy disposed of in a few days, handing over the proceeds to the
publisher. At the end of six months he had called for several editions of his
book, and sold them all through the instrumentality of solicitors selected by
himself, some of them maimed soldiers of the war, paid Mr. Munsell in full,
and had himself three thousand dollars in hand. Success is the mother of
success.
Having prospered thus far beyond his expectations, he was anxious to
add to his store. Visions of large sales over other territory than his native
State of New York presented themselves to his eager mind; the book was
purchased by the public as soon as it was published; reviewers spoke in
enthusiastic praise of its merits. It was not a pretentious work—the author
was simply a young man and a patriot. But passages of great beauty and of
painful interest pervaded it, alternated with vivid descriptions of battles in
which the writer had himself shared. A veteran author need not have been
to arms, they enlisted in the Harris Light Cavalry; together went to the seat
of war; that both fell into the hands of the rebels and had experience of
Southern prisons; and that both effected their escape after the endurance of
much suffering. Finally, their friendship and common career resulted in a
business connection which was attended with considerable success, Mr.
Ferguson having become the publisher of some of Captain Glazier's
subsequent writings. Captain Frederick C. Lord, of Naugatuck, Connecticut,
also contributed to Glazier's need, and enabled him by the opportune loan of
twenty-five dollars to defray his board bill while waiting anxiously upon
Munsell in the reading of proofs, and soliciting subscriptions in advance.
To return to the first work of our young author, now in the hands of Joel
Munsell, of Albany, which was entitled "The Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape;" the first edition consisted of five hundred copies, which Glazier by
his energy disposed of in a few days, handing over the proceeds to the
publisher. At the end of six months he had called for several editions of his
book, and sold them all through the instrumentality of solicitors selected by
himself, some of them maimed soldiers of the war, paid Mr. Munsell in full,
and had himself three thousand dollars in hand. Success is the mother of
success.
Having prospered thus far beyond his expectations, he was anxious to
add to his store. Visions of large sales over other territory than his native
State of New York presented themselves to his eager mind; the book was
purchased by the public as soon as it was published; reviewers spoke in
enthusiastic praise of its merits. It was not a pretentious work—the author
was simply a young man and a patriot. But passages of great beauty and of
painful interest pervaded it, alternated with vivid descriptions of battles in
which the writer had himself shared. A veteran author need not have been
Page 320
ashamed of many of its glowing pages. Lofty patriotism, heroic fortitude,
and moral purity, characterized it throughout.
The account given of the sufferings of our soldiers while in the prison-
pens of the South, and of his own and his comrades' while effecting their
escape to the Federal lines, are so vividly portrayed, that our feelings are
intensely enlisted in their behalf, and our minds wander to their dreary
abodes—in thought sharing their sufferings and their sorrows.
Encouraged by his success in this new vocation our young author
resolved, for the present at least, to postpone going to college, and devote
himself to the sale of his book, by the simple agency before mentioned.
This resolution cannot be considered surprising when we reflect upon the
great amount of prosperity he had met with, and the prospect before him of
attaining still greater advantage from a business upon which he had, by the
merest accident, ventured. The college scheme was at length finally
abandoned as the business continued to increase. "The Capture, Prison-Pen
and Escape" ultimately reached the enormous sale of over four hundred
thousand copies; larger by many thousands than that most extensively
circulated and deservedly popular book, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," had ever
attained to, inclusive of its sale in Europe.
The first book written and published by Willard Glazier is of a character
to surprise us, when we consider the antecedents of the writer up to the date
of its publication, December, 1865. Enlisting in the ranks of a cavalry
regiment at the age of eighteen, during the exciting period of the civil war; a
participant in many of its sanguinary battles; captured by the enemy and
imprisoned under circumstances of the greatest trial and discouragement,
his position and surroundings were not a very promising school for the
training of an author. The book he produced is, in our judgment, not
unworthy of comparison with the immortal work of Defoe, with this
and moral purity, characterized it throughout.
The account given of the sufferings of our soldiers while in the prison-
pens of the South, and of his own and his comrades' while effecting their
escape to the Federal lines, are so vividly portrayed, that our feelings are
intensely enlisted in their behalf, and our minds wander to their dreary
abodes—in thought sharing their sufferings and their sorrows.
Encouraged by his success in this new vocation our young author
resolved, for the present at least, to postpone going to college, and devote
himself to the sale of his book, by the simple agency before mentioned.
This resolution cannot be considered surprising when we reflect upon the
great amount of prosperity he had met with, and the prospect before him of
attaining still greater advantage from a business upon which he had, by the
merest accident, ventured. The college scheme was at length finally
abandoned as the business continued to increase. "The Capture, Prison-Pen
and Escape" ultimately reached the enormous sale of over four hundred
thousand copies; larger by many thousands than that most extensively
circulated and deservedly popular book, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," had ever
attained to, inclusive of its sale in Europe.
The first book written and published by Willard Glazier is of a character
to surprise us, when we consider the antecedents of the writer up to the date
of its publication, December, 1865. Enlisting in the ranks of a cavalry
regiment at the age of eighteen, during the exciting period of the civil war; a
participant in many of its sanguinary battles; captured by the enemy and
imprisoned under circumstances of the greatest trial and discouragement,
his position and surroundings were not a very promising school for the
training of an author. The book he produced is, in our judgment, not
unworthy of comparison with the immortal work of Defoe, with this
Page 321
qualification in our author's favor that "Robinson Crusoe" is a fiction, while
Glazier's is a true story of real adventure undergone by the writer and his
comrades of the Union army.
His style in narrating his adventures is admirably adapted to the subject;
while the simple, unpretentious manner in which he describes the terrible
scenes he witnessed, and passed through, enlists the reader's interest in the
work, and sympathy for the modest writer himself. By the publication of
this book, Glazier stamped his name upon his country's roll of honor, and at
the same time laid the foundation of his fortune.
As a specimen of his easy flowing style we give part of the opening
chapter of "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape:"
"The first battle of Bull Run was fought July twenty-first, 1861, and the
shock of arms was felt throughout the land, carrying triumph to the South,
and to the North dismay. Our proud and confident advance into 'Dixie' was
not only checked, but turned into a disastrous rout. The patriotic but
unwarlike enthusiasm of the country, which had hoped to crush the
rebellion with seventy-five thousand men, was temporarily stifled. But the
chilling was only like that of the first stealthy drops of the thunder-gust
upon a raging fire, which breaks out anew and with increased vigor when
the tempest fans it with its fury, and now burns in spite of a deluge of rain.
The chill had passed and the fever was raging. From the great centres of
national life went forth warm currents of renovating public opinion, which
reached the farthest hamlet on our frontiers. Every true man was grasping
the stirring questions of the day, and was discussing them with his family at
his own fireside, and the rebellion was just as surely doomed as when Grant
received the surrender of Lee's army. In a deeper and broader sense than
before, the country was rising to meet the emergency, and northern
patriotism, now thoroughly aroused, was sweeping everything before it.
Glazier's is a true story of real adventure undergone by the writer and his
comrades of the Union army.
His style in narrating his adventures is admirably adapted to the subject;
while the simple, unpretentious manner in which he describes the terrible
scenes he witnessed, and passed through, enlists the reader's interest in the
work, and sympathy for the modest writer himself. By the publication of
this book, Glazier stamped his name upon his country's roll of honor, and at
the same time laid the foundation of his fortune.
As a specimen of his easy flowing style we give part of the opening
chapter of "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape:"
"The first battle of Bull Run was fought July twenty-first, 1861, and the
shock of arms was felt throughout the land, carrying triumph to the South,
and to the North dismay. Our proud and confident advance into 'Dixie' was
not only checked, but turned into a disastrous rout. The patriotic but
unwarlike enthusiasm of the country, which had hoped to crush the
rebellion with seventy-five thousand men, was temporarily stifled. But the
chilling was only like that of the first stealthy drops of the thunder-gust
upon a raging fire, which breaks out anew and with increased vigor when
the tempest fans it with its fury, and now burns in spite of a deluge of rain.
The chill had passed and the fever was raging. From the great centres of
national life went forth warm currents of renovating public opinion, which
reached the farthest hamlet on our frontiers. Every true man was grasping
the stirring questions of the day, and was discussing them with his family at
his own fireside, and the rebellion was just as surely doomed as when Grant
received the surrender of Lee's army. In a deeper and broader sense than
before, the country was rising to meet the emergency, and northern
patriotism, now thoroughly aroused, was sweeping everything before it.
Page 322
Everywhere resounded the cry, 'To arms!' and thousands upon thousands
were responding to the President's call.
"It was under these circumstances that I enlisted, as a private soldier, at
Troy, New York, on the sixth day of August, in a company raised by
Captain Clarence Buel, for the Second Regiment of New York Cavalry. It is
needless to make elaborate mention of the motives which induced me to
enter the service, or the emotions which then filled my breast; they can be
readily conjectured by every loyal heart."
The Press, throughout the North (and West, as far as its circulation had
reached), spoke very highly of the production and of its author, all bearing
the same testimony to its excellence and truthfulness. The Albany Evening
Post says:
"'The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape' is the title of an intensely
interesting work, giving a complete history of prison-life in the South.
The book is at once accurate, graphic and admirably written. It is full of
adventure, and quite as readable as a romance. A person who reads this
volume will have a better idea of what it cost in the way of blood,
suffering and courage, to preserve the Republic, than he can now
possibly entertain."
The Cleveland Daily Leader writes:
"We have had the pleasure of reading this book. It describes, in the
most graphic and interesting style, the prison-life of Union soldiers in
the South, their plans of escape, and their various trials and hardships
there. The history contained in the book is very valuable. The Press, all
over the land, speaks very highly of it, and we can do naught but add
our commendations to the rest."
were responding to the President's call.
"It was under these circumstances that I enlisted, as a private soldier, at
Troy, New York, on the sixth day of August, in a company raised by
Captain Clarence Buel, for the Second Regiment of New York Cavalry. It is
needless to make elaborate mention of the motives which induced me to
enter the service, or the emotions which then filled my breast; they can be
readily conjectured by every loyal heart."
The Press, throughout the North (and West, as far as its circulation had
reached), spoke very highly of the production and of its author, all bearing
the same testimony to its excellence and truthfulness. The Albany Evening
Post says:
"'The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape' is the title of an intensely
interesting work, giving a complete history of prison-life in the South.
The book is at once accurate, graphic and admirably written. It is full of
adventure, and quite as readable as a romance. A person who reads this
volume will have a better idea of what it cost in the way of blood,
suffering and courage, to preserve the Republic, than he can now
possibly entertain."
The Cleveland Daily Leader writes:
"We have had the pleasure of reading this book. It describes, in the
most graphic and interesting style, the prison-life of Union soldiers in
the South, their plans of escape, and their various trials and hardships
there. The history contained in the book is very valuable. The Press, all
over the land, speaks very highly of it, and we can do naught but add
our commendations to the rest."
Page 323
The New York Reformer exclaims:
"From the title-page to its close, the volume is full of fresh incidents,
attracting the reader on, from page to page, with unbroken, though at
times with melancholy, at others indignant, and at others wrathful,
interest."
CALVARY.—FORAGING PARTY RETURNING TO CAMP.
"From the title-page to its close, the volume is full of fresh incidents,
attracting the reader on, from page to page, with unbroken, though at
times with melancholy, at others indignant, and at others wrathful,
interest."
CALVARY.—FORAGING PARTY RETURNING TO CAMP.
Page 324
CHAPTER XXVIII.
"THREE YEARS IN THE FEDERAL CAVALRY."
Another work by Captain Glazier. — "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry." — Daring deeds of the
Light Dragoons. — Extracts from the work. — Night attack on Falmouth Heights. —
Kilpatrick's stratagem. — Flight of the enemy. — Capture of Falmouth. — Burial of
Lieutenant Decker. — Incidents at "Brandy Station." — "Harris Light" and "Tenth New York."
— "Men of Maine, you must save the day!" — Position won. — Some Press reviews of the
work.
Through earnest and continued application our soldier-author had, in the
meantime, produced another book of equal merit with his first. This he
named, "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry." It is a work of thrilling
interest, and contains much of history relating to the Civil War, and more
especially to the cavalry service. It was the opinion of Captain Glazier that
the Union cavalry had never been properly appreciated, and for this reason
he took up his pen in its defense. He narrates the daring deeds of our Light
Dragoons, their brilliant achievements during the first three eventful years
of the war; and his own personal experiences are pictured with a vividness
of color and an enthusiasm of manner which carry the reader straight to the
field of action.
We quote the following brief but graphic description of the opening of
the great Rebellion, as a specimen of the style of this second product of his
intellect:
"The eleventh of April, 1861, revealed the real intention of the Southern
people in their unprovoked assault upon Fort Sumpter. The thunder of rebel
cannon shook the air not only around Charleston, but sent its thrilling
"THREE YEARS IN THE FEDERAL CAVALRY."
Another work by Captain Glazier. — "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry." — Daring deeds of the
Light Dragoons. — Extracts from the work. — Night attack on Falmouth Heights. —
Kilpatrick's stratagem. — Flight of the enemy. — Capture of Falmouth. — Burial of
Lieutenant Decker. — Incidents at "Brandy Station." — "Harris Light" and "Tenth New York."
— "Men of Maine, you must save the day!" — Position won. — Some Press reviews of the
work.
Through earnest and continued application our soldier-author had, in the
meantime, produced another book of equal merit with his first. This he
named, "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry." It is a work of thrilling
interest, and contains much of history relating to the Civil War, and more
especially to the cavalry service. It was the opinion of Captain Glazier that
the Union cavalry had never been properly appreciated, and for this reason
he took up his pen in its defense. He narrates the daring deeds of our Light
Dragoons, their brilliant achievements during the first three eventful years
of the war; and his own personal experiences are pictured with a vividness
of color and an enthusiasm of manner which carry the reader straight to the
field of action.
We quote the following brief but graphic description of the opening of
the great Rebellion, as a specimen of the style of this second product of his
intellect:
"The eleventh of April, 1861, revealed the real intention of the Southern
people in their unprovoked assault upon Fort Sumpter. The thunder of rebel
cannon shook the air not only around Charleston, but sent its thrilling
Page 325
vibrations to the remotest sections of the country, and was the precursor of a
storm whose wrath no one anticipated. This shock of arms was like a fire-
alarm in our great cities, and the North arose in its might with a grand
unanimity which the South did not expect. The spirit and principle of
rebellion were so uncaused and unprovoked, that scarcely could any one be
found at home or abroad to justify them.
"President Lincoln thereupon issued a call for seventy-five thousand men
to uphold and vindicate the authority of the government, and to prove, if
possible, that secession was not only a heresy in doctrine, but an
impracticability in the American Republic. The response to this call was
much more general than the most sanguine had any reason to look for. The
enthusiasm of the people was quite unbounded. Individuals encouraged
individuals; families aroused families; communities vied with communities,
and States strove with States. Who could be the first and do the most, was
the noble contention which everywhere prevailed. All political party lines
seemed to be obliterated. Under this renovating and inspiring spirit the
work of raising the nucleus of the grandest army that ever swept a continent
went bravely on. Regiments were rapidly organized, and as rapidly as
possible sent forward to the seat of government; and so vast was the number
that presented themselves for their country's defence, that the original call
was soon more than filled, and the authorities found themselves unable to
accept many organizations which were eager to press into the fray.
"Meanwhile the great leaders of the rebellion were marshalling the
hordes of treason, and assembling them on the plains of Manassas, with the
undoubted intention of moving upon the national capital. This point
determined the principal theatre of the opening contest, and around it on
every side, and particularly southward, was to be the aceldama of America,
the dreadful 'field of blood.'
storm whose wrath no one anticipated. This shock of arms was like a fire-
alarm in our great cities, and the North arose in its might with a grand
unanimity which the South did not expect. The spirit and principle of
rebellion were so uncaused and unprovoked, that scarcely could any one be
found at home or abroad to justify them.
"President Lincoln thereupon issued a call for seventy-five thousand men
to uphold and vindicate the authority of the government, and to prove, if
possible, that secession was not only a heresy in doctrine, but an
impracticability in the American Republic. The response to this call was
much more general than the most sanguine had any reason to look for. The
enthusiasm of the people was quite unbounded. Individuals encouraged
individuals; families aroused families; communities vied with communities,
and States strove with States. Who could be the first and do the most, was
the noble contention which everywhere prevailed. All political party lines
seemed to be obliterated. Under this renovating and inspiring spirit the
work of raising the nucleus of the grandest army that ever swept a continent
went bravely on. Regiments were rapidly organized, and as rapidly as
possible sent forward to the seat of government; and so vast was the number
that presented themselves for their country's defence, that the original call
was soon more than filled, and the authorities found themselves unable to
accept many organizations which were eager to press into the fray.
"Meanwhile the great leaders of the rebellion were marshalling the
hordes of treason, and assembling them on the plains of Manassas, with the
undoubted intention of moving upon the national capital. This point
determined the principal theatre of the opening contest, and around it on
every side, and particularly southward, was to be the aceldama of America,
the dreadful 'field of blood.'
Page 326
"The first great impulse of the authorities was in the direction of self-
defence, and Washington was fortified and garrisoned. This done, it was
believed that the accumulating forces of the Union, which had become
thoroughly equipped and somewhat disciplined, ought to advance into the
revolted Territory, scatter the defiant hosts of the enemy, and put a speedy
end to the slave-holders' rebellion."
Again we quote a description of an incident of the cavalry fight at Brandy
Station:
"At a critical moment, when the formidable and ever increasing hosts of
the enemy were driving our forces from a desirable position we sought to
gain, and when it seemed as though disaster to our arms would be fatal,
Kilpatrick's battle-flag was seen advancing, followed by the tried squadrons
of the 'Harris Light,' the 'Tenth New York,' and the 'First Maine.' In echelons
of squadrons his brigade was quickly formed, and he advanced, like a
storm-cloud, upon the rebel cavalry, which filled the field before him. The
'Tenth New York' received the first shock of the rebel charge, but was
hurled back, though not in confusion. The 'Harris Light' met with no better
success, and, notwithstanding their prestige and power, they were repulsed
under the very eye of their chief, whose excitement at the scene was well-
nigh uncontrollable. His flashing eye now turned to the 'First Maine,' a
regiment composed mostly of heavy, sturdy men, who had not been
engaged as yet during the day; and, riding to the head of the column, he
shouted, 'Men of Maine, you must save the day! Follow me!' With one
simultaneous war-cry these giants of the North moved forward in one solid
mass upon the flank of the rebel columns. The shock was overwhelming,
and the opposing lines crumbled like a 'bowing wall' before this wild rush
of prancing horses, gleaming sabres, and rattling balls.
defence, and Washington was fortified and garrisoned. This done, it was
believed that the accumulating forces of the Union, which had become
thoroughly equipped and somewhat disciplined, ought to advance into the
revolted Territory, scatter the defiant hosts of the enemy, and put a speedy
end to the slave-holders' rebellion."
Again we quote a description of an incident of the cavalry fight at Brandy
Station:
"At a critical moment, when the formidable and ever increasing hosts of
the enemy were driving our forces from a desirable position we sought to
gain, and when it seemed as though disaster to our arms would be fatal,
Kilpatrick's battle-flag was seen advancing, followed by the tried squadrons
of the 'Harris Light,' the 'Tenth New York,' and the 'First Maine.' In echelons
of squadrons his brigade was quickly formed, and he advanced, like a
storm-cloud, upon the rebel cavalry, which filled the field before him. The
'Tenth New York' received the first shock of the rebel charge, but was
hurled back, though not in confusion. The 'Harris Light' met with no better
success, and, notwithstanding their prestige and power, they were repulsed
under the very eye of their chief, whose excitement at the scene was well-
nigh uncontrollable. His flashing eye now turned to the 'First Maine,' a
regiment composed mostly of heavy, sturdy men, who had not been
engaged as yet during the day; and, riding to the head of the column, he
shouted, 'Men of Maine, you must save the day! Follow me!' With one
simultaneous war-cry these giants of the North moved forward in one solid
mass upon the flank of the rebel columns. The shock was overwhelming,
and the opposing lines crumbled like a 'bowing wall' before this wild rush
of prancing horses, gleaming sabres, and rattling balls.
Page 327
"On rode Kilpatrick, with the 'men of Maine,' and, on meeting the two
regiments of his brigade, which had been repulsed, and were returning from
the front, the General's voice rang out like trumpet notes, above the din of
battle, 'Back, the "Harris Light!" Back, the "Tenth New York!" Reform your
squadrons and charge!' With magical alacrity the order was obeyed, and the
two regiments, which had been so humbled by their first reverse, now
rushed into the fight with a spirit and success which redeemed them from
censure, and accounted them worthy of their gallant leader. The
commanding position was won; a battery, lost in a previous charge, was re-
captured, and an effectual blow was given to the enemy, which greatly
facilitated the movements which followed."
From numerous press notices, eulogistic of this work, which appeared
shortly after its publication, we select the following from the Chicago
Times:
"For the thousands of warriors who entered upon life too late to
participate in the war of the rebellion; for the thousands who entered
upon life too soon to be permitted a sight of its glorious and hideous
scenes; for the thousands who snuffed the smoke of battle from afar; no
better book could have been produced than this 'Three Years in the
Federal Cavalry.' ... It tells them in thrilling and glowing language of the
most exciting phases of the contests.... It is a book that will thrill the
heart of every old soldier who reads its historic pages.... The author
carries his readers into every scene which he depicts. Throughout the
book one is impressed with the idea that he saw all that he describes....
The triumphs, the despondencies, the sufferings, the joys of the troops,
are feelingly and vigorously painted.... His book is a noble tribute to the
gallant horsemen, who have too often been overlooked."
regiments of his brigade, which had been repulsed, and were returning from
the front, the General's voice rang out like trumpet notes, above the din of
battle, 'Back, the "Harris Light!" Back, the "Tenth New York!" Reform your
squadrons and charge!' With magical alacrity the order was obeyed, and the
two regiments, which had been so humbled by their first reverse, now
rushed into the fight with a spirit and success which redeemed them from
censure, and accounted them worthy of their gallant leader. The
commanding position was won; a battery, lost in a previous charge, was re-
captured, and an effectual blow was given to the enemy, which greatly
facilitated the movements which followed."
From numerous press notices, eulogistic of this work, which appeared
shortly after its publication, we select the following from the Chicago
Times:
"For the thousands of warriors who entered upon life too late to
participate in the war of the rebellion; for the thousands who entered
upon life too soon to be permitted a sight of its glorious and hideous
scenes; for the thousands who snuffed the smoke of battle from afar; no
better book could have been produced than this 'Three Years in the
Federal Cavalry.' ... It tells them in thrilling and glowing language of the
most exciting phases of the contests.... It is a book that will thrill the
heart of every old soldier who reads its historic pages.... The author
carries his readers into every scene which he depicts. Throughout the
book one is impressed with the idea that he saw all that he describes....
The triumphs, the despondencies, the sufferings, the joys of the troops,
are feelingly and vigorously painted.... His book is a noble tribute to the
gallant horsemen, who have too often been overlooked."
Page 328
The Syracuse Herald remarks:
"Among the newest, and we may truly say the best of the books on
the civil war, is a work by the widely-known author, Captain Willard
Glazier, entitled 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry.' ... Its pages teem
with word-painting of hair-breadth escapes, of marches, of
countermarches, bivouacs and battles without number. Stirring
memories of Brandy Station, Chantilly, Antietam, Fredericksburg,
Yorktown, Falmouth and Gettysburg, are roused by the masterly
raconteur, until in October, 1864, just beyond New Baltimore, the
gallant captain was captured, and for a year languished in 'durance vile.'
The interest in the narrative never flags, but rather increases with each
succeeding page. For those who love to fight their battles o'er again, or
those who love to read of war's alarms, this volume will prove most
welcome."
The New York Tribune is
"Sure that 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' will meet with the
same generous reception from the reading public that has been given to
the former works of this talented young author. The fact that Captain
Glazier was an eye-witness and participant in the thrilling scenes of
which he writes, lends additional interest to the work."
The New York Star says:
"'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' brings to light many daring
deeds upon the part of the Union heroes, that have never yet been
recorded, and gives an insight into the conduct of the war which
historians, who write but do not fight, could not possibly give. It is full
"Among the newest, and we may truly say the best of the books on
the civil war, is a work by the widely-known author, Captain Willard
Glazier, entitled 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry.' ... Its pages teem
with word-painting of hair-breadth escapes, of marches, of
countermarches, bivouacs and battles without number. Stirring
memories of Brandy Station, Chantilly, Antietam, Fredericksburg,
Yorktown, Falmouth and Gettysburg, are roused by the masterly
raconteur, until in October, 1864, just beyond New Baltimore, the
gallant captain was captured, and for a year languished in 'durance vile.'
The interest in the narrative never flags, but rather increases with each
succeeding page. For those who love to fight their battles o'er again, or
those who love to read of war's alarms, this volume will prove most
welcome."
The New York Tribune is
"Sure that 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' will meet with the
same generous reception from the reading public that has been given to
the former works of this talented young author. The fact that Captain
Glazier was an eye-witness and participant in the thrilling scenes of
which he writes, lends additional interest to the work."
The New York Star says:
"'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' brings to light many daring
deeds upon the part of the Union heroes, that have never yet been
recorded, and gives an insight into the conduct of the war which
historians, who write but do not fight, could not possibly give. It is full
Page 329
of incident, and one of the most interesting books upon the war that we
have read."
From the New York Globe we cull the following:
"To a returned soldier nothing is more welcome than conversation
touching his experience 'in the field' with his companions, and next to
this a good book written by one who has known 'how it is himself,' and
who recounts vividly the scenes of strife through which he has passed.
Such a work is 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry.' Captain Glazier's
experiences are portrayed in a manner at once interesting to the veteran,
and instructive and entertaining to those who have but snuffed the battle
from afar. An old soldier will never drop this book for an instant, if he
once begins it, until every word has been read. There is an air of truth
pervading every page which chains the veteran to it until he is stared in
the face with 'Finis.' The details and influences of camp-life, the
preparations for active duty, the weary marches to the battle-field, the
bivouac at night, the fierce hand-to-hand strife, the hospital, the dying
volunteer, the dead one—buried in his blanket by the pale light of the
moon, far, far away from those he loves—the defeat and victory—every
scene, in fact, familiar to the eye and ear of the 'boy in blue,' is here
most truthfully and clearly photographed, and the soldier is once more
transported back to the days of the rebellion. Captain Glazier's style is
easy and explicit. He makes no endeavor to be poetic or eloquent, but
tells his story in a straightforward manner, occasionally, however,
approaching eloquence in spite of himself. We cheerfully and earnestly
commend 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' to the public as a most
readable, entertaining and instructive volume."
have read."
From the New York Globe we cull the following:
"To a returned soldier nothing is more welcome than conversation
touching his experience 'in the field' with his companions, and next to
this a good book written by one who has known 'how it is himself,' and
who recounts vividly the scenes of strife through which he has passed.
Such a work is 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry.' Captain Glazier's
experiences are portrayed in a manner at once interesting to the veteran,
and instructive and entertaining to those who have but snuffed the battle
from afar. An old soldier will never drop this book for an instant, if he
once begins it, until every word has been read. There is an air of truth
pervading every page which chains the veteran to it until he is stared in
the face with 'Finis.' The details and influences of camp-life, the
preparations for active duty, the weary marches to the battle-field, the
bivouac at night, the fierce hand-to-hand strife, the hospital, the dying
volunteer, the dead one—buried in his blanket by the pale light of the
moon, far, far away from those he loves—the defeat and victory—every
scene, in fact, familiar to the eye and ear of the 'boy in blue,' is here
most truthfully and clearly photographed, and the soldier is once more
transported back to the days of the rebellion. Captain Glazier's style is
easy and explicit. He makes no endeavor to be poetic or eloquent, but
tells his story in a straightforward manner, occasionally, however,
approaching eloquence in spite of himself. We cheerfully and earnestly
commend 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' to the public as a most
readable, entertaining and instructive volume."
Page 330
A CAVALRY BIVOUAC
Among the manifold testimonials we have seen to the merits of this
work, the following from the poetic pen of Mrs. Maud Louise Brainerd, of
Elmira, New York, is at once beautiful and eloquent of praise, and must not
therefore be omitted from the chaplet we are weaving for the brow of the
'soldier-author:'
"Have you heard of our Union Cavalry,
As Glazier tells the story?
Of the dashing boys of the 'Cavalry Corps,'
And their daring deeds of glory?
"This modest volume holds it all,
Their brave exploits revealing,
Told as a comrade tells the tale,
With all a comrade's feeling.
"The Union camp-fires blaze anew,
Upon these faithful pages,
Among the manifold testimonials we have seen to the merits of this
work, the following from the poetic pen of Mrs. Maud Louise Brainerd, of
Elmira, New York, is at once beautiful and eloquent of praise, and must not
therefore be omitted from the chaplet we are weaving for the brow of the
'soldier-author:'
"Have you heard of our Union Cavalry,
As Glazier tells the story?
Of the dashing boys of the 'Cavalry Corps,'
And their daring deeds of glory?
"This modest volume holds it all,
Their brave exploits revealing,
Told as a comrade tells the tale,
With all a comrade's feeling.
"The Union camp-fires blaze anew,
Upon these faithful pages,
Page 331
Anew we tremble while we read
How hot the warfare rages.
"We hear again the shock of arms,
The cannon's direful thunder,
And feel once more the wild suspense
That then our hearts throbbed under.
"The deeds of heroes live again
Amid the battle crashes,
As, Phœnix-like, the dead take form
And rise from out their ashes.
"Where darkest hangs the cloud and smoke,
Where weaker men might falter,
The brave Phil Kearney lays his life
Upon his country's altar.
"Kilpatrick's legions thunder by,
With furious clang and clatter,
Rushing where duty sternly leads,
To life or death—no matter!
"Oh, hero-warriors, patriots true!
Within your graves now lying,
How bright on History's page to-day
Shines out your fame undying!
"The pomp and panoply of war
Have vanished; all the glitter
How hot the warfare rages.
"We hear again the shock of arms,
The cannon's direful thunder,
And feel once more the wild suspense
That then our hearts throbbed under.
"The deeds of heroes live again
Amid the battle crashes,
As, Phœnix-like, the dead take form
And rise from out their ashes.
"Where darkest hangs the cloud and smoke,
Where weaker men might falter,
The brave Phil Kearney lays his life
Upon his country's altar.
"Kilpatrick's legions thunder by,
With furious clang and clatter,
Rushing where duty sternly leads,
To life or death—no matter!
"Oh, hero-warriors, patriots true!
Within your graves now lying,
How bright on History's page to-day
Shines out your fame undying!
"The pomp and panoply of war
Have vanished; all the glitter
Page 332
Of charging columns, marching hosts
And battles long and bitter,
"Recede with the receding years,
Wrapped in old Time's dim shadow;
Where once the soil drank patriot gore,
Green, now, grow field and meadow.
"But here the written record stands
Of all that time of glory,
And bright through every age shall live
These names in song and story.
"Willard Glazier wrote his name
First in war's deeds, then slipping
His fingers off the sword, he found
The mightier pen more fitting.
"Read but the book—'twill summon back
The spirits now immortal,
Who bravely died for fatherland
And passed the heavenly portal!"
Such was the demand for the work that one hundred and seventy-five
thousand copies of it were sold, and we may safely predicate that in the
homes of thousands of veterans scattered all over the land, the book has
been a source of profound interest in the help it has afforded them in
recounting to family and friends the thrilling events of their war experience.
And battles long and bitter,
"Recede with the receding years,
Wrapped in old Time's dim shadow;
Where once the soil drank patriot gore,
Green, now, grow field and meadow.
"But here the written record stands
Of all that time of glory,
And bright through every age shall live
These names in song and story.
"Willard Glazier wrote his name
First in war's deeds, then slipping
His fingers off the sword, he found
The mightier pen more fitting.
"Read but the book—'twill summon back
The spirits now immortal,
Who bravely died for fatherland
And passed the heavenly portal!"
Such was the demand for the work that one hundred and seventy-five
thousand copies of it were sold, and we may safely predicate that in the
homes of thousands of veterans scattered all over the land, the book has
been a source of profound interest in the help it has afforded them in
recounting to family and friends the thrilling events of their war experience.
Page 333
CHAPTER XXIX.
"BATTLES FOR THE UNION."
"Battles for the Union." — Extracts. — Bull Run. — Brandy Station. — Manassas. — Gettysburg.
— Pittsburg Landing. — Surrender of General Lee. — Opinions of the press. — Philadelphia
"North American." — Pittsburg "Commercial." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." — Scranton
"Republican." — Wilkes-Barre "Record of the Times." — Reading "Eagle." — Albany
"Evening Journal."
"Battles for the Union,"—published by Dustin Gilman and Company,
Hartford, Connecticut—was the next work that emanated from our soldier
author's prolific pen. The most stubbornly contested battles of the great
Rebellion herein find forcible and picturesque description. "I have
endeavored," Glazier writes in his preface to this interesting work, "in
'Battles for the Union' to present, in the most concise and simple form, the
great contests in the war for the preservation of the Republic of the United
States;" and as evidence of the manner in which this task was undertaken,
we shall again present to the reader some passages from the work itself.
As an illustration of descriptive clearness and force, combined with
conciseness and simplicity of narrative, we present the opening of the
chapter on Bull Run:
"The field of Bull Run and the plains of Manassas will never lose their
interest for the imaginative young or the patriotic old; for on this field and
over these plains are scattered the bones of more than forty thousand brave
men of both North and South, who have met in mortal combat and laid
down their lives in defence of their principles.
"BATTLES FOR THE UNION."
"Battles for the Union." — Extracts. — Bull Run. — Brandy Station. — Manassas. — Gettysburg.
— Pittsburg Landing. — Surrender of General Lee. — Opinions of the press. — Philadelphia
"North American." — Pittsburg "Commercial." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." — Scranton
"Republican." — Wilkes-Barre "Record of the Times." — Reading "Eagle." — Albany
"Evening Journal."
"Battles for the Union,"—published by Dustin Gilman and Company,
Hartford, Connecticut—was the next work that emanated from our soldier
author's prolific pen. The most stubbornly contested battles of the great
Rebellion herein find forcible and picturesque description. "I have
endeavored," Glazier writes in his preface to this interesting work, "in
'Battles for the Union' to present, in the most concise and simple form, the
great contests in the war for the preservation of the Republic of the United
States;" and as evidence of the manner in which this task was undertaken,
we shall again present to the reader some passages from the work itself.
As an illustration of descriptive clearness and force, combined with
conciseness and simplicity of narrative, we present the opening of the
chapter on Bull Run:
"The field of Bull Run and the plains of Manassas will never lose their
interest for the imaginative young or the patriotic old; for on this field and
over these plains are scattered the bones of more than forty thousand brave
men of both North and South, who have met in mortal combat and laid
down their lives in defence of their principles.
Page 334
"On the twenty-first of July, 1861, was fought the battle of Bull Run, the
first of a long series of engagements on these historic plains. The battles of
Bristoe, Groveton, Manassas, Centreville, and Chantilly succeeded in 1862,
and in the summer and autumn of 1863 followed the cavalry actions at
Aldie, Middleburg, Upperville, and New Baltimore.
"No battle-ground on the continent of America can present to the
generations yet to come such a gigantic Roll of Honor. Here also was
displayed the best military talent, the keenest strategy, and the highest
engineering skill of our civil war. Here were assembled the great
representative leaders of slavery and freedom. Here Scott, McDowell, Pope,
and Meade on the Federal side, and Beauregard, Johnson, and Lee on the
Confederate side, have in turn held the reins of battle and shared both
victory and defeat.
"The action which resulted in the fall of Fort Sumter developed
extraordinary talent in the rebel General P. G. T. Beauregard, and brought
him conspicuously before the Confederate government. Called for by the
unanimous voice of the Southern people, he was now ordered to take
command of the main portion of the Confederate army in northern Virginia.
He selected Manassas Junction as his base of operations, and established his
outposts near Fairfax Court-House, seventeen miles from Washington.
"General Beauregard's forces, on the line of Bull Run, numbered on the
sixteenth of July nearly forty thousand men, and sixty-four pieces of
artillery, together with a considerable body of cavalry. The threatening
attitude of this force, almost within sight of the National capital, led
General Scott to concentrate the Union forces in that quarter with a view to
meeting the Confederates in battle, and, if possible, giving a death-blow to
the rebellion.
first of a long series of engagements on these historic plains. The battles of
Bristoe, Groveton, Manassas, Centreville, and Chantilly succeeded in 1862,
and in the summer and autumn of 1863 followed the cavalry actions at
Aldie, Middleburg, Upperville, and New Baltimore.
"No battle-ground on the continent of America can present to the
generations yet to come such a gigantic Roll of Honor. Here also was
displayed the best military talent, the keenest strategy, and the highest
engineering skill of our civil war. Here were assembled the great
representative leaders of slavery and freedom. Here Scott, McDowell, Pope,
and Meade on the Federal side, and Beauregard, Johnson, and Lee on the
Confederate side, have in turn held the reins of battle and shared both
victory and defeat.
"The action which resulted in the fall of Fort Sumter developed
extraordinary talent in the rebel General P. G. T. Beauregard, and brought
him conspicuously before the Confederate government. Called for by the
unanimous voice of the Southern people, he was now ordered to take
command of the main portion of the Confederate army in northern Virginia.
He selected Manassas Junction as his base of operations, and established his
outposts near Fairfax Court-House, seventeen miles from Washington.
"General Beauregard's forces, on the line of Bull Run, numbered on the
sixteenth of July nearly forty thousand men, and sixty-four pieces of
artillery, together with a considerable body of cavalry. The threatening
attitude of this force, almost within sight of the National capital, led
General Scott to concentrate the Union forces in that quarter with a view to
meeting the Confederates in battle, and, if possible, giving a death-blow to
the rebellion.
Page 335
"Ludicrous, indeed, in the light of subsequent events, was the general
conviction of the hostile sections, that a single decisive engagement would
terminate the war. Little did the Unionists then know of the ambitious
designs of the pro-slavery leaders, and still less did the uneducated,
misguided masses of the South know of the patriotism, resources, and
invincible determination of the North. On both sides there was great
popular anxiety for a general battle to determine the question of relative
manhood: and especially on the side of the South, from an impression that
one distinct and large combat resulting in its favor, and showing
conspicuously its superior valor, would alarm the North sufficiently to lead
it to abandon the war. The New York Tribune, which was supposed at that
time to be a faithful representative of the sentiment and temper of the
North, said, on the nineteenth of July, 1861: 'We have been most anxious
that this struggle should be submitted at the earliest moment to the ordeal of
a fair, decisive battle. Give the Unionists a fair field, equal weapons and
equal numbers, and we ask no more. Should the rebel forces at all justify
the vaunts of their journalistic trumpeters, we shall candidly admit the fact.
If they can beat double the number of Unionists, they can end the struggle
on their own terms.
"A field for the grand combat was soon found, but its results were
destined to disappoint both the victors and the vanquished. The South had
looked forward to this field for an acknowledgment of its independence; the
North for a downfall of the rebellion."
The chapter on "Brandy Station" affords several illustrations of our
author's glowing descriptive power, thus:
"The words Brandy Station will ever excite a multitude of thrilling
memories in the minds of all cavalrymen who saw service in Virginia, for
this was the grand cavalry battle-ground of the war.
conviction of the hostile sections, that a single decisive engagement would
terminate the war. Little did the Unionists then know of the ambitious
designs of the pro-slavery leaders, and still less did the uneducated,
misguided masses of the South know of the patriotism, resources, and
invincible determination of the North. On both sides there was great
popular anxiety for a general battle to determine the question of relative
manhood: and especially on the side of the South, from an impression that
one distinct and large combat resulting in its favor, and showing
conspicuously its superior valor, would alarm the North sufficiently to lead
it to abandon the war. The New York Tribune, which was supposed at that
time to be a faithful representative of the sentiment and temper of the
North, said, on the nineteenth of July, 1861: 'We have been most anxious
that this struggle should be submitted at the earliest moment to the ordeal of
a fair, decisive battle. Give the Unionists a fair field, equal weapons and
equal numbers, and we ask no more. Should the rebel forces at all justify
the vaunts of their journalistic trumpeters, we shall candidly admit the fact.
If they can beat double the number of Unionists, they can end the struggle
on their own terms.
"A field for the grand combat was soon found, but its results were
destined to disappoint both the victors and the vanquished. The South had
looked forward to this field for an acknowledgment of its independence; the
North for a downfall of the rebellion."
The chapter on "Brandy Station" affords several illustrations of our
author's glowing descriptive power, thus:
"The words Brandy Station will ever excite a multitude of thrilling
memories in the minds of all cavalrymen who saw service in Virginia, for
this was the grand cavalry battle-ground of the war.
Page 336
"On these historic plains our Bayard, Stoneman, and Pleasanton have
successively led their gallant troopers against the commands of Stuart, Lee,
and Hampton. The twentieth of August, 1862, the ninth of June, twelfth of
September, and eleventh of October, 1863, are days which cannot soon be
forgotten by the 'Boys in Blue' who crossed sabres with the Confederates at
Brandy Station.
"Converging and diverging roads at this point quite naturally brought the
cavalry of the contending armies together whenever we advanced to, or
retired from, the Rapidan. Being both the advance and rear-guard of the
opposing forces, our horsemen always found themselves face to face with
the foe on this field; in fact, most of our cavalrymen were so confident of a
fight here, that as soon as we discovered that we were approaching the
station we prepared for action by tightening our saddle-girths and
inspecting our arms.
"Upon the withdrawal of the Army of the Potomac from the Peninsula,
General Lee, contemplating the invasion of Maryland and Pennsylvania,
started his army northward with the view, no doubt, of driving Pope from
northern Virginia, and carrying the Confederate standard into the loyal
States. The battle of Cedar Mountain temporarily checked his forward
movement and compelled him to retire to the south bank of the Rapidan.
The reappearance of rebel skirmishers at the various fords of the river on
the morning of August the eighteenth, 1862, was an evidence to our pickets
that the enemy was about to resume hostilities.
"General Pope at once ordered his artillery and infantry to retire beyond
the Rappahannock, while General Bayard, commanding the cavalry, was
charged with covering the rear of the retiring army. We disputed the
advance of the rebels so stubbornly that they found no opportunity to
interfere with the retreat of the main column. The morning of the twentieth
successively led their gallant troopers against the commands of Stuart, Lee,
and Hampton. The twentieth of August, 1862, the ninth of June, twelfth of
September, and eleventh of October, 1863, are days which cannot soon be
forgotten by the 'Boys in Blue' who crossed sabres with the Confederates at
Brandy Station.
"Converging and diverging roads at this point quite naturally brought the
cavalry of the contending armies together whenever we advanced to, or
retired from, the Rapidan. Being both the advance and rear-guard of the
opposing forces, our horsemen always found themselves face to face with
the foe on this field; in fact, most of our cavalrymen were so confident of a
fight here, that as soon as we discovered that we were approaching the
station we prepared for action by tightening our saddle-girths and
inspecting our arms.
"Upon the withdrawal of the Army of the Potomac from the Peninsula,
General Lee, contemplating the invasion of Maryland and Pennsylvania,
started his army northward with the view, no doubt, of driving Pope from
northern Virginia, and carrying the Confederate standard into the loyal
States. The battle of Cedar Mountain temporarily checked his forward
movement and compelled him to retire to the south bank of the Rapidan.
The reappearance of rebel skirmishers at the various fords of the river on
the morning of August the eighteenth, 1862, was an evidence to our pickets
that the enemy was about to resume hostilities.
"General Pope at once ordered his artillery and infantry to retire beyond
the Rappahannock, while General Bayard, commanding the cavalry, was
charged with covering the rear of the retiring army. We disputed the
advance of the rebels so stubbornly that they found no opportunity to
interfere with the retreat of the main column. The morning of the twentieth
Page 337
found the 'Harris Light,' Tenth New York, First Pennsylvania, First Maine,
First Rhode Island, and First New Jersey Cavalry, bivouacked at Brandy
Station.
"The engagement opened at six o'clock by an attack of Stuart's cavalry
upon the 'Harris Light' acting as rear-guard of Bayard's brigade.
"This preliminary onset was speedily repulsed by the 'Harris Light,'
which regiment kept the enemy in check until General Bayard had gained
sufficient time to enable him to form his command at a more favorable
point, two miles north of the station, on the direct road to the
Rappahannock. Here the 'Harris Light' led by Colonel Kilpatrick and Major
Davies, again charged the advanced regiments of the Confederate column,
thus opening the series of memorable conflicts at Brandy Station, and
adding fresh laurels to its already famous record. A deep cut in a hill,
through which the Orange and Alexandria Railroad passes, checked our
pursuit, else we should have captured many prisoners. The First New Jersey
and First Pennsylvania coming to our relief enabled us to reform our broken
squadrons, and, as Pope had instructed General Bayard not to bring on a
general engagement, the cavalry now crossed the Rappahannock and
awaited the orders of the general-in-chief."
The following description of "Manassas or Second Bull Run" shows
great mastery of his subject, and the possession of a facile and impartial
pen:
"On the twenty-ninth of August, 1862, the storm of battle again broke
over the plains of Manassas, and surged furiously along the borders of Bull
Run creek and down the Warrenton pike. The figure of General Franz Sigel
stands out in bold relief against the background of battle, the first actor
appearing on the scene in this drama of war and death.
First Rhode Island, and First New Jersey Cavalry, bivouacked at Brandy
Station.
"The engagement opened at six o'clock by an attack of Stuart's cavalry
upon the 'Harris Light' acting as rear-guard of Bayard's brigade.
"This preliminary onset was speedily repulsed by the 'Harris Light,'
which regiment kept the enemy in check until General Bayard had gained
sufficient time to enable him to form his command at a more favorable
point, two miles north of the station, on the direct road to the
Rappahannock. Here the 'Harris Light' led by Colonel Kilpatrick and Major
Davies, again charged the advanced regiments of the Confederate column,
thus opening the series of memorable conflicts at Brandy Station, and
adding fresh laurels to its already famous record. A deep cut in a hill,
through which the Orange and Alexandria Railroad passes, checked our
pursuit, else we should have captured many prisoners. The First New Jersey
and First Pennsylvania coming to our relief enabled us to reform our broken
squadrons, and, as Pope had instructed General Bayard not to bring on a
general engagement, the cavalry now crossed the Rappahannock and
awaited the orders of the general-in-chief."
The following description of "Manassas or Second Bull Run" shows
great mastery of his subject, and the possession of a facile and impartial
pen:
"On the twenty-ninth of August, 1862, the storm of battle again broke
over the plains of Manassas, and surged furiously along the borders of Bull
Run creek and down the Warrenton pike. The figure of General Franz Sigel
stands out in bold relief against the background of battle, the first actor
appearing on the scene in this drama of war and death.
Page 338
"The time is daybreak, and the rosy light of early dawn, so peaceful and
so pure, flushes the sky in painful contrast to the scenes of strife and
bloodshed below.
"At noon on the day previous, General Pope had ordered Reno, Kearney
and Hooker to follow Jackson, who, through the miscarriage of well-laid
plans, had been allowed to escape in the direction of Centreville.
McDowell's command, then on the way to Manassas, was ordered to march
to Centreville, while Porter was directed to come forward to Manassas
Junction. The orders were promptly executed by the various commands,
excepting that of Fitz-John Porter, who unaccountably on loyal principles,
remained inactive during the ensuing contest. Kearney drove the enemy out
of Centreville, and in their retreat along the Warrenton Road they
encountered the division of King, McDowell's advance, marching eastward
to intercept them.
"A sharp fight took place, terminating to the advantage of neither, and at
night the contestants bivouacked near the battle-field.
"On the night of the twenty-eighth, Pope's forces were so disposed that
twenty-five thousand men under McDowell, Sigel and Reynolds, were
ready to attack Jackson from the south and west, and the corps of Reno,
Heintzelman, and Porter, consisting of an equal number of troops, were to
complete the attack from the east. Lee was pushing forward his forces to
support Jackson at Thoroughfare Gap, and it was necessary for the Union
army to use all possible celerity of movement, in order to make the attack
before the main movement of the Confederate army under Lee could come
up. But this combination failed like many another, and during the night
King's division fell back towards Manassas Junction, at which place Porter's
Corps had recently arrived, and the road to Gainsville and Thoroughfare
so pure, flushes the sky in painful contrast to the scenes of strife and
bloodshed below.
"At noon on the day previous, General Pope had ordered Reno, Kearney
and Hooker to follow Jackson, who, through the miscarriage of well-laid
plans, had been allowed to escape in the direction of Centreville.
McDowell's command, then on the way to Manassas, was ordered to march
to Centreville, while Porter was directed to come forward to Manassas
Junction. The orders were promptly executed by the various commands,
excepting that of Fitz-John Porter, who unaccountably on loyal principles,
remained inactive during the ensuing contest. Kearney drove the enemy out
of Centreville, and in their retreat along the Warrenton Road they
encountered the division of King, McDowell's advance, marching eastward
to intercept them.
"A sharp fight took place, terminating to the advantage of neither, and at
night the contestants bivouacked near the battle-field.
"On the night of the twenty-eighth, Pope's forces were so disposed that
twenty-five thousand men under McDowell, Sigel and Reynolds, were
ready to attack Jackson from the south and west, and the corps of Reno,
Heintzelman, and Porter, consisting of an equal number of troops, were to
complete the attack from the east. Lee was pushing forward his forces to
support Jackson at Thoroughfare Gap, and it was necessary for the Union
army to use all possible celerity of movement, in order to make the attack
before the main movement of the Confederate army under Lee could come
up. But this combination failed like many another, and during the night
King's division fell back towards Manassas Junction, at which place Porter's
Corps had recently arrived, and the road to Gainsville and Thoroughfare
Page 339
Gap was thus left open to Jackson. A new arrangement of troops became
therefore necessary." ...
There are several fine passages in the description of the battle of
Gettysburg which show graphic power, and penetration into the motives of
the leaders. The story of this sanguinary struggle for victory is well told
throughout. We extract the following:
"Night came on to close the dreadful day. Thus far the battle had been
mostly to the advantage of the rebels. They held the ground where Reynolds
had fallen, also Seminary Ridge, and the elevation whence the Eleventh
Corps had been driven. They also occupied the ridge on which Sickles had
commenced to fight. Sickles himself was hors du combat with a shattered
leg, which had to be amputated, and not far from twenty thousand of our
men had been killed, wounded, and captured. The rebels had also lost
heavily in killed and wounded, but having gained several important
positions, were deluded with the idea that they had gained a victory.
"During these days of deadly strife and of unprecedented slaughter, our
cavalry was by no means idle. On the morning of the first, Kilpatrick
advanced his victorious squadrons to the vicinity of Abbottstown, where
they struck a force of rebel cavalry, which they scattered, capturing several
prisoners, and then rested. To the ears of the alert cavalry chieftain came the
sound of battle at Gettysburg, accompanied with the intelligence, from
prisoners mostly, that Stuart's main force was bent on doing mischief on the
right of our infantry lines, which were not far from the night's bivouac.
"He appeared instinctively to know where he was most needed; so, in the
absence of orders, early the next morning he advanced on Hunterstown. At
therefore necessary." ...
There are several fine passages in the description of the battle of
Gettysburg which show graphic power, and penetration into the motives of
the leaders. The story of this sanguinary struggle for victory is well told
throughout. We extract the following:
"Night came on to close the dreadful day. Thus far the battle had been
mostly to the advantage of the rebels. They held the ground where Reynolds
had fallen, also Seminary Ridge, and the elevation whence the Eleventh
Corps had been driven. They also occupied the ridge on which Sickles had
commenced to fight. Sickles himself was hors du combat with a shattered
leg, which had to be amputated, and not far from twenty thousand of our
men had been killed, wounded, and captured. The rebels had also lost
heavily in killed and wounded, but having gained several important
positions, were deluded with the idea that they had gained a victory.
"During these days of deadly strife and of unprecedented slaughter, our
cavalry was by no means idle. On the morning of the first, Kilpatrick
advanced his victorious squadrons to the vicinity of Abbottstown, where
they struck a force of rebel cavalry, which they scattered, capturing several
prisoners, and then rested. To the ears of the alert cavalry chieftain came the
sound of battle at Gettysburg, accompanied with the intelligence, from
prisoners mostly, that Stuart's main force was bent on doing mischief on the
right of our infantry lines, which were not far from the night's bivouac.
"He appeared instinctively to know where he was most needed; so, in the
absence of orders, early the next morning he advanced on Hunterstown. At
Page 340
this point were the extreme wings of the infantry lines, and as Kilpatrick
expected, he encountered the rebel cavalry, commanded by his old
antagonists, Stuart, Lee and Hampton. The early part of the day was spent
mostly in reconnoitring, but all the latter part of the day was occupied in
hard, bold, and bloody work. Charges and counter-charges were made; the
carbine, pistol and sabre were used by turns, and the artillery thundered
long after the infantry around Gettysburg had sunk to rest, well-nigh
exhausted with the bloody carnage of the weary day. But Stuart, who had
hoped to break in upon our flank and rear, and to pounce upon our trains,
was not only foiled in his endeavor by the gallant Kilpatrick, but also driven
back upon his infantry supports and badly beaten.
"In the night, Kilpatrick, after leaving a sufficient force to prevent Stuart
from doing any special damage on our right, swung around with the
remainder of his division to the left of our line, near Round Top, and was
there prepared for any work which might be assigned him.
"Friday, July third, the sun rose bright and warm upon the blackened
forms of the dead which were strewn over the bloody earth; upon the
wounded, who had not been cared for, and upon long glistening lines of
armed men, ready to renew the conflict. Each antagonist, rousing every
slumbering element of power, seemed to be resolved upon victory or death.
"The fight commenced early, by an attack of General Slocum's men, who,
determined to regain the rifle-pits they had lost the evening before,
descended like an avalanche upon the foe. The attack met with a prompt
response from General Ewell. But after several hours of desperate fighting,
victory perched upon the Union banners, and with great loss and slaughter,
the rebels were driven out of the breast-works, and fell back upon their
main lines near Benner's Hill.
expected, he encountered the rebel cavalry, commanded by his old
antagonists, Stuart, Lee and Hampton. The early part of the day was spent
mostly in reconnoitring, but all the latter part of the day was occupied in
hard, bold, and bloody work. Charges and counter-charges were made; the
carbine, pistol and sabre were used by turns, and the artillery thundered
long after the infantry around Gettysburg had sunk to rest, well-nigh
exhausted with the bloody carnage of the weary day. But Stuart, who had
hoped to break in upon our flank and rear, and to pounce upon our trains,
was not only foiled in his endeavor by the gallant Kilpatrick, but also driven
back upon his infantry supports and badly beaten.
"In the night, Kilpatrick, after leaving a sufficient force to prevent Stuart
from doing any special damage on our right, swung around with the
remainder of his division to the left of our line, near Round Top, and was
there prepared for any work which might be assigned him.
"Friday, July third, the sun rose bright and warm upon the blackened
forms of the dead which were strewn over the bloody earth; upon the
wounded, who had not been cared for, and upon long glistening lines of
armed men, ready to renew the conflict. Each antagonist, rousing every
slumbering element of power, seemed to be resolved upon victory or death.
"The fight commenced early, by an attack of General Slocum's men, who,
determined to regain the rifle-pits they had lost the evening before,
descended like an avalanche upon the foe. The attack met with a prompt
response from General Ewell. But after several hours of desperate fighting,
victory perched upon the Union banners, and with great loss and slaughter,
the rebels were driven out of the breast-works, and fell back upon their
main lines near Benner's Hill.
Page 341
"This successful move upon the part of our Boys in Blue was followed
by an ominous lull or quiet, which continued about three hours. Meanwhile
the silence was fitfully broken by an occasional spit of fire, while every
preparation was being made for a last, supreme effort, which it was
expected would decide the mighty contest. The scales were being poised for
the last time, and upon the one side or the other was soon to be recorded a
glorious victory or a disastrous defeat. Hearts either trembled, or waxed
strong in the awful presence of this responsibility.
"At length one o'clock arrived, a signal-gun was fired, and then at least
one hundred and twenty-five guns from Hill and Longstreet concentrated
and crossed their fires upon Cemetery Hill, the centre and key of our
position. Just behind this crest, though much exposed, were General
Meade's headquarters. For nearly two hours this hill was plowed and torn
by solid shot and bursting shell, while about one hundred guns on our side,
mainly from this crest and Round Top, made sharp response. The earth and
the air shook for miles around with the terrific concussion, which came no
longer in volleys, but in a continual roar. So long and fearful a cannonade
was never before witnessed on this continent. As the range was short and
the aim accurate, the destruction was terrible.
"Gradually the fire on our side began to slacken, and General Meade,
learning that our guns were becoming hot, gave orders to cease firing and to
let the guns cool, though the rebel balls were making fearful havoc among
our gunners, while our infantry sought poor shelter behind every projection,
anxiously awaiting the expected charge. At length the enemy, supposing
that our guns were silenced, deemed that the moment for an irresistible
by an ominous lull or quiet, which continued about three hours. Meanwhile
the silence was fitfully broken by an occasional spit of fire, while every
preparation was being made for a last, supreme effort, which it was
expected would decide the mighty contest. The scales were being poised for
the last time, and upon the one side or the other was soon to be recorded a
glorious victory or a disastrous defeat. Hearts either trembled, or waxed
strong in the awful presence of this responsibility.
"At length one o'clock arrived, a signal-gun was fired, and then at least
one hundred and twenty-five guns from Hill and Longstreet concentrated
and crossed their fires upon Cemetery Hill, the centre and key of our
position. Just behind this crest, though much exposed, were General
Meade's headquarters. For nearly two hours this hill was plowed and torn
by solid shot and bursting shell, while about one hundred guns on our side,
mainly from this crest and Round Top, made sharp response. The earth and
the air shook for miles around with the terrific concussion, which came no
longer in volleys, but in a continual roar. So long and fearful a cannonade
was never before witnessed on this continent. As the range was short and
the aim accurate, the destruction was terrible.
"Gradually the fire on our side began to slacken, and General Meade,
learning that our guns were becoming hot, gave orders to cease firing and to
let the guns cool, though the rebel balls were making fearful havoc among
our gunners, while our infantry sought poor shelter behind every projection,
anxiously awaiting the expected charge. At length the enemy, supposing
that our guns were silenced, deemed that the moment for an irresistible
Page 342
attack had come. Accordingly, as a lion emerges from his lair, he sallied
forth, when strong lines of infantry, nearly three miles in length, with
double lines of skirmishers in front, and heavy reserves in rear, advanced
with desperation to the final effort. They moved with steady, measured tread
over the plain below, and began the ascent of the hills occupied by our
forces, concentrating somewhat upon General Hancock, though stretching
across our entire front.
"General Picket's division was nearly annihilated. One of his officers
recounted that, as they were charging over the grassy plain, he threw
himself down before a murderous discharge of grape and canister, which
mowed the grass and men all around him as though a scythe had been
swung just above his prostrate form.
"During the terrific cannonade and subsequent charges, our ammunition
and other trains had been parked in rear of Round Top, which gave them
splendid shelter. Partly to possess this train, but mainly to secure this
commanding position, General Longstreet sent two strong divisions of
infantry, with heavy artillery, to turn our flank, and drive us from this
ground. Kilpatrick, with his division, which had been strengthened by
Merritt's regulars, was watching this point and waiting for an opportunity to
strike the foe. It came at last. Emerging from the woods in front of him
came a strong battle-line, followed by others.
forth, when strong lines of infantry, nearly three miles in length, with
double lines of skirmishers in front, and heavy reserves in rear, advanced
with desperation to the final effort. They moved with steady, measured tread
over the plain below, and began the ascent of the hills occupied by our
forces, concentrating somewhat upon General Hancock, though stretching
across our entire front.
"General Picket's division was nearly annihilated. One of his officers
recounted that, as they were charging over the grassy plain, he threw
himself down before a murderous discharge of grape and canister, which
mowed the grass and men all around him as though a scythe had been
swung just above his prostrate form.
"During the terrific cannonade and subsequent charges, our ammunition
and other trains had been parked in rear of Round Top, which gave them
splendid shelter. Partly to possess this train, but mainly to secure this
commanding position, General Longstreet sent two strong divisions of
infantry, with heavy artillery, to turn our flank, and drive us from this
ground. Kilpatrick, with his division, which had been strengthened by
Merritt's regulars, was watching this point and waiting for an opportunity to
strike the foe. It came at last. Emerging from the woods in front of him
came a strong battle-line, followed by others.
Page 343
BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG.
"To the young Farnsworth was committed the task of meeting infantry
with cavalry in an open field. Placing the Fifth New York in support of
Elder's battery, which was exposed to a galling fire, but made reply with
characteristic rapidity, precision and slaughter, Farnsworth quickly ordered
the First Virginia, the First Vermont, and Eighteenth Pennsylvania in line of
battle, and galloped away and charged upon the flank of the advancing
columns. The attack was sharp, brief and successful, though attended with
great slaughter. But the rebels were driven upon their main lines, and the
flank movement was prevented. Thus the cavalry added another dearly
earned laurel to its chaplet of honor—dearly earned, because many of their
bravest champions fell upon that bloody field.
"Thus ended the battle of Gettysburg—the bloody turning-point of the
rebellion—the bloody baptism of the redeemed republic. Nearly twenty
thousand men from the Union ranks had been killed and wounded, and a
"To the young Farnsworth was committed the task of meeting infantry
with cavalry in an open field. Placing the Fifth New York in support of
Elder's battery, which was exposed to a galling fire, but made reply with
characteristic rapidity, precision and slaughter, Farnsworth quickly ordered
the First Virginia, the First Vermont, and Eighteenth Pennsylvania in line of
battle, and galloped away and charged upon the flank of the advancing
columns. The attack was sharp, brief and successful, though attended with
great slaughter. But the rebels were driven upon their main lines, and the
flank movement was prevented. Thus the cavalry added another dearly
earned laurel to its chaplet of honor—dearly earned, because many of their
bravest champions fell upon that bloody field.
"Thus ended the battle of Gettysburg—the bloody turning-point of the
rebellion—the bloody baptism of the redeemed republic. Nearly twenty
thousand men from the Union ranks had been killed and wounded, and a
Page 344
larger number of the rebels, making the enormous aggregate of at least forty
thousand, whose blood was shed to fertilize the Tree of Liberty."
The following peroration to the glowing account of the battle of Pittsburg
Landing, we quote as an illustration of the vein of poetry that pervades his
writings:
"Thus another field of renown was added to the list, so rapidly increased
during these years; where valor won deathless laurels, and principle was
reckoned weighter than life.
"Peacefully the Tennessee flows between its banks onward to the ocean,
nor tells aught of the bloody struggle on its shore. Quietly the golden grain
ripens in the sun, and the red furrow of war is supplanted by the plowshares
of peace. To the child born within the shadow of this battle-field, who
listens wonderingly to a recital of the deeds of this day, the heroes of Shiloh
will, mayhap, appear like the dim phantoms of a dream, shadowy and
unreal, but the results they helped to bring about are the tissue of a people's
life; the dust he treads is the sacred soil from which sprang the flowers of
freedom, and the institutions for which these men died, make his roof safe
over his head."
We conclude our extracts from the volume with a part of the chapter on
"The Surrender." The story is told without flourish of trumpets, and in a
manner to give no offense to the vanquished, while its strict and impartial
adherence to truth must recommend it to all readers:
"The last act in the great drama of the war took place without dramatic
accessory. There was no startling tableau, with the chief actors grouped in
effective attitudes, surrounded by their attendants. No spreading tree lent its
romance to the occasion, as some artists have fondly supposed.
thousand, whose blood was shed to fertilize the Tree of Liberty."
The following peroration to the glowing account of the battle of Pittsburg
Landing, we quote as an illustration of the vein of poetry that pervades his
writings:
"Thus another field of renown was added to the list, so rapidly increased
during these years; where valor won deathless laurels, and principle was
reckoned weighter than life.
"Peacefully the Tennessee flows between its banks onward to the ocean,
nor tells aught of the bloody struggle on its shore. Quietly the golden grain
ripens in the sun, and the red furrow of war is supplanted by the plowshares
of peace. To the child born within the shadow of this battle-field, who
listens wonderingly to a recital of the deeds of this day, the heroes of Shiloh
will, mayhap, appear like the dim phantoms of a dream, shadowy and
unreal, but the results they helped to bring about are the tissue of a people's
life; the dust he treads is the sacred soil from which sprang the flowers of
freedom, and the institutions for which these men died, make his roof safe
over his head."
We conclude our extracts from the volume with a part of the chapter on
"The Surrender." The story is told without flourish of trumpets, and in a
manner to give no offense to the vanquished, while its strict and impartial
adherence to truth must recommend it to all readers:
"The last act in the great drama of the war took place without dramatic
accessory. There was no startling tableau, with the chief actors grouped in
effective attitudes, surrounded by their attendants. No spreading tree lent its
romance to the occasion, as some artists have fondly supposed.
Page 345
"A plain farm-house between the lines was selected by General Lee for
the surrender, and the ceremony of that act was short and simple. The noble
victor did not complete the humiliation of the brave vanquished by any
triumphal display or blare of trumpets. In his magnanimity he even omitted
the customary usage of allowing the victorious troops to pass through the
enemy's lines and witness their surrender. The two great commanders met
with courteous salutation, General Lee being attended by only one of his
aides. General Grant sat down at a table in the barely furnished room and
wrote in lead-pencil the terms of capitulation, to which Lee dictated an
agreement in writing. His secretary, Colonel Marshall, and Colonel Badeau,
the secretary of General Grant, made copies of the agreement from the same
bottle of ink.
"The final situation of the Confederate army before its surrender was
indeed desperate—its environments hopeless. Hemmed in at Appomattox
Court House, on a strip of land between the Appomattox and James rivers,
the Union army nearly surrounded it on all sides. Sheridan was in front,
Meade in the rear, and Ord south of the Court House. Lee had no alternative
other than the wholesale slaughter of his reduced army, or its surrender to
Federal authority. He wisely chose the latter.
"The decisive battle of Five Forks had put his army to rout, and sent it in
rapid retreat towards the junction of the Southside and Danville railroads at
Burkesville. The Union troops pressed forward in pursuit, and it became a
vital question which would reach the junction first. Between Petersburg,
their point of starting, and their destination, at Burkesville, the distance was
fifty-three miles. The roads were bad, and the troops tired with two days'
the surrender, and the ceremony of that act was short and simple. The noble
victor did not complete the humiliation of the brave vanquished by any
triumphal display or blare of trumpets. In his magnanimity he even omitted
the customary usage of allowing the victorious troops to pass through the
enemy's lines and witness their surrender. The two great commanders met
with courteous salutation, General Lee being attended by only one of his
aides. General Grant sat down at a table in the barely furnished room and
wrote in lead-pencil the terms of capitulation, to which Lee dictated an
agreement in writing. His secretary, Colonel Marshall, and Colonel Badeau,
the secretary of General Grant, made copies of the agreement from the same
bottle of ink.
"The final situation of the Confederate army before its surrender was
indeed desperate—its environments hopeless. Hemmed in at Appomattox
Court House, on a strip of land between the Appomattox and James rivers,
the Union army nearly surrounded it on all sides. Sheridan was in front,
Meade in the rear, and Ord south of the Court House. Lee had no alternative
other than the wholesale slaughter of his reduced army, or its surrender to
Federal authority. He wisely chose the latter.
"The decisive battle of Five Forks had put his army to rout, and sent it in
rapid retreat towards the junction of the Southside and Danville railroads at
Burkesville. The Union troops pressed forward in pursuit, and it became a
vital question which would reach the junction first. Between Petersburg,
their point of starting, and their destination, at Burkesville, the distance was
fifty-three miles. The roads were bad, and the troops tired with two days'
Page 346
fighting; but they pushed on with determination in this race which was
destined to decide the fate of two armies.
"It was Palm Sunday, April the ninth, 1865, when the capitulation was
signed, in the plain frame dwelling near Appomattox Court House.
"One is often struck with the curious coincidences—the apparent
sympathy between nature and important human events. The dying hours of
Cromwell and Napoleon were marked by violent storms. Omens in earth
and sky were the precursors of the death of Julius Cæsar and King Duncan.
A great comet heralded the opening of the war, and Palm Sunday—the day
which commemorates the victorious entry of Christ into Jerusalem, ushered
in the welcome reign of peace. The time was auspicious; the elements were
rocked to sleep in a kind of Sunday repose. The two armies, so long in
deadly hostility, were now facing each other with guns strangely hushed. An
expectant silence pervaded the air. Every heart was anxiously awaiting the
result of the conference in the historic farm-house.
"When at last the news of the surrender flashed along the lines, deafening
cheers rose and fell for more than half an hour, over the victorious Union
army. Other than this, there was no undue triumphal display of the victors
over the conquered foe.... The shout of joy which was sent up that day from
Appomattox Court House echoed through the entire North. Cannons
boomed forth their iron pæans of victory; the glad clash of bells was heard
ringing 'peace and freedom in,' and bonfires flamed high their attestation of
the unbounded delight everywhere exhibited. The day of jubilee seemed to
have come, and rejoicing was the order of the hour. The storm of war which
had rocked the country for four long years, was now rolling away, and the
destined to decide the fate of two armies.
"It was Palm Sunday, April the ninth, 1865, when the capitulation was
signed, in the plain frame dwelling near Appomattox Court House.
"One is often struck with the curious coincidences—the apparent
sympathy between nature and important human events. The dying hours of
Cromwell and Napoleon were marked by violent storms. Omens in earth
and sky were the precursors of the death of Julius Cæsar and King Duncan.
A great comet heralded the opening of the war, and Palm Sunday—the day
which commemorates the victorious entry of Christ into Jerusalem, ushered
in the welcome reign of peace. The time was auspicious; the elements were
rocked to sleep in a kind of Sunday repose. The two armies, so long in
deadly hostility, were now facing each other with guns strangely hushed. An
expectant silence pervaded the air. Every heart was anxiously awaiting the
result of the conference in the historic farm-house.
"When at last the news of the surrender flashed along the lines, deafening
cheers rose and fell for more than half an hour, over the victorious Union
army. Other than this, there was no undue triumphal display of the victors
over the conquered foe.... The shout of joy which was sent up that day from
Appomattox Court House echoed through the entire North. Cannons
boomed forth their iron pæans of victory; the glad clash of bells was heard
ringing 'peace and freedom in,' and bonfires flamed high their attestation of
the unbounded delight everywhere exhibited. The day of jubilee seemed to
have come, and rejoicing was the order of the hour. The storm of war which
had rocked the country for four long years, was now rolling away, and the
Page 347
sunlight of peace fell athwart the national horizon. The country for which
Washington fought and Warren fell was once more safe from treason's
hands, and liberty was again the heritage of the people."
The Northern and Western press, as heretofore, again bore its flattering
testimony to our author's diligence, truthfulness and loyalty to his colors;
and to the surprising facility with which a soldier could sheathe his sword
and wield a pen, charming alike the veteran by his details of valor, and the
mother, wife and sister by his stories of pathos from the battle-field.
The following is from the Philadelphia North American:
"'Battles for the Union.'—Thoroughly representative of the courage
and ability shown on either side in the great struggle that lasted from the
close of 1860 to April, 1865. It is not the purpose of the author to
present a standard and critical work like the works of Jomini, Napier
and Allison; nor to include a discussion of political questions. His aim is
rather to furnish a vivid and correct account of the principal battles in
such simple and intelligible terms that every reader may gain a precise
idea of each. His style is rather graphic and vigorous than ornate. He
introduces effective details and personal episodes. His facts are gleaned
from a variety of sources as well as from personal knowledge; and
though proud of his own cause and of his companions, he does not
belittle their renown by decrying the valor or the intelligence of his
opponents. The conflicts themselves will never be forgotten. It is
desirable that they shall be kept vivid and clear in the minds of the
rising generation, to cultivate a correct idea of the necessity of personal
valor and of military preparation and capacity, as well as impress a
serious idea of the momentous importance of political issues. Captain
Glazier's volume is excellently fitted to instruct and interest
everywhere."
Washington fought and Warren fell was once more safe from treason's
hands, and liberty was again the heritage of the people."
The Northern and Western press, as heretofore, again bore its flattering
testimony to our author's diligence, truthfulness and loyalty to his colors;
and to the surprising facility with which a soldier could sheathe his sword
and wield a pen, charming alike the veteran by his details of valor, and the
mother, wife and sister by his stories of pathos from the battle-field.
The following is from the Philadelphia North American:
"'Battles for the Union.'—Thoroughly representative of the courage
and ability shown on either side in the great struggle that lasted from the
close of 1860 to April, 1865. It is not the purpose of the author to
present a standard and critical work like the works of Jomini, Napier
and Allison; nor to include a discussion of political questions. His aim is
rather to furnish a vivid and correct account of the principal battles in
such simple and intelligible terms that every reader may gain a precise
idea of each. His style is rather graphic and vigorous than ornate. He
introduces effective details and personal episodes. His facts are gleaned
from a variety of sources as well as from personal knowledge; and
though proud of his own cause and of his companions, he does not
belittle their renown by decrying the valor or the intelligence of his
opponents. The conflicts themselves will never be forgotten. It is
desirable that they shall be kept vivid and clear in the minds of the
rising generation, to cultivate a correct idea of the necessity of personal
valor and of military preparation and capacity, as well as impress a
serious idea of the momentous importance of political issues. Captain
Glazier's volume is excellently fitted to instruct and interest
everywhere."
Page 348
The Pittsburg Commercial says:
"Commencing with the siege and final surrender of Fort Sumter, the
author traces the progress of the Union armies through all the chief
battles of the war, giving vivid and glowing descriptions of the struggles
at Big Bethel, Bull Run, Wilson's Creek, Ball's Bluff, Mill Spring, Pea
Ridge, the fight between the 'Merrimac' and 'Monitor,' Newbern,
Falmouth Heights, Pittsburg Landing, Williamsburg, Seven Pines, Fair
Oaks, Malvern Hill, Cedar Mountain, Brandy Station, Manassas or
Second Bull Run, Chantilly, Antietam, Corinth, Fredericksburg, Stone
River, Chancellorsville, Aldie, Upperville, Gettysburg, Vicksburg, Port
Hudson, Falling Waters, Chickamauga, Bristoe, New Baltimore, Fort
Fisher, Olustee, Fort Pillow, Cold Harbor, Fort Wagner, Cedar Creek,
Waynesboro, Bentonville, Five Forks, and down to the surrender of Lee.
Captain Glazier has evidently had access to the official records of the
war, and his narrative of the great events are therefore accurate. The
book is one the reading of which will make the blood tingle in the veins
of every soldier who took part in the late war, while it will deeply
interest every lover of his country. As a book for boys, it has few, if any,
superiors."
The Chicago Inter-Ocean writes:
"'Battles for the Union' is such a history as every soldier and every
man who has a pride in his country, should wish to possess. Captain
Glazier was no carpet knight. He shared the glories of the Harris Light
Cavalry in camp and field, earning his promotion from the non-
commissioned ranks to the command for which he was so admirably
fitted. There is the scent of powder in what he writes, the vivid reality of
sight and understanding. We are particularly charmed with his style,
"Commencing with the siege and final surrender of Fort Sumter, the
author traces the progress of the Union armies through all the chief
battles of the war, giving vivid and glowing descriptions of the struggles
at Big Bethel, Bull Run, Wilson's Creek, Ball's Bluff, Mill Spring, Pea
Ridge, the fight between the 'Merrimac' and 'Monitor,' Newbern,
Falmouth Heights, Pittsburg Landing, Williamsburg, Seven Pines, Fair
Oaks, Malvern Hill, Cedar Mountain, Brandy Station, Manassas or
Second Bull Run, Chantilly, Antietam, Corinth, Fredericksburg, Stone
River, Chancellorsville, Aldie, Upperville, Gettysburg, Vicksburg, Port
Hudson, Falling Waters, Chickamauga, Bristoe, New Baltimore, Fort
Fisher, Olustee, Fort Pillow, Cold Harbor, Fort Wagner, Cedar Creek,
Waynesboro, Bentonville, Five Forks, and down to the surrender of Lee.
Captain Glazier has evidently had access to the official records of the
war, and his narrative of the great events are therefore accurate. The
book is one the reading of which will make the blood tingle in the veins
of every soldier who took part in the late war, while it will deeply
interest every lover of his country. As a book for boys, it has few, if any,
superiors."
The Chicago Inter-Ocean writes:
"'Battles for the Union' is such a history as every soldier and every
man who has a pride in his country, should wish to possess. Captain
Glazier was no carpet knight. He shared the glories of the Harris Light
Cavalry in camp and field, earning his promotion from the non-
commissioned ranks to the command for which he was so admirably
fitted. There is the scent of powder in what he writes, the vivid reality of
sight and understanding. We are particularly charmed with his style,
Page 349
which is plain, blunt, direct, and free from strain or affectation. He
describes the fights as they were fought; individual deeds of bravery as
they were performed; the march and its trials; the defeat and its causes;
the victory and its effects. With the ardor of a young patriot, and the
generous admiration of a good soldier, he feels as great a pride in the
successes of a rival corps as in his own. Nor is this an unworthy feature
of his work, because the army was full of little, and sometimes not
particularly friendly, rivalries. Willard Glazier's chapters, in which
every battle may be regarded as a separate picture, read like a grand
panoramic view of gallant deeds and warlike pageantries. If the author
occasionally covers up a clear defeat, excusing it with graceful art; if he
feels disposed to over-estimate a slight advantage, and to claim a
victory where the battle was evidently drawn, he errs upon the side of
love for the Boys in Blue, and pride in the flag under which he fought.
The work is divided into forty-four chapters, each containing a different
battle. We confidently recommend these graphic and life-like pictures to
the notice of our readers. They are thrilling as the sound of the trumpet,
and soul-inspiring as the songs of Ossian. We call the reader's attention
to the description of the combat between the 'Merrimac' and 'Monitor' in
chapter eight. It is something which will fill with pride the sailor's
heart."
describes the fights as they were fought; individual deeds of bravery as
they were performed; the march and its trials; the defeat and its causes;
the victory and its effects. With the ardor of a young patriot, and the
generous admiration of a good soldier, he feels as great a pride in the
successes of a rival corps as in his own. Nor is this an unworthy feature
of his work, because the army was full of little, and sometimes not
particularly friendly, rivalries. Willard Glazier's chapters, in which
every battle may be regarded as a separate picture, read like a grand
panoramic view of gallant deeds and warlike pageantries. If the author
occasionally covers up a clear defeat, excusing it with graceful art; if he
feels disposed to over-estimate a slight advantage, and to claim a
victory where the battle was evidently drawn, he errs upon the side of
love for the Boys in Blue, and pride in the flag under which he fought.
The work is divided into forty-four chapters, each containing a different
battle. We confidently recommend these graphic and life-like pictures to
the notice of our readers. They are thrilling as the sound of the trumpet,
and soul-inspiring as the songs of Ossian. We call the reader's attention
to the description of the combat between the 'Merrimac' and 'Monitor' in
chapter eight. It is something which will fill with pride the sailor's
heart."
Page 350
CHAPTER XXX.
"HEROES OF THREE WARS."
Literary zeal. — "Heroes of Three Wars" — Extract from preface. — Sale of the work. — Extracts:
Washington. — Winfield Scott. — Zachary Taylor. — Grant. — Sheridan. — Kilpatrick. —
Press reviews, a few out of many: Boston "Transcript." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." —
Baltimore "Sun." — Philadelphia "Times." — Cincinnati "Enquirer." — Worcester "Spy." —
Pittsburg "Gazette."
By this time our soldier-author found himself not only famous, but,
through the enormous sale of his books, in comparatively affluent
circumstances. His literary zeal, however, was not yet spent, and work
succeeded work with a rapidity almost without parallel, while the extent of
their sale exceeded anything hitherto known in the literary world.
"Heroes of Three Wars," issued by Hubbard Brothers, Philadelphia, the
latest production of his pen which he has as yet published, comprises
original and life-like sketches of the brave soldiers of the Revolutionary,
Mexican and Civil Wars; and the stories are told in a way that is not easily
forgotten. In the wide field presented by these three important epochs in the
history of our country, Glazier has labored to inculcate in the minds of
young Americans the virtues of gallantry, true worth, and patriotism; and
his work is valuable as presenting to the student in a small compass, so
much of interest in biography and history.
In the preface to the work he observes: "Washington, Scott and Grant are
names that will live forever in our history; not because they were the
subjects of a blind adulation, but because their worth was properly
"HEROES OF THREE WARS."
Literary zeal. — "Heroes of Three Wars" — Extract from preface. — Sale of the work. — Extracts:
Washington. — Winfield Scott. — Zachary Taylor. — Grant. — Sheridan. — Kilpatrick. —
Press reviews, a few out of many: Boston "Transcript." — Chicago "Inter-Ocean." —
Baltimore "Sun." — Philadelphia "Times." — Cincinnati "Enquirer." — Worcester "Spy." —
Pittsburg "Gazette."
By this time our soldier-author found himself not only famous, but,
through the enormous sale of his books, in comparatively affluent
circumstances. His literary zeal, however, was not yet spent, and work
succeeded work with a rapidity almost without parallel, while the extent of
their sale exceeded anything hitherto known in the literary world.
"Heroes of Three Wars," issued by Hubbard Brothers, Philadelphia, the
latest production of his pen which he has as yet published, comprises
original and life-like sketches of the brave soldiers of the Revolutionary,
Mexican and Civil Wars; and the stories are told in a way that is not easily
forgotten. In the wide field presented by these three important epochs in the
history of our country, Glazier has labored to inculcate in the minds of
young Americans the virtues of gallantry, true worth, and patriotism; and
his work is valuable as presenting to the student in a small compass, so
much of interest in biography and history.
In the preface to the work he observes: "Washington, Scott and Grant are
names that will live forever in our history; not because they were the
subjects of a blind adulation, but because their worth was properly
Page 351
estimated, and their deeds truthfully recorded. The time for deifying men
has long since passed; we prefer to see them as they are—though great, still
human, and surrounded with human infirmities; worthy of immortal
renown, not because they are unlike us, but because they excel us and have
performed a work which entitles them to the lasting gratitude of their
countrymen. Another object of this book is to group around these three
generals, those officers and men who climbed to immortality by their side,
shared their fortunes, helped to win their victories, and remained with them
to the end." Again: "Biographies possess but little value unless they give
living portraits, so that each man stands out clear and distinct in his true
character and proportions."
Several thousand copies of this valuable work have already been called
for by the public, and it bids fair to equal its predecessors in amount of
circulation. As a specimen of its style, we present to the reader the
following extract from the biographical sketch of Washington:—"There is a
singular unanimity of opinion in ascribing to George Washington an
exceptional character. It was certainly one of peculiar symmetry, in which a
happy combination of qualities, moral, social and intellectual, were guided
to appropriate action by a remarkable power of clear judgment. It was just
the combination calculated to lead a spirited and brave people through such
a trying crisis as the American Revolution. His star was not dark and bright
by turns—did not reveal itself in uncertain and fitful glimmerings—but
shone with a full and steady luminosity across the troubled night of a
nation's beginning. Under these broad and beneficent rays the Ship of State
was guided, through a sea of chaos, to safe anchorage. The voyage across
those seven eventful years was one that tried men's souls. Often, appalling
dangers threatened. Wreck on the rocks of Disunion, engulfment in the
mountain waves of opposition, starvation and doubt and mutiny on
has long since passed; we prefer to see them as they are—though great, still
human, and surrounded with human infirmities; worthy of immortal
renown, not because they are unlike us, but because they excel us and have
performed a work which entitles them to the lasting gratitude of their
countrymen. Another object of this book is to group around these three
generals, those officers and men who climbed to immortality by their side,
shared their fortunes, helped to win their victories, and remained with them
to the end." Again: "Biographies possess but little value unless they give
living portraits, so that each man stands out clear and distinct in his true
character and proportions."
Several thousand copies of this valuable work have already been called
for by the public, and it bids fair to equal its predecessors in amount of
circulation. As a specimen of its style, we present to the reader the
following extract from the biographical sketch of Washington:—"There is a
singular unanimity of opinion in ascribing to George Washington an
exceptional character. It was certainly one of peculiar symmetry, in which a
happy combination of qualities, moral, social and intellectual, were guided
to appropriate action by a remarkable power of clear judgment. It was just
the combination calculated to lead a spirited and brave people through such
a trying crisis as the American Revolution. His star was not dark and bright
by turns—did not reveal itself in uncertain and fitful glimmerings—but
shone with a full and steady luminosity across the troubled night of a
nation's beginning. Under these broad and beneficent rays the Ship of State
was guided, through a sea of chaos, to safe anchorage. The voyage across
those seven eventful years was one that tried men's souls. Often, appalling
dangers threatened. Wreck on the rocks of Disunion, engulfment in the
mountain waves of opposition, starvation and doubt and mutiny on
Page 352
shipboard—these were a few of the perils which beset their course. But a
royal-souled Commander stood at the helm, and discerned, afar-off, the
green shores of liberty. On this land the sunshine fell with fruitful power.
The air was sweet with the songs of birds. Contentment, peace, prosperity,
reigned. Great possibilities were shadowed forth within its boundaries, and
a young nation, growing rapidly towards a splendid era of enlightenment,
was foreseen as a product of the near future. It took a man with deep faith in
the ultimate rule of right and in humanity, to occupy that position; a man
with large heart, with unselfish aims, with prophetic instincts, with clear
and equalized brain. George Washington possessed all these qualities—and
more!"
The following is from the admirably graphic sketch of the sturdy soldier,
Winfield Scott: "On the twenty-fifth of the same month (July, 1814), a little
below that sublime spot where the wide waste of waters which rush over the
Falls of Niagara roar and thunder into the gulf below, and where Lundy's
Lane meets the rapid river at right angles, was enacted the scene of conflict
which took its name from the locality, and is variously called the battle of
'Lundy's Lane,' or 'Niagara.' The action began forty minutes before sunset,
and it is recorded that the head of the American column, as it advanced, was
encircled by a rainbow—one which is often seen there, formed from the
rising spray. The happy omen faithfully prefigured the result; for when,
under the cloudy sky of midnight the battle at length terminated, the
Americans were in possession of the field, and also the enemy's cannon,
which had rained such deadly death into their ranks. In this action General
Scott had two horses killed under him, and about eleven o'clock at night he
was disabled by a musket-ball wound through the left shoulder. He had
previously been wounded, and at this juncture was borne from the fray. He
had piloted Miller's regiment through the darkness to the height on Lundy's
royal-souled Commander stood at the helm, and discerned, afar-off, the
green shores of liberty. On this land the sunshine fell with fruitful power.
The air was sweet with the songs of birds. Contentment, peace, prosperity,
reigned. Great possibilities were shadowed forth within its boundaries, and
a young nation, growing rapidly towards a splendid era of enlightenment,
was foreseen as a product of the near future. It took a man with deep faith in
the ultimate rule of right and in humanity, to occupy that position; a man
with large heart, with unselfish aims, with prophetic instincts, with clear
and equalized brain. George Washington possessed all these qualities—and
more!"
The following is from the admirably graphic sketch of the sturdy soldier,
Winfield Scott: "On the twenty-fifth of the same month (July, 1814), a little
below that sublime spot where the wide waste of waters which rush over the
Falls of Niagara roar and thunder into the gulf below, and where Lundy's
Lane meets the rapid river at right angles, was enacted the scene of conflict
which took its name from the locality, and is variously called the battle of
'Lundy's Lane,' or 'Niagara.' The action began forty minutes before sunset,
and it is recorded that the head of the American column, as it advanced, was
encircled by a rainbow—one which is often seen there, formed from the
rising spray. The happy omen faithfully prefigured the result; for when,
under the cloudy sky of midnight the battle at length terminated, the
Americans were in possession of the field, and also the enemy's cannon,
which had rained such deadly death into their ranks. In this action General
Scott had two horses killed under him, and about eleven o'clock at night he
was disabled by a musket-ball wound through the left shoulder. He had
previously been wounded, and at this juncture was borne from the fray. He
had piloted Miller's regiment through the darkness to the height on Lundy's
Page 353
Lane, where the enemy's batteries were posted, and upon which the grand
charge was made that decided the battle. Throughout the action he was the
leading spirit of the occasion, giving personal direction to the movements of
his men, and lending the inspiration of his presence to all parts of the field."
Of Zachary Taylor, our author writes, in his masterly way: "The blaze of
glory which is concentrated upon the name and life of Zachary Taylor,
reveals a hero as true in metal, as sterling in virtue, as intrepid in action, and
tender of heart, as ever lifted sword in the cause of honor or country. On
him has fallen that most sacred mantle of renown, woven from the fabric of
a people's confidence, and lovingly bestowed—not as upon a being of
superior race to be worshipped, but because he was a leader from among
themselves—truly of the people. He was honored with their fullest trust in
his integrity, and with their largest faith in his uprightness as a man. As
Daniel Webster truly said, the best days of the Roman republic afforded no
brighter example of a man, who, receiving the plaudits of a grateful nation,
and clothed in the highest authority of state, reached that pinnacle by more
honest means; who could not be accused of the smallest intrigue or of
pursuing any devious ways to political advancement in order to gratify
personal ambition. All the circumstances of his rise and popularity, from the
beginning of his career, when, amid blood and smoke, he made the heroic
defence of Fort Harrison, to the wonderful battles of Palo Alto, Resaca, and
Buena Vista, and at last the attainment of the Presidential chair—all repel
the slightest suspicion of sinister motive, or a wish for individual
aggrandizement. The unwavering rule of his life—his guide in every action
—was the simple watchword, 'duty.'
"As to his qualities of leadership, they shone out in high relief, from first
to last. In the war of 1812, he was only a captain, yet at Fort Harrison he
inspired the scanty garrison with a belief in his power, and they gave him
charge was made that decided the battle. Throughout the action he was the
leading spirit of the occasion, giving personal direction to the movements of
his men, and lending the inspiration of his presence to all parts of the field."
Of Zachary Taylor, our author writes, in his masterly way: "The blaze of
glory which is concentrated upon the name and life of Zachary Taylor,
reveals a hero as true in metal, as sterling in virtue, as intrepid in action, and
tender of heart, as ever lifted sword in the cause of honor or country. On
him has fallen that most sacred mantle of renown, woven from the fabric of
a people's confidence, and lovingly bestowed—not as upon a being of
superior race to be worshipped, but because he was a leader from among
themselves—truly of the people. He was honored with their fullest trust in
his integrity, and with their largest faith in his uprightness as a man. As
Daniel Webster truly said, the best days of the Roman republic afforded no
brighter example of a man, who, receiving the plaudits of a grateful nation,
and clothed in the highest authority of state, reached that pinnacle by more
honest means; who could not be accused of the smallest intrigue or of
pursuing any devious ways to political advancement in order to gratify
personal ambition. All the circumstances of his rise and popularity, from the
beginning of his career, when, amid blood and smoke, he made the heroic
defence of Fort Harrison, to the wonderful battles of Palo Alto, Resaca, and
Buena Vista, and at last the attainment of the Presidential chair—all repel
the slightest suspicion of sinister motive, or a wish for individual
aggrandizement. The unwavering rule of his life—his guide in every action
—was the simple watchword, 'duty.'
"As to his qualities of leadership, they shone out in high relief, from first
to last. In the war of 1812, he was only a captain, yet at Fort Harrison he
inspired the scanty garrison with a belief in his power, and they gave him
Page 354
their devoted support. In the Florida campaign he commanded only a
brigade, yet he seemed to infuse into every soldier the most courageous
bravery. In the beginning of the war with Mexico, he marched into action at
the head of a single division, and when this force afterwards swelled into an
army, it did not prove too much for the resources of its commanding
general. The frowning heights and barricaded streets of Monterey, bristling
with ten thousand Mexicans, did not daunt him. What though he had only
six thousand men with which to hold them in siege? The assault was
fearlessly made, the streets were stormed, the heights were carried, the city
was won—and kept!
"The brilliant victory of Buena Vista, where five thousand Americans
hurled back and repulsed a tumultuous Mexican horde of twenty thousand,
only reiterates the same marvelous story of superior leadership."
"Fresh from these splendid achievements, he received the nomination for
President over the names of Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, and General Scott.
It was a spontaneous expression of the people's confidence, unheralded and
unsought. And when he was triumphantly elected over the Democratic and
Free-soil candidates—General Cass, Martin Van Buren, and Charles Francis
Adams—he accepted the high office in a spirit of humility and simple
compliance with duty."
In the sketch of General U. S. Grant's life, our author has written with a
masterly hand the outlines of the grand career of his favorite general, the
salient points of which are given with a soldierly energy and dash befitting
the theme. Thus the chapter commences:
brigade, yet he seemed to infuse into every soldier the most courageous
bravery. In the beginning of the war with Mexico, he marched into action at
the head of a single division, and when this force afterwards swelled into an
army, it did not prove too much for the resources of its commanding
general. The frowning heights and barricaded streets of Monterey, bristling
with ten thousand Mexicans, did not daunt him. What though he had only
six thousand men with which to hold them in siege? The assault was
fearlessly made, the streets were stormed, the heights were carried, the city
was won—and kept!
"The brilliant victory of Buena Vista, where five thousand Americans
hurled back and repulsed a tumultuous Mexican horde of twenty thousand,
only reiterates the same marvelous story of superior leadership."
"Fresh from these splendid achievements, he received the nomination for
President over the names of Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, and General Scott.
It was a spontaneous expression of the people's confidence, unheralded and
unsought. And when he was triumphantly elected over the Democratic and
Free-soil candidates—General Cass, Martin Van Buren, and Charles Francis
Adams—he accepted the high office in a spirit of humility and simple
compliance with duty."
In the sketch of General U. S. Grant's life, our author has written with a
masterly hand the outlines of the grand career of his favorite general, the
salient points of which are given with a soldierly energy and dash befitting
the theme. Thus the chapter commences:
Page 355
"The occasion often creates the man, but the man who masters the
occasion is born, not made. Many are pushed to the surface, momentarily,
by the pressure of events, and then subside into common levels; but he is
the true commander during a crisis, who can wield the waves of difficulty to
advantage, and be a sure pilot amid the on-rush of events when they thicken
and deepen into a prolonged struggle.
"When, during the late war, our country needed a leader to face and quell
the threatened danger of disunion, and conduct her armies to successful
issues; and when Government entrusted those momentous issues to Ulysses
S. Grant, 'the man and the moment had met,'—the occasion had found its
master.
"Napoleon said that the most desirable quality of a good general was that
his judgment should be in equilibrium with his courage. To no commander
of modern times could this rule apply with more force than to Grant. A man
of no outward clamor of character, no hint of bluster or dash, quiet-voiced,
self-controlled, but not self-asserting, he yet displayed vast power as an
organizer, as a tactician, and in masterly combinations of large forces so as
to produce the most telling effects. It has been truly said of him that no
general ever stamped his own peculiar character upon an army more
emphatically than did Grant upon the Army of the Tennessee. It was the
only large organization which, as a whole, never suffered a defeat during
the war. It was noted for its marvelous persistence—its determined fighting
qualities—and had the reputation of being sure to win any battle that lasted
over a day, no matter what the odds against it. It was at Grant's
recommendation that a united command was concentrated in the
Mississippi Valley—which concentration has since been acknowledged to
have been the basis of all our subsequent victories.
occasion is born, not made. Many are pushed to the surface, momentarily,
by the pressure of events, and then subside into common levels; but he is
the true commander during a crisis, who can wield the waves of difficulty to
advantage, and be a sure pilot amid the on-rush of events when they thicken
and deepen into a prolonged struggle.
"When, during the late war, our country needed a leader to face and quell
the threatened danger of disunion, and conduct her armies to successful
issues; and when Government entrusted those momentous issues to Ulysses
S. Grant, 'the man and the moment had met,'—the occasion had found its
master.
"Napoleon said that the most desirable quality of a good general was that
his judgment should be in equilibrium with his courage. To no commander
of modern times could this rule apply with more force than to Grant. A man
of no outward clamor of character, no hint of bluster or dash, quiet-voiced,
self-controlled, but not self-asserting, he yet displayed vast power as an
organizer, as a tactician, and in masterly combinations of large forces so as
to produce the most telling effects. It has been truly said of him that no
general ever stamped his own peculiar character upon an army more
emphatically than did Grant upon the Army of the Tennessee. It was the
only large organization which, as a whole, never suffered a defeat during
the war. It was noted for its marvelous persistence—its determined fighting
qualities—and had the reputation of being sure to win any battle that lasted
over a day, no matter what the odds against it. It was at Grant's
recommendation that a united command was concentrated in the
Mississippi Valley—which concentration has since been acknowledged to
have been the basis of all our subsequent victories.
Page 356
"Generosity, mildness and kind-heartedness, shone as conspicuously in
Grant's character as his firmness and great generalship. Simplicity of
manner and kindness of heart are always characteristic of the true hero.
'The bravest are the tenderest,
The loving are the daring.'
"The rapid and bold descent upon Fort Donelson, the unconquerable
determination exhibited at Shiloh, the brilliant capture of Vicksburg, and the
high military science displayed at Chattanooga Valley, Look-out Mountain,
and Missionary Ridge—these have never been surpassed in military history,
in splendor of execution, or judiciousness of combination." ...
For brevity and comprehensiveness we commend the following unique
paragraph on the genealogy of his subject:
"The great-grandfather of Ulysses was Captain Noah Grant, who was
killed at the battle of White Plains, during the French and Indian wars, in
1776. His grandfather, Noah Grant, Jr., fought at Lexington as lieutenant of
militia, and afterwards, during the Revolution. His father, Jesse, emigrated
from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and was married at Point Pleasant, Ohio, June,
1821, to Hannah Simpson, whose father was also from the Keystone State.
Ulysses was born the following year, April twenty-seventh, 1822."
We quote again from the sketch of Grant:
"On the sixth of February the brilliant reduction of Fort Henry, on the
Tennessee, was accomplished by Foote, and Fort Donelson, twelve miles
distant, was next in line. Grant and Foote were co-operating by land and
water; but Foote did not meet here with the same success that attended him
at Fort Henry. It was the fifteenth of February, and Grant had spent two or
three days in making an investment of the high and wooded bluff from
Grant's character as his firmness and great generalship. Simplicity of
manner and kindness of heart are always characteristic of the true hero.
'The bravest are the tenderest,
The loving are the daring.'
"The rapid and bold descent upon Fort Donelson, the unconquerable
determination exhibited at Shiloh, the brilliant capture of Vicksburg, and the
high military science displayed at Chattanooga Valley, Look-out Mountain,
and Missionary Ridge—these have never been surpassed in military history,
in splendor of execution, or judiciousness of combination." ...
For brevity and comprehensiveness we commend the following unique
paragraph on the genealogy of his subject:
"The great-grandfather of Ulysses was Captain Noah Grant, who was
killed at the battle of White Plains, during the French and Indian wars, in
1776. His grandfather, Noah Grant, Jr., fought at Lexington as lieutenant of
militia, and afterwards, during the Revolution. His father, Jesse, emigrated
from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and was married at Point Pleasant, Ohio, June,
1821, to Hannah Simpson, whose father was also from the Keystone State.
Ulysses was born the following year, April twenty-seventh, 1822."
We quote again from the sketch of Grant:
"On the sixth of February the brilliant reduction of Fort Henry, on the
Tennessee, was accomplished by Foote, and Fort Donelson, twelve miles
distant, was next in line. Grant and Foote were co-operating by land and
water; but Foote did not meet here with the same success that attended him
at Fort Henry. It was the fifteenth of February, and Grant had spent two or
three days in making an investment of the high and wooded bluff from
Page 357
which frowned the guns of Donelson. Before daybreak, on the fifteenth, he
had gone on board the flag-ship of Foote, in consultation as to the time and
manner of attack, when the enemy swept from their works and fell upon the
Union lines with tremendous force. The fighting became furious at once,
and for some time the battle-line swayed to and fro, between victory and
defeat. It was desperate work; brigades and regiments were repulsed and by
turns advanced—the brave commands disputing every inch of the rocky and
difficult battle-field. When Grant reached the scene it was 'to find his right
thrown back, ammunition exhausted, and the ranks in confusion.' With
quick inspiration he took in the situation at a glance, comprehended that the
enemy had exhausted his greatest strength, and ordered an immediate attack
by the left on the Confederate works in front. General Smith was in
command of this portion of the army, and had not actively participated in
the conflict. He therefore brought fresh troops to the assault. McClernand
was also ordered to reform his shattered ranks and advance. The combined
forces charged with splendid valor up the rocky steeps, in the blaze of a
withering fire poured down upon them from the fort. They did not falter for
a single instant, but reaching the summit, swept over and into the
Confederate works with ringing cheers. On the next morning a white flag
was seen flying from the fort, and under its protection, proposals for an
armistice were sent in. Grant replied that unconditional surrender, and that
immediately, must be made, or he would move on their works at once.
Thereupon, Buckner, who was in command, surrendered the fort with its
thirteen thousand men. This splendid victory blazoned the name of Grant all
over the country, and he immediately became the people's hero."
had gone on board the flag-ship of Foote, in consultation as to the time and
manner of attack, when the enemy swept from their works and fell upon the
Union lines with tremendous force. The fighting became furious at once,
and for some time the battle-line swayed to and fro, between victory and
defeat. It was desperate work; brigades and regiments were repulsed and by
turns advanced—the brave commands disputing every inch of the rocky and
difficult battle-field. When Grant reached the scene it was 'to find his right
thrown back, ammunition exhausted, and the ranks in confusion.' With
quick inspiration he took in the situation at a glance, comprehended that the
enemy had exhausted his greatest strength, and ordered an immediate attack
by the left on the Confederate works in front. General Smith was in
command of this portion of the army, and had not actively participated in
the conflict. He therefore brought fresh troops to the assault. McClernand
was also ordered to reform his shattered ranks and advance. The combined
forces charged with splendid valor up the rocky steeps, in the blaze of a
withering fire poured down upon them from the fort. They did not falter for
a single instant, but reaching the summit, swept over and into the
Confederate works with ringing cheers. On the next morning a white flag
was seen flying from the fort, and under its protection, proposals for an
armistice were sent in. Grant replied that unconditional surrender, and that
immediately, must be made, or he would move on their works at once.
Thereupon, Buckner, who was in command, surrendered the fort with its
thirteen thousand men. This splendid victory blazoned the name of Grant all
over the country, and he immediately became the people's hero."
Page 358
"His next achievement, the capture of Vicksburg, was wonderful indeed.
Its natural strength of position on a high bluff, one hundred feet above the
water level, added to the formidable array of defences which bristled
defiance to all foes, made Vicksburg a very citadel of power, and the fifty
thousand men stationed there under Pemberton and Price did not lessen the
difficulties to be overcome. A fort, mounting eight guns, sentineled the
approach to the city from beneath, while the heights above were guarded by
a three-banked battery. Eight miles of batteries lined the shore above and
below Vicksburg. Grant made several fruitless attempts to get to the rear of
the city by digging canals across the strip of land on which it stood, and
making an inland route; but each one, after herculean labor, had been
abandoned. He now decided on the bold enterprise of running the gauntlet
of these batteries with his transports. This desperate feat was successfully
accomplished; but before he could land his troops at Grand Gulf, which he
had selected as his starting-point, it was necessary to run its batteries as he
had those of Vicksburg, land his troops farther down the river, and capture
the place by hard fighting. He waited for nothing. Hurrying forward the
moment he touched land, his object was to take Grand Gulf before the
enemy could reinforce it.... After conquering Grand Gulf, where he
expected Banks to join him, he was confronted with the refusal of that
general to co-operate with him. In this dilemma nothing but a master-stroke
of genius could wring success from the materials of defeat. He saw what
was before him, and with true inspiration became the master of
circumstances. At the head of his brave command he pushed inland, aiming
to crush the enemy 'in detail before he could concentrate his forces.' By a
rapid series of brilliant marches, battles and victories, Grant had, at last, on
the nineteenth of May, succeeded in completely investing Vicksburg. The
whole plan from its outset was brilliant to an extraordinary degree, and the
Its natural strength of position on a high bluff, one hundred feet above the
water level, added to the formidable array of defences which bristled
defiance to all foes, made Vicksburg a very citadel of power, and the fifty
thousand men stationed there under Pemberton and Price did not lessen the
difficulties to be overcome. A fort, mounting eight guns, sentineled the
approach to the city from beneath, while the heights above were guarded by
a three-banked battery. Eight miles of batteries lined the shore above and
below Vicksburg. Grant made several fruitless attempts to get to the rear of
the city by digging canals across the strip of land on which it stood, and
making an inland route; but each one, after herculean labor, had been
abandoned. He now decided on the bold enterprise of running the gauntlet
of these batteries with his transports. This desperate feat was successfully
accomplished; but before he could land his troops at Grand Gulf, which he
had selected as his starting-point, it was necessary to run its batteries as he
had those of Vicksburg, land his troops farther down the river, and capture
the place by hard fighting. He waited for nothing. Hurrying forward the
moment he touched land, his object was to take Grand Gulf before the
enemy could reinforce it.... After conquering Grand Gulf, where he
expected Banks to join him, he was confronted with the refusal of that
general to co-operate with him. In this dilemma nothing but a master-stroke
of genius could wring success from the materials of defeat. He saw what
was before him, and with true inspiration became the master of
circumstances. At the head of his brave command he pushed inland, aiming
to crush the enemy 'in detail before he could concentrate his forces.' By a
rapid series of brilliant marches, battles and victories, Grant had, at last, on
the nineteenth of May, succeeded in completely investing Vicksburg. The
whole plan from its outset was brilliant to an extraordinary degree, and the
Page 359
tireless persistence and energy shown in its accomplishment, stamped this
man as a very Gibraltar of military genius.
"An assault on the enemy's works at first, had proven a failure, and now
the wonderful siege began. For forty-six days the digging and mining went
patiently forward, while screaming shells and booming shot produced a
reign of terror in the city, until at last, Pemberton could hold out no longer
and surrendered his starving garrison to the superior prowess and strategy
of Grant. It was the morning of the fourth of July when our troops took
possession of Vicksburg, and ran up the stars and stripes from the top of the
court-house. The soldiers, standing beneath it, sang 'Rally round the Flag,'
and Grant became more than ever the popular hero. On the thirteenth of
July, Lincoln wrote him a letter of 'grateful acknowledgment for the almost
inestimable service' he had rendered the country. In September he was
placed in command of the 'Departments of the Ohio, of the Cumberland,
and of the Tennessee, constituting the Military Division of the Mississippi.'
"Grant assumed the duties of his high office [the lieutenant-generalship
of the army] without flourish of any sort, and proceeded to inaugurate the
successive steps of his last great campaign. The military resources which
centered in his hand were stupendous, but had they fallen under the control
of a man less great than he, their very immensity would have rendered them
powerless. The splendid army of the Potomac was on the move by May
third, and the last march to Richmond had begun. Then came the three-days'
battle of the Wilderness, on the south bank of the Rapidan, bloody and
terrible and strange, during which some of our troops were fighting
continuously for forty-eight hours; and following close after came also
man as a very Gibraltar of military genius.
"An assault on the enemy's works at first, had proven a failure, and now
the wonderful siege began. For forty-six days the digging and mining went
patiently forward, while screaming shells and booming shot produced a
reign of terror in the city, until at last, Pemberton could hold out no longer
and surrendered his starving garrison to the superior prowess and strategy
of Grant. It was the morning of the fourth of July when our troops took
possession of Vicksburg, and ran up the stars and stripes from the top of the
court-house. The soldiers, standing beneath it, sang 'Rally round the Flag,'
and Grant became more than ever the popular hero. On the thirteenth of
July, Lincoln wrote him a letter of 'grateful acknowledgment for the almost
inestimable service' he had rendered the country. In September he was
placed in command of the 'Departments of the Ohio, of the Cumberland,
and of the Tennessee, constituting the Military Division of the Mississippi.'
"Grant assumed the duties of his high office [the lieutenant-generalship
of the army] without flourish of any sort, and proceeded to inaugurate the
successive steps of his last great campaign. The military resources which
centered in his hand were stupendous, but had they fallen under the control
of a man less great than he, their very immensity would have rendered them
powerless. The splendid army of the Potomac was on the move by May
third, and the last march to Richmond had begun. Then came the three-days'
battle of the Wilderness, on the south bank of the Rapidan, bloody and
terrible and strange, during which some of our troops were fighting
continuously for forty-eight hours; and following close after came also
Page 360
Spottsylvania, which was the result of an endeavor to cut off Lee's retreat.
This, too, was a desperate conflict, where precious blood flowed in rivers.
Then followed the race between the two opposing armies, for the North
Anna. After crossing this river, and finding the Confederates occupying a
fortified position on the South Anna, Grant 'swung his army around to the
Pamunky, and pitched his head-quarters at Hanover Court House,' These
masterly flank movements, in which he manœuvred his vast army with such
ease, exhibited his marvelous genius in stronger light than ever before.
From the Pamunky he advanced to the Chickahominy, and, after the battle
of Cold Harbor, made a rapid but quiet change of front on the night of the
twelfth of June, and two days afterwards crossed the James and advanced
against Petersburg and Richmond. The attack, at first a success, failed
through a blunder, not Grant's; and then began the long siege which ended
at last in the evacuation of Petersburg and Richmond. Nowhere was the joy
more heartfelt over these results than among the released captives of Libby
Prison.
"Lee made a desperate endeavor to escape the 'manifest destiny' that
pursued him, and led his army a 'race for life.' But Grant, close on his track,
environed him on all sides, and the surrender at Appomattox became
inevitable. When, at the final scene, Lee presented his sword to Grant, the
great general handed it back to him, saying, 'it could not be worn by a
braver man.'"
We present the reader with the following extracts from the sketch of
General Sheridan. It will be observed that the author is extremely happy in
This, too, was a desperate conflict, where precious blood flowed in rivers.
Then followed the race between the two opposing armies, for the North
Anna. After crossing this river, and finding the Confederates occupying a
fortified position on the South Anna, Grant 'swung his army around to the
Pamunky, and pitched his head-quarters at Hanover Court House,' These
masterly flank movements, in which he manœuvred his vast army with such
ease, exhibited his marvelous genius in stronger light than ever before.
From the Pamunky he advanced to the Chickahominy, and, after the battle
of Cold Harbor, made a rapid but quiet change of front on the night of the
twelfth of June, and two days afterwards crossed the James and advanced
against Petersburg and Richmond. The attack, at first a success, failed
through a blunder, not Grant's; and then began the long siege which ended
at last in the evacuation of Petersburg and Richmond. Nowhere was the joy
more heartfelt over these results than among the released captives of Libby
Prison.
"Lee made a desperate endeavor to escape the 'manifest destiny' that
pursued him, and led his army a 'race for life.' But Grant, close on his track,
environed him on all sides, and the surrender at Appomattox became
inevitable. When, at the final scene, Lee presented his sword to Grant, the
great general handed it back to him, saying, 'it could not be worn by a
braver man.'"
We present the reader with the following extracts from the sketch of
General Sheridan. It will be observed that the author is extremely happy in
Page 361
the selection of his subjects, his aim evidently being to include those only
whose reputation for heroism is unquestioned and national.
"Sheridan is probably the most intense type of 'soldiership' brought to
light by the last war. Nor can any other war furnish an individual example
that will surpass him in fiery concentration. In battle he is the very soul of
vehement action—the incarnate wrath of the storm. No historian can ever
portray the man so truly as did the remarkable victory of Cedar Creek—a
result solely of his extraordinary power. The marvelous will-force with
which he could hurl himself in the front of battle, and infuse his own spirit
of unconquerable daring into the ranks, is phenomenal, to say the least."
"When Grant became Lieutenant-General, Sheridan was given the
command of the cavalry of the army of the Potomac, and all his subsequent
movements evinced wonderful daring, skill and energy. No trust committed
to his charge was ever misplaced, no matter what its magnitude or
importance.
"When the Confederate Generals Ewell and Early were sent into the
Shenandoah Valley, and went so far north as to threaten Washington, Grant
consolidated the four military divisions of the Susquehanna, Washington,
Monongahela and West Virginia, into the 'army of the Shenandoah,' and
placed Sheridan in command. He defeated Early at Opequan, September
nineteenth—for which he was made brigadier-general of the United States
army; defeated him again at Fisher's Hill on the twenty-second, and on
October the nineteenth occurred the battle of Cedar Creek.
"The position of Sheridan's army at this time was along the crest of three
hills, 'each one a little back of the other,' The army of West Virginia, under
whose reputation for heroism is unquestioned and national.
"Sheridan is probably the most intense type of 'soldiership' brought to
light by the last war. Nor can any other war furnish an individual example
that will surpass him in fiery concentration. In battle he is the very soul of
vehement action—the incarnate wrath of the storm. No historian can ever
portray the man so truly as did the remarkable victory of Cedar Creek—a
result solely of his extraordinary power. The marvelous will-force with
which he could hurl himself in the front of battle, and infuse his own spirit
of unconquerable daring into the ranks, is phenomenal, to say the least."
"When Grant became Lieutenant-General, Sheridan was given the
command of the cavalry of the army of the Potomac, and all his subsequent
movements evinced wonderful daring, skill and energy. No trust committed
to his charge was ever misplaced, no matter what its magnitude or
importance.
"When the Confederate Generals Ewell and Early were sent into the
Shenandoah Valley, and went so far north as to threaten Washington, Grant
consolidated the four military divisions of the Susquehanna, Washington,
Monongahela and West Virginia, into the 'army of the Shenandoah,' and
placed Sheridan in command. He defeated Early at Opequan, September
nineteenth—for which he was made brigadier-general of the United States
army; defeated him again at Fisher's Hill on the twenty-second, and on
October the nineteenth occurred the battle of Cedar Creek.
"The position of Sheridan's army at this time was along the crest of three
hills, 'each one a little back of the other,' The army of West Virginia, under
Page 362
Crook, held the first hill; the second was occupied by the Nineteenth Corps,
under Emory, and the Sixth Corps, with Torbet's cavalry covering its right
flank, held the third elevation. Early, marching his army in five columns,
crossed the mountains and forded the north branch of the Shenandoah
River, at midnight, on the eighteenth. He knew that Sheridan had gone up to
Washington, and wanted to take advantage of his absence to surprise the
unsuspecting camp. The march was conducted so noiselessly that, though
he skirted the borders of our position for miles, nothing came to the ears of
our pickets, save in a few instances where a heavy muffled tramp was
heard, but disregarded as of no consequence.
"The gray gloom of early morning hovered over the camp, when a
reconnoitring force from Crook's army was preparing to go out. Suddenly, a
wild yell burst through the fog which hid from view the Confederate army.
A withering musketry fire and the clash of arms quickly followed. Before
our surprised and panic-stricken troops could be formed in battle-array, the
enemy were upon them, and after a short and sharp encounter, the army of
Western Virginia was thrown into utter rout—a mass of fugitives flying
before the pursuing foe back towards the second hill where the Nineteenth
Corps was encamped.
"The Nineteenth Corps attempted to arrest the Confederate advance, but
the enemy getting in our rear and enfilading us with our captured batteries,
the troops broke ranks and fell back in confusion towards the encampment
of the Sixth Corps, on the third hill in the rear.
under Emory, and the Sixth Corps, with Torbet's cavalry covering its right
flank, held the third elevation. Early, marching his army in five columns,
crossed the mountains and forded the north branch of the Shenandoah
River, at midnight, on the eighteenth. He knew that Sheridan had gone up to
Washington, and wanted to take advantage of his absence to surprise the
unsuspecting camp. The march was conducted so noiselessly that, though
he skirted the borders of our position for miles, nothing came to the ears of
our pickets, save in a few instances where a heavy muffled tramp was
heard, but disregarded as of no consequence.
"The gray gloom of early morning hovered over the camp, when a
reconnoitring force from Crook's army was preparing to go out. Suddenly, a
wild yell burst through the fog which hid from view the Confederate army.
A withering musketry fire and the clash of arms quickly followed. Before
our surprised and panic-stricken troops could be formed in battle-array, the
enemy were upon them, and after a short and sharp encounter, the army of
Western Virginia was thrown into utter rout—a mass of fugitives flying
before the pursuing foe back towards the second hill where the Nineteenth
Corps was encamped.
"The Nineteenth Corps attempted to arrest the Confederate advance, but
the enemy getting in our rear and enfilading us with our captured batteries,
the troops broke ranks and fell back in confusion towards the encampment
of the Sixth Corps, on the third hill in the rear.
Page 363
"Sheridan, meantime, was at Winchester, where he had arrived the night
before, intending to go on to Cedar Creek the next morning. As he sipped
his coffee at breakfast he did not for an instant dream of the terrible rout
and disaster hovering at that moment over his army. When he rode out of
Winchester the vibrations of the ground under the heavy discharges of
artillery in the distance gave the first intimations of danger. But he was not
yet alarmed, knowing the security of his position. As he went onward,
however, the thunder of the cannon deepened, and then the terrible truth
flashed upon him. He dashed spurs into his horse and was soon tearing
madly along the road, far ahead of his escort.
"For five anxious hours the desperate struggle had gone on, when
Sheridan arrived on the field, encountering first the stream of fugitives
surging northward. They turned about as they saw their invincible leader
flying towards the front, and even the wounded along the roadside cheered
him as he passed. Swinging his cap over his head, he shouted: 'Face the
other way, boys!—face the other way! We are going back to our camps! We
are going to lick them out of their boots!'
"It was about ten o'clock when, with his horse covered with foam, he
galloped up to the front. Immediately, under his quick commands, the
broken ranks were reformed, and when the Confederates made their next
grand charge across the fields the terrific repulse that met and hurled them
back showed the turn of the tide, and compelled them to relinquish the
offensive. For two hours Sheridan rode back and forth along the line,
seeming to be everywhere at once, infusing into the men his own daring
courage and enthusiasm. Shouts and cheers followed him; and though the
tired soldiers had been fighting for five long hours and had eaten nothing
since the night before, his presence was both food and inspiration, and
before, intending to go on to Cedar Creek the next morning. As he sipped
his coffee at breakfast he did not for an instant dream of the terrible rout
and disaster hovering at that moment over his army. When he rode out of
Winchester the vibrations of the ground under the heavy discharges of
artillery in the distance gave the first intimations of danger. But he was not
yet alarmed, knowing the security of his position. As he went onward,
however, the thunder of the cannon deepened, and then the terrible truth
flashed upon him. He dashed spurs into his horse and was soon tearing
madly along the road, far ahead of his escort.
"For five anxious hours the desperate struggle had gone on, when
Sheridan arrived on the field, encountering first the stream of fugitives
surging northward. They turned about as they saw their invincible leader
flying towards the front, and even the wounded along the roadside cheered
him as he passed. Swinging his cap over his head, he shouted: 'Face the
other way, boys!—face the other way! We are going back to our camps! We
are going to lick them out of their boots!'
"It was about ten o'clock when, with his horse covered with foam, he
galloped up to the front. Immediately, under his quick commands, the
broken ranks were reformed, and when the Confederates made their next
grand charge across the fields the terrific repulse that met and hurled them
back showed the turn of the tide, and compelled them to relinquish the
offensive. For two hours Sheridan rode back and forth along the line,
seeming to be everywhere at once, infusing into the men his own daring
courage and enthusiasm. Shouts and cheers followed him; and though the
tired soldiers had been fighting for five long hours and had eaten nothing
since the night before, his presence was both food and inspiration, and
Page 364
everything seemed to be forgotten in an all-controlling impulse to follow
their glorious leader to victory.
"Early retired his troops a short distance after their repulse, and began
throwing up breastworks. But the intrepid Sheridan had no notion of
allowing him to retain that position. He meant to regain Cedar Creek and
rout the enemy. At half-past three a bold charge was made. An awful
musketry and artillery fire was poured into the advancing Union columns,
and, at first, the lines broke and fell back; but Sheridan rose at once to the
needs of the crisis, and with superhuman efforts restored order and resumed
the advance. Then came 'the long-drawn yell of our charge,' and 'everything
on the first line, the stone walls, the tangled wood, the advanced crest, and
half-finished breastworks, had been carried.'
"The panic-stricken enemy was sent flying in utter rout through
Middletown, through Strasburg, through Fisher's Hill, and to Woodstock,
sixteen miles beyond. Early was thus effectually driven out of the
Shenandoah Valley, and permanently crippled.
"This wonderful victory, due to Sheridan's personal presence alone, put a
crown on his head which few warriors could pluck from the heights of
Fame."
"On March the fourth, 1869, he received the promotion of lieutenant-
general, and was appointed to the command of the Division of the Missouri,
of the Platte, and of Texas, with head-quarters at Chicago."
their glorious leader to victory.
"Early retired his troops a short distance after their repulse, and began
throwing up breastworks. But the intrepid Sheridan had no notion of
allowing him to retain that position. He meant to regain Cedar Creek and
rout the enemy. At half-past three a bold charge was made. An awful
musketry and artillery fire was poured into the advancing Union columns,
and, at first, the lines broke and fell back; but Sheridan rose at once to the
needs of the crisis, and with superhuman efforts restored order and resumed
the advance. Then came 'the long-drawn yell of our charge,' and 'everything
on the first line, the stone walls, the tangled wood, the advanced crest, and
half-finished breastworks, had been carried.'
"The panic-stricken enemy was sent flying in utter rout through
Middletown, through Strasburg, through Fisher's Hill, and to Woodstock,
sixteen miles beyond. Early was thus effectually driven out of the
Shenandoah Valley, and permanently crippled.
"This wonderful victory, due to Sheridan's personal presence alone, put a
crown on his head which few warriors could pluck from the heights of
Fame."
"On March the fourth, 1869, he received the promotion of lieutenant-
general, and was appointed to the command of the Division of the Missouri,
of the Platte, and of Texas, with head-quarters at Chicago."
Page 365
The name of Kilpatrick kindles enthusiasm in the breast of every
cavalryman of the late war, and our author, having served under him, has
sketched his life, con amore, in vivid and thrilling language, and with a
keen appreciation of his great merits as a cavalry leader. The following
extract will confirm our view:
"Like the French Murat, Kilpatrick seems to have been born to become a
very demi-god of cavalry. Daringly heroic on the field, he displayed a
supreme genius for war, especially for that department of the service whose
alarum cry is, 'To horse!' and whose sweeping squadrons, with wild clatter
of hoofs, seem to the fervid imagination to be making a race for glory, even
though it be through the gates of death.
"It is quite in keeping with everything about Kilpatrick that he should
choose the cavalry as a vehicle for his high ambition and noble patriotism.
Such energies as his could scarcely be content with less dash or less
brilliance of action. The beginning of his war career was one of romance,
and his previous life indicated an unusual range of abilities. He first figures
as the boy-orator, speaking in favor of a Congressional candidate, with all
the fresh warmth and enthusiasm of his young nature. Then we see him as
cadet at West Point, from which he graduates fifteenth in his class and is
given the honor of valedictorian. The day of graduation is hastened a few
months by the startling guns of Sumter, which proclaim treason rampant,
and fire all loyal breasts with a desire to rush to the rescue of their country's
beloved flag. The impatience and enthusiasm of Kilpatrick could not be
restrained, and through his influence a petition was signed by thirty-seven
of his class to be allowed to graduate at once and go to the front. The
request was granted, and that day was one of especial significance at West
Point. It was also one of equal significance in his life; for the little chapel,
where had rung out the words of his farewell address, also witnessed the
cavalryman of the late war, and our author, having served under him, has
sketched his life, con amore, in vivid and thrilling language, and with a
keen appreciation of his great merits as a cavalry leader. The following
extract will confirm our view:
"Like the French Murat, Kilpatrick seems to have been born to become a
very demi-god of cavalry. Daringly heroic on the field, he displayed a
supreme genius for war, especially for that department of the service whose
alarum cry is, 'To horse!' and whose sweeping squadrons, with wild clatter
of hoofs, seem to the fervid imagination to be making a race for glory, even
though it be through the gates of death.
"It is quite in keeping with everything about Kilpatrick that he should
choose the cavalry as a vehicle for his high ambition and noble patriotism.
Such energies as his could scarcely be content with less dash or less
brilliance of action. The beginning of his war career was one of romance,
and his previous life indicated an unusual range of abilities. He first figures
as the boy-orator, speaking in favor of a Congressional candidate, with all
the fresh warmth and enthusiasm of his young nature. Then we see him as
cadet at West Point, from which he graduates fifteenth in his class and is
given the honor of valedictorian. The day of graduation is hastened a few
months by the startling guns of Sumter, which proclaim treason rampant,
and fire all loyal breasts with a desire to rush to the rescue of their country's
beloved flag. The impatience and enthusiasm of Kilpatrick could not be
restrained, and through his influence a petition was signed by thirty-seven
of his class to be allowed to graduate at once and go to the front. The
request was granted, and that day was one of especial significance at West
Point. It was also one of equal significance in his life; for the little chapel,
where had rung out the words of his farewell address, also witnessed the
Page 366
sacred ceremony of his marriage with the lady of his love, and on that
evening the young soldier and his bride took the train for Washington and
the front. We know little of the bride except that she was enshrined in her
husband's heart, and that her name—'Alice'—was inscribed on the silken
banner under which he fought, and so gloriously led his troopers to victory
and renown. No one can tell how much that name may have had to do with
his future marvelous success. To natures like his, the magic of a name thus
loved, fluttering aloft in the smoke of battle, becomes talismanic, and
inspires almost superhuman heroism."
"When McDowell marched to Falmouth, he was once more at the front,
and, in conjunction with Colonel Bayard and the First Pennsylvania
Cavalry, made a brilliant night-attack on Falmouth Heights, routing Lee's
cavalry and capturing the place. For this dashing achievement Kilpatrick
received the thanks of the commanding general. Afterwards, under Pope's
command, he made his first famous raid in breaking up 'Stonewall'
Jackson's line of communication with Richmond from Gordonsville in the
Shenandoah Valley, over the Virginia Central Railway. At Beaver Dam,
Frederick's Hall, and Hanover Junction, he burned the stations, destroyed
the tracks, and daringly attacked the enemy wherever he could find him.
These events took place during July and August, 1862, and the boldness of
the operations, in the very heart of the enemy's country, filled the North
with Kilpatrick's fame....
"When Hooker was placed at the head of the Army of the Potomac, the
cavalry was reorganized under Stoneman as chief, and that general, in the
following campaign, assigned to Kilpatrick the work of destroying the
evening the young soldier and his bride took the train for Washington and
the front. We know little of the bride except that she was enshrined in her
husband's heart, and that her name—'Alice'—was inscribed on the silken
banner under which he fought, and so gloriously led his troopers to victory
and renown. No one can tell how much that name may have had to do with
his future marvelous success. To natures like his, the magic of a name thus
loved, fluttering aloft in the smoke of battle, becomes talismanic, and
inspires almost superhuman heroism."
"When McDowell marched to Falmouth, he was once more at the front,
and, in conjunction with Colonel Bayard and the First Pennsylvania
Cavalry, made a brilliant night-attack on Falmouth Heights, routing Lee's
cavalry and capturing the place. For this dashing achievement Kilpatrick
received the thanks of the commanding general. Afterwards, under Pope's
command, he made his first famous raid in breaking up 'Stonewall'
Jackson's line of communication with Richmond from Gordonsville in the
Shenandoah Valley, over the Virginia Central Railway. At Beaver Dam,
Frederick's Hall, and Hanover Junction, he burned the stations, destroyed
the tracks, and daringly attacked the enemy wherever he could find him.
These events took place during July and August, 1862, and the boldness of
the operations, in the very heart of the enemy's country, filled the North
with Kilpatrick's fame....
"When Hooker was placed at the head of the Army of the Potomac, the
cavalry was reorganized under Stoneman as chief, and that general, in the
following campaign, assigned to Kilpatrick the work of destroying the
Page 367
railroad and bridges over the Chickahominy. Four hundred and fifty men
were given him for the work; but with this small force he brought to the
difficult mission his usual skill, and, avoiding large forces of the enemy,
raided to within two miles of Richmond, where he captured 'Lieutenant
Brown, aide-de-camp to General Winder, and eleven men within the
fortifications.' He says: 'I then passed down to the left to the Meadow
Bridge on the Chickahominy, which I burned, ran a train of cars into the
river, retired to Hanover-town on the Peninsula, crossed just in time to
check the advance of a pursuing cavalry force, burned a train of thirty
wagons loaded with bacon, captured thirteen prisoners, and encamped for
the night five miles from the river,' This was the manner of his conquering
quest, until on the seventh he again struck the Union lines at Gloucester
Point, having made a march of about 'two hundred miles in less than five
days, and captured and paroled over eight hundred prisoners.' In the
accomplishment of this splendid feat he lost only one officer and thirty-
seven men.
"At Chancellorsville, when Lee came into Maryland and massed his
cavalry at Beverly Ford, Pleasonton was sent forward on a reconnaissance,
and met the enemy in battle at Brandy Station. This is renowned as the
greatest cavalry battle of the war. General Gregg arrived upon the field at
half-past ten in the morning, and though his noble squadrons fought well
and bravely, these columns were rolled back, and for a moment, all seemed
lost, and overwhelmed by the superior numbers of the foe. But at this crisis,
Kilpatrick, posted on a slight rise of ground, unrolled his battle-flag to the
breeze, and his bugles sounded the charge. He had under his command, the
Harris Light, Tenth New York, and First Maine. The formation for an onset
was quickly made, and the disciplined squadrons of these three regiments
were hurled upon the enemy. But the Tenth New York recoiled before the
were given him for the work; but with this small force he brought to the
difficult mission his usual skill, and, avoiding large forces of the enemy,
raided to within two miles of Richmond, where he captured 'Lieutenant
Brown, aide-de-camp to General Winder, and eleven men within the
fortifications.' He says: 'I then passed down to the left to the Meadow
Bridge on the Chickahominy, which I burned, ran a train of cars into the
river, retired to Hanover-town on the Peninsula, crossed just in time to
check the advance of a pursuing cavalry force, burned a train of thirty
wagons loaded with bacon, captured thirteen prisoners, and encamped for
the night five miles from the river,' This was the manner of his conquering
quest, until on the seventh he again struck the Union lines at Gloucester
Point, having made a march of about 'two hundred miles in less than five
days, and captured and paroled over eight hundred prisoners.' In the
accomplishment of this splendid feat he lost only one officer and thirty-
seven men.
"At Chancellorsville, when Lee came into Maryland and massed his
cavalry at Beverly Ford, Pleasonton was sent forward on a reconnaissance,
and met the enemy in battle at Brandy Station. This is renowned as the
greatest cavalry battle of the war. General Gregg arrived upon the field at
half-past ten in the morning, and though his noble squadrons fought well
and bravely, these columns were rolled back, and for a moment, all seemed
lost, and overwhelmed by the superior numbers of the foe. But at this crisis,
Kilpatrick, posted on a slight rise of ground, unrolled his battle-flag to the
breeze, and his bugles sounded the charge. He had under his command, the
Harris Light, Tenth New York, and First Maine. The formation for an onset
was quickly made, and the disciplined squadrons of these three regiments
were hurled upon the enemy. But the Tenth New York recoiled before the
Page 368
murderous fire of the enemy's carbines. So did the Harris Light. Kilpatrick
was maddened at the sight. He rushed to the head of the First Maine
regiment, shouting, 'Men of Maine, you must save the day!' Under the
impulse of this enthusiasm, they became altogether resistless, and in
conjunction with the reformed squadrons of the two other regiments, swept
the enemy before them, and plucked victory, with glorious valor, from the
very jaws of defeat. On the next day Kilpatrick was made brigadier-
general."
Having presented extracts from "Heroes of Three Wars," and ventured to
express, incidentally and briefly our own humble opinion of the merits of
this work, we will now, in confirmation of our judgment, give some reviews
of the Press—a few out of many. Throughout the North the work was hailed
with not a little enthusiasm, by soldiers and civilians alike—as a work of
decided literary merit, and one written in a fair, truthful, and loyal spirit,
replete with much valuable historical information of a character not
otherwise easily attainable, and calculated to accomplish much good among
the rising generation.
The Boston Transcript says:
"The bivouac, the march, the hand-to-hand conflict with bristling
steel, the head-long charge, the ignominious retreat, and the battle-field
after the bloody assault, with its dead and wounded heroes, are all
excellently portrayed, and with an ease and vigor of style that lend a
peculiar charm to the book, and rivet the attention of the reader from
cover to cover. It is really refreshing to meet with such a work as this in
these degenerate days of namby-pamby novels, so enervating to mind
was maddened at the sight. He rushed to the head of the First Maine
regiment, shouting, 'Men of Maine, you must save the day!' Under the
impulse of this enthusiasm, they became altogether resistless, and in
conjunction with the reformed squadrons of the two other regiments, swept
the enemy before them, and plucked victory, with glorious valor, from the
very jaws of defeat. On the next day Kilpatrick was made brigadier-
general."
Having presented extracts from "Heroes of Three Wars," and ventured to
express, incidentally and briefly our own humble opinion of the merits of
this work, we will now, in confirmation of our judgment, give some reviews
of the Press—a few out of many. Throughout the North the work was hailed
with not a little enthusiasm, by soldiers and civilians alike—as a work of
decided literary merit, and one written in a fair, truthful, and loyal spirit,
replete with much valuable historical information of a character not
otherwise easily attainable, and calculated to accomplish much good among
the rising generation.
The Boston Transcript says:
"The bivouac, the march, the hand-to-hand conflict with bristling
steel, the head-long charge, the ignominious retreat, and the battle-field
after the bloody assault, with its dead and wounded heroes, are all
excellently portrayed, and with an ease and vigor of style that lend a
peculiar charm to the book, and rivet the attention of the reader from
cover to cover. It is really refreshing to meet with such a work as this in
these degenerate days of namby-pamby novels, so enervating to mind
Page 369
and morals. Captain Glazier's work elevates the ideas, and infuses a
spirit of commendable patriotism into the young mind, by showing the
youth of the country how nobly men could die for the principles they
cherished and the land they loved."
The Chicago Inter-Ocean writes as follows:
"It is correct in facts, graphic in its delineations, and in all its makeup
is a most admirable volume. It will do the young men, and even those
older, good to glance at these pages and read anew the perils and
hardships and sacrifices which have been made by the loyal men who
met and overthrew in battle the nation's enemies. The book is of
absorbing interest as a record of brave deeds by as brave and heroic
men as ever answered a bugle's call. The author writes no fancy sketch.
He has the smoke and scars of battle in every sentence. He answered
roll-call and mingled amid the exciting events he relates. No writer,
even the most praised correspondents of the foreign journals, have
given more vivid descriptions soul-stirring in their simple truthfulness,
than Captain Glazier in his 'Heroes of Three Wars.'"
The Baltimore Sun writes:
"'Heroes of Three Wars' is written by the masterly hand of one who
has evidently enjoyed a personal acquaintance with many of the
subjects introduced, and is not only thoroughly imbued with the spirit of
his work, but as thoroughly inspires his readers. Captain Glazier has
familiarized himself with all of the details of interest in the lives of a
grand galaxy of heroes, and has put on paper, in a condensed and
graphic form, a clear picture of what he has treasured up in his own
mind. We know of no book that contains so faithful a presentation of
our brave defenders in so condensed and satisfactory a form."
spirit of commendable patriotism into the young mind, by showing the
youth of the country how nobly men could die for the principles they
cherished and the land they loved."
The Chicago Inter-Ocean writes as follows:
"It is correct in facts, graphic in its delineations, and in all its makeup
is a most admirable volume. It will do the young men, and even those
older, good to glance at these pages and read anew the perils and
hardships and sacrifices which have been made by the loyal men who
met and overthrew in battle the nation's enemies. The book is of
absorbing interest as a record of brave deeds by as brave and heroic
men as ever answered a bugle's call. The author writes no fancy sketch.
He has the smoke and scars of battle in every sentence. He answered
roll-call and mingled amid the exciting events he relates. No writer,
even the most praised correspondents of the foreign journals, have
given more vivid descriptions soul-stirring in their simple truthfulness,
than Captain Glazier in his 'Heroes of Three Wars.'"
The Baltimore Sun writes:
"'Heroes of Three Wars' is written by the masterly hand of one who
has evidently enjoyed a personal acquaintance with many of the
subjects introduced, and is not only thoroughly imbued with the spirit of
his work, but as thoroughly inspires his readers. Captain Glazier has
familiarized himself with all of the details of interest in the lives of a
grand galaxy of heroes, and has put on paper, in a condensed and
graphic form, a clear picture of what he has treasured up in his own
mind. We know of no book that contains so faithful a presentation of
our brave defenders in so condensed and satisfactory a form."
Page 370
The Philadelphia Times observes:
"The soldier-author does his work in an artless, patriotic, beautiful
style, and gives to his readers a real and not an imaginary idea of army
life in all its lights and shades. Captain Glazier has laid his countrymen
under lasting obligations to him, especially in this new book, 'Heroes of
Three Wars.'"
The Cincinnati Enquirer remarks:
"Captain Glazier rises above the conventional war-writers' idioms,
and gives his work a place in literature and history. Here is found the
stern actuality of war's fearful tug; here the beautiful pathos of pure
manly sentiment flowing from the heart of many a brave soul on the
battle's eve; here the scenes of sad and solemn burial where warriors
weep. The din of battle on one page, and the jest at the peril past on the
next—the life-test and the comedy of camp—these alternatingly
checker the work over, and give the reader a truer insight into the perils
and privations of our brave defenders than any book we have read."
"The soldier-author does his work in an artless, patriotic, beautiful
style, and gives to his readers a real and not an imaginary idea of army
life in all its lights and shades. Captain Glazier has laid his countrymen
under lasting obligations to him, especially in this new book, 'Heroes of
Three Wars.'"
The Cincinnati Enquirer remarks:
"Captain Glazier rises above the conventional war-writers' idioms,
and gives his work a place in literature and history. Here is found the
stern actuality of war's fearful tug; here the beautiful pathos of pure
manly sentiment flowing from the heart of many a brave soul on the
battle's eve; here the scenes of sad and solemn burial where warriors
weep. The din of battle on one page, and the jest at the peril past on the
next—the life-test and the comedy of camp—these alternatingly
checker the work over, and give the reader a truer insight into the perils
and privations of our brave defenders than any book we have read."
Page 371
CHAPTER XXXI.
OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK.
From Boston to San Francisco. — An unparalleled ride. — Object of the journey. — Novel lecture
tour. — Captain Frank M. Clark. — "Echoes from the Revolution." — Lecture at Tremont
Temple. — Captain Theodore L. Kelly. — A success. — Proceeds of lecture. — Edward F.
Rollins. — Extracts from first lecture. — Press notices.
The story of the career of Willard Glazier will not be complete without
some description of his novel and adventurous feat of riding on horseback
across the continent of North America—literally from ocean to ocean, or
from Boston to San Francisco. This unparalleled ride was satisfactorily
accomplished by him in 1876—the Centennial year. It was a long and trying
journey, extending over a period of two hundred days, and a distance of
four thousand one hundred and thirty-three miles, but at the same time a
journey of great interest. His object was to study, at comparative leisure, the
line of country through which he would pass, and to note the habits and
condition of the people he came in contact with. The knowledge thus
laboriously acquired he purposed placing before the public in book form.
While thus in the commendable pursuit of knowledge, he also
contemplated making some practical return for the many kindnesses and
courtesies he had received at the hands of soldiers since the disbandment of
the volunteer army, and the wide circulation of the first product of his pen,
The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape; and it had occurred to him that to
accomplish this he might turn his journey to beneficial account by lecturing
at the various towns he visited, and handing over the proceeds to the
OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK.
From Boston to San Francisco. — An unparalleled ride. — Object of the journey. — Novel lecture
tour. — Captain Frank M. Clark. — "Echoes from the Revolution." — Lecture at Tremont
Temple. — Captain Theodore L. Kelly. — A success. — Proceeds of lecture. — Edward F.
Rollins. — Extracts from first lecture. — Press notices.
The story of the career of Willard Glazier will not be complete without
some description of his novel and adventurous feat of riding on horseback
across the continent of North America—literally from ocean to ocean, or
from Boston to San Francisco. This unparalleled ride was satisfactorily
accomplished by him in 1876—the Centennial year. It was a long and trying
journey, extending over a period of two hundred days, and a distance of
four thousand one hundred and thirty-three miles, but at the same time a
journey of great interest. His object was to study, at comparative leisure, the
line of country through which he would pass, and to note the habits and
condition of the people he came in contact with. The knowledge thus
laboriously acquired he purposed placing before the public in book form.
While thus in the commendable pursuit of knowledge, he also
contemplated making some practical return for the many kindnesses and
courtesies he had received at the hands of soldiers since the disbandment of
the volunteer army, and the wide circulation of the first product of his pen,
The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape; and it had occurred to him that to
accomplish this he might turn his journey to beneficial account by lecturing
at the various towns he visited, and handing over the proceeds to the
Page 372
Widows' and Orphans' fund of the "Grand Army of the Republic," of which
patriotic society he was a member; or to some other benevolent military
organization.
The thought no sooner entered his mind than, with his usual promptitude,
the resolution was formed, and, with the following letter of introduction
from Captain Frank M. Clark, of New York, he at once proceeded to
Boston:
4 Irving Place,
New York, April 20, 1876.
To Comrades of the G. A. R.:
I have been intimately acquainted with Captain Willard Glazier, a
comrade in good standing of Post No. 29, Department of New York,
"Grand Army of the Republic," for the past eight years, and know him
to be worthy the confidence of every loyal man. He is an intelligent and
courteous gentleman, an author of good repute, a soldier whose record
is without a stain, and a true comrade of the "Grand Army." I bespeak
for him the earnest and cordial support of all comrades of the Order.
Yours very truly in F., C. and L.,
Frank M. Clark,
Late A. A. G. Department of New York, G. A. R.
patriotic society he was a member; or to some other benevolent military
organization.
The thought no sooner entered his mind than, with his usual promptitude,
the resolution was formed, and, with the following letter of introduction
from Captain Frank M. Clark, of New York, he at once proceeded to
Boston:
4 Irving Place,
New York, April 20, 1876.
To Comrades of the G. A. R.:
I have been intimately acquainted with Captain Willard Glazier, a
comrade in good standing of Post No. 29, Department of New York,
"Grand Army of the Republic," for the past eight years, and know him
to be worthy the confidence of every loyal man. He is an intelligent and
courteous gentleman, an author of good repute, a soldier whose record
is without a stain, and a true comrade of the "Grand Army." I bespeak
for him the earnest and cordial support of all comrades of the Order.
Yours very truly in F., C. and L.,
Frank M. Clark,
Late A. A. G. Department of New York, G. A. R.
Page 373
CAPTAIN GLAZIER AT TREMONT TEMPLE, BOSTON.
On the evening of the eighth of May, 1876, Captain Glazier lectured as
arranged at Tremont Temple, Boston. His subject, appropriate to the
Centennial year, was entitled "Echoes from the Revolution." This was the
first occasion of any importance on which he had ever appeared on the
rostrum. It may here be mentioned that his friends strongly recommended
him to deliver the first lecture before a smaller and less critical audience
than he would be likely to confront in Boston, and thus prepare himself for
a later appearance in the literary capital; but our soldier reasoned that as
lecturing was a new experience to him, his military education dictated that,
if he could carry the strongest works the weaker along the line would fall,
as a matter of course, and so resolved to deliver his first lecture in Tremont
Temple. The lecture, as we have said, had been prepared with a view to its
delivery at various towns and cities on the route he contemplated traveling.
He was introduced to his Boston audience by Captain Theodore L. Kelly,
Commander of Post 15, Grand Army of the Republic, and was honored by
the presence on the platform of representatives from nearly all the Posts of
On the evening of the eighth of May, 1876, Captain Glazier lectured as
arranged at Tremont Temple, Boston. His subject, appropriate to the
Centennial year, was entitled "Echoes from the Revolution." This was the
first occasion of any importance on which he had ever appeared on the
rostrum. It may here be mentioned that his friends strongly recommended
him to deliver the first lecture before a smaller and less critical audience
than he would be likely to confront in Boston, and thus prepare himself for
a later appearance in the literary capital; but our soldier reasoned that as
lecturing was a new experience to him, his military education dictated that,
if he could carry the strongest works the weaker along the line would fall,
as a matter of course, and so resolved to deliver his first lecture in Tremont
Temple. The lecture, as we have said, had been prepared with a view to its
delivery at various towns and cities on the route he contemplated traveling.
He was introduced to his Boston audience by Captain Theodore L. Kelly,
Commander of Post 15, Grand Army of the Republic, and was honored by
the presence on the platform of representatives from nearly all the Posts of
Page 374
Boston. Captain Kelly introduced his comrade in the following
complimentary manner:
"Ladies and Gentlemen: It gives me pleasure to have the honor of
introducing to you one who, by his services in the field and by the works of
his pen, is entitled to your consideration, and the confidence of the
comrades of the 'Grand Army of the Republic.' I desire to say that he comes
well accredited, furnished with the proper vouchers and documents, and
highly endorsed and recommended by the officers of the Department of the
State of New York. Though young in years, his life has been one of varied
and exciting experience. Born in the wilds of St. Lawrence County, New
York, his education was drawn from the great book of nature; and from his
surroundings he early imbibed a love of liberty. His early associations
naturally invested him with a love of adventure and excitement, and when
the call of war was heard he at once responded, and enlisted in the Harris
Light Cavalry, with which corps he passed through many exciting scenes of
march and fray. His experience amid the various vicissitudes of the war, in
camp and field and prison, have been vividly portrayed by his pen in his
various publications. Still inspired by this love of adventure, he proposes to
undertake the novelty of a journey across the continent in the saddle. His
objects are manifold. While visiting scenes and becoming more familiar
with his own country, he will collect facts and information for a new book,
and at his various stopping-places he will lecture under the auspices and for
the benefit of the 'Grand Army of the Republic,' to whose fraternal regard
he is most warmly commended. Allow me then, ladies and gentlemen,
without further ceremony, to present to you the soldier-author, and our
comrade, Willard Glazier."
The lecture proved a success both financially and in the marked pleasure
with which it was received by a very select audience. In fulfillment of his
complimentary manner:
"Ladies and Gentlemen: It gives me pleasure to have the honor of
introducing to you one who, by his services in the field and by the works of
his pen, is entitled to your consideration, and the confidence of the
comrades of the 'Grand Army of the Republic.' I desire to say that he comes
well accredited, furnished with the proper vouchers and documents, and
highly endorsed and recommended by the officers of the Department of the
State of New York. Though young in years, his life has been one of varied
and exciting experience. Born in the wilds of St. Lawrence County, New
York, his education was drawn from the great book of nature; and from his
surroundings he early imbibed a love of liberty. His early associations
naturally invested him with a love of adventure and excitement, and when
the call of war was heard he at once responded, and enlisted in the Harris
Light Cavalry, with which corps he passed through many exciting scenes of
march and fray. His experience amid the various vicissitudes of the war, in
camp and field and prison, have been vividly portrayed by his pen in his
various publications. Still inspired by this love of adventure, he proposes to
undertake the novelty of a journey across the continent in the saddle. His
objects are manifold. While visiting scenes and becoming more familiar
with his own country, he will collect facts and information for a new book,
and at his various stopping-places he will lecture under the auspices and for
the benefit of the 'Grand Army of the Republic,' to whose fraternal regard
he is most warmly commended. Allow me then, ladies and gentlemen,
without further ceremony, to present to you the soldier-author, and our
comrade, Willard Glazier."
The lecture proved a success both financially and in the marked pleasure
with which it was received by a very select audience. In fulfillment of his
Page 375
generous purpose in the application of the proceeds, Glazier on the
succeeding morning addressed a letter to the Assistant Adjutant-General,
Department of Massachusetts, Grand Army of the Republic, in the
following words:
Revere House,
Boston, May 9th, 1876.
Captain Charles W. Thompson,
A. A. G. Department of Massachusetts, G. A. R.
Comrade: I take pleasure in handing you the net proceeds of my
lecture delivered at Tremont Temple last night, which I desire to be
divided equally between Posts 7 and 15, G. A. R., of Boston, for the
benefit of our disabled comrades, and the needy and destitute wards of
the "Grand Army." Gratefully acknowledging many favors and
courtesies extended to me in your patriotic city,
I am yours in F., C. and L.,
Willard Glazier.
To this the following response was received:
Headquarters, Encampment John A. Andrew,
Post 15, Dept. of Mass., G. A. R.,
Boston, May 12th, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier:
Comrade: In obedience to a vote of this Post, I am pleased to transmit
to you a vote of thanks for the money generously donated by you,
through our Commander, as our quota of the proceeds of your lecture in
this city; and also the best wishes of the comrades of this Post for you
personally, and for the success of your lecture tour from sea to sea.
Yours in F., C. and L.,
Edward F. Rollins,
succeeding morning addressed a letter to the Assistant Adjutant-General,
Department of Massachusetts, Grand Army of the Republic, in the
following words:
Revere House,
Boston, May 9th, 1876.
Captain Charles W. Thompson,
A. A. G. Department of Massachusetts, G. A. R.
Comrade: I take pleasure in handing you the net proceeds of my
lecture delivered at Tremont Temple last night, which I desire to be
divided equally between Posts 7 and 15, G. A. R., of Boston, for the
benefit of our disabled comrades, and the needy and destitute wards of
the "Grand Army." Gratefully acknowledging many favors and
courtesies extended to me in your patriotic city,
I am yours in F., C. and L.,
Willard Glazier.
To this the following response was received:
Headquarters, Encampment John A. Andrew,
Post 15, Dept. of Mass., G. A. R.,
Boston, May 12th, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier:
Comrade: In obedience to a vote of this Post, I am pleased to transmit
to you a vote of thanks for the money generously donated by you,
through our Commander, as our quota of the proceeds of your lecture in
this city; and also the best wishes of the comrades of this Post for you
personally, and for the success of your lecture tour from sea to sea.
Yours in F., C. and L.,
Edward F. Rollins,
Page 376
Adjutant of Post.
We have said the lecture was a success, and as an evidence of the
appreciation by the audience of its subject, and the manner of its delivery,
together with the friendly feeling manifested towards the lecturer, we
adduce the following:
Department of Mass.,
"Grand Army of the Republic."
Boston, June 16th, 1876.
To Captain Willard Glazier:
Dear Sir and Comrade:
The undersigned comrades of "John A. Andrew" Encampment, Post
15, Department of Massachusetts, G. A. R., desire to testify to the
pleasure afforded them by your lecture delivered at Tremont Temple on
May 8th; also, to return their thanks for the liberal donation presented to
this Post; and at the same time to express the hope that you may be
successful in your object and journey.
[Signed.]
Theodore L. Kelly, Thomas Langham.
Commander. J. Henry Brown.
Edward F. Rollins, George W. Powers,
Adjutant. Chaplain.
W. Brooks Frothingham. Robert W. Storer, Q. M. S.
James T. Price. Oliver Downing.
Frank Bowman. James Mclean.
Theodore L. Baker.
William S. Wallingford.
We have said the lecture was a success, and as an evidence of the
appreciation by the audience of its subject, and the manner of its delivery,
together with the friendly feeling manifested towards the lecturer, we
adduce the following:
Department of Mass.,
"Grand Army of the Republic."
Boston, June 16th, 1876.
To Captain Willard Glazier:
Dear Sir and Comrade:
The undersigned comrades of "John A. Andrew" Encampment, Post
15, Department of Massachusetts, G. A. R., desire to testify to the
pleasure afforded them by your lecture delivered at Tremont Temple on
May 8th; also, to return their thanks for the liberal donation presented to
this Post; and at the same time to express the hope that you may be
successful in your object and journey.
[Signed.]
Theodore L. Kelly, Thomas Langham.
Commander. J. Henry Brown.
Edward F. Rollins, George W. Powers,
Adjutant. Chaplain.
W. Brooks Frothingham. Robert W. Storer, Q. M. S.
James T. Price. Oliver Downing.
Frank Bowman. James Mclean.
Theodore L. Baker.
William S. Wallingford.
Page 377
Before proceeding with our account of the journey, let us dwell for a
moment upon the features of the lecture prepared by Willard Glazier for
delivery at Boston. As might have been expected, it was a military-
historical lecture, adapted to the understanding and taste of a mixed and
educated audience, and was written in the same earnest, original, patriotic
and rousing style that characterizes his writings throughout. Some parts of
this lecture, in our opinion, are worthy of comparison with the oratorical
deliverances of eminent and practised lecturers, and that the reader may
judge for himself if the "Echoes of the Revolution" lose aught of their
sonorousness at this distant date, when the reverberation reaches them
through a lecture, we here present an abstract of the opening:
INTRODUCTORY.
"The year 1876 re-echoes the scenes and events of a hundred years ago.
In imagination we make a pilgrimage back to the Revolution. We visit the
fields whereon our ancestors fought for liberty and a Republic. We follow
patriots from Lexington to Yorktown. I see them walking through a baptism
of blood and of fire; their only purpose liberty; their only incentive duty;
their only pride their country; and their only ambition victory. I see them
with Warren and Prescott at Bunker Hill; I see them with Washington at
Valley Forge, hatless, without shoes, half-clad, and often without food;
encamped in fields of snow; patiently enduring the rigors of a northern
winter. I see them pushing their way through the ice of the Delaware. I see
them at Saratoga, at Bennington, at Princeton, and at Monmouth. I follow
Marion and his daring troopers through the swamps of Georgia and the
Carolinas. And, finally, we come to that immortal day at Yorktown, when
Cornwallis surrendered his sword and command to George Washington.
"All the world is familiar with the causes which led to the struggle for
independence in America. We all know the spirit which animated the people
moment upon the features of the lecture prepared by Willard Glazier for
delivery at Boston. As might have been expected, it was a military-
historical lecture, adapted to the understanding and taste of a mixed and
educated audience, and was written in the same earnest, original, patriotic
and rousing style that characterizes his writings throughout. Some parts of
this lecture, in our opinion, are worthy of comparison with the oratorical
deliverances of eminent and practised lecturers, and that the reader may
judge for himself if the "Echoes of the Revolution" lose aught of their
sonorousness at this distant date, when the reverberation reaches them
through a lecture, we here present an abstract of the opening:
INTRODUCTORY.
"The year 1876 re-echoes the scenes and events of a hundred years ago.
In imagination we make a pilgrimage back to the Revolution. We visit the
fields whereon our ancestors fought for liberty and a Republic. We follow
patriots from Lexington to Yorktown. I see them walking through a baptism
of blood and of fire; their only purpose liberty; their only incentive duty;
their only pride their country; and their only ambition victory. I see them
with Warren and Prescott at Bunker Hill; I see them with Washington at
Valley Forge, hatless, without shoes, half-clad, and often without food;
encamped in fields of snow; patiently enduring the rigors of a northern
winter. I see them pushing their way through the ice of the Delaware. I see
them at Saratoga, at Bennington, at Princeton, and at Monmouth. I follow
Marion and his daring troopers through the swamps of Georgia and the
Carolinas. And, finally, we come to that immortal day at Yorktown, when
Cornwallis surrendered his sword and command to George Washington.
"All the world is familiar with the causes which led to the struggle for
independence in America. We all know the spirit which animated the people
Page 378
of the Colonies, from the seizure of Sir Edmond Andross in 1688 to the
destruction of the tea in Boston harbor in 1774. No American is ignorant of
the efforts of John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Joseph Warren, Patrick Henry,
Alexander Hamilton, Paul Revere, and others, at clubs, in newspapers, in
pulpits, in the streets, and in coffee-houses, to guide and prepare the people
for the approaching crisis. All the facts from the beginning to the close of
that memorable conflict are given in school-books, as well as in more
pretentious history. But the immediate cause of the march of the English
troops from Boston to Concord seems to be necessary to a comprehensive
view of the subject.
"On the nineteenth of April, 1775, a handful of the yeomanry of
Massachusetts, obeying a common impulse, came hurriedly together,
confronted a force of English regulars outnumbering them ten to one,
received their fire, were repulsed, and left eighteen of their number dead
and wounded on the green in front of Lexington. On the same day, at
Concord, less than four hundred undisciplined militia met a regiment of the
enemy, fired upon them, put them to flight, and compelled them to retire to
their intrenchments at Boston. It was the first step in that war which gave us
a Republic, and may be classed in history as one of the decisive conflicts of
modern times.
"Lexington and Concord were not the great battles of the Revolution;
they were, in fact, only skirmishes as compared with the more sanguinary
actions; but I dwell upon them as the opening scenes, the starting-points,
where the first shots were fired in an eight years' war against British rule
and British oppression in America....
destruction of the tea in Boston harbor in 1774. No American is ignorant of
the efforts of John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Joseph Warren, Patrick Henry,
Alexander Hamilton, Paul Revere, and others, at clubs, in newspapers, in
pulpits, in the streets, and in coffee-houses, to guide and prepare the people
for the approaching crisis. All the facts from the beginning to the close of
that memorable conflict are given in school-books, as well as in more
pretentious history. But the immediate cause of the march of the English
troops from Boston to Concord seems to be necessary to a comprehensive
view of the subject.
"On the nineteenth of April, 1775, a handful of the yeomanry of
Massachusetts, obeying a common impulse, came hurriedly together,
confronted a force of English regulars outnumbering them ten to one,
received their fire, were repulsed, and left eighteen of their number dead
and wounded on the green in front of Lexington. On the same day, at
Concord, less than four hundred undisciplined militia met a regiment of the
enemy, fired upon them, put them to flight, and compelled them to retire to
their intrenchments at Boston. It was the first step in that war which gave us
a Republic, and may be classed in history as one of the decisive conflicts of
modern times.
"Lexington and Concord were not the great battles of the Revolution;
they were, in fact, only skirmishes as compared with the more sanguinary
actions; but I dwell upon them as the opening scenes, the starting-points,
where the first shots were fired in an eight years' war against British rule
and British oppression in America....
Page 379
JOHN STARK.
"Despair was turned into joy by the telling victories of the Americans at
Trenton and Princeton, and the country began to see that her precious blood
had not been spilled in vain. Just at this juncture of affairs, when it was
necessary to follow up the tide of victory with vigorous work, the term of
enlistment of most of the men expired, and the personal popularity and
influence of the leaders was thus put to the test. Would the men go, or could
they be induced to stay through another term of enlistment before seeking
the respite they desired at their homes? At this critical period, John Stark
made an earnest appeal to his regiment, and every man without exception
re-enlisted for six weeks under the banner of their beloved leader. Then
Stark went to New Hampshire for recruits, and hundreds flocked around his
standard.
"Soon after the surrender of Cornwallis, General Stark returned once
more to his home and farm. He had served his country long and faithfully,
and retired from his protracted period of active service beloved by the
people and full of honors. He lived to be ninety-four years old, and
consequently witnessed the war of 1812.
"He sleeps on the banks of the Merrimac, nor heeds the noisy rush of the
river as it speeds on its mission to the sea. No clash of musketry, no roar of
cannon will ever waken him more from his last deep repose. Men call it
death, but if it be death, it is that of the body only, for his memory still lives
and speaks to us across the years. It bids us be noble and unselfish, and high
of purpose, and grand of aim. Will the oncoming generations who con the
"Despair was turned into joy by the telling victories of the Americans at
Trenton and Princeton, and the country began to see that her precious blood
had not been spilled in vain. Just at this juncture of affairs, when it was
necessary to follow up the tide of victory with vigorous work, the term of
enlistment of most of the men expired, and the personal popularity and
influence of the leaders was thus put to the test. Would the men go, or could
they be induced to stay through another term of enlistment before seeking
the respite they desired at their homes? At this critical period, John Stark
made an earnest appeal to his regiment, and every man without exception
re-enlisted for six weeks under the banner of their beloved leader. Then
Stark went to New Hampshire for recruits, and hundreds flocked around his
standard.
"Soon after the surrender of Cornwallis, General Stark returned once
more to his home and farm. He had served his country long and faithfully,
and retired from his protracted period of active service beloved by the
people and full of honors. He lived to be ninety-four years old, and
consequently witnessed the war of 1812.
"He sleeps on the banks of the Merrimac, nor heeds the noisy rush of the
river as it speeds on its mission to the sea. No clash of musketry, no roar of
cannon will ever waken him more from his last deep repose. Men call it
death, but if it be death, it is that of the body only, for his memory still lives
and speaks to us across the years. It bids us be noble and unselfish, and high
of purpose, and grand of aim. Will the oncoming generations who con the
Page 380
story of the life of John Stark listen to the preaching of such an example in
vain?
PERORATION.
"The surrender of Cornwallis may be considered the closing scene in the
war of the Revolution. The grim spectre of British rule over the American
Colonies vanished like the smoke of battle, while hirelings were trembling
and the patriot was prince. That was indeed a day of triumph—a day of
rejoicing. It was to the patriots the crown of all their efforts. A long, loud,
thrilling shout of joy arose from the victorious band of Washington, and as
the tidings of actual surrender were borne throughout the country, the
people everywhere broke forth in wild huzzahs that echoed and re-echoed
along the plains and among the hills, from the lakes to the gulf, and from
the Atlantic to the mountains. There was joy because there was to be no
more needless sacrifice of life; because the soldier could now exchange the
camp for his home; the implements of war for the implements of industry;
the carnage of battle for the amenities of peace.
"The work for which they buckled on the armor was accomplished. They
did not rush to arms for the love of glory, nor to ward off an imaginary foe.
They came at their country's call, and having achieved her independence,
they were now ready for the pursuits of peace. They even longed for the
coveted seclusion of their homes, and the sweet security of their firesides. I
see them now marshaled for the last time to receive an honorable discharge
from a long campaign, the ensigns of victory everywhere above them, the
air vocal with the benedictions of a grateful people. But on that great day of
final discharge, at the last roll-call, the heroes were not all there to answer
to their names; there were vacant places in the ranks. In the marching and
counter-marching, in the assault and in the defence; in the swamp and in the
prison, mid the fever and the pestilence, the patriots faltered not, but fell as
vain?
PERORATION.
"The surrender of Cornwallis may be considered the closing scene in the
war of the Revolution. The grim spectre of British rule over the American
Colonies vanished like the smoke of battle, while hirelings were trembling
and the patriot was prince. That was indeed a day of triumph—a day of
rejoicing. It was to the patriots the crown of all their efforts. A long, loud,
thrilling shout of joy arose from the victorious band of Washington, and as
the tidings of actual surrender were borne throughout the country, the
people everywhere broke forth in wild huzzahs that echoed and re-echoed
along the plains and among the hills, from the lakes to the gulf, and from
the Atlantic to the mountains. There was joy because there was to be no
more needless sacrifice of life; because the soldier could now exchange the
camp for his home; the implements of war for the implements of industry;
the carnage of battle for the amenities of peace.
"The work for which they buckled on the armor was accomplished. They
did not rush to arms for the love of glory, nor to ward off an imaginary foe.
They came at their country's call, and having achieved her independence,
they were now ready for the pursuits of peace. They even longed for the
coveted seclusion of their homes, and the sweet security of their firesides. I
see them now marshaled for the last time to receive an honorable discharge
from a long campaign, the ensigns of victory everywhere above them, the
air vocal with the benedictions of a grateful people. But on that great day of
final discharge, at the last roll-call, the heroes were not all there to answer
to their names; there were vacant places in the ranks. In the marching and
counter-marching, in the assault and in the defence; in the swamp and in the
prison, mid the fever and the pestilence, the patriots faltered not, but fell as
Page 381
falls the hero, nobly daring, bravely dying, and though dead they are not
forgotten: their works do follow, and will forever live, after them....
"Justice to our heroic ancestors does not forbid reference to the equally
gallant 'Boys in Blue,' who by their invincible valor on the battle-fields of
the Rebellion preserved the unity of the Republic.
"The fight is done, and away in the far horizon the glorious days are
waxing dim. Even now, it is the bearded men who speak of Gettysburg; and
children clasp the knees that marched to Corinth and Chickamauga. Year
after year our soldiers meet to talk of glory; and year by year their ranks
grow thinner, older, grayer; and, by and by, the last survivors of the war for
the Union will sleep with their brothers who fell at Bunker Hill."
The press of Boston were highly commendatory in their notices of the
lecture and its delivery, as will be seen by the following extract from the
Globe:
forgotten: their works do follow, and will forever live, after them....
"Justice to our heroic ancestors does not forbid reference to the equally
gallant 'Boys in Blue,' who by their invincible valor on the battle-fields of
the Rebellion preserved the unity of the Republic.
"The fight is done, and away in the far horizon the glorious days are
waxing dim. Even now, it is the bearded men who speak of Gettysburg; and
children clasp the knees that marched to Corinth and Chickamauga. Year
after year our soldiers meet to talk of glory; and year by year their ranks
grow thinner, older, grayer; and, by and by, the last survivors of the war for
the Union will sleep with their brothers who fell at Bunker Hill."
The press of Boston were highly commendatory in their notices of the
lecture and its delivery, as will be seen by the following extract from the
Globe:
Page 382
"A very fair audience, considering the unfair condition of the
elements, was gathered in Tremont Temple last night, to hear Captain
Glazier's lecture upon 'Echoes from the Revolution.' The frequent
applause of the audience evinced not only a sympathy with the subject,
but an evident liking of the manner in which it was delivered. The
lecture itself was a retrospective view of the leading incidents of the
Revolution. It would have been unfair to expect to hear anything very
new upon a subject with which the veriest school-boy is familiar; but
Captain Glazier wove the events together in a manner which freed the
lecture from that most unpardonable of all faults, which can be
committed upon the platform—dulness. He passed over, in his
consideration of the Revolution, the old scenes up to the time when
Cornwallis surrendered up his sword and command to George
Washington. 'The year 1876,' said Captain Glazier, 're-echoes the scenes
and events of a hundred years ago. In imagination we make a
pilgrimage back to the Revolution. We visit the fields whereon our
ancestors fought for liberty and a republic. We follow patriots from
Lexington to Yorktown. I see them pushing their way through the ice of
the Delaware—I see them at Saratoga, at Bennington, at Princeton, and
at Monmouth. I follow Marion and his daring troopers through the
swamps of Georgia and the Carolinas;' and in following them up, the
lecturer interspersed his exciting narrative with sundry droll episodes.
Treating of the battles of Trenton and Princeton, he expatiated upon the
devoted heroism of John Stark, and briefly traced his career until, at
Bennington, Burgoyne's victor announced to his comrades, 'We must
conquer to-day, my boys, or to-night Molly Stark's a widow.' One battle
after another was handled by the lecturer in a pleasing manner, showing
that he was thoroughly familiar with the subject he had chosen for his
elements, was gathered in Tremont Temple last night, to hear Captain
Glazier's lecture upon 'Echoes from the Revolution.' The frequent
applause of the audience evinced not only a sympathy with the subject,
but an evident liking of the manner in which it was delivered. The
lecture itself was a retrospective view of the leading incidents of the
Revolution. It would have been unfair to expect to hear anything very
new upon a subject with which the veriest school-boy is familiar; but
Captain Glazier wove the events together in a manner which freed the
lecture from that most unpardonable of all faults, which can be
committed upon the platform—dulness. He passed over, in his
consideration of the Revolution, the old scenes up to the time when
Cornwallis surrendered up his sword and command to George
Washington. 'The year 1876,' said Captain Glazier, 're-echoes the scenes
and events of a hundred years ago. In imagination we make a
pilgrimage back to the Revolution. We visit the fields whereon our
ancestors fought for liberty and a republic. We follow patriots from
Lexington to Yorktown. I see them pushing their way through the ice of
the Delaware—I see them at Saratoga, at Bennington, at Princeton, and
at Monmouth. I follow Marion and his daring troopers through the
swamps of Georgia and the Carolinas;' and in following them up, the
lecturer interspersed his exciting narrative with sundry droll episodes.
Treating of the battles of Trenton and Princeton, he expatiated upon the
devoted heroism of John Stark, and briefly traced his career until, at
Bennington, Burgoyne's victor announced to his comrades, 'We must
conquer to-day, my boys, or to-night Molly Stark's a widow.' One battle
after another was handled by the lecturer in a pleasing manner, showing
that he was thoroughly familiar with the subject he had chosen for his
Page 383
theme. After speaking in a most zealous manner of the troops on land,
Captain Glazier remarked: 'Our victories on the ocean during the war of
the Revolution were not less decisive and glorious than those achieved
on land. John Paul Jones and the gallant tars who, under his leadership,
braved the dangers of the deep, and wrested from proud Britain, once
queen of the sea, that illustrious motto which may be seen high on our
banner beside the stars and stripes.'
"Captain Glazier made special mention of the naval engagement
between the Bon Homme Richard and the British man-of-war Serapis,
which took place in September, 1789. He described in glowing words
the fierce nature of that memorable contest, until the captain of the
Serapis, with his own hand, struck the flag of England to the free stars
and stripes of young America. Captain Glazier has elements in him
which, carefully matured and nurtured, will make him successful on the
platform, as he has already proved himself in the fields of literature. He
has a strong and melodious voice, a gentlemanly address, and
unassuming confidence. He was presented to the audience by
Commandant Kelly, of Post 15, 'Grand Army of the Republic,' in a brief
but eloquent speech. Captain Glazier will start on his long ride to San
Francisco, from the Revere House, this morning, at 9.30, and will be
accompanied to Bunker Hill and thence to Brighton, by several
distinguished members of the 'Grand Army,' and other gentlemen, who
wish the captain success on his long journey."
The Boston Post said:
"The lecturer spoke with a soldier's enthusiasm of those stirring
times. In a very eloquent manner he traced the movements of the
Revolutionary heroes from that day in April, 1775, when the
Captain Glazier remarked: 'Our victories on the ocean during the war of
the Revolution were not less decisive and glorious than those achieved
on land. John Paul Jones and the gallant tars who, under his leadership,
braved the dangers of the deep, and wrested from proud Britain, once
queen of the sea, that illustrious motto which may be seen high on our
banner beside the stars and stripes.'
"Captain Glazier made special mention of the naval engagement
between the Bon Homme Richard and the British man-of-war Serapis,
which took place in September, 1789. He described in glowing words
the fierce nature of that memorable contest, until the captain of the
Serapis, with his own hand, struck the flag of England to the free stars
and stripes of young America. Captain Glazier has elements in him
which, carefully matured and nurtured, will make him successful on the
platform, as he has already proved himself in the fields of literature. He
has a strong and melodious voice, a gentlemanly address, and
unassuming confidence. He was presented to the audience by
Commandant Kelly, of Post 15, 'Grand Army of the Republic,' in a brief
but eloquent speech. Captain Glazier will start on his long ride to San
Francisco, from the Revere House, this morning, at 9.30, and will be
accompanied to Bunker Hill and thence to Brighton, by several
distinguished members of the 'Grand Army,' and other gentlemen, who
wish the captain success on his long journey."
The Boston Post said:
"The lecturer spoke with a soldier's enthusiasm of those stirring
times. In a very eloquent manner he traced the movements of the
Revolutionary heroes from that day in April, 1775, when the
Page 384
undisciplined militia at Concord put the red-coats to flight and forced
them to retire to their entrenchments at Boston, onward through the
various battles to the surrender of Cornwallis. The different acts passed
in rapid succession before the audience, and were enlivened with
interesting details. In touching upon the different battles, the lecturer
descanted upon the more eminent individuals whom the fate of war and
opportunity brought to the front, and enshrined forever in the gallery of
patriots. Bunker Hill came in for especial notice, where 'many brave and
noble men gave up their lives.' ...
"Captain Glazier was frequently and loudly applauded during the
delivery of his lecture. His voice is rich and powerful, his intonation
accurate, and his general manner could not help imparting interest to the
stirring deeds which he so graphically delineated."
them to retire to their entrenchments at Boston, onward through the
various battles to the surrender of Cornwallis. The different acts passed
in rapid succession before the audience, and were enlivened with
interesting details. In touching upon the different battles, the lecturer
descanted upon the more eminent individuals whom the fate of war and
opportunity brought to the front, and enshrined forever in the gallery of
patriots. Bunker Hill came in for especial notice, where 'many brave and
noble men gave up their lives.' ...
"Captain Glazier was frequently and loudly applauded during the
delivery of his lecture. His voice is rich and powerful, his intonation
accurate, and his general manner could not help imparting interest to the
stirring deeds which he so graphically delineated."
Page 385
CHAPTER XXXII.
FROM BOSTON TO CHICAGO.
In the saddle. — Bunker Hill. — Arrives in Albany. — Reminiscences. — The Soldiers' Home. —
Contributions for erecting Soldiers' Home. — Reception at Rochester. — Buffalo. — Dunkirk.
— Swanville. — Cleveland. — Massacre of General Custer. — Monroe. — Lectures for
Custer Monument. — Father of General Custer. — Detroit. — Kalamazoo. — An adventure.
— Gives "Paul Revere" a rest. — Decatur. — Niles. — Michigan City. — Chicago.
From a journal kept by Captain Glazier during his horseback ride from
ocean to ocean, we shall gather most of the incidents of his journey—a
journey, so far as we are aware, without any precedent, and having for its
sole object the acquirement of knowledge. His intention was to lecture in
the leading cities and villages through which he passed, in the interest of the
relief fund of the "Grand Army of the Republic," to which order he was
greatly attached.
The Boston Globe of May ninth, 1876, contained the following brief
notice:
"Boston to San Francisco.—Captain Willard Glazier started from
the Revere House this morning at eleven o'clock, on horseback, for San
Francisco. Quite a gathering of his friends and comrades of the 'Grand
Army' were present to wish him God-speed. He was escorted by
Colonel John F. Finley and E. A. Williston, who were mounted; and
Adjutant-General Charles W. Thompson, Department of Massachusetts,
'G. A. R.;' Commander Theo. L. Kelly, of Post 15; Adjutant Grafton
FROM BOSTON TO CHICAGO.
In the saddle. — Bunker Hill. — Arrives in Albany. — Reminiscences. — The Soldiers' Home. —
Contributions for erecting Soldiers' Home. — Reception at Rochester. — Buffalo. — Dunkirk.
— Swanville. — Cleveland. — Massacre of General Custer. — Monroe. — Lectures for
Custer Monument. — Father of General Custer. — Detroit. — Kalamazoo. — An adventure.
— Gives "Paul Revere" a rest. — Decatur. — Niles. — Michigan City. — Chicago.
From a journal kept by Captain Glazier during his horseback ride from
ocean to ocean, we shall gather most of the incidents of his journey—a
journey, so far as we are aware, without any precedent, and having for its
sole object the acquirement of knowledge. His intention was to lecture in
the leading cities and villages through which he passed, in the interest of the
relief fund of the "Grand Army of the Republic," to which order he was
greatly attached.
The Boston Globe of May ninth, 1876, contained the following brief
notice:
"Boston to San Francisco.—Captain Willard Glazier started from
the Revere House this morning at eleven o'clock, on horseback, for San
Francisco. Quite a gathering of his friends and comrades of the 'Grand
Army' were present to wish him God-speed. He was escorted by
Colonel John F. Finley and E. A. Williston, who were mounted; and
Adjutant-General Charles W. Thompson, Department of Massachusetts,
'G. A. R.;' Commander Theo. L. Kelly, of Post 15; Adjutant Grafton
Page 386
Fenno, of Post 7, and many others in carriages, who will accompany
him to Bunker Hill and thence to Brighton."
OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK—RIDING OUT OF BOSTON.
The Captain's horse, which he had named "Paul Revere," was a noble
creature, black as jet, of good pedigree, and possessing, in no slight
measure, the sterling qualities of endurance, pace, and fidelity, albeit
occasionally somewhat restive and wilful.
On leaving the "Revere," the party referred to in the above notice
proceeded to Bunker Hill, gazed reverentially at the monument
commemorating the famous battle, and then headed for Brighton. The short
journey had been rendered comfortless by a continuous downfall of rain,
and when the friends halted at the Cattle-Fair Hotel for dinner, they were all
more or less drenched to the skin.
Much cordial interest was manifested in the work the captain had
undertaken and the motives that actuated him; and at length, taking leave of
his friendly escort, he pushed forward through Worcester, Springfield,
him to Bunker Hill and thence to Brighton."
OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK—RIDING OUT OF BOSTON.
The Captain's horse, which he had named "Paul Revere," was a noble
creature, black as jet, of good pedigree, and possessing, in no slight
measure, the sterling qualities of endurance, pace, and fidelity, albeit
occasionally somewhat restive and wilful.
On leaving the "Revere," the party referred to in the above notice
proceeded to Bunker Hill, gazed reverentially at the monument
commemorating the famous battle, and then headed for Brighton. The short
journey had been rendered comfortless by a continuous downfall of rain,
and when the friends halted at the Cattle-Fair Hotel for dinner, they were all
more or less drenched to the skin.
Much cordial interest was manifested in the work the captain had
undertaken and the motives that actuated him; and at length, taking leave of
his friendly escort, he pushed forward through Worcester, Springfield,
Page 387
Pittsfield, Nassau, and on to Albany, covering a distance of two hundred
miles. At Beckett he found "Paul's" back becoming sore, and as a good rider
is always humane to his horse, he removed the saddle, washed the abrasion
with cold water, and before resuming his journey put a blanket under the
saddle-cloth, which kindly care afforded "Paul" considerable relief. At
Pittsfield, Glazier delivered his fourth lecture in the Academy of Music,
being introduced to his audience by Captain Brewster, Commander of the
Pittsfield Post, "Grand Army of the Republic."
His journey from Pittsfield was by the Boston and Albany Turnpike, over
the Pittsfield Mountain, passing the residence of Honorable Samuel J.
Tilden, then Governor of New York, and a candidate for the Presidency.
Starting from Nassau at eleven o'clock, he reached the old Barringer
Homestead soon after. It was with this family that he had spent his first
night in Rensselaer County, sixteen years before, when looking for a school
to teach, and he could not resist the temptation to stop a few minutes at
Brockway's, where he had boarded the first week after entering the school
at Schodack Centre as a teacher. At the hotel he found Mrs. Lewis, the
landlady, awaiting his approach, as she had been told he would pass that
way. He also halted for a moment at his old school-house, where he found
Miss Libby Brockway, one of the youngest of his old scholars, teaching the
school. "Thoughts of Rip Van Winkle," he says, "flitted across my
imagination as I contrasted the past with the present."
On the eighteenth of May Captain Glazier reached the fine old city of
Albany, capital of his native State, and in the evening of the same day
delivered his fifth lecture at Tweddle Hall.
Thrilling memories awaited him in Albany. Here, in 1859, he entered the
State Normal School. It was here his patriotism was aroused by intelligence
of the firing upon Fort Sumter, and he at once formed the resolution to enter
miles. At Beckett he found "Paul's" back becoming sore, and as a good rider
is always humane to his horse, he removed the saddle, washed the abrasion
with cold water, and before resuming his journey put a blanket under the
saddle-cloth, which kindly care afforded "Paul" considerable relief. At
Pittsfield, Glazier delivered his fourth lecture in the Academy of Music,
being introduced to his audience by Captain Brewster, Commander of the
Pittsfield Post, "Grand Army of the Republic."
His journey from Pittsfield was by the Boston and Albany Turnpike, over
the Pittsfield Mountain, passing the residence of Honorable Samuel J.
Tilden, then Governor of New York, and a candidate for the Presidency.
Starting from Nassau at eleven o'clock, he reached the old Barringer
Homestead soon after. It was with this family that he had spent his first
night in Rensselaer County, sixteen years before, when looking for a school
to teach, and he could not resist the temptation to stop a few minutes at
Brockway's, where he had boarded the first week after entering the school
at Schodack Centre as a teacher. At the hotel he found Mrs. Lewis, the
landlady, awaiting his approach, as she had been told he would pass that
way. He also halted for a moment at his old school-house, where he found
Miss Libby Brockway, one of the youngest of his old scholars, teaching the
school. "Thoughts of Rip Van Winkle," he says, "flitted across my
imagination as I contrasted the past with the present."
On the eighteenth of May Captain Glazier reached the fine old city of
Albany, capital of his native State, and in the evening of the same day
delivered his fifth lecture at Tweddle Hall.
Thrilling memories awaited him in Albany. Here, in 1859, he entered the
State Normal School. It was here his patriotism was aroused by intelligence
of the firing upon Fort Sumter, and he at once formed the resolution to enter
Page 388
the army in defence of the Union; and it was in Albany that the first edition
of his first book saw the light through the press of Joel Munsell, in the
autumn of 1865. Here, it may be said, his career in life commenced, when,
leaving his country home in Northern New York, he entered the Normal
School.
The erection of a Soldiers' Home having been recently projected, Glazier
called on the adjutant-general at the State House, in relation to his lecturing
in the interest of the fund for that purpose. Colonel Taylor, assistant
adjutant-general, whom he had known for some years, presented him to
General Townsend, and he was recommended to see and consult with
Captain John Palmer, Past Grand Commander of the State, G. A. R.
Nothing can better prove the disinterested motives and objects of Willard
Glazier in undertaking his long and tedious journey on horseback, than the
numerous voluntary offerings he made to certain military organizations
whose claims so forcibly presented themselves to him. This was simply
characteristic of him. He has never valued money but for the practical uses
to which it may be applied in the amelioration of the condition of others.
Simple in his habits, and unostentatious in his mode of life—indulging in
no luxuries—he has managed by sheer hard work to accumulate a fair
fortune, which is of value to him only so far as he can do good with it—first
to those having the strongest domestic claims upon him, and secondly, to
his comrades of the camp and the battle-field.
The following letters will explain themselves:
Delavan House,
Albany, May 28th, 1876.
Captain John Palmer, Past Grand Commander,
Department of New York, G. A. R.
of his first book saw the light through the press of Joel Munsell, in the
autumn of 1865. Here, it may be said, his career in life commenced, when,
leaving his country home in Northern New York, he entered the Normal
School.
The erection of a Soldiers' Home having been recently projected, Glazier
called on the adjutant-general at the State House, in relation to his lecturing
in the interest of the fund for that purpose. Colonel Taylor, assistant
adjutant-general, whom he had known for some years, presented him to
General Townsend, and he was recommended to see and consult with
Captain John Palmer, Past Grand Commander of the State, G. A. R.
Nothing can better prove the disinterested motives and objects of Willard
Glazier in undertaking his long and tedious journey on horseback, than the
numerous voluntary offerings he made to certain military organizations
whose claims so forcibly presented themselves to him. This was simply
characteristic of him. He has never valued money but for the practical uses
to which it may be applied in the amelioration of the condition of others.
Simple in his habits, and unostentatious in his mode of life—indulging in
no luxuries—he has managed by sheer hard work to accumulate a fair
fortune, which is of value to him only so far as he can do good with it—first
to those having the strongest domestic claims upon him, and secondly, to
his comrades of the camp and the battle-field.
The following letters will explain themselves:
Delavan House,
Albany, May 28th, 1876.
Captain John Palmer, Past Grand Commander,
Department of New York, G. A. R.
Page 389
Dear Sir and Comrade: I feel great pleasure in handing you
herewith, forty dollars, which I wish to be applied to the fund for the
erection of a Soldiers' Home, as lately proposed by our comrades at
Brooklyn. Should it be your pleasure to endorse my lecture tour across
the State, I feel confident that I could raise from five hundred to a
thousand dollars for this most worthy object. Pledging my best efforts in
the work, which I hope I need scarcely add, enlists my warmest
sympathies, I have the honor to remain,
Yours in F., C. and L.,
Willard Glazier.
Captain Palmer, in acknowledging the donation, wrote as follows:
Headquarters Department of New York,
"Grand Army of the Republic,"
Albany, May 31st, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier:
Comrade: Your gift of forty dollars to the fund for the erection of the
"Soldiers' Home" is duly received, and the same has been forwarded to
Captain E. O. Parkinson, Chairman Soldiers' Home Committee,
Brooklyn, New York, for which accept my thanks.
Very truly yours, in F., C. and L.,
John Palmer,
Department Commander.
On the twenty-second of May, "'Paul' being in good condition and the
best of spirits," our soldier-author started for Schenectady, paying his
respects to Captain Palmer on his way up Washington Avenue. Schenectady
was reached at four o'clock p. m. through frequent showers of rain. Putting
up at Gwinn's Hotel he delivered his lecture at Union Hall at the usual hour
in the evening, to a fair audience, notwithstanding the rain.
herewith, forty dollars, which I wish to be applied to the fund for the
erection of a Soldiers' Home, as lately proposed by our comrades at
Brooklyn. Should it be your pleasure to endorse my lecture tour across
the State, I feel confident that I could raise from five hundred to a
thousand dollars for this most worthy object. Pledging my best efforts in
the work, which I hope I need scarcely add, enlists my warmest
sympathies, I have the honor to remain,
Yours in F., C. and L.,
Willard Glazier.
Captain Palmer, in acknowledging the donation, wrote as follows:
Headquarters Department of New York,
"Grand Army of the Republic,"
Albany, May 31st, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier:
Comrade: Your gift of forty dollars to the fund for the erection of the
"Soldiers' Home" is duly received, and the same has been forwarded to
Captain E. O. Parkinson, Chairman Soldiers' Home Committee,
Brooklyn, New York, for which accept my thanks.
Very truly yours, in F., C. and L.,
John Palmer,
Department Commander.
On the twenty-second of May, "'Paul' being in good condition and the
best of spirits," our soldier-author started for Schenectady, paying his
respects to Captain Palmer on his way up Washington Avenue. Schenectady
was reached at four o'clock p. m. through frequent showers of rain. Putting
up at Gwinn's Hotel he delivered his lecture at Union Hall at the usual hour
in the evening, to a fair audience, notwithstanding the rain.
Page 390
The Schenectady Union had heralded his approach by the following
notice:
"Captain Glazier.—This noted soldier, author, rider, and raider, who
raided during the war with General Kilpatrick, will advance upon this
place next Monday, and in the evening lecture upon 'Echoes from the
Revolution.' Captain Glazier is a member of the 'Grand Army' in good
standing, and will be assisted here by the members of Post 14, with
whom he will divide the profits of the lecture. The Captain was an
inmate of Libby Prison at one time during the war, and finally made his
escape to the Union lines. The book entitled 'Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape,' and several other war books, were produced by him."
Reaching Fonda, May twenty-sixth, we find the following entry in his
Journal: "Scenery charming. I saw nothing in Massachusetts equal to the
Valley of the Mohawk, and am surprised that novelist and poet have not
found more material here for legendary romance."
Passing through St. Johnsville, Little Falls, Utica, and Rome—where he
met a large number of his "Grand Army" comrades, and was introduced to
Hon. H. J. Coggeshall, Colonel G. A. Cantine, Hon. W. T. Bliss, and many
others—he arrived in Syracuse June second, registered at the Vanderbilt
House, and lectured at Shakespere Hall in the evening. Rochester was
reached on the eighth, where the tenth lecture was delivered to an
appreciative audience in Corinthian Hall—the introduction being made by
Colonel Reynolds. The Rochester Democrat noticed the lecture in the
following paragraph:
"A very large audience assembled at Corinthian Hall last evening to
listen to Captain Willard Glazier's lecture on 'Echoes from the
Revolution.' The lecture was a very interesting one, and the audience
notice:
"Captain Glazier.—This noted soldier, author, rider, and raider, who
raided during the war with General Kilpatrick, will advance upon this
place next Monday, and in the evening lecture upon 'Echoes from the
Revolution.' Captain Glazier is a member of the 'Grand Army' in good
standing, and will be assisted here by the members of Post 14, with
whom he will divide the profits of the lecture. The Captain was an
inmate of Libby Prison at one time during the war, and finally made his
escape to the Union lines. The book entitled 'Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape,' and several other war books, were produced by him."
Reaching Fonda, May twenty-sixth, we find the following entry in his
Journal: "Scenery charming. I saw nothing in Massachusetts equal to the
Valley of the Mohawk, and am surprised that novelist and poet have not
found more material here for legendary romance."
Passing through St. Johnsville, Little Falls, Utica, and Rome—where he
met a large number of his "Grand Army" comrades, and was introduced to
Hon. H. J. Coggeshall, Colonel G. A. Cantine, Hon. W. T. Bliss, and many
others—he arrived in Syracuse June second, registered at the Vanderbilt
House, and lectured at Shakespere Hall in the evening. Rochester was
reached on the eighth, where the tenth lecture was delivered to an
appreciative audience in Corinthian Hall—the introduction being made by
Colonel Reynolds. The Rochester Democrat noticed the lecture in the
following paragraph:
"A very large audience assembled at Corinthian Hall last evening to
listen to Captain Willard Glazier's lecture on 'Echoes from the
Revolution.' The lecture was a very interesting one, and the audience
Page 391
were agreeably entertained. Captain Glazier proposes to go to Batavia,
and from thence to Buffalo. He is meeting with deserved success in his
journey on horseback from ocean to ocean, which increases as he
becomes better known."
It may here be remarked that during Captain Glazier's stay in Rochester,
an exception was made to the usually courteous reception given him by the
local press. One of the papers threw doubts on the genuineness of his
credentials and the rectitude of his motives. This, however, had little effect
on him. He was conscious of his own integrity of purpose, and of being
guided by a desire to do good while seeking knowledge and recreation in
his own way, and the only notice we find of the circumstance in his Journal
is in a few words under date of June eleventh: "Was pleased with an article
in the Express, contradicting falsehoods in the Union."
The following is the article referred to:
"On Friday our evening contemporary took occasion to treat Captain
Willard Glazier, who lectured in Corinthian Hall the night previous,
with a degree of contempt and misrepresentation suggestive of
Confederate sympathies on the part of the writer. As to the methods of
Captain Glazier's business we have nothing to do. As a man and a
soldier, he is above reproach. We have examined the original
documentary testimonials to his military character, and no man could be
better endorsed. That he has devoted himself since the war to illustrate
the war of the rebellion in books and upon the rostrum is to his credit,
and certainly to the benefit of the people whose patriotism he keeps
alive by his appeals with pen and tongue. Doubt was cast upon his
services on account of his youth. But the fact stands that Willard Glazier
was a captain of cavalry at the age of eighteen, certainly a higher record
and from thence to Buffalo. He is meeting with deserved success in his
journey on horseback from ocean to ocean, which increases as he
becomes better known."
It may here be remarked that during Captain Glazier's stay in Rochester,
an exception was made to the usually courteous reception given him by the
local press. One of the papers threw doubts on the genuineness of his
credentials and the rectitude of his motives. This, however, had little effect
on him. He was conscious of his own integrity of purpose, and of being
guided by a desire to do good while seeking knowledge and recreation in
his own way, and the only notice we find of the circumstance in his Journal
is in a few words under date of June eleventh: "Was pleased with an article
in the Express, contradicting falsehoods in the Union."
The following is the article referred to:
"On Friday our evening contemporary took occasion to treat Captain
Willard Glazier, who lectured in Corinthian Hall the night previous,
with a degree of contempt and misrepresentation suggestive of
Confederate sympathies on the part of the writer. As to the methods of
Captain Glazier's business we have nothing to do. As a man and a
soldier, he is above reproach. We have examined the original
documentary testimonials to his military character, and no man could be
better endorsed. That he has devoted himself since the war to illustrate
the war of the rebellion in books and upon the rostrum is to his credit,
and certainly to the benefit of the people whose patriotism he keeps
alive by his appeals with pen and tongue. Doubt was cast upon his
services on account of his youth. But the fact stands that Willard Glazier
was a captain of cavalry at the age of eighteen, certainly a higher record
Page 392
than that of a stay-at-home Copperhead. He performed his duty, was
honorably discharged, and is a member in good standing of that noble
organization of veterans, the 'Grand Army of the Republic.' We trust that
when Captain Glazier comes again to Rochester, he will have better
treatment and a still better audience. His trip across the continent will
result in the public's having a record of observations which cannot fail
to be valuable and entertaining."
Batavia, Croft's Station, Crittenden and Lancaster were passed through,
the usual courtesies tendered and accepted, lectures delivered with
unvarying success, and the city of Buffalo reached on the morning of the
nineteenth of June.
With a soldier's instinct, Glazier halted here at the parade-ground, and
witnessed the drill of the militia. He then located himself at No. 34 Oak
Street, where he was visited by many comrades of the "Grand Army" and
other prominent citizens of Buffalo. Arrangements having been made, he
lectured to a full house at St. James Hall, being introduced to the audience
by Major John M. Farquhar. The following endorsement had appeared in
the Buffalo Express the day preceding his arrival in the city, signed by
prominent members of the "Grand Army of the Republic:"
Buffalo, New York,
June 18th, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier served his country with great credit in the
Harris Light Cavalry. He was a brave soldier and has a splendid army
record. His numerous works upon army life, recording his personal
experiences on the battle-field, in camp and in prison, are exceedingly
interesting and of a highly patriotic character; they are universally
commended by the press and by men of army experience.
honorably discharged, and is a member in good standing of that noble
organization of veterans, the 'Grand Army of the Republic.' We trust that
when Captain Glazier comes again to Rochester, he will have better
treatment and a still better audience. His trip across the continent will
result in the public's having a record of observations which cannot fail
to be valuable and entertaining."
Batavia, Croft's Station, Crittenden and Lancaster were passed through,
the usual courtesies tendered and accepted, lectures delivered with
unvarying success, and the city of Buffalo reached on the morning of the
nineteenth of June.
With a soldier's instinct, Glazier halted here at the parade-ground, and
witnessed the drill of the militia. He then located himself at No. 34 Oak
Street, where he was visited by many comrades of the "Grand Army" and
other prominent citizens of Buffalo. Arrangements having been made, he
lectured to a full house at St. James Hall, being introduced to the audience
by Major John M. Farquhar. The following endorsement had appeared in
the Buffalo Express the day preceding his arrival in the city, signed by
prominent members of the "Grand Army of the Republic:"
Buffalo, New York,
June 18th, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier served his country with great credit in the
Harris Light Cavalry. He was a brave soldier and has a splendid army
record. His numerous works upon army life, recording his personal
experiences on the battle-field, in camp and in prison, are exceedingly
interesting and of a highly patriotic character; they are universally
commended by the press and by men of army experience.
Page 393
He is highly endorsed as a member in good standing of the "Grand
Army of the Republic," and as a lecturer.
The object of his lectures being to add to the fund for a Soldiers'
Home in this State, we most cheerfully commend him to the people of
this city, and earnestly hope he will receive a liberal patronage, and
have a full house at St. James Hall on Monday evening, the nineteenth
of June.
[Signed]
George N. Brown, William F. Rogers,
George W. Flynn, G. L. Remington,
John B. Weber, John M. Farquhar,
James N. Mcarthur, Charles B. Dunning,
G. A. Scroggs, Alfred Lytle,
P. J. Ripont, John A. Franke,
Richard Flash.
The lecture was a success, and the usual offering of the proceeds made to
the fund of the Soldiers' Home.
"Paul" was ordered at eight o'clock the following morning, and, again in
the saddle, Glazier proceeded at a walk to North Evans, distant from
Buffalo fifteen miles. His road laid along the banks of Lake Erie, a
circumstance which he notes in his diary as one of the events of his journey,
the beauty of the scenery, and fresh, cool air from the lake being
exceedingly pleasant and grateful on a hot day in June. He rode "Paul"
down to the beach and into the water up to his girths.
June twenty-fourth, we find the following entry:
"My journey from North Evans to Angola has been unusually pleasant. I
could see the lake, and feel its cool refreshing influence nearly the whole
Army of the Republic," and as a lecturer.
The object of his lectures being to add to the fund for a Soldiers'
Home in this State, we most cheerfully commend him to the people of
this city, and earnestly hope he will receive a liberal patronage, and
have a full house at St. James Hall on Monday evening, the nineteenth
of June.
[Signed]
George N. Brown, William F. Rogers,
George W. Flynn, G. L. Remington,
John B. Weber, John M. Farquhar,
James N. Mcarthur, Charles B. Dunning,
G. A. Scroggs, Alfred Lytle,
P. J. Ripont, John A. Franke,
Richard Flash.
The lecture was a success, and the usual offering of the proceeds made to
the fund of the Soldiers' Home.
"Paul" was ordered at eight o'clock the following morning, and, again in
the saddle, Glazier proceeded at a walk to North Evans, distant from
Buffalo fifteen miles. His road laid along the banks of Lake Erie, a
circumstance which he notes in his diary as one of the events of his journey,
the beauty of the scenery, and fresh, cool air from the lake being
exceedingly pleasant and grateful on a hot day in June. He rode "Paul"
down to the beach and into the water up to his girths.
June twenty-fourth, we find the following entry:
"My journey from North Evans to Angola has been unusually pleasant. I
could see the lake, and feel its cool refreshing influence nearly the whole
Page 394
distance."
Angola is situated on the Lake Shore Railroad, about three-quarters of a
mile from Lake Erie. Here Mr. J. S. Parker, formerly of Malone, New York,
called upon him on business connected with the lecture, and in the course of
conversation, Captain Glazier discovered that his visitor knew many of his
old neighbors and acquaintances in Northern New York. The events of his
early years along the banks of the Oswegatchie were discussed with much
interest, and it doubtless formed a pleasing episode of his journey. The
lecture was delivered with satisfactory results, at the regular hour, in a
building that had once been a church, but was now used as the Town Hall,
and the introduction made by Leroy S. Oatman.
Dunkirk was reached June twenty-fifth, by way of the Buffalo Road. The
beautiful lake, which had been very near the road from Buffalo to Angola,
was now seldom seen, but the haying season had commenced, and the
captain's love of nature was now gratified by the lively spectacle of the
mowers and hay-makers—men, women and children at work in the fields as
he rode past. Putting up at the Eastern Hotel, he was ready to deliver his
lecture in the evening, and at Columbus Hall was introduced to a
respectable audience by the Rev. J. A. Kummer, pastor of the Methodist
church of Dunkirk. The following day being Sunday, he attended divine
service at the Rev. Mr. Kummer's church.
Before leaving Dunkirk the following testimonial was handed him:
Dunkirk, New York,
June 25th, 1876.
Captain Glazier:
We desire to express to you our warm appreciation of your highly
instructive and most entertaining lecture delivered here this evening. We
trust success beyond your most sanguine expectations will attend you in
Angola is situated on the Lake Shore Railroad, about three-quarters of a
mile from Lake Erie. Here Mr. J. S. Parker, formerly of Malone, New York,
called upon him on business connected with the lecture, and in the course of
conversation, Captain Glazier discovered that his visitor knew many of his
old neighbors and acquaintances in Northern New York. The events of his
early years along the banks of the Oswegatchie were discussed with much
interest, and it doubtless formed a pleasing episode of his journey. The
lecture was delivered with satisfactory results, at the regular hour, in a
building that had once been a church, but was now used as the Town Hall,
and the introduction made by Leroy S. Oatman.
Dunkirk was reached June twenty-fifth, by way of the Buffalo Road. The
beautiful lake, which had been very near the road from Buffalo to Angola,
was now seldom seen, but the haying season had commenced, and the
captain's love of nature was now gratified by the lively spectacle of the
mowers and hay-makers—men, women and children at work in the fields as
he rode past. Putting up at the Eastern Hotel, he was ready to deliver his
lecture in the evening, and at Columbus Hall was introduced to a
respectable audience by the Rev. J. A. Kummer, pastor of the Methodist
church of Dunkirk. The following day being Sunday, he attended divine
service at the Rev. Mr. Kummer's church.
Before leaving Dunkirk the following testimonial was handed him:
Dunkirk, New York,
June 25th, 1876.
Captain Glazier:
We desire to express to you our warm appreciation of your highly
instructive and most entertaining lecture delivered here this evening. We
trust success beyond your most sanguine expectations will attend you in
Page 395
your journey; and we cheerfully recommend you and your lecture to
any and all whom our endorsement might influence.
[Signed]
J. M. McWharf, M. D.,
J. A. Kummer, Pastor,
P. B. Morrell.
Dunkirk, with its pleasant associations, was left June twenty-seventh,
and, continuing along the Buffalo Road, our cavalier stopped for dinner at
Silver Creek. Here he found the farmers of Chautauqua County largely
engaged in the cultivation of fruit and grain. The flourishing vineyards near
Fredonia had also arrested his attention, giving promise of the extensive
cultivation of the grape which has since marked this locality. At Westfield
he lectured in the Metropolitan Hall, being introduced by George Wilson,
Esq., and on the following day passed through a fine fruit and grain region,
stopping at a village named State Line for dinner. Here he had some trouble
in finding the landlord of the caravansary, who, combining the business of
"mine host" with that of a farmer, was at the time some distance away,
industriously employed at hoeing corn.
At five o'clock p. m., Captain Glazier reached the flourishing little town
of North East, where he found a large crowd of people in front of the
Haynes House awaiting his arrival. He was taken by surprise when told that
he had been announced to deliver a lecture there that evening. The band of
the place escorted him to the "Hall," and, taking position in front of the
audience, played "Hail Columbia" before, and "The Sword of Bunker Hill"
after the lecture. This was a voluntary and quite an unexpected compliment
to Captain Glazier, who was sensibly affected by it. The "Hall" was so
crowded that many were compelled to stand throughout the lecture, and if
any and all whom our endorsement might influence.
[Signed]
J. M. McWharf, M. D.,
J. A. Kummer, Pastor,
P. B. Morrell.
Dunkirk, with its pleasant associations, was left June twenty-seventh,
and, continuing along the Buffalo Road, our cavalier stopped for dinner at
Silver Creek. Here he found the farmers of Chautauqua County largely
engaged in the cultivation of fruit and grain. The flourishing vineyards near
Fredonia had also arrested his attention, giving promise of the extensive
cultivation of the grape which has since marked this locality. At Westfield
he lectured in the Metropolitan Hall, being introduced by George Wilson,
Esq., and on the following day passed through a fine fruit and grain region,
stopping at a village named State Line for dinner. Here he had some trouble
in finding the landlord of the caravansary, who, combining the business of
"mine host" with that of a farmer, was at the time some distance away,
industriously employed at hoeing corn.
At five o'clock p. m., Captain Glazier reached the flourishing little town
of North East, where he found a large crowd of people in front of the
Haynes House awaiting his arrival. He was taken by surprise when told that
he had been announced to deliver a lecture there that evening. The band of
the place escorted him to the "Hall," and, taking position in front of the
audience, played "Hail Columbia" before, and "The Sword of Bunker Hill"
after the lecture. This was a voluntary and quite an unexpected compliment
to Captain Glazier, who was sensibly affected by it. The "Hall" was so
crowded that many were compelled to stand throughout the lecture, and if
Page 396
applause is any evidence of the satisfaction of the applauders, he might
fairly consider his effort to entertain the "North Easters" a decided success.
Captain Bronson Orton introduced him to this audience, a gentleman who,
although now in the peaceful practice of the law, had been with Sherman's
army in its memorable march through Georgia.
Arrived at Erie, Pennsylvania, June twenty-ninth, Captain Glazier was
cordially welcomed by Colonel F. H. Ellsworth, proprietor of the Reed
House, who showed him many attentions while his guest. The lecture was
delivered to a full house at the Academy of Music, the introduction being
made by Hon. C. B. Carter.
At Swanville he became the guest of John Jacob Swan, an old and
worthy resident, after whom the village had been named. Everything was
done for his comfort by the Swan family, of which we find some pleasant
reminiscences noted in the Journal. Mr. Swan's son, Andrew, was a
lieutenant-colonel of cavalry during the civil war, and the patriarch himself
had participated in the war of 1812. "Mr. Swan was one of the first settlers
in Erie County," Captain Glazier notes, "and although more than fifty years
have passed, this old veteran still remembers distinctly, and describes
minutely, the scenes and events of his former life. He saw the first steamer
launched on Lake Erie, and says it was regarded by the Indians as an evil
omen: they styled it 'the devil's canoe,' were greatly frightened, and ran
from the lake.... Took a stroll with Mr. Swan over his farm. He found great
pleasure in showing me the wonderful changes which a half century has
wrought upon his estate."
Taking leave of this amiable family, he left for Girard, and found P. J.
Farrington, his advance agent, awaiting him at the Central House. At the
lecture in the evening he was introduced by Jacob Bender, Esq., a brass
band adding to the entertainment, and afterwards serenading him at his
fairly consider his effort to entertain the "North Easters" a decided success.
Captain Bronson Orton introduced him to this audience, a gentleman who,
although now in the peaceful practice of the law, had been with Sherman's
army in its memorable march through Georgia.
Arrived at Erie, Pennsylvania, June twenty-ninth, Captain Glazier was
cordially welcomed by Colonel F. H. Ellsworth, proprietor of the Reed
House, who showed him many attentions while his guest. The lecture was
delivered to a full house at the Academy of Music, the introduction being
made by Hon. C. B. Carter.
At Swanville he became the guest of John Jacob Swan, an old and
worthy resident, after whom the village had been named. Everything was
done for his comfort by the Swan family, of which we find some pleasant
reminiscences noted in the Journal. Mr. Swan's son, Andrew, was a
lieutenant-colonel of cavalry during the civil war, and the patriarch himself
had participated in the war of 1812. "Mr. Swan was one of the first settlers
in Erie County," Captain Glazier notes, "and although more than fifty years
have passed, this old veteran still remembers distinctly, and describes
minutely, the scenes and events of his former life. He saw the first steamer
launched on Lake Erie, and says it was regarded by the Indians as an evil
omen: they styled it 'the devil's canoe,' were greatly frightened, and ran
from the lake.... Took a stroll with Mr. Swan over his farm. He found great
pleasure in showing me the wonderful changes which a half century has
wrought upon his estate."
Taking leave of this amiable family, he left for Girard, and found P. J.
Farrington, his advance agent, awaiting him at the Central House. At the
lecture in the evening he was introduced by Jacob Bender, Esq., a brass
band adding to the entertainment, and afterwards serenading him at his
Page 397
hotel. The Girard Cosmopolite came out on the next morning with the
following notice of the lecture:
"Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author and lecturer, now on a
journey on horseback from Boston to San Francisco, reached this place
on Saturday evening, and delivered his lecture, 'Echoes from the
Revolution,' to a highly respectable audience, at Philharmonic Hall. He
speaks with a soldier's enthusiasm of those stirring times when our
forefathers 'walked through a baptism of blood and of fire, their only
purpose liberty; their only incentive duty; their only pride their country;
and their only ambition victory.' He traces, in a very eloquent manner,
the movements of the Revolutionary heroes from that day in April,
1775, when the undisciplined militia at Concord put the red-coats to
flight and forced them to retire to their intrenchments at Boston, onward
to the surrender of Cornwallis to Washington.... We are credibly
informed that one of the chief objects of Captain Glazier's journey is to
make observations and collect material for another book, which will no
doubt be a very interesting one to read, and will add still greater honors
to one who, though still a young man, has already acquired an enviable
reputation as an author. After a very cordial shake of the hand from
some comrades and citizens, the captain left the Central Hotel on his
fine black horse, 'Paul Revere,' which has brought him safely thus far
from Boston since the ninth of May, and which he proposes to ride to
the Golden Gate by the first of December next."
July third found Captain Glazier at Ashtabula, Ohio. The people
everywhere, during his ride from Girard, were engaged in preparations for
the celebration on the following day of the glorious Centennial Fourth. It
was his intention to have lectured at Ashtabula, but he was counselled not to
following notice of the lecture:
"Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author and lecturer, now on a
journey on horseback from Boston to San Francisco, reached this place
on Saturday evening, and delivered his lecture, 'Echoes from the
Revolution,' to a highly respectable audience, at Philharmonic Hall. He
speaks with a soldier's enthusiasm of those stirring times when our
forefathers 'walked through a baptism of blood and of fire, their only
purpose liberty; their only incentive duty; their only pride their country;
and their only ambition victory.' He traces, in a very eloquent manner,
the movements of the Revolutionary heroes from that day in April,
1775, when the undisciplined militia at Concord put the red-coats to
flight and forced them to retire to their intrenchments at Boston, onward
to the surrender of Cornwallis to Washington.... We are credibly
informed that one of the chief objects of Captain Glazier's journey is to
make observations and collect material for another book, which will no
doubt be a very interesting one to read, and will add still greater honors
to one who, though still a young man, has already acquired an enviable
reputation as an author. After a very cordial shake of the hand from
some comrades and citizens, the captain left the Central Hotel on his
fine black horse, 'Paul Revere,' which has brought him safely thus far
from Boston since the ninth of May, and which he proposes to ride to
the Golden Gate by the first of December next."
July third found Captain Glazier at Ashtabula, Ohio. The people
everywhere, during his ride from Girard, were engaged in preparations for
the celebration on the following day of the glorious Centennial Fourth. It
was his intention to have lectured at Ashtabula, but he was counselled not to
Page 398
do so, as almost every man and woman in the place was upon some
committee preparing for the next day's festivities, and he would
consequently get but a scant audience. He therefore concluded not to
deliver his lecture here, but to push forward on his journey.
Under date July fourth, he writes:
"Mounted 'Paul' at nine o'clock this morning in front of the Fisk
House, Ashtabula. Thousands upon thousands of country people were
pouring into the town as I rode out. The booming of cannon, blowing of
engine whistles, ringing of bells, and the discharge of fire-arms of every
variety and calibre, welcomed the dawn of the One Hundredth
anniversary of American Independence."
Willard Glazier suffered no occasion to pass that presented a chance of
picking up useful information on topics connected with the localities he
rode through—their population, industries, features of the country,
prominent men, etc., his capacity for absorbing such knowledge being large,
and the intention of utilizing it in the interest of the public having been his
chief motive in undertaking the adventurous journey. The large amount of
information thus collected has been reduced to system, and will, we trust,
be shortly in the hands of the publisher.
Cleveland—the "Forest City"—was his next destination, and on July
sixth he registered at the Forest City House, and delivered his lecture in the
evening at Garrett's Hall. He was introduced by Major E. M. Hessler, of the
"Grand Army of the Republic," who, in the name of many citizens and in
testimony of their respect for the soldier, author, and lecturer, proposed a
banquet on the following day. This, however, was modestly and respectfully
declined. The result of the lecture is shown in the following letter:
National Soldiers' Home,
committee preparing for the next day's festivities, and he would
consequently get but a scant audience. He therefore concluded not to
deliver his lecture here, but to push forward on his journey.
Under date July fourth, he writes:
"Mounted 'Paul' at nine o'clock this morning in front of the Fisk
House, Ashtabula. Thousands upon thousands of country people were
pouring into the town as I rode out. The booming of cannon, blowing of
engine whistles, ringing of bells, and the discharge of fire-arms of every
variety and calibre, welcomed the dawn of the One Hundredth
anniversary of American Independence."
Willard Glazier suffered no occasion to pass that presented a chance of
picking up useful information on topics connected with the localities he
rode through—their population, industries, features of the country,
prominent men, etc., his capacity for absorbing such knowledge being large,
and the intention of utilizing it in the interest of the public having been his
chief motive in undertaking the adventurous journey. The large amount of
information thus collected has been reduced to system, and will, we trust,
be shortly in the hands of the publisher.
Cleveland—the "Forest City"—was his next destination, and on July
sixth he registered at the Forest City House, and delivered his lecture in the
evening at Garrett's Hall. He was introduced by Major E. M. Hessler, of the
"Grand Army of the Republic," who, in the name of many citizens and in
testimony of their respect for the soldier, author, and lecturer, proposed a
banquet on the following day. This, however, was modestly and respectfully
declined. The result of the lecture is shown in the following letter:
National Soldiers' Home,
Page 399
Dayton, Ohio, July 27th, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier:
My dear Comrade: We have received through Major E. M. Hessler
your generous donation to aid in erecting the Soldiers' Monument at the
"Home." You have the hearty thanks of three thousand disabled veterans
now on our rolls; and a cordial invitation to visit us whenever it is your
pleasure to do so. Again we thank you. Please find receipt from our
treasurer,
Very respectfully,
William Earnshaw,
President, Historical and Monumental Society.
While in Cleveland the terrible news of the massacre of General Custer
by the Indians reached Captain Glazier, who, as a cavalry officer, had seen
service with him in the late war, and felt for him that respect and love which
only a true soldier knows for a brave leader. The stunning intelligence left a
deep impression, and in due time he showed his respect for the dead general
by substantial aid rendered in the erection of a monument to his memory.
The following letter was received before leaving the Forest City:
Headquarters, Post No. 1,
"Grand Army of the Republic," Department of Ohio,
Cleveland, O., July 12th, 1876.
Comrade: Through your unsolicited generosity I have the pleasure to
acknowledge the receipt of the net proceeds of your lecture on "Echoes
from the Revolution," delivered in our city July sixth, 1876, and by your
direction have forwarded the amount to Chaplain William Earnshaw,
President of the "Soldiers' Home Monumental Fund," at Dayton, to
assist in erecting a monument to the memory of the veterans, who by
the fortunes of war await the long roll at the National Military Home:
Captain Willard Glazier:
My dear Comrade: We have received through Major E. M. Hessler
your generous donation to aid in erecting the Soldiers' Monument at the
"Home." You have the hearty thanks of three thousand disabled veterans
now on our rolls; and a cordial invitation to visit us whenever it is your
pleasure to do so. Again we thank you. Please find receipt from our
treasurer,
Very respectfully,
William Earnshaw,
President, Historical and Monumental Society.
While in Cleveland the terrible news of the massacre of General Custer
by the Indians reached Captain Glazier, who, as a cavalry officer, had seen
service with him in the late war, and felt for him that respect and love which
only a true soldier knows for a brave leader. The stunning intelligence left a
deep impression, and in due time he showed his respect for the dead general
by substantial aid rendered in the erection of a monument to his memory.
The following letter was received before leaving the Forest City:
Headquarters, Post No. 1,
"Grand Army of the Republic," Department of Ohio,
Cleveland, O., July 12th, 1876.
Comrade: Through your unsolicited generosity I have the pleasure to
acknowledge the receipt of the net proceeds of your lecture on "Echoes
from the Revolution," delivered in our city July sixth, 1876, and by your
direction have forwarded the amount to Chaplain William Earnshaw,
President of the "Soldiers' Home Monumental Fund," at Dayton, to
assist in erecting a monument to the memory of the veterans, who by
the fortunes of war await the long roll at the National Military Home:
Page 400
and may your reward be no less than the love and gratitude of our
unfortunate comrades.
By order of
General James Barnett, Commanding.
E. M. Hessler, Q. M.
Leaving Cleveland and the many friends who had flocked around him in
that hospitable city, offering encouragement in his undertaking, Glazier
proceeded on his route, accompanied a short distance on horseback by an
old scholar named Alexander Wilsey, whose affection for his teacher had
not diminished by years of separation. Keeping along the lake-shore all day,
and not a little tormented by the shoals of mosquitoes as the evening
advanced, he rode into Sandusky City, July thirteenth, and delivered his
lecture the same evening to a fair audience. He was introduced in a
humorous and effective speech by Captain Culver, Judge of the Probate
Court.
Fremont, the pleasant home of President Hayes, was visited, and then on
through Elmore to the flourishing city of Toledo, where he registered at the
Boody House, July seventeenth. Introduced by Dr. J. T. Woods, G. A. R., he
lectured at Lyceum Hall, to an interested audience, who frequently signified
their approval by applause.
Passing through Erie, Michigan, Captain Glazier reached Monroe, July
twenty-fourth, the committee of the Custer Monument Association
receiving him at the City Hall. Arrangements were made for the delivery of
a lecture in the interest of the fund for the erection of the monument. This
was of course most congenial to Glazier's feelings, Custer being his beau
ideal of a soldier, and he therefore at once placed himself in the hands of
unfortunate comrades.
By order of
General James Barnett, Commanding.
E. M. Hessler, Q. M.
Leaving Cleveland and the many friends who had flocked around him in
that hospitable city, offering encouragement in his undertaking, Glazier
proceeded on his route, accompanied a short distance on horseback by an
old scholar named Alexander Wilsey, whose affection for his teacher had
not diminished by years of separation. Keeping along the lake-shore all day,
and not a little tormented by the shoals of mosquitoes as the evening
advanced, he rode into Sandusky City, July thirteenth, and delivered his
lecture the same evening to a fair audience. He was introduced in a
humorous and effective speech by Captain Culver, Judge of the Probate
Court.
Fremont, the pleasant home of President Hayes, was visited, and then on
through Elmore to the flourishing city of Toledo, where he registered at the
Boody House, July seventeenth. Introduced by Dr. J. T. Woods, G. A. R., he
lectured at Lyceum Hall, to an interested audience, who frequently signified
their approval by applause.
Passing through Erie, Michigan, Captain Glazier reached Monroe, July
twenty-fourth, the committee of the Custer Monument Association
receiving him at the City Hall. Arrangements were made for the delivery of
a lecture in the interest of the fund for the erection of the monument. This
was of course most congenial to Glazier's feelings, Custer being his beau
ideal of a soldier, and he therefore at once placed himself in the hands of
Page 401
the committee, offering them the entire proceeds of the lecture. The Monroe
Monitor, of July twenty-sixth, noticed the proposal thus:
"The lecture announced to be given for the benefit of the Custer
Monument Fund, on Monday evening at the City Hall, was postponed
for various reasons until Thursday evening at the same place. On
Monday evening several members of the association met Captain
Glazier, and were most favorably impressed with him. They are
convinced that he is thoroughly in earnest, and his proposition is a most
liberal one. He offers to give the entire proceeds of his lectures to the
association; and not only in this city but throughout the State, he
generously offers to do the same thing. This is certainly deserving of the
warm recognition of our own people at least, and we hope on Thursday
evening to see the City Hall filled. Captain Glazier comes with the
strongest endorsements from well-known gentlemen in the East, both as
to his character as a gentleman and a soldier, and his ability as a speaker
and writer. The captain served under the late General Custer in the
cavalry, and has something to say regarding his personal knowledge of
the dead hero...."
The lecture was duly delivered, and the following certificate placed in his
hands:
Headquarters,
Custer National Monument Association,
Monroe, Mich., July 28th, 1876.
This is to certify that the proceeds of the lecture by Captain Willard
Glazier in this city on Thursday evening, July 27th, 1876, have been
paid into the treasury of this association; for which the members hereby
tender him their sincere thanks.
T. E. Wing,
Monitor, of July twenty-sixth, noticed the proposal thus:
"The lecture announced to be given for the benefit of the Custer
Monument Fund, on Monday evening at the City Hall, was postponed
for various reasons until Thursday evening at the same place. On
Monday evening several members of the association met Captain
Glazier, and were most favorably impressed with him. They are
convinced that he is thoroughly in earnest, and his proposition is a most
liberal one. He offers to give the entire proceeds of his lectures to the
association; and not only in this city but throughout the State, he
generously offers to do the same thing. This is certainly deserving of the
warm recognition of our own people at least, and we hope on Thursday
evening to see the City Hall filled. Captain Glazier comes with the
strongest endorsements from well-known gentlemen in the East, both as
to his character as a gentleman and a soldier, and his ability as a speaker
and writer. The captain served under the late General Custer in the
cavalry, and has something to say regarding his personal knowledge of
the dead hero...."
The lecture was duly delivered, and the following certificate placed in his
hands:
Headquarters,
Custer National Monument Association,
Monroe, Mich., July 28th, 1876.
This is to certify that the proceeds of the lecture by Captain Willard
Glazier in this city on Thursday evening, July 27th, 1876, have been
paid into the treasury of this association; for which the members hereby
tender him their sincere thanks.
T. E. Wing,
Page 402
Treasurer.
The following also is evidence of the benevolent aims of Captain Glazier
during his journey in the saddle:
Headquarters,
Custer National Monument Association,
Monroe, Mich., July 28th, 1876.
To Auxiliary Societies and Associations of the
Custer Monument Association:
Captain Willard Glazier having kindly and generously volunteered to
devote the proceeds of his lectures through Michigan to the fund being
raised by this Association for the erection of a monument to the memory
of the late General George A. Custer, he has made arrangements to
remit to our treasurer here the money derived from such lectures, and
we bespeak for him your earnest endeavors in aid of our common,
glorious cause. Respectfully,
J. M. Bulkley,
Secretary.
Before leaving Monroe, Glazier called upon Mr. E. J. Custer, the father of
the deceased general, whom he represents as nearly crushed by the
melancholy news of his son's tragic death. The worthy old gentleman was
very courteous, and showed him some photographs and an oil-portrait of
the late general, together with some relics from the Indian country which
the general had sent him at different times. Mr. Custer seemed greatly
interested in the journey on horseback, and asked the captain many
questions concerning his plans for crossing the plains. Finally, he
accompanied Captain Glazier as far as Strong's Hotel, and witnessed his
start from Monroe. During his stay in Monroe our soldier-author was
introduced to several prominent gentlemen of the place, and plans were
The following also is evidence of the benevolent aims of Captain Glazier
during his journey in the saddle:
Headquarters,
Custer National Monument Association,
Monroe, Mich., July 28th, 1876.
To Auxiliary Societies and Associations of the
Custer Monument Association:
Captain Willard Glazier having kindly and generously volunteered to
devote the proceeds of his lectures through Michigan to the fund being
raised by this Association for the erection of a monument to the memory
of the late General George A. Custer, he has made arrangements to
remit to our treasurer here the money derived from such lectures, and
we bespeak for him your earnest endeavors in aid of our common,
glorious cause. Respectfully,
J. M. Bulkley,
Secretary.
Before leaving Monroe, Glazier called upon Mr. E. J. Custer, the father of
the deceased general, whom he represents as nearly crushed by the
melancholy news of his son's tragic death. The worthy old gentleman was
very courteous, and showed him some photographs and an oil-portrait of
the late general, together with some relics from the Indian country which
the general had sent him at different times. Mr. Custer seemed greatly
interested in the journey on horseback, and asked the captain many
questions concerning his plans for crossing the plains. Finally, he
accompanied Captain Glazier as far as Strong's Hotel, and witnessed his
start from Monroe. During his stay in Monroe our soldier-author was
introduced to several prominent gentlemen of the place, and plans were
Page 403
discussed for availing themselves of his proffered services in behalf of the
monument. The lecture was a financial success, and the whole of the
proceeds were turned over to the Treasurer, Judge T. E. Wing. "I gave them
all, although they generously offered to divide with me," is the simple entry
in his journal under date July twenty-eighth.
Passing through Rockwood, Trenton, Wyandotte, and Ecorse, all in the
State of Michigan, he reached Detroit on the thirty-first of July, and was
met by General William A. Throop at the Russell House, as one of a
committee appointed to confer with him on the subject of his lecture. At the
usual hour the lecture was delivered to a full house at Saint Andrew's Hall,
General L. S. Trowbridge introducing the lecturer to the audience in very
complimentary terms.
The next morning the proceeds were turned over to the monument fund
as indicated in the following letter to the treasurer, and its acknowledgment
by the local committee.
Detroit, Michigan,
August 1st, 1876.
T. E. Wing, Esq., Treasurer, Custer National Monument Association:
Dear Sir: I send you through General L. S. Trowbridge of this city
the net proceeds of my lecture delivered at St. Andrew's Hall last night,
the same to be applied to the fund of the Custer National Monument
Association, for the erection of a monument to the memory of the late
General Custer at Monroe. I hope and expect to be able to send you
much larger contributions as soon as the lecture season is fairly open.
My horse is still in excellent condition, and I anticipate a delightful and
successful ride across the Peninsular State. Promising to write you again
from Ypsilanti, I am
Ever truly yours,
monument. The lecture was a financial success, and the whole of the
proceeds were turned over to the Treasurer, Judge T. E. Wing. "I gave them
all, although they generously offered to divide with me," is the simple entry
in his journal under date July twenty-eighth.
Passing through Rockwood, Trenton, Wyandotte, and Ecorse, all in the
State of Michigan, he reached Detroit on the thirty-first of July, and was
met by General William A. Throop at the Russell House, as one of a
committee appointed to confer with him on the subject of his lecture. At the
usual hour the lecture was delivered to a full house at Saint Andrew's Hall,
General L. S. Trowbridge introducing the lecturer to the audience in very
complimentary terms.
The next morning the proceeds were turned over to the monument fund
as indicated in the following letter to the treasurer, and its acknowledgment
by the local committee.
Detroit, Michigan,
August 1st, 1876.
T. E. Wing, Esq., Treasurer, Custer National Monument Association:
Dear Sir: I send you through General L. S. Trowbridge of this city
the net proceeds of my lecture delivered at St. Andrew's Hall last night,
the same to be applied to the fund of the Custer National Monument
Association, for the erection of a monument to the memory of the late
General Custer at Monroe. I hope and expect to be able to send you
much larger contributions as soon as the lecture season is fairly open.
My horse is still in excellent condition, and I anticipate a delightful and
successful ride across the Peninsular State. Promising to write you again
from Ypsilanti, I am
Ever truly yours,
Page 404
Willard Glazier.
Detroit, Michigan,
August 1st, 1876.
Received of Captain Willard Glazier, forty dollars, for the benefit of
the Custer Monument Association, as the proceeds of his lecture at
Detroit on the evening of July 31st, 1876, in aid of such association.
[Signed] L. S. Trowbridge,
William A. Throop,
Committee.
While in Detroit, Captain Glazier visited all the public buildings and
places of note, enjoying the courtesies and hospitality of many of its leading
citizens; and, encouraged by the success he had met with so far in
contributing to the Custer Monument Fund, he determined to devote the net
proceeds of all his lectures delivered between Detroit and Chicago to the
same object.
Leaving Detroit and passing through Inkster, he reached Ypsilanti
through torrents of rain, and the same evening—August fifth—received
calls at the Hawkins House from a large number of patriotic gentlemen
interested in the Custer monument. The lecture was duly delivered in Union
Hall and the proceeds handed over to the fund.
Arrived at Jackson, "a most enterprising little city," as Captain Glazier
notes, August ninth, and delivered his lecture in the evening at Bronson
Hall, to a very full house. The Jackson Citizen said on the following
morning:
"Captain Willard Glazier lectured last evening in the interest of the
Custer Monument Fund. His lecture was a good historical review
delivered with graceful rhetoric and at times real eloquence. The captain
Detroit, Michigan,
August 1st, 1876.
Received of Captain Willard Glazier, forty dollars, for the benefit of
the Custer Monument Association, as the proceeds of his lecture at
Detroit on the evening of July 31st, 1876, in aid of such association.
[Signed] L. S. Trowbridge,
William A. Throop,
Committee.
While in Detroit, Captain Glazier visited all the public buildings and
places of note, enjoying the courtesies and hospitality of many of its leading
citizens; and, encouraged by the success he had met with so far in
contributing to the Custer Monument Fund, he determined to devote the net
proceeds of all his lectures delivered between Detroit and Chicago to the
same object.
Leaving Detroit and passing through Inkster, he reached Ypsilanti
through torrents of rain, and the same evening—August fifth—received
calls at the Hawkins House from a large number of patriotic gentlemen
interested in the Custer monument. The lecture was duly delivered in Union
Hall and the proceeds handed over to the fund.
Arrived at Jackson, "a most enterprising little city," as Captain Glazier
notes, August ninth, and delivered his lecture in the evening at Bronson
Hall, to a very full house. The Jackson Citizen said on the following
morning:
"Captain Willard Glazier lectured last evening in the interest of the
Custer Monument Fund. His lecture was a good historical review
delivered with graceful rhetoric and at times real eloquence. The captain
Page 405
is still in the city giving his horse—a noble Kentucky Black Hawk,
whom he has ridden all the way from Boston, and whom he expects to
carry him to San Francisco—a rest. He starts to-morrow morning for
Battle-Creek, where he lectures on Saturday evening."
Through Parma, Albion, and on to Battle-Creek, which was reached
August twelfth. Lieutenant Eugene T. Freeman here took the rôle of host
and welcomed Captain Glazier to the city, introducing him to many
admirers and friends of the late General Custer. Arrangements were
completed for the lecture, which took place at the usual hour in Stuart's Hall
before a numerous and attentive audience—the introduction being made by
Lieutenant Freeman, and the proceeds applied to the monument fund. The
following day being Sunday the lieutenant's invitation was accepted to
accompany him to church, where an introduction to the pastor, Rev. Mr.
Palmer, and others, took place. In the afternoon Captain Glazier was
agreeably surprised by an invitation from Lieutenant Freeman to ride with
him in his carriage to the delightful summer resort of that region—Goguac
Lake; and in many other ways Lieutenant Freeman manifested a very
friendly and cordial feeling for him.
Contrary to Captain Glazier's intention on setting out from Boston he
yielded to invitations to lecture at Albion and Marshall, and, in the interest
of the Custer Monument, also determined to visit South Bend, Indiana; and
Grand Rapids, Michigan; which cities were not included in the route he had
originally marked out for himself.
At Kalamazoo he delivered his lecture to a crowded house, being
introduced by Major Judson, late of General Custer's staff. Nearing
Comstock, Captain Glazier met with a serious adventure. His horse "Paul"
becoming frightened by the approach of a train on the Michigan Central
whom he has ridden all the way from Boston, and whom he expects to
carry him to San Francisco—a rest. He starts to-morrow morning for
Battle-Creek, where he lectures on Saturday evening."
Through Parma, Albion, and on to Battle-Creek, which was reached
August twelfth. Lieutenant Eugene T. Freeman here took the rôle of host
and welcomed Captain Glazier to the city, introducing him to many
admirers and friends of the late General Custer. Arrangements were
completed for the lecture, which took place at the usual hour in Stuart's Hall
before a numerous and attentive audience—the introduction being made by
Lieutenant Freeman, and the proceeds applied to the monument fund. The
following day being Sunday the lieutenant's invitation was accepted to
accompany him to church, where an introduction to the pastor, Rev. Mr.
Palmer, and others, took place. In the afternoon Captain Glazier was
agreeably surprised by an invitation from Lieutenant Freeman to ride with
him in his carriage to the delightful summer resort of that region—Goguac
Lake; and in many other ways Lieutenant Freeman manifested a very
friendly and cordial feeling for him.
Contrary to Captain Glazier's intention on setting out from Boston he
yielded to invitations to lecture at Albion and Marshall, and, in the interest
of the Custer Monument, also determined to visit South Bend, Indiana; and
Grand Rapids, Michigan; which cities were not included in the route he had
originally marked out for himself.
At Kalamazoo he delivered his lecture to a crowded house, being
introduced by Major Judson, late of General Custer's staff. Nearing
Comstock, Captain Glazier met with a serious adventure. His horse "Paul"
becoming frightened by the approach of a train on the Michigan Central
Page 406
Railway, dashed over the embankment into the Kalamazoo River—a fall of
nearly forty feet, and the captain came very near losing his life. No bones
were broken, however, the result being happily confined to a considerable
ducking and a no less considerable scare; "Paul" having fared as ill as his
master.
The following letters and press notices will show the nature of the
reception our soldier-author met with in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and
South Bend, respectively:
Kalamazoo, Michigan,
August 18th, 1876.
J. M. Bulkley, Esq.,
Secretary C. N. M. Association,
Monroe, Michigan.
Dear Sir:—I have the pleasure of transmitting to Judge Wing,
through Major R. F. Judson, the net proceeds of my lecture delivered in
this place on the evening of the sixteenth instant. I desire to accompany
my gift with an acknowledgment of many courtesies extended by the
press and band of this patriotic village. I resume my journey this
afternoon and shall speak at Niles, South Bend, and Laporte before the
close of the present week. Hoping that your brightest anticipations for
the "Monument" may be most fully realized, I remain,
Always sincerely yours,
Willard Glazier.
Kalamazoo, Michigan,
August 19th, 1876.
Received of Captain Willard Glazier the net proceeds of his lecture at
this place, which sum is to be applied to the fund for the erection of a
nearly forty feet, and the captain came very near losing his life. No bones
were broken, however, the result being happily confined to a considerable
ducking and a no less considerable scare; "Paul" having fared as ill as his
master.
The following letters and press notices will show the nature of the
reception our soldier-author met with in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and
South Bend, respectively:
Kalamazoo, Michigan,
August 18th, 1876.
J. M. Bulkley, Esq.,
Secretary C. N. M. Association,
Monroe, Michigan.
Dear Sir:—I have the pleasure of transmitting to Judge Wing,
through Major R. F. Judson, the net proceeds of my lecture delivered in
this place on the evening of the sixteenth instant. I desire to accompany
my gift with an acknowledgment of many courtesies extended by the
press and band of this patriotic village. I resume my journey this
afternoon and shall speak at Niles, South Bend, and Laporte before the
close of the present week. Hoping that your brightest anticipations for
the "Monument" may be most fully realized, I remain,
Always sincerely yours,
Willard Glazier.
Kalamazoo, Michigan,
August 19th, 1876.
Received of Captain Willard Glazier the net proceeds of his lecture at
this place, which sum is to be applied to the fund for the erection of a
Page 407
monument to the memory of the late General Custer, at Monroe City,
Michigan.
We take great pleasure in speaking of Captain Glazier in the highest
terms, not only on account of the self-devotion he has manifested in a
noble cause, but of his indomitable perseverance and energy. We trust
he will, wherever he goes, receive the unanimous support of the citizens
whom he addresses.
F. W. Curtenius,
Late Colonel U. S. Volunteers.
I take great pleasure in fully endorsing the above and recommending
to public confidence and support, Captain Willard Glazier, in his efforts
in behalf of the Custer Monument Association.
R. F. Judson,
Late aide to General Custer.
From the South Bend Herald:
"As heretofore announced in these columns, Captain Glazier
delivered his lecture 'Echoes from the Revolution' at the Academy of
Music last evening. Promptly at eight o'clock, the lecturer, with Mr. J. F.
Creed, appeared on the platform. Mr. Creed, in introducing the lecturer,
stated the object of the lecture to be in aid of the Custer Monument
Association of Monroe, Michigan. He also read several letters
introducing Captain Glazier to the public, from well-known citizens of
Michigan, and acknowledging receipts of the proceeds of the lectures
delivered in Detroit and Kalamazoo. The theme of the lecture afforded a
fine field for the display of Captain Glazier's talents as a speaker.
Possessing a fine imagination, good descriptive powers, and the real
qualities of an orator, he could not fail to please the really intelligent
audience which greeted him last evening. Probably one hour and a half
Michigan.
We take great pleasure in speaking of Captain Glazier in the highest
terms, not only on account of the self-devotion he has manifested in a
noble cause, but of his indomitable perseverance and energy. We trust
he will, wherever he goes, receive the unanimous support of the citizens
whom he addresses.
F. W. Curtenius,
Late Colonel U. S. Volunteers.
I take great pleasure in fully endorsing the above and recommending
to public confidence and support, Captain Willard Glazier, in his efforts
in behalf of the Custer Monument Association.
R. F. Judson,
Late aide to General Custer.
From the South Bend Herald:
"As heretofore announced in these columns, Captain Glazier
delivered his lecture 'Echoes from the Revolution' at the Academy of
Music last evening. Promptly at eight o'clock, the lecturer, with Mr. J. F.
Creed, appeared on the platform. Mr. Creed, in introducing the lecturer,
stated the object of the lecture to be in aid of the Custer Monument
Association of Monroe, Michigan. He also read several letters
introducing Captain Glazier to the public, from well-known citizens of
Michigan, and acknowledging receipts of the proceeds of the lectures
delivered in Detroit and Kalamazoo. The theme of the lecture afforded a
fine field for the display of Captain Glazier's talents as a speaker.
Possessing a fine imagination, good descriptive powers, and the real
qualities of an orator, he could not fail to please the really intelligent
audience which greeted him last evening. Probably one hour and a half
Page 408
were consumed in its delivery, but the interest and attention of the
audience did not flag nor tire, and when the speaker took leave of his
audience, he was greeted with several rounds of applause."
About this time his Boston friends were notified of his progress toward
the setting sun in the following paragraph of the Boston Inquirer:
"Captain Willard Glazier, who undertook in May last to ride from this
city to the Golden Gate on horseback, has reached Michigan, and has
discoursed to large audiences at the various points along his route. The
profits of his lecture at Cleveland, Ohio, were donated to the fund at
Dayton, to assist in erecting a monument to the memory of the veterans
who by the fortunes of war are destined to await the long roll-call at the
National Military Home."
To return to his present point of departure, South Bend, Captain Glazier
having found his horse "Paul" suffering from the accident previously
recorded, and also from sore-back, had left him with a veterinary surgeon at
Michigan City for treatment, and sped on his way by rail to Grand Rapids.
Here he lectured with favorable results, having been introduced by General
Innes.
Said the Grand Rapids Eagle:
"A very large audience gathered at Luce's Hall last night to hear
Captain Willard Glazier. The speaker was earnest and impassioned, his
lecture was delivered with a force and eloquence that pleased his
hearers, and all who were in the hall went away glad that they had been
there, and ready to add to the praises that have been bestowed on
Captain Glazier as a soldier, author, and orator."
audience did not flag nor tire, and when the speaker took leave of his
audience, he was greeted with several rounds of applause."
About this time his Boston friends were notified of his progress toward
the setting sun in the following paragraph of the Boston Inquirer:
"Captain Willard Glazier, who undertook in May last to ride from this
city to the Golden Gate on horseback, has reached Michigan, and has
discoursed to large audiences at the various points along his route. The
profits of his lecture at Cleveland, Ohio, were donated to the fund at
Dayton, to assist in erecting a monument to the memory of the veterans
who by the fortunes of war are destined to await the long roll-call at the
National Military Home."
To return to his present point of departure, South Bend, Captain Glazier
having found his horse "Paul" suffering from the accident previously
recorded, and also from sore-back, had left him with a veterinary surgeon at
Michigan City for treatment, and sped on his way by rail to Grand Rapids.
Here he lectured with favorable results, having been introduced by General
Innes.
Said the Grand Rapids Eagle:
"A very large audience gathered at Luce's Hall last night to hear
Captain Willard Glazier. The speaker was earnest and impassioned, his
lecture was delivered with a force and eloquence that pleased his
hearers, and all who were in the hall went away glad that they had been
there, and ready to add to the praises that have been bestowed on
Captain Glazier as a soldier, author, and orator."
Page 409
Decatur, Dowagiac, Paw-Paw, Niles, and Buchanan, were all reached by
railway, for the purpose of giving "Paul" a rest and an opportunity of
recovering from his sore back. At Decatur, Glazier met an old comrade of
the "Harris Light," named George L. Darby, with whom a pleasant
exchange of reminiscences took place, and a cordial intercourse was
renewed. "Thirteen years," says Captain Glazier in his Journal, "have
slipped away, since the day of our capture at New Baltimore, which led him
to Belle Isle, and me to Libby Prison.... Darby called this afternoon with
fishing tackle, and proposed that we should go out to 'Lake of the Woods,' a
small lake not far from the village, and try our luck with hook and line. We
went, and a delightful boat-ride followed, but in the matter of the fish which
we tried to lure with tempting pieces of fresh meat, they are still enjoying
their native freedom." We suspect the friends were too intent on fighting
their battles o'er again to give due attention to their occupation.
The lecture here was delivered September fourth to a crowded house,
over two hundred persons being compelled to stand for want of room to seat
them. Captain Glazier was accompanied to the platform by several leading
citizens, among whom were Hon. Ransom Nutting, Rev. Mr. Hoyt,
Professor S. G. Burked and Albert W. Rogers, Esq., Mr. Nutting presenting
him to the audience. The following will show the opinion entertained of the
lecturer:
Decatur, Michigan,
September 4th, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier,
My Dear Sir:—We take this means of expressing to you our
appreciation of the highly instructive and very entertaining lecture
delivered by you at Union Hall this evening.
railway, for the purpose of giving "Paul" a rest and an opportunity of
recovering from his sore back. At Decatur, Glazier met an old comrade of
the "Harris Light," named George L. Darby, with whom a pleasant
exchange of reminiscences took place, and a cordial intercourse was
renewed. "Thirteen years," says Captain Glazier in his Journal, "have
slipped away, since the day of our capture at New Baltimore, which led him
to Belle Isle, and me to Libby Prison.... Darby called this afternoon with
fishing tackle, and proposed that we should go out to 'Lake of the Woods,' a
small lake not far from the village, and try our luck with hook and line. We
went, and a delightful boat-ride followed, but in the matter of the fish which
we tried to lure with tempting pieces of fresh meat, they are still enjoying
their native freedom." We suspect the friends were too intent on fighting
their battles o'er again to give due attention to their occupation.
The lecture here was delivered September fourth to a crowded house,
over two hundred persons being compelled to stand for want of room to seat
them. Captain Glazier was accompanied to the platform by several leading
citizens, among whom were Hon. Ransom Nutting, Rev. Mr. Hoyt,
Professor S. G. Burked and Albert W. Rogers, Esq., Mr. Nutting presenting
him to the audience. The following will show the opinion entertained of the
lecturer:
Decatur, Michigan,
September 4th, 1876.
Captain Willard Glazier,
My Dear Sir:—We take this means of expressing to you our
appreciation of the highly instructive and very entertaining lecture
delivered by you at Union Hall this evening.
Page 410
Truly we admire your plan, and your generosity in giving the entire
proceeds to the Custer Monument Fund. Our endorsement is the
expression of our village people generally. You have made many friends
here.
May success attend you throughout your journey.
Very respectfully,
S. Gordon Burked,
Ransom Nutting,
Albert W. Rogers.
Having lectured successfully at the several intermediate towns before
mentioned, Captain Glazier with "Paul" now directed his course to Rolling
Prairie, Indiana (a place romantic only in name), and thence to Michigan
City. From the latter point he journeyed by railway to Chicago,
arrangements having been made for the delivery of his lecture in that city
for the benefit of the monument fund. A very full house greeted him at
Farwell Hall. Major E. S. Weedon in introducing the lecturer alluded in an
eloquent and touching manner to the record of the gallant Custer. The
lecture throughout its delivery was much applauded by the audience, who
appeared greatly interested; and the proceeds reached a handsome sum.
The following entry occurs in the Journal under date, Chicago,
September 12th, 1876:
"I shall now push on to Omaha and Cheyenne as rapidly as possible, in
the hope of passing Sherman at the summit of the mountains before the
snow is too deep to interrupt my progress. There are nine steps in my
journey from Boston to San Francisco, namely, Albany, Buffalo, Toledo,
Chicago, Omaha, Cheyenne, Salt Lake City, Sacramento, and San
Francisco. I have now taken four of these nine steps, and shall undertake to
pass the five remaining points by the first of December."
proceeds to the Custer Monument Fund. Our endorsement is the
expression of our village people generally. You have made many friends
here.
May success attend you throughout your journey.
Very respectfully,
S. Gordon Burked,
Ransom Nutting,
Albert W. Rogers.
Having lectured successfully at the several intermediate towns before
mentioned, Captain Glazier with "Paul" now directed his course to Rolling
Prairie, Indiana (a place romantic only in name), and thence to Michigan
City. From the latter point he journeyed by railway to Chicago,
arrangements having been made for the delivery of his lecture in that city
for the benefit of the monument fund. A very full house greeted him at
Farwell Hall. Major E. S. Weedon in introducing the lecturer alluded in an
eloquent and touching manner to the record of the gallant Custer. The
lecture throughout its delivery was much applauded by the audience, who
appeared greatly interested; and the proceeds reached a handsome sum.
The following entry occurs in the Journal under date, Chicago,
September 12th, 1876:
"I shall now push on to Omaha and Cheyenne as rapidly as possible, in
the hope of passing Sherman at the summit of the mountains before the
snow is too deep to interrupt my progress. There are nine steps in my
journey from Boston to San Francisco, namely, Albany, Buffalo, Toledo,
Chicago, Omaha, Cheyenne, Salt Lake City, Sacramento, and San
Francisco. I have now taken four of these nine steps, and shall undertake to
pass the five remaining points by the first of December."
Page 411
Page 412
CHAPTER XXXIII.
FROM CHICAGO TO OMAHA.
Returns to Michigan City. — Joliet. — Thomas Babcock. — Herbert Glazier. — Ottawa. — La
Salle. — Colonel Stevens. — Press Notice. — Taken for a highwayman. — Milan. —
Davenport. — Press Notice. — Iowa City. — Des Moines. — Press Notice. — Attacked by
prairie wolves. — Council Bluffs. — Omaha.
Captain Glazier having succeeded so far in his novel and adventurous
undertaking, felt little concern as to his ability to accomplish the entire
journey from ocean to ocean. He had ridden but one horse—his faithful
"Paul," thus far, and having returned to Michigan City, found him quite
recovered and ready to pursue the journey. On the sixteenth of September
he took his departure from the latter city, and after riding a distance of
twenty-eight miles, rested for the night at Hobart, Indiana.
On the seventeenth he crossed the boundary between Indiana and Illinois.
On Grand Prairie, after dark, his ears were made familiar with the peculiar
howl of the prairie wolf, numbers of which followed in his track for a
distance of two or three miles. Not having seen any of these animals before,
he supposed them at first to be dogs, until advised by "Paul's" manner and
movements that they were animals less friendly to his equine companion.
At four o'clock in the afternoon, Glazier rode into Joliet, and met Mr.
Thomas Babcock, his advance agent, on Jefferson Street. Preparations had
been made here for the delivery of the lecture, and several prominent
citizens called upon him, having heard of his projected visit to the place.
His brother Herbert, who was also acting in the capacity of advance agent,
FROM CHICAGO TO OMAHA.
Returns to Michigan City. — Joliet. — Thomas Babcock. — Herbert Glazier. — Ottawa. — La
Salle. — Colonel Stevens. — Press Notice. — Taken for a highwayman. — Milan. —
Davenport. — Press Notice. — Iowa City. — Des Moines. — Press Notice. — Attacked by
prairie wolves. — Council Bluffs. — Omaha.
Captain Glazier having succeeded so far in his novel and adventurous
undertaking, felt little concern as to his ability to accomplish the entire
journey from ocean to ocean. He had ridden but one horse—his faithful
"Paul," thus far, and having returned to Michigan City, found him quite
recovered and ready to pursue the journey. On the sixteenth of September
he took his departure from the latter city, and after riding a distance of
twenty-eight miles, rested for the night at Hobart, Indiana.
On the seventeenth he crossed the boundary between Indiana and Illinois.
On Grand Prairie, after dark, his ears were made familiar with the peculiar
howl of the prairie wolf, numbers of which followed in his track for a
distance of two or three miles. Not having seen any of these animals before,
he supposed them at first to be dogs, until advised by "Paul's" manner and
movements that they were animals less friendly to his equine companion.
At four o'clock in the afternoon, Glazier rode into Joliet, and met Mr.
Thomas Babcock, his advance agent, on Jefferson Street. Preparations had
been made here for the delivery of the lecture, and several prominent
citizens called upon him, having heard of his projected visit to the place.
His brother Herbert, who was also acting in the capacity of advance agent,
Page 413
had departed to Ottawa to prepare for a lecture there on the twentieth. While
at Joliet, Captain Glazier stopped at the Robertson House, the proprietor of
which, Mr. Conklin, sent word through the agent, that the captain was to
consider himself his guest.
At the suggestion of Mr. Conklin, Captain Glazier on leaving Joliet, rode
his horse along the tow-path of the Michigan Canal, and borrowing a hook
and line from a gentleman who was fishing, caught twenty-three perch in
less than half an hour, the canal seeming literally alive with this fish.
Leaving Morris, in Grundy County, Illinois, his journey lay along the
north bank of the Illinois River, and after encountering a very severe rain
storm, he reached Ottawa, September twentieth, stopping at the Clifton
House. From the proprietors of this hotel he received many courtesies. The
lecture, as arranged, was delivered in the evening with the usual satisfactory
results.
On leaving Ottawa, the captain followed the telegraph poles along the
Illinois River, passing a large number of very fine corn-fields, and
overtaking an emigrant train on its journey from Ohio to Western Nebraska.
La Salle was reached at six o'clock on the evening of the twenty-first. Here
he enjoyed the society and hospitality of Colonel R. C. Stevens, and was
introduced to a number of other prominent gentlemen, who were attracted
to him by their interest in the projected monument to General Custer. The
lecture was delivered at Opera Hall, Colonel Stevens making the
introduction. The following letter may be presented here to show the
estimation in which Captain Glazier continued to be held as he progressed
in his journey westward:
La Salle, Illinois,
September 25th, 1876.
at Joliet, Captain Glazier stopped at the Robertson House, the proprietor of
which, Mr. Conklin, sent word through the agent, that the captain was to
consider himself his guest.
At the suggestion of Mr. Conklin, Captain Glazier on leaving Joliet, rode
his horse along the tow-path of the Michigan Canal, and borrowing a hook
and line from a gentleman who was fishing, caught twenty-three perch in
less than half an hour, the canal seeming literally alive with this fish.
Leaving Morris, in Grundy County, Illinois, his journey lay along the
north bank of the Illinois River, and after encountering a very severe rain
storm, he reached Ottawa, September twentieth, stopping at the Clifton
House. From the proprietors of this hotel he received many courtesies. The
lecture, as arranged, was delivered in the evening with the usual satisfactory
results.
On leaving Ottawa, the captain followed the telegraph poles along the
Illinois River, passing a large number of very fine corn-fields, and
overtaking an emigrant train on its journey from Ohio to Western Nebraska.
La Salle was reached at six o'clock on the evening of the twenty-first. Here
he enjoyed the society and hospitality of Colonel R. C. Stevens, and was
introduced to a number of other prominent gentlemen, who were attracted
to him by their interest in the projected monument to General Custer. The
lecture was delivered at Opera Hall, Colonel Stevens making the
introduction. The following letter may be presented here to show the
estimation in which Captain Glazier continued to be held as he progressed
in his journey westward:
La Salle, Illinois,
September 25th, 1876.
Page 414
To Captain Willard Glazier: I take pleasure in expressing to you on
behalf of many of our citizens, the gratification afforded our people who
listened to your instructive and entertaining lecture given at Opera Hall
on Saturday evening. While in conversation with several of our
prominent citizens—among them, W. A. Work, superintendent of our
public schools; A. J. O'Connor, clerk of the City Court; W. T. Mason,
Esq., and others; all of whom were present and heard your lecture—I
was requested to write you and tender their hearty thanks for the
entertainment, and their good wishes for your success in your ride
across the continent. Should you ever again visit our city, you can rest
assured you will be most cordially received.
Very truly yours,
R. C. Stevens,
Late Colonel U. S. Volunteers.
The La Salle County Press noticed the lecturer in the following terms:
"We have not often met with a more agreeable and pleasant
gentleman than Captain Willard Glazier, who entertained a very
respectable number of our citizens at Opera Hall on Saturday evening
by delivering a lecture on 'Echoes from the Revolution.' The captain has
a fine voice and his manner of delivery is decidedly interesting, while
his language is eloquent and fascinating. His description of the battles
of the Revolution, and the heroes who took part in them, from the
engagement on the little green at Lexington down to the surrender of
Cornwallis at Yorktown, was grand indeed, and was received with
frequent and enthusiastic applause. In conclusion he referred in an
eloquent and touching manner to the 'Boys in Blue' who took part in the
late war for the Union, and all retired from the hall feeling that the
evening had been spent in an agreeable and profitable manner.
behalf of many of our citizens, the gratification afforded our people who
listened to your instructive and entertaining lecture given at Opera Hall
on Saturday evening. While in conversation with several of our
prominent citizens—among them, W. A. Work, superintendent of our
public schools; A. J. O'Connor, clerk of the City Court; W. T. Mason,
Esq., and others; all of whom were present and heard your lecture—I
was requested to write you and tender their hearty thanks for the
entertainment, and their good wishes for your success in your ride
across the continent. Should you ever again visit our city, you can rest
assured you will be most cordially received.
Very truly yours,
R. C. Stevens,
Late Colonel U. S. Volunteers.
The La Salle County Press noticed the lecturer in the following terms:
"We have not often met with a more agreeable and pleasant
gentleman than Captain Willard Glazier, who entertained a very
respectable number of our citizens at Opera Hall on Saturday evening
by delivering a lecture on 'Echoes from the Revolution.' The captain has
a fine voice and his manner of delivery is decidedly interesting, while
his language is eloquent and fascinating. His description of the battles
of the Revolution, and the heroes who took part in them, from the
engagement on the little green at Lexington down to the surrender of
Cornwallis at Yorktown, was grand indeed, and was received with
frequent and enthusiastic applause. In conclusion he referred in an
eloquent and touching manner to the 'Boys in Blue' who took part in the
late war for the Union, and all retired from the hall feeling that the
evening had been spent in an agreeable and profitable manner.
Page 415
"Captain Glazier served under Generals Kilpatrick and Custer during
the late war, since which time he has devoted much labor to writing, and
is now making the attempt to cross the continent from Boston to San
Francisco on horseback, for the purpose of collecting material for
another work. He left Boston in the early part of May, and will endeavor
to reach the Sacramento Valley before the fall of the deep snow. His
horse, 'Paul Revere,' is a magnificent animal, black as a raven, with the
exception of four white feet. He was bred in Kentucky, of Black Hawk
stock, has turned a mile in 2.33, but owing to his inclination to run away
on certain occasions, was not considered a safe horse for the track. The
captain, however, has broke him to the saddle, and also convinced him
that running away is foolish business; consequently he and the captain
have become fast friends, and with 'Paul' for his only companion, the
gallant cavalryman proposes to cross the continent. Success attend
him!"
Having heard at La Salle that he would find no difficulty in securing a
night's lodging at a village named Hollowayville, Captain Glazier pushed
on for that point, but on applying at the only place of accommodation for
travellers, was looked upon suspiciously by the German host and his frau,
who politely intimated their belief that he was either a highwayman or a
horse-thief! These latter gentry had for some time infested that section of
Illinois, and Glazier inferred from the manner of the people that they more
than half suspected him to be one of the James or Younger brothers, whose
exploits they had probably read of.
Turning his back on the "Grand Pacific Hotel," he at length succeeded by
dint of much perseverance, in lodging himself and "Paul" at a farm-house
the late war, since which time he has devoted much labor to writing, and
is now making the attempt to cross the continent from Boston to San
Francisco on horseback, for the purpose of collecting material for
another work. He left Boston in the early part of May, and will endeavor
to reach the Sacramento Valley before the fall of the deep snow. His
horse, 'Paul Revere,' is a magnificent animal, black as a raven, with the
exception of four white feet. He was bred in Kentucky, of Black Hawk
stock, has turned a mile in 2.33, but owing to his inclination to run away
on certain occasions, was not considered a safe horse for the track. The
captain, however, has broke him to the saddle, and also convinced him
that running away is foolish business; consequently he and the captain
have become fast friends, and with 'Paul' for his only companion, the
gallant cavalryman proposes to cross the continent. Success attend
him!"
Having heard at La Salle that he would find no difficulty in securing a
night's lodging at a village named Hollowayville, Captain Glazier pushed
on for that point, but on applying at the only place of accommodation for
travellers, was looked upon suspiciously by the German host and his frau,
who politely intimated their belief that he was either a highwayman or a
horse-thief! These latter gentry had for some time infested that section of
Illinois, and Glazier inferred from the manner of the people that they more
than half suspected him to be one of the James or Younger brothers, whose
exploits they had probably read of.
Turning his back on the "Grand Pacific Hotel," he at length succeeded by
dint of much perseverance, in lodging himself and "Paul" at a farm-house
Page 416
for the night, but not before he had fully satisfied the worthy farmer and his
wife that he had no evil designs in desiring to spend the night with them.
On the following day, September twenty-fifth, the captain rode through a
rich farming country, replete with "corn-fields, fine stock and oceans of
fruit."
Passed through Wyanet, Annawan, and across the prairie—smiling corn-
fields and ripe orchards occasionally relieving the seemingly interminable
ocean of grass—and arrived at Milan, Illinois, on the evening of the twenty-
seventh, remaining for the night.
Here he met a Mr. Pullman, an old and intelligent miner who had recently
arrived from the Pacific coast, from whom he obtained valuable information
concerning the country between Omaha and Sacramento. He also found a
number of congenial spirits at Milan, chiefly New Yorkers, who had spent
some years in the Far West, and their conversation partook of a practical
nature bearing on his journey.
Leaving Milan on the following day, he crossed the Government Bridge,
which unites Rock Island with the fine city of Davenport, Iowa, and
registered at the Burtis House—the rider and his horse continuing in the
best of health.
The lecture at Davenport was delivered at the usual hour at Moore's Hall
to a very large and applauding audience, General Sanders presenting him.
The brass band of the place volunteered their services, and appeared in full
uniform. The Davenport Gazette of October fourth said:
"The lecture of Captain Willard Glazier at Moore's Hall last evening
was attended by a large and appreciative audience. The captain was
introduced by our worthy fellow-citizen, General Sanders, who spoke of
the lecturer's career as a soldier and an author, and said he was en route
wife that he had no evil designs in desiring to spend the night with them.
On the following day, September twenty-fifth, the captain rode through a
rich farming country, replete with "corn-fields, fine stock and oceans of
fruit."
Passed through Wyanet, Annawan, and across the prairie—smiling corn-
fields and ripe orchards occasionally relieving the seemingly interminable
ocean of grass—and arrived at Milan, Illinois, on the evening of the twenty-
seventh, remaining for the night.
Here he met a Mr. Pullman, an old and intelligent miner who had recently
arrived from the Pacific coast, from whom he obtained valuable information
concerning the country between Omaha and Sacramento. He also found a
number of congenial spirits at Milan, chiefly New Yorkers, who had spent
some years in the Far West, and their conversation partook of a practical
nature bearing on his journey.
Leaving Milan on the following day, he crossed the Government Bridge,
which unites Rock Island with the fine city of Davenport, Iowa, and
registered at the Burtis House—the rider and his horse continuing in the
best of health.
The lecture at Davenport was delivered at the usual hour at Moore's Hall
to a very large and applauding audience, General Sanders presenting him.
The brass band of the place volunteered their services, and appeared in full
uniform. The Davenport Gazette of October fourth said:
"The lecture of Captain Willard Glazier at Moore's Hall last evening
was attended by a large and appreciative audience. The captain was
introduced by our worthy fellow-citizen, General Sanders, who spoke of
the lecturer's career as a soldier and an author, and said he was en route
Page 417
for the Pacific coast on horseback, and lecturing for the benefit of the
Custer Monument Fund...."
The following notice is taken from the Democrat of the same city:
"We had the pleasure of meeting Captain Glazier this morning, who
arrived here on horseback from La Salle on Saturday evening. He is
making the journey from Boston to San Francisco on horseback, and
alone, for the purpose of seeing the country, studying the people, and
gathering materials for a new work he is engaged upon. Captain Glazier
is well known to fame as a writer, having published several valuable
works, among them a war-record entitled, 'Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape.'
"At the breaking out of the war, Willard Glazier, then a mere youth,
entered the Harris Light Cavalry, under Colonel Judson Kilpatrick, and
remained in the service until the close of the rebellion, his career being
marked by many adventures and hair-breadth escapes. His feat of riding
on horseback across the continent, unattended, to gather materials for a
book, is certainly without a precedent, and shows a brave and intrepid
spirit. His horse 'Paul' was an object of great curiosity and interest."
Leaving Davenport, our traveller passed through Moscow and reached
Iowa City October fifth. The weather was now becoming very cold, and he
found it necessary to dismount occasionally and walk some warmth into his
limbs.
Registering at the St. James Hotel, Iowa City, Captain Glazier lectured in
the evening to a very full house, a profusion of cheers greeting him on his
arrival upon the platform, whither he was escorted by George B. Edmunds,
Esq.
Custer Monument Fund...."
The following notice is taken from the Democrat of the same city:
"We had the pleasure of meeting Captain Glazier this morning, who
arrived here on horseback from La Salle on Saturday evening. He is
making the journey from Boston to San Francisco on horseback, and
alone, for the purpose of seeing the country, studying the people, and
gathering materials for a new work he is engaged upon. Captain Glazier
is well known to fame as a writer, having published several valuable
works, among them a war-record entitled, 'Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape.'
"At the breaking out of the war, Willard Glazier, then a mere youth,
entered the Harris Light Cavalry, under Colonel Judson Kilpatrick, and
remained in the service until the close of the rebellion, his career being
marked by many adventures and hair-breadth escapes. His feat of riding
on horseback across the continent, unattended, to gather materials for a
book, is certainly without a precedent, and shows a brave and intrepid
spirit. His horse 'Paul' was an object of great curiosity and interest."
Leaving Davenport, our traveller passed through Moscow and reached
Iowa City October fifth. The weather was now becoming very cold, and he
found it necessary to dismount occasionally and walk some warmth into his
limbs.
Registering at the St. James Hotel, Iowa City, Captain Glazier lectured in
the evening to a very full house, a profusion of cheers greeting him on his
arrival upon the platform, whither he was escorted by George B. Edmunds,
Esq.
Page 418
Continuing his journey through Tiffin and Brooklyn to Kellogg, all in the
State of Iowa, he witnessed, he says, some of the finest landscapes and
grandest farms he had yet encountered during his journey. He rode into
Colfax, October twelfth, and Des Moines on the following day.
A NIGHT AMONG WOLVES.
"I have not seen a brighter or more stirring city in my line of march than
Des Moines," writes Captain Glazier in his Journal. He wandered over the
city in company with two or three of the leading citizens, admiring its
numerous fine buildings and the evidences of its rapid progress; and the
next day the Des Moines Leader came out with the following notice of his
visit:
"Captain Willard Glazier, the horseback traveler across the continent,
took in the Exposition on Saturday evening with intense gratification.
He says he has seen no place, on his route from Boston, more promising
than Des Moines. Among the calls he received at the Jones House was
one from Captain Conrad, a prominent attorney from Missouri, and now
settled in his profession in this city, who was a fellow-captive with
State of Iowa, he witnessed, he says, some of the finest landscapes and
grandest farms he had yet encountered during his journey. He rode into
Colfax, October twelfth, and Des Moines on the following day.
A NIGHT AMONG WOLVES.
"I have not seen a brighter or more stirring city in my line of march than
Des Moines," writes Captain Glazier in his Journal. He wandered over the
city in company with two or three of the leading citizens, admiring its
numerous fine buildings and the evidences of its rapid progress; and the
next day the Des Moines Leader came out with the following notice of his
visit:
"Captain Willard Glazier, the horseback traveler across the continent,
took in the Exposition on Saturday evening with intense gratification.
He says he has seen no place, on his route from Boston, more promising
than Des Moines. Among the calls he received at the Jones House was
one from Captain Conrad, a prominent attorney from Missouri, and now
settled in his profession in this city, who was a fellow-captive with
Page 419
Captain Glazier in Libby Prison during the rebellion. He continued his
journey westward yesterday, with the best wishes of the friends he has
made during his short stay here."
Captain Glazier speaks very highly of the extremely courteous treatment
he received while at Des Moines.
Adel, and Dale City, and Minden were passed, and arriving at Neola, we
find the following entry in the journal: "Weather most disagreeable. A
drizzling rain made my ride to this place decidedly gloomy. My journey to-
day, as usual, since entering Iowa, has been over the boundless, never-
ending prairie. I have never in my life beheld a grander sight than this
afternoon, when I reached the summit of an immense tableland between
Avoca and Minden."
Wishing to reach Anita before halting for the night, he ventured to
continue on the road after dark, although for some time before sunset he
had been unable to see a farm-house or even a tree as far as the eye could
reach. Giving "Paul" the rein, he followed a blind road, after crossing a
sluice-way, which ultimately led them to a haystack on the prairie, where
the captain decided to spend the night. A pack of prairie wolves, or coyotes,
soon came upon the scene, several of which he shot, but he was shortly
after reinforced by a friendly dog, who came to his rescue and kept the
coyotes at bay for the remainder of the night. In the morning at daybreak he
was glad enough to say adieu to the haystack where he had passed one of
the most unpleasant nights of his journey.
It may here be mentioned that the coyote partakes of the natures of the
dog and the wolf, and is less dangerous to encounter in the summer than in
the winter, which is a characteristic of its wolfish nature. In the winter,
journey westward yesterday, with the best wishes of the friends he has
made during his short stay here."
Captain Glazier speaks very highly of the extremely courteous treatment
he received while at Des Moines.
Adel, and Dale City, and Minden were passed, and arriving at Neola, we
find the following entry in the journal: "Weather most disagreeable. A
drizzling rain made my ride to this place decidedly gloomy. My journey to-
day, as usual, since entering Iowa, has been over the boundless, never-
ending prairie. I have never in my life beheld a grander sight than this
afternoon, when I reached the summit of an immense tableland between
Avoca and Minden."
Wishing to reach Anita before halting for the night, he ventured to
continue on the road after dark, although for some time before sunset he
had been unable to see a farm-house or even a tree as far as the eye could
reach. Giving "Paul" the rein, he followed a blind road, after crossing a
sluice-way, which ultimately led them to a haystack on the prairie, where
the captain decided to spend the night. A pack of prairie wolves, or coyotes,
soon came upon the scene, several of which he shot, but he was shortly
after reinforced by a friendly dog, who came to his rescue and kept the
coyotes at bay for the remainder of the night. In the morning at daybreak he
was glad enough to say adieu to the haystack where he had passed one of
the most unpleasant nights of his journey.
It may here be mentioned that the coyote partakes of the natures of the
dog and the wolf, and is less dangerous to encounter in the summer than in
the winter, which is a characteristic of its wolfish nature. In the winter,
Page 420
when food is scarce, these animals will attack man, but if a bold resistance
is offered, they speedily decamp.
Hastening forward on his journey through various small and more or less
enterprising cities of the prairie, our traveler reached Council Bluffs at eight
o'clock in the evening of October twentieth. This promising city is located
three miles east from the Missouri River, and contains an enterprising
population of some 20,000; its history dating from 1804. The locality is
surrounded by high bluffs, and hence the name given to the city.
Striking the Missouri opposite Omaha, our horseman found he would be
compelled to ride up the bank of the river and cross by ferry to the northern
section of the city. On reaching the boat, "Paul" declined to embark, but
with some encouragement and assistance he was at length made to
understand that when rivers cannot be bridged or forded, they can
sometimes be ferried, and so yielded to necessity.
Omaha is almost equidistant between the Atlantic and Pacific, and has
sprung up, flourished and waxed great in the twinkling of an eye. It is now
the grand gateway through which the western tide of travel and emigration
is passing. The first house was erected here in 1853, and the population now
numbers in the neighborhood of 30,000. Omaha can boast of as fine
business blocks, hotels, school-buildings and churches as can be found in
many older and more pretentious cities in the East. There are also numerous
elegant private residences, with grounds beautifully ornamented with trees
and shrubbery, which sufficiently attest the solid prosperity of Omaha's
business men.
A story is told of the postmaster of Omaha which illustrates the changes
made during the past few years. Mr. Jones, one of the first pioneers, was
appointed to the office of postmaster in the autumn of 1854. At that time
there was no office, while letters were rarities. The few letters that did come
is offered, they speedily decamp.
Hastening forward on his journey through various small and more or less
enterprising cities of the prairie, our traveler reached Council Bluffs at eight
o'clock in the evening of October twentieth. This promising city is located
three miles east from the Missouri River, and contains an enterprising
population of some 20,000; its history dating from 1804. The locality is
surrounded by high bluffs, and hence the name given to the city.
Striking the Missouri opposite Omaha, our horseman found he would be
compelled to ride up the bank of the river and cross by ferry to the northern
section of the city. On reaching the boat, "Paul" declined to embark, but
with some encouragement and assistance he was at length made to
understand that when rivers cannot be bridged or forded, they can
sometimes be ferried, and so yielded to necessity.
Omaha is almost equidistant between the Atlantic and Pacific, and has
sprung up, flourished and waxed great in the twinkling of an eye. It is now
the grand gateway through which the western tide of travel and emigration
is passing. The first house was erected here in 1853, and the population now
numbers in the neighborhood of 30,000. Omaha can boast of as fine
business blocks, hotels, school-buildings and churches as can be found in
many older and more pretentious cities in the East. There are also numerous
elegant private residences, with grounds beautifully ornamented with trees
and shrubbery, which sufficiently attest the solid prosperity of Omaha's
business men.
A story is told of the postmaster of Omaha which illustrates the changes
made during the past few years. Mr. Jones, one of the first pioneers, was
appointed to the office of postmaster in the autumn of 1854. At that time
there was no office, while letters were rarities. The few letters that did come
Page 421
were kept by the postmaster in the crown of his hat till he met their owners.
Only a few years have elapsed since this primitive state of things, and the
post-office of Omaha has expanded from a hat into a handsome stone
building, worth $350,000, in which some twenty clerks find full
employment.
Hearing of the impossibility of riding his valuable horse across the Alkali
Plains, he resolved to leave him at Omaha until his return from San
Francisco, and to continue his journey on a mustang. In these plains the soil
for two or three feet seems saturated with soda, and so poisons the water
that if drunk by man or beast, after a fall of rain, is sure to be fatal. "Paul"
was therefore turned over by his master to the care of G. W. Homan,
proprietor of the Omaha Livery Stable; and a good serviceable mustang
purchased of a Pawnee Indian, to replace him.
Only a few years have elapsed since this primitive state of things, and the
post-office of Omaha has expanded from a hat into a handsome stone
building, worth $350,000, in which some twenty clerks find full
employment.
Hearing of the impossibility of riding his valuable horse across the Alkali
Plains, he resolved to leave him at Omaha until his return from San
Francisco, and to continue his journey on a mustang. In these plains the soil
for two or three feet seems saturated with soda, and so poisons the water
that if drunk by man or beast, after a fall of rain, is sure to be fatal. "Paul"
was therefore turned over by his master to the care of G. W. Homan,
proprietor of the Omaha Livery Stable; and a good serviceable mustang
purchased of a Pawnee Indian, to replace him.
Page 422
CHAPTER XXXIV.
CAPTURED BY INDIANS.
Captain Glazier as a horseman. — Cheyenne. — Two herders. — Captured by Indians. — Torture
and death of a herder. — Escape. — Ogden. — Letter to Major Hessler. — Kelton. — Terrace.
— Wells. — Halleck. — Elko. — Palisade. — Argenta. — Battle Mountain. — Golconda. —
Humboldt. — "The majesty of the law." — Lovelock's. — White Plains. — Desert. —
Wadsworth. — Truckee. — Summit. — Sacramento. — Brighton. — Stockton. — San
Francisco.
Having made several friends in Omaha, and obtained all the information
within his reach concerning the remaining half of the journey, Captain
Glazier mounted his mustang and proceeded on his route across the State of
Nebraska. Over the great plains that lie between the Missouri River and the
mountains, his nerve as a horseman was most thoroughly tested, and not
less so, the mettle of his mustang, which carried him a distance of five
hundred and twenty-two miles in six days. The approach of winter
suggested the importance of reaching his destination at the earliest possible
date; therefore on riding into Cheyenne October twenty-eighth, he lost no
time in arranging to continue his journey.
The weather now became intensely cold, as he neared the highest point in
his line of march. Since leaving Omaha, the ascent had been gradual but
continuous, and the point now reached was eight thousand feet above the
sea-level.
Cheyenne, the "Magic City of the Plains," about five hundred and twenty
miles west of Omaha, stands at an elevation of six thousand feet above the
level of the sea, and is perhaps the most progressive city west of Chicago. It
CAPTURED BY INDIANS.
Captain Glazier as a horseman. — Cheyenne. — Two herders. — Captured by Indians. — Torture
and death of a herder. — Escape. — Ogden. — Letter to Major Hessler. — Kelton. — Terrace.
— Wells. — Halleck. — Elko. — Palisade. — Argenta. — Battle Mountain. — Golconda. —
Humboldt. — "The majesty of the law." — Lovelock's. — White Plains. — Desert. —
Wadsworth. — Truckee. — Summit. — Sacramento. — Brighton. — Stockton. — San
Francisco.
Having made several friends in Omaha, and obtained all the information
within his reach concerning the remaining half of the journey, Captain
Glazier mounted his mustang and proceeded on his route across the State of
Nebraska. Over the great plains that lie between the Missouri River and the
mountains, his nerve as a horseman was most thoroughly tested, and not
less so, the mettle of his mustang, which carried him a distance of five
hundred and twenty-two miles in six days. The approach of winter
suggested the importance of reaching his destination at the earliest possible
date; therefore on riding into Cheyenne October twenty-eighth, he lost no
time in arranging to continue his journey.
The weather now became intensely cold, as he neared the highest point in
his line of march. Since leaving Omaha, the ascent had been gradual but
continuous, and the point now reached was eight thousand feet above the
sea-level.
Cheyenne, the "Magic City of the Plains," about five hundred and twenty
miles west of Omaha, stands at an elevation of six thousand feet above the
level of the sea, and is perhaps the most progressive city west of Chicago. It
Page 423
is the capital of Wyoming Territory, the county-seat of Laramie County, and
is the largest town between Omaha and Salt Lake City. The gold discoveries
in the Black Hills of Dakota added greatly to its prosperity. In proportion to
its population, Cheyenne has more elegant and substantial business houses
than most any other western city. This is a wonderful change from a place
known the world over by its fearful sobriquet of "Hell on Wheels."
Churches have risen where gamblers once reigned, and many other edifices
for religious and educational purposes have been erected. Cheyenne is the
trading-post for the thousands of ranchemen and stock-raisers of the plains
at the base of the Black Hills, and like all other frontier cities, has a history.
It was once a very fast town, and it is not very slow now.
On leaving Cheyenne he was accompanied by two herders, who were on
their way to Salt Lake City with a few mustangs and ponies. It was the
custom of Captain Glazier to have company in his rides through this wild
region whenever he could do so, and having made the acquaintance of these
men in the city, it was arranged that they should journey together as far as
their respective routes led them. The men were of the usual stamp of
herders, rough in exterior and plain of speech, but apparently worthy of
trust. The captain was not wanting in discernment, and his cordial manner
won their confidence.
Sherman having afforded them a night's shelter and refreshment, their
course lay in the direction of the Skull Rocks, a huge mass of granite on the
Great Laramie Plains, and so called from the resemblance of the rocks to
human skulls.
The Skull Rocks being in front of them at no great distance, the
conversation of the party turned upon their peculiar configuration, and
opinions were advanced by each of a more or less intelligent character; the
herders insisting on the probability of their having plenty of gold in them.
is the largest town between Omaha and Salt Lake City. The gold discoveries
in the Black Hills of Dakota added greatly to its prosperity. In proportion to
its population, Cheyenne has more elegant and substantial business houses
than most any other western city. This is a wonderful change from a place
known the world over by its fearful sobriquet of "Hell on Wheels."
Churches have risen where gamblers once reigned, and many other edifices
for religious and educational purposes have been erected. Cheyenne is the
trading-post for the thousands of ranchemen and stock-raisers of the plains
at the base of the Black Hills, and like all other frontier cities, has a history.
It was once a very fast town, and it is not very slow now.
On leaving Cheyenne he was accompanied by two herders, who were on
their way to Salt Lake City with a few mustangs and ponies. It was the
custom of Captain Glazier to have company in his rides through this wild
region whenever he could do so, and having made the acquaintance of these
men in the city, it was arranged that they should journey together as far as
their respective routes led them. The men were of the usual stamp of
herders, rough in exterior and plain of speech, but apparently worthy of
trust. The captain was not wanting in discernment, and his cordial manner
won their confidence.
Sherman having afforded them a night's shelter and refreshment, their
course lay in the direction of the Skull Rocks, a huge mass of granite on the
Great Laramie Plains, and so called from the resemblance of the rocks to
human skulls.
The Skull Rocks being in front of them at no great distance, the
conversation of the party turned upon their peculiar configuration, and
opinions were advanced by each of a more or less intelligent character; the
herders insisting on the probability of their having plenty of gold in them.
Page 424
Suddenly, over a slight elevation in the land, appeared a body of Indians, in
number about thirteen or fourteen. Glazier and his companions were not at
first surprised, as Indians are often found on these plains—some friendly
and some hostile—but mostly those of the friendly tribes. The Indians now
advancing upon them were clearly not on a friendly errand, and were
pronounced by the herders to be a detachment of the Arrapahoes. They were
decked in their war-paint, and on seeing the white men immediately raised
their war-shout, which, as travellers on the plains are aware, always
indicates an intention to attack.
The herders, knowing that they were in the presence of an enemy who
would speedily relieve them of their merchandise, made conciliatory signs,
by raising their hands, a signal which is equivalent to a flag of truce, and is
so understood on the plains. The signal of truce was, however, ignored by
the red-skins, who continued to advance at a rapid pace, gradually forming
a circle around Glazier and his companions. This is the usual Indian form of
attack. The circle is kept constantly in rapid motion, the Indians
concentrating their fire upon a stationary object in the centre of the circle,
while they render themselves a constantly shifting target, and are thus
comparatively safe from the fire of the centre.
number about thirteen or fourteen. Glazier and his companions were not at
first surprised, as Indians are often found on these plains—some friendly
and some hostile—but mostly those of the friendly tribes. The Indians now
advancing upon them were clearly not on a friendly errand, and were
pronounced by the herders to be a detachment of the Arrapahoes. They were
decked in their war-paint, and on seeing the white men immediately raised
their war-shout, which, as travellers on the plains are aware, always
indicates an intention to attack.
The herders, knowing that they were in the presence of an enemy who
would speedily relieve them of their merchandise, made conciliatory signs,
by raising their hands, a signal which is equivalent to a flag of truce, and is
so understood on the plains. The signal of truce was, however, ignored by
the red-skins, who continued to advance at a rapid pace, gradually forming
a circle around Glazier and his companions. This is the usual Indian form of
attack. The circle is kept constantly in rapid motion, the Indians
concentrating their fire upon a stationary object in the centre of the circle,
while they render themselves a constantly shifting target, and are thus
comparatively safe from the fire of the centre.
Page 425
CAPTAIN GLAZIER CAPTURED BY INDIANS NEAR SKULL ROCKS, WYOMING
TERRITORY.
Riding around, and firing at intervals of a minute or two at Glazier and
his companions, the latter did their best to defend themselves, and fired in
return upon their cowardly assailants, who showed no desire for a parley.
The firing from the centre was made over the backs of the ponies and
mustangs, who in such emergencies are made to do duty as a breastwork.
The circle of red-skins gradually lessened in diameter, as the firing on both
sides continued, when a shot from the carbine of the Mexican herder killed
one of the Indians.
The circle continued to grow less, until the Indians in a mass rushed on
the three whites, disarmed them, secured them to each other with thongs at
the wrists, and appropriated as their own the mustangs and ponies, which
had been their primary object.
Before yielding, Captain Glazier and his little squad had nearly exhausted
their ammunition, and felt that further resistance was not only useless, but
would certainly cost them their lives. Without loss of time, the prisoners
TERRITORY.
Riding around, and firing at intervals of a minute or two at Glazier and
his companions, the latter did their best to defend themselves, and fired in
return upon their cowardly assailants, who showed no desire for a parley.
The firing from the centre was made over the backs of the ponies and
mustangs, who in such emergencies are made to do duty as a breastwork.
The circle of red-skins gradually lessened in diameter, as the firing on both
sides continued, when a shot from the carbine of the Mexican herder killed
one of the Indians.
The circle continued to grow less, until the Indians in a mass rushed on
the three whites, disarmed them, secured them to each other with thongs at
the wrists, and appropriated as their own the mustangs and ponies, which
had been their primary object.
Before yielding, Captain Glazier and his little squad had nearly exhausted
their ammunition, and felt that further resistance was not only useless, but
would certainly cost them their lives. Without loss of time, the prisoners
Page 426
were compelled to mount, and the entire party—less one Indian killed—
started off in a northerly direction.
Ignorant of their destination, the herders expressed their belief that they
would in a few days find themselves in the presence of Sitting Bull, when
their fate would be decided. They continued to ride at a full trot till about
ten o'clock, when the whole party dismounted and camped for the night. A
fire was speedily built, and some antelope beef partially roasted for their
supper, of which the prisoners also partook.
The supper over, an animated conversation ensued among the Indians,
while sundry furtive glances were cast in the direction of the Mexican who
had killed one of their party during the attack in the morning. For a time
they shouted and violently gesticulated, while one of them was observed
driving a thick pole into the ground, at about fifty yards from the fire,
around which the party and the prisoners squatted. Presently, at a sign from
one of the Indians, supposed to be a chief named "Dull-Knife," four of the
red-skins seized the Mexican and forced him towards the stake, where they
stripped him to the skin, and then bound him to it with thick cords. The
whole party then, without further ceremony, proceeded to torture the
wretched man to death, as a punishment for his presumption in killing one
of their party while defending himself from their murderous attack near the
Skull Rocks. They heated their arrow-shafts in the fire, and held them in
contact with his naked flesh, while others, at a distance of a few feet from
their victim, cast at him their sharp-pointed knives, which, penetrating the
body, remained embedded in the flesh, until he nearly died from the agony.
One of the party now advanced with a revolver, and shot him in the head,
thus ending his sufferings.
While the torture was proceeding, Captain Glazier and the remaining
herder lay on the ground bound together by thick cords, and could offer no
started off in a northerly direction.
Ignorant of their destination, the herders expressed their belief that they
would in a few days find themselves in the presence of Sitting Bull, when
their fate would be decided. They continued to ride at a full trot till about
ten o'clock, when the whole party dismounted and camped for the night. A
fire was speedily built, and some antelope beef partially roasted for their
supper, of which the prisoners also partook.
The supper over, an animated conversation ensued among the Indians,
while sundry furtive glances were cast in the direction of the Mexican who
had killed one of their party during the attack in the morning. For a time
they shouted and violently gesticulated, while one of them was observed
driving a thick pole into the ground, at about fifty yards from the fire,
around which the party and the prisoners squatted. Presently, at a sign from
one of the Indians, supposed to be a chief named "Dull-Knife," four of the
red-skins seized the Mexican and forced him towards the stake, where they
stripped him to the skin, and then bound him to it with thick cords. The
whole party then, without further ceremony, proceeded to torture the
wretched man to death, as a punishment for his presumption in killing one
of their party while defending himself from their murderous attack near the
Skull Rocks. They heated their arrow-shafts in the fire, and held them in
contact with his naked flesh, while others, at a distance of a few feet from
their victim, cast at him their sharp-pointed knives, which, penetrating the
body, remained embedded in the flesh, until he nearly died from the agony.
One of the party now advanced with a revolver, and shot him in the head,
thus ending his sufferings.
While the torture was proceeding, Captain Glazier and the remaining
herder lay on the ground bound together by thick cords, and could offer no
Page 427
assistance to their tortured companion. The Mexican being dead, one of the
party removed his scalp and fastened it to his waist, after which all sat down
around the fire and seemed in high glee for the remainder of the evening,
for the most part shouting and speech-making.
Willard Glazier had never before witnessed a case of torture by the
Indians. It is true it was of a different character from that he and many of
his old comrades had endured in Southern prisons; but in one respect was
more merciful, as the sufferings of their victim were soon ended, while his
own and his comrades extended over many months; in the one case the
body was burnt and lacerated—in the other it was starved and emaciated.
The horses of the party having been tethered by long ropes to stakes, to
enable them to graze during the night, a guard of two Indians was placed in
charge of the prisoners, who, still bound together at the wrists, were made
to lie down side by side, with an Indian on either hand. The remainder of
the red-skins then disposed themselves around the fire for sleep.
Glazier and his companion slept but little, but pretended to do so. They
were continually on the alert, and the guard, believing their prisoners to be
asleep, dozed, and at length reclined their bodies in a restless sleep. About
two o'clock in the morning, the two Indians were relieved by two others,
and all remained quiet in the camp. At the first streak of dawn, the whole
body leaped to their feet and were ready to resume their march northward.
Glazier and the herder were assigned each a mustang, which they quietly
mounted under the close scrutiny of their guards, and the entire party started
off at a brisk trot.
No attempt at escape having yet been made by the captives, the
surveillance became somewhat relaxed throughout the day, and the attention
of the party was given to their own proper business of foraging. Wherever
an opportunity offered, a momentary halt was called, and one of the party
party removed his scalp and fastened it to his waist, after which all sat down
around the fire and seemed in high glee for the remainder of the evening,
for the most part shouting and speech-making.
Willard Glazier had never before witnessed a case of torture by the
Indians. It is true it was of a different character from that he and many of
his old comrades had endured in Southern prisons; but in one respect was
more merciful, as the sufferings of their victim were soon ended, while his
own and his comrades extended over many months; in the one case the
body was burnt and lacerated—in the other it was starved and emaciated.
The horses of the party having been tethered by long ropes to stakes, to
enable them to graze during the night, a guard of two Indians was placed in
charge of the prisoners, who, still bound together at the wrists, were made
to lie down side by side, with an Indian on either hand. The remainder of
the red-skins then disposed themselves around the fire for sleep.
Glazier and his companion slept but little, but pretended to do so. They
were continually on the alert, and the guard, believing their prisoners to be
asleep, dozed, and at length reclined their bodies in a restless sleep. About
two o'clock in the morning, the two Indians were relieved by two others,
and all remained quiet in the camp. At the first streak of dawn, the whole
body leaped to their feet and were ready to resume their march northward.
Glazier and the herder were assigned each a mustang, which they quietly
mounted under the close scrutiny of their guards, and the entire party started
off at a brisk trot.
No attempt at escape having yet been made by the captives, the
surveillance became somewhat relaxed throughout the day, and the attention
of the party was given to their own proper business of foraging. Wherever
an opportunity offered, a momentary halt was called, and one of the party
Page 428
creeping cautiously up to a stray pony, would take possession by the simple
process of mounting and riding him away. If more than one animal was to
be appropriated, an equal number of Indians were detailed for the "duty,"
and each leaping on the mustang or pony he had selected, would ride off as
only these freebooters of the plains can ride, with little prospect of being
overtaken by the owners. Thus the day passed; as a rule, half the number of
the Indians remaining as a guard to the prisoners, while the others foraged
for food, and anything that could be conveniently carried off. They were
now skirting the Black Hills, and Glazier had discovered by this time that
they were making their way to their general rendezvous, about one hundred
miles from Deadwood.
As the second night overtook the captives, the process of the previous
night was repeated: they built their fire, cooked and ate their antelope
steaks, and then prostrated themselves around the fire for the night. The
captives were again bound together at the wrists, and lay between their two
guards. Our friend was, however, on the alert and wide awake, though
pretending to be asleep. Quietly he passed the fingers of one hand over the
cords that bound his other to his companion, and concluded that with
patience and vigilance the knot could be unfastened. While the guards
dozed and slept as on the preceding night, the eyes of the prisoners
stealthily sought the ponies and the arms.
The latter were always placed at the head of each sleeper, to be ready for
immediate use in case of a surprise. Captain Glazier and his companion
were fully convinced that any attempt to escape, if detected, would be
followed by immediate torture and death; but were, nevertheless, resolved
to make the effort. It was also known that if they quietly accompanied the
Indians to their rendezvous or headquarters, they would be retained as
hostages, probably for a long period, and be subject at any time to be
process of mounting and riding him away. If more than one animal was to
be appropriated, an equal number of Indians were detailed for the "duty,"
and each leaping on the mustang or pony he had selected, would ride off as
only these freebooters of the plains can ride, with little prospect of being
overtaken by the owners. Thus the day passed; as a rule, half the number of
the Indians remaining as a guard to the prisoners, while the others foraged
for food, and anything that could be conveniently carried off. They were
now skirting the Black Hills, and Glazier had discovered by this time that
they were making their way to their general rendezvous, about one hundred
miles from Deadwood.
As the second night overtook the captives, the process of the previous
night was repeated: they built their fire, cooked and ate their antelope
steaks, and then prostrated themselves around the fire for the night. The
captives were again bound together at the wrists, and lay between their two
guards. Our friend was, however, on the alert and wide awake, though
pretending to be asleep. Quietly he passed the fingers of one hand over the
cords that bound his other to his companion, and concluded that with
patience and vigilance the knot could be unfastened. While the guards
dozed and slept as on the preceding night, the eyes of the prisoners
stealthily sought the ponies and the arms.
The latter were always placed at the head of each sleeper, to be ready for
immediate use in case of a surprise. Captain Glazier and his companion
were fully convinced that any attempt to escape, if detected, would be
followed by immediate torture and death; but were, nevertheless, resolved
to make the effort. It was also known that if they quietly accompanied the
Indians to their rendezvous or headquarters, they would be retained as
hostages, probably for a long period, and be subject at any time to be
Page 429
tortured should a fit of vengeance seize their captors. They would not,
however, make an attempt to escape unless there appeared a moral certainty
of its successful accomplishment.
The third day arrived, and at dawn, after partaking of the usual breakfast
of raw antelope or other game, they started again on their march. They rode
all day, with the usual stoppages for forage, and about eight o'clock in the
evening camped, supped, and lay down for the night, as before, after
assigning the usual night-guards to the prisoners, who were again bound
together.
Glazier, with the experience he had obtained in the South, and his
companion, with his intimate knowledge of the plains, kept themselves
constantly on the alert, prepared to take advantage of any opportunity that
offered to escape from their captors. They had each fixed his eye on a pony
in the herd. These animals were turned out to graze with their saddles on, in
order that they might be ready for instant use, if required, in the night. The
prisoners began snoring loudly under pretence of being asleep, and at the
same time the guards dozed and slept at intervals, but were restless until
about midnight, when they both succumbed and were fast asleep.
Glazier now worked at the cord on his wrist, and found he could unfasten
it. While so doing, one of the Indians moved in his sleep, and immediately
all was still as death with the captives. At length the time had arrived, the
complicated knot was loosened, and the noose slipped over his hand, which
at once gave him and his partner liberty of action. They knew where the
arms lay, and each in the twinkling of an eye secured a large navy revolver
without disturbing the Indians. They then simultaneously struck the two
sleeping guards a powerful blow on the head with the butt of their
revolvers. The Indian struck by the herder was nearly killed by the heavy
blow, while Glazier's man was only stunned. They then made for the ponies,
however, make an attempt to escape unless there appeared a moral certainty
of its successful accomplishment.
The third day arrived, and at dawn, after partaking of the usual breakfast
of raw antelope or other game, they started again on their march. They rode
all day, with the usual stoppages for forage, and about eight o'clock in the
evening camped, supped, and lay down for the night, as before, after
assigning the usual night-guards to the prisoners, who were again bound
together.
Glazier, with the experience he had obtained in the South, and his
companion, with his intimate knowledge of the plains, kept themselves
constantly on the alert, prepared to take advantage of any opportunity that
offered to escape from their captors. They had each fixed his eye on a pony
in the herd. These animals were turned out to graze with their saddles on, in
order that they might be ready for instant use, if required, in the night. The
prisoners began snoring loudly under pretence of being asleep, and at the
same time the guards dozed and slept at intervals, but were restless until
about midnight, when they both succumbed and were fast asleep.
Glazier now worked at the cord on his wrist, and found he could unfasten
it. While so doing, one of the Indians moved in his sleep, and immediately
all was still as death with the captives. At length the time had arrived, the
complicated knot was loosened, and the noose slipped over his hand, which
at once gave him and his partner liberty of action. They knew where the
arms lay, and each in the twinkling of an eye secured a large navy revolver
without disturbing the Indians. They then simultaneously struck the two
sleeping guards a powerful blow on the head with the butt of their
revolvers. The Indian struck by the herder was nearly killed by the heavy
blow, while Glazier's man was only stunned. They then made for the ponies,
Page 430
leaped into the saddles, and before any of the other Indians had shaken off
their heavy slumber, had struck out with all their might in the direction from
which they had come, and in the opposite one, therefore, to that in which
the Indian party were proceeding.
In a moment, however, the pursuit commenced in earnest; vociferations
implying vengeance of the direst character if they did not halt, were flung
through the darkness, which only had the effect of spurring the fugitives to
still greater speed. Glazier turned in his saddle and sent a bullet among his
pursuers in reply to their peremptory invitation to him to halt. Another and
another followed, and one Indian was dismounted, but the darkness
prevented his seeing if his other shots had told. The Indians meanwhile,
who had plenty of ammunition, were not slow in returning the fire, but
luckily without any worse result than to increase the pace of the flying
ponies.
ESCAPE FROM THE ARRAPAHOES.
Away they tore at the top of their speed, and soon entered a cañon in the
mountain side. Only two or three of the Indians could now be seen in
their heavy slumber, had struck out with all their might in the direction from
which they had come, and in the opposite one, therefore, to that in which
the Indian party were proceeding.
In a moment, however, the pursuit commenced in earnest; vociferations
implying vengeance of the direst character if they did not halt, were flung
through the darkness, which only had the effect of spurring the fugitives to
still greater speed. Glazier turned in his saddle and sent a bullet among his
pursuers in reply to their peremptory invitation to him to halt. Another and
another followed, and one Indian was dismounted, but the darkness
prevented his seeing if his other shots had told. The Indians meanwhile,
who had plenty of ammunition, were not slow in returning the fire, but
luckily without any worse result than to increase the pace of the flying
ponies.
ESCAPE FROM THE ARRAPAHOES.
Away they tore at the top of their speed, and soon entered a cañon in the
mountain side. Only two or three of the Indians could now be seen in
Page 431
pursuit, and the herder, saying it would be better for both if they took
different directions, at once struck off through a ravine to the right, and left
Glazier alone. One Indian was observed to follow, but Glazier sent a bullet
into the enemy's horse, and thus put a stop to further pursuit. The Indian
now leveled his carbine at Glazier and dismounted him; and the latter's
ammunition being exhausted, he ran off towards a gulch, and leaping in,
remained hidden until daylight. Finding the coast clear in the morning, he
emerged and at once set out walking in a southwesterly direction, which
eventually brought him to a cattle-ranche, the owner of which supplied him
with refreshment and a fresh mustang. Again turning his face to the west he
pursued his way, covering the ground between himself and the Golden Gate
at the rate of sixty miles per day.
Ogden, in the northern extremity of Utah, about forty miles from Salt
Lake City, and five hundred and eleven from Cheyenne, was reached
November thirteenth, after hard riding and sundry stoppages at ranches in
quest of hospitality and information. No event occurred more exciting than
the shooting of a buffalo that crossed his path—this being the third, beside
sundry antelopes and several prairie wolves that had fallen to his revolver,
in the course of his journey since leaving Omaha. On riding into Ogden,
Captain Glazier was surprised to find it so important a city. It forms the
western terminus of the Union Pacific, and the eastern terminus of the
Central Pacific, railroads, and is the second city in size and population in
the Territory of Utah. Besides the churches, a Mormon tabernacle was
noticed, the population being largely of the polygamic persuasion and
yielding their allegiance to the prophet of Salt Lake City.
One peculiarity of the towns in these western territories is the running
streams of water on each side of nearly every street, which are fed by some
mountain stream and from which water is taken to irrigate the gardens and
different directions, at once struck off through a ravine to the right, and left
Glazier alone. One Indian was observed to follow, but Glazier sent a bullet
into the enemy's horse, and thus put a stop to further pursuit. The Indian
now leveled his carbine at Glazier and dismounted him; and the latter's
ammunition being exhausted, he ran off towards a gulch, and leaping in,
remained hidden until daylight. Finding the coast clear in the morning, he
emerged and at once set out walking in a southwesterly direction, which
eventually brought him to a cattle-ranche, the owner of which supplied him
with refreshment and a fresh mustang. Again turning his face to the west he
pursued his way, covering the ground between himself and the Golden Gate
at the rate of sixty miles per day.
Ogden, in the northern extremity of Utah, about forty miles from Salt
Lake City, and five hundred and eleven from Cheyenne, was reached
November thirteenth, after hard riding and sundry stoppages at ranches in
quest of hospitality and information. No event occurred more exciting than
the shooting of a buffalo that crossed his path—this being the third, beside
sundry antelopes and several prairie wolves that had fallen to his revolver,
in the course of his journey since leaving Omaha. On riding into Ogden,
Captain Glazier was surprised to find it so important a city. It forms the
western terminus of the Union Pacific, and the eastern terminus of the
Central Pacific, railroads, and is the second city in size and population in
the Territory of Utah. Besides the churches, a Mormon tabernacle was
noticed, the population being largely of the polygamic persuasion and
yielding their allegiance to the prophet of Salt Lake City.
One peculiarity of the towns in these western territories is the running
streams of water on each side of nearly every street, which are fed by some
mountain stream and from which water is taken to irrigate the gardens and
Page 432
orchards adjoining the dwellings. Ogden has a bright future before it. It is
not only the terminus of the two great trans-continental lines before
mentioned, but is also the starting-point of the Utah Central and Utah
Northern railroads. Vast quantities of iron ore can be obtained within five
miles of the city, and in Ogden cañon discoveries of silver have been made.
Fruit-growing is very common in the vicinity, and a large quantity of the
best varieties grown in the Territory are produced around Ogden. Utah
apples, peaches and pears are finer in size, color and flavor than any grown
in the Eastern or Middle States.
November eighteenth, Captain Glazier heard from his advance agent, Mr.
Walter Montgomery, then in Sacramento, who was in ignorance of the
captain's adventure among the Indians after leaving Cheyenne, except that
certain startling rumors had reached him of the captain having been killed
by the Sioux. Mr. Montgomery had accordingly written to various points for
information of the missing horseman; and to allay the fears of his numerous
well-wishers, who were in doubt as to his safety, Captain Glazier, after
leaving Ogden, wrote the following summary of his adventure, addressed to
his friend, Major E. M. Hessler, of Cleveland, Ohio:
Wild Cat Ranche,
In Ogden Canyon, Utah,
November 18th, 1876.
Major E. M. Hessler,
Cleveland, Ohio.
Dear Sir and Comrade: I learn through my advance agent Mr.
Montgomery, that a letter, manifesting some anxiety for my welfare,
was recently addressed to you. I hasten to say that I am again in the
saddle, and although for three days the guest of the Arrapahoes, I am
still in the best of spirits, and with even more hair than when I left
not only the terminus of the two great trans-continental lines before
mentioned, but is also the starting-point of the Utah Central and Utah
Northern railroads. Vast quantities of iron ore can be obtained within five
miles of the city, and in Ogden cañon discoveries of silver have been made.
Fruit-growing is very common in the vicinity, and a large quantity of the
best varieties grown in the Territory are produced around Ogden. Utah
apples, peaches and pears are finer in size, color and flavor than any grown
in the Eastern or Middle States.
November eighteenth, Captain Glazier heard from his advance agent, Mr.
Walter Montgomery, then in Sacramento, who was in ignorance of the
captain's adventure among the Indians after leaving Cheyenne, except that
certain startling rumors had reached him of the captain having been killed
by the Sioux. Mr. Montgomery had accordingly written to various points for
information of the missing horseman; and to allay the fears of his numerous
well-wishers, who were in doubt as to his safety, Captain Glazier, after
leaving Ogden, wrote the following summary of his adventure, addressed to
his friend, Major E. M. Hessler, of Cleveland, Ohio:
Wild Cat Ranche,
In Ogden Canyon, Utah,
November 18th, 1876.
Major E. M. Hessler,
Cleveland, Ohio.
Dear Sir and Comrade: I learn through my advance agent Mr.
Montgomery, that a letter, manifesting some anxiety for my welfare,
was recently addressed to you. I hasten to say that I am again in the
saddle, and although for three days the guest of the Arrapahoes, I am
still in the best of spirits, and with even more hair than when I left
Page 433
Cleveland. I should be pleased to give you a detailed account of my
adventures among the red-skins, but have only time to tell you that I
started from Cheyenne, October twenty-eighth, accompanying two
herders who were on their way to Salt Lake City with a small drove of
mustangs and Indian ponies. We were attacked on the thirty-first of the
same month by a straggling band of Arrapahoes, near Skull Rocks, on
the Laramie Plains. One Indian was killed, and my companions and
myself were made prisoners after using up nearly all our ammunition in
the effort to repulse our assailants. The herder whose fire killed the
Indian was afterwards tied to a stake and most cruelly tortured to death.
Bound to my remaining companion with thongs, we were on the
following morning placed upon ponies and marched rapidly to the
northward.
Breaking away from our captors on the night of November second by
disabling two of our guards, we were followed some miles, firing and
receiving the fire of the Indians as we galloped off on two of their
ponies which we had appropriated. After being dismounted by a shot,
and dismounting the Indian who had killed my horse, I finally eluded
my pursuers by leaping into a gulch in the mountains, where I remained
until daylight, when, finding no Indians in sight, I pursued my way on
foot in a southwesterly direction, which brought me to a cattle-ranche
late in the afternoon. Here I secured a fresh mustang, and once more
turned my face toward the setting sun.
My money and personal effects were of course promptly taken
possession of by the Arrapahoes. I am now moving westward at an
average of over sixty miles per day, confidently expecting to reach San
Francisco by the twenty-fourth instant. In our encounter on the Laramie
Plains, five members of the "Lo!" family were sent to their Happy
adventures among the red-skins, but have only time to tell you that I
started from Cheyenne, October twenty-eighth, accompanying two
herders who were on their way to Salt Lake City with a small drove of
mustangs and Indian ponies. We were attacked on the thirty-first of the
same month by a straggling band of Arrapahoes, near Skull Rocks, on
the Laramie Plains. One Indian was killed, and my companions and
myself were made prisoners after using up nearly all our ammunition in
the effort to repulse our assailants. The herder whose fire killed the
Indian was afterwards tied to a stake and most cruelly tortured to death.
Bound to my remaining companion with thongs, we were on the
following morning placed upon ponies and marched rapidly to the
northward.
Breaking away from our captors on the night of November second by
disabling two of our guards, we were followed some miles, firing and
receiving the fire of the Indians as we galloped off on two of their
ponies which we had appropriated. After being dismounted by a shot,
and dismounting the Indian who had killed my horse, I finally eluded
my pursuers by leaping into a gulch in the mountains, where I remained
until daylight, when, finding no Indians in sight, I pursued my way on
foot in a southwesterly direction, which brought me to a cattle-ranche
late in the afternoon. Here I secured a fresh mustang, and once more
turned my face toward the setting sun.
My money and personal effects were of course promptly taken
possession of by the Arrapahoes. I am now moving westward at an
average of over sixty miles per day, confidently expecting to reach San
Francisco by the twenty-fourth instant. In our encounter on the Laramie
Plains, five members of the "Lo!" family were sent to their Happy
Page 434
Hunting Ground, and in the matter of scalps you may score at least two
for your humble servant.
With kind regards to friends in Cleveland, I close this letter to mount
my horse,
And remain, ever truly yours,
Willard Glazier.
Captain Glazier's main object now was to push on to Sacramento as fast
as his mustang would carry him. Kelton (Utah), at the northwest corner of
Salt Lake, was accordingly reached soon after leaving Ogden, where he
halted a few hours. This station is seven hundred and ninety miles from San
Francisco. Stock is extensively grazed in its vicinity, feeding on sage brush
in the winter and such grass as they can get; but excellent grazing is found
in the summer. The cattle are shipped to markets on the Pacific coast in
large numbers. Terrace (Utah) was the next resting-place, seven hundred
and fifty-seven miles from San Francisco, in the midst of a desert with all
its dreary loneliness. Continuing his pace at an average of eight miles per
hour—the temperature being very low at an elevation of nearly five
thousand feet—Captain Glazier observed a few only of the salient features
of the wild country he now passed through, his position on horseback being
less favorable for topographical study than that of the tourist comfortably
seated in a palace-car.
Wells (Nevada) was duly reached by the lonely rider, who found on
inquiry that he was now only six hundred and sixty-one miles from his
destination. This place stands at an elevation of five thousand six hundred
and twenty-nine feet. Humboldt Wells, as they are designated, give celebrity
to the place, which was a great watering-station in the days of the old
emigrant travel. The emigrants always rejoiced when they had passed the
for your humble servant.
With kind regards to friends in Cleveland, I close this letter to mount
my horse,
And remain, ever truly yours,
Willard Glazier.
Captain Glazier's main object now was to push on to Sacramento as fast
as his mustang would carry him. Kelton (Utah), at the northwest corner of
Salt Lake, was accordingly reached soon after leaving Ogden, where he
halted a few hours. This station is seven hundred and ninety miles from San
Francisco. Stock is extensively grazed in its vicinity, feeding on sage brush
in the winter and such grass as they can get; but excellent grazing is found
in the summer. The cattle are shipped to markets on the Pacific coast in
large numbers. Terrace (Utah) was the next resting-place, seven hundred
and fifty-seven miles from San Francisco, in the midst of a desert with all
its dreary loneliness. Continuing his pace at an average of eight miles per
hour—the temperature being very low at an elevation of nearly five
thousand feet—Captain Glazier observed a few only of the salient features
of the wild country he now passed through, his position on horseback being
less favorable for topographical study than that of the tourist comfortably
seated in a palace-car.
Wells (Nevada) was duly reached by the lonely rider, who found on
inquiry that he was now only six hundred and sixty-one miles from his
destination. This place stands at an elevation of five thousand six hundred
and twenty-nine feet. Humboldt Wells, as they are designated, give celebrity
to the place, which was a great watering-station in the days of the old
emigrant travel. The emigrants always rejoiced when they had passed the
Page 435
perils of the Great American Desert and arrived at these springs, where
there was always plenty of pure water and an abundance of grass for the
weary animals. Hence it was a favorite camping-ground before the
existence of the Pacific Railroad. The wells are very deep. A Government
exploring party, under command of Lieutenant Cuppinger, visited the spot
in 1870, and took soundings to a depth of seventeen hundred feet without
finding bottom.
Halleck (Nevada) was the next resting station, at an elevation of five
thousand two hundred and thirty feet. It is named from Camp Halleck,
about thirteen miles from the station, where two or three companies of
United States troops are usually kept. The land around is mostly occupied
as stock-ranges.
Elko (Nevada), twenty-four miles nearer his destination, supplied his
wants in the way of rest and food for the night. This is the county-seat of
Elko County, the northeastern county of the State. The town has a
population of 1500, and is destined to become an important city. The money
paid for freights consigned to this place and the mining districts which are
tributary to it, averages $1,000,000 per year. There are numerous retail
stores, and a few wholesale establishments, with a bank, brewery, hotels,
and three large freight depots for the accommodation of the railroad
business. Indians, mostly the Shoshones, of both sexes, are frequently
noticed about the town.
The valley of the Humboldt continued to widen after leaving Elko—the
pastures and meadow lands, with occasional houses, were soon passed, and
the rider pushed on to Palisade (Nevada), his next halting-place, thirty miles
from Elko, and five hundred and seventy-six from San Francisco. For the
last two hundred miles the road had been a gradual descent, and the change
of temperature was very sensible. Palisade is a growing little place, with a
there was always plenty of pure water and an abundance of grass for the
weary animals. Hence it was a favorite camping-ground before the
existence of the Pacific Railroad. The wells are very deep. A Government
exploring party, under command of Lieutenant Cuppinger, visited the spot
in 1870, and took soundings to a depth of seventeen hundred feet without
finding bottom.
Halleck (Nevada) was the next resting station, at an elevation of five
thousand two hundred and thirty feet. It is named from Camp Halleck,
about thirteen miles from the station, where two or three companies of
United States troops are usually kept. The land around is mostly occupied
as stock-ranges.
Elko (Nevada), twenty-four miles nearer his destination, supplied his
wants in the way of rest and food for the night. This is the county-seat of
Elko County, the northeastern county of the State. The town has a
population of 1500, and is destined to become an important city. The money
paid for freights consigned to this place and the mining districts which are
tributary to it, averages $1,000,000 per year. There are numerous retail
stores, and a few wholesale establishments, with a bank, brewery, hotels,
and three large freight depots for the accommodation of the railroad
business. Indians, mostly the Shoshones, of both sexes, are frequently
noticed about the town.
The valley of the Humboldt continued to widen after leaving Elko—the
pastures and meadow lands, with occasional houses, were soon passed, and
the rider pushed on to Palisade (Nevada), his next halting-place, thirty miles
from Elko, and five hundred and seventy-six from San Francisco. For the
last two hundred miles the road had been a gradual descent, and the change
of temperature was very sensible. Palisade is a growing little place, with a
Page 436
population of about four hundred souls. The town is located about half way
down a cañon, and the rocky, perpendicular walls give it a picturesque
appearance.
Forty-one miles farther west Captain Glazier stopped again for
refreshment and rest at Argenta (Nevada), in the midst of alkali flats. The
road continued for a few miles along the base of the Reese River Mountain,
when suddenly a broad valley opened out—the valley of the Reese River.
Turning to the right he found himself at Battle Mountain (Nevada), at the
junction of the Reese River and Humboldt Valleys. The town of Battle
Mountain has several extensive stores, a public hall, an excellent school-
house and a first-class hotel, with a large and rapidly increasing trade.
Battle Mountain, about three miles south of the town, is reputed to have
been the scene of a sanguinary conflict between a party of emigrants and a
band of red-skins, who were defeated.
Golconda (Nevada) was reached, and is four hundred and seventy-eight
miles from San Francisco. It is a small place, with three or four stores, a
hotel, and several houses. Gold Run mining district, a little distance to the
south, is tributary to the place. Having rested for the night, Glazier mounted
at sunrise and directed his course to Winnemucca (Nevada), the county-seat
of Humboldt county, with a population of fifteen hundred, among whom are
some Indians and not a few Chinamen. The town has an elegant brick court-
house, together with several stores, hotels, shops, and a school-house.
Winnemucca was the name of a chief of the Piute Indians, who was
favorable to the whites at the time of the laying out of the city.
Humboldt (Nevada) was reached in due time—an oasis in the desert.
Here he was reminded that he was still in a land of cultivation and
civilization. The first growing trees since leaving Ogden were seen here,
with plenty of green grass and flowing fountains of pure water. Humboldt
down a cañon, and the rocky, perpendicular walls give it a picturesque
appearance.
Forty-one miles farther west Captain Glazier stopped again for
refreshment and rest at Argenta (Nevada), in the midst of alkali flats. The
road continued for a few miles along the base of the Reese River Mountain,
when suddenly a broad valley opened out—the valley of the Reese River.
Turning to the right he found himself at Battle Mountain (Nevada), at the
junction of the Reese River and Humboldt Valleys. The town of Battle
Mountain has several extensive stores, a public hall, an excellent school-
house and a first-class hotel, with a large and rapidly increasing trade.
Battle Mountain, about three miles south of the town, is reputed to have
been the scene of a sanguinary conflict between a party of emigrants and a
band of red-skins, who were defeated.
Golconda (Nevada) was reached, and is four hundred and seventy-eight
miles from San Francisco. It is a small place, with three or four stores, a
hotel, and several houses. Gold Run mining district, a little distance to the
south, is tributary to the place. Having rested for the night, Glazier mounted
at sunrise and directed his course to Winnemucca (Nevada), the county-seat
of Humboldt county, with a population of fifteen hundred, among whom are
some Indians and not a few Chinamen. The town has an elegant brick court-
house, together with several stores, hotels, shops, and a school-house.
Winnemucca was the name of a chief of the Piute Indians, who was
favorable to the whites at the time of the laying out of the city.
Humboldt (Nevada) was reached in due time—an oasis in the desert.
Here he was reminded that he was still in a land of cultivation and
civilization. The first growing trees since leaving Ogden were seen here,
with plenty of green grass and flowing fountains of pure water. Humboldt
Page 437
House offered its hospitality to our traveler, and the place and its
surroundings reminded him of his home in the east. It was a great relief
from the wearisome, dreary views which had everywhere met his gaze over
the largest part of his journey since leaving Omaha. Humboldt is the
business centre of several valuable mining districts, and has a bright
prospect in the future.
The following incident is said to have occurred in one of the Nevada
mining towns not many miles from Humboldt:
About the year 1852 or '53, on a still, hot summer afternoon, a certain
man who shall be nameless, having tracked his two donkeys and one horse
a half mile and discovering that a man's track with spur marks followed
them, came back to town and told "the boys," who loitered about a popular
saloon, that in his opinion some Mexican had stolen the animals. Such news
as this demanded, naturally, drinks all around.
"Do you know, gentlemen," said one who assumed leadership, "that just
naturally to shoot these greasers ain't the best way? Give 'em a fair jury
trial, and rope 'em up with all the majesty of the law. That's the cure."
Such words of moderation were well received, and they drank again to
"Here's hoping we may ketch that greaser!"
As they loafed back to the veranda, a Mexican walked over the hill-brow,
jingling his spurs pleasantly in accord with a whistled waltz.
The advocate for the law said, in an undertone, "That's the cuss!"
A rush, a struggle, and the Mexican, bound hand and foot, lay on his back
in the bar-room. The miners turned out to a man.
Happily, such cries as "String him up!" "Burn the dog-goned lubricator!"
and other equally pleasant phrases fell unheeded upon his Spanish ear. A
surroundings reminded him of his home in the east. It was a great relief
from the wearisome, dreary views which had everywhere met his gaze over
the largest part of his journey since leaving Omaha. Humboldt is the
business centre of several valuable mining districts, and has a bright
prospect in the future.
The following incident is said to have occurred in one of the Nevada
mining towns not many miles from Humboldt:
About the year 1852 or '53, on a still, hot summer afternoon, a certain
man who shall be nameless, having tracked his two donkeys and one horse
a half mile and discovering that a man's track with spur marks followed
them, came back to town and told "the boys," who loitered about a popular
saloon, that in his opinion some Mexican had stolen the animals. Such news
as this demanded, naturally, drinks all around.
"Do you know, gentlemen," said one who assumed leadership, "that just
naturally to shoot these greasers ain't the best way? Give 'em a fair jury
trial, and rope 'em up with all the majesty of the law. That's the cure."
Such words of moderation were well received, and they drank again to
"Here's hoping we may ketch that greaser!"
As they loafed back to the veranda, a Mexican walked over the hill-brow,
jingling his spurs pleasantly in accord with a whistled waltz.
The advocate for the law said, in an undertone, "That's the cuss!"
A rush, a struggle, and the Mexican, bound hand and foot, lay on his back
in the bar-room. The miners turned out to a man.
Happily, such cries as "String him up!" "Burn the dog-goned lubricator!"
and other equally pleasant phrases fell unheeded upon his Spanish ear. A
Page 438
jury was quickly gathered in the street, and despite refusals to serve, the
crowd hurried them in behind the bar.
A brief statement of the case was made by the advocate pro tem., and
they showed the jury into a commodious poker-room, where were seats
grouped about neat green tables. The noise outside in the bar-room by-and-
by died away into complete silence, but from afar down the cañon came
confused sounds as of disorderly cheering. They came nearer, and again the
light-hearted noise of human laughter mingled with clinking glasses around
the bar.
A low knock at the jury door, the lock burst in, and a dozen smiling
fellows asked the verdict. The foreman promptly answered, "Not guilty."
With volleys of oaths, and ominous laying of hands on pistol hilts, the
"boys" slammed the door with—"You'll have to do better than that!"
In half an hour the advocate gently opened the door again.
"Your opinion, gentlemen?"
"Guilty!"
"Correct! you can come out. We hung him an hour ago!"
The jury took their drinks, and when, after a few minutes, the pleasant
village returned to its former tranquility, it was "allowed" at more than one
saloon that "Mexicans'll know enough to let white men's stock alone after
this." One and another exchanged the belief that this sort of thing was more
sensible than "nipping 'em on sight."
When, before sunset, the bar-keeper concluded to sweep some dust out of
his poker-room back-door, he felt a momentary surprise at finding the
missing horse dozing under the shadow of an oak, and the two lost donkeys
serenely masticating playing-cards, of which many bushels lay in a dirty
pile. He was then reminded that the animals had been there all day!
crowd hurried them in behind the bar.
A brief statement of the case was made by the advocate pro tem., and
they showed the jury into a commodious poker-room, where were seats
grouped about neat green tables. The noise outside in the bar-room by-and-
by died away into complete silence, but from afar down the cañon came
confused sounds as of disorderly cheering. They came nearer, and again the
light-hearted noise of human laughter mingled with clinking glasses around
the bar.
A low knock at the jury door, the lock burst in, and a dozen smiling
fellows asked the verdict. The foreman promptly answered, "Not guilty."
With volleys of oaths, and ominous laying of hands on pistol hilts, the
"boys" slammed the door with—"You'll have to do better than that!"
In half an hour the advocate gently opened the door again.
"Your opinion, gentlemen?"
"Guilty!"
"Correct! you can come out. We hung him an hour ago!"
The jury took their drinks, and when, after a few minutes, the pleasant
village returned to its former tranquility, it was "allowed" at more than one
saloon that "Mexicans'll know enough to let white men's stock alone after
this." One and another exchanged the belief that this sort of thing was more
sensible than "nipping 'em on sight."
When, before sunset, the bar-keeper concluded to sweep some dust out of
his poker-room back-door, he felt a momentary surprise at finding the
missing horse dozing under the shadow of an oak, and the two lost donkeys
serenely masticating playing-cards, of which many bushels lay in a dirty
pile. He was then reminded that the animals had been there all day!
Page 439
Lovelocks (Nevada) is three hundred and eighty-nine miles from San
Francisco, and its elevation above the sea-level three thousand nine hundred
and seventy-seven feet. It is simply a station, with a few buildings
connected with the Central Pacific Railroad; but is a fine grazing region,
and large herds of cattle are fattened here upon the rich native grasses.
There is quite a settlement of farmers near Lovelocks. Before the railroad
came the pasture lands were renowned among the emigrants, who recruited
their stock after the wearisome journey across the plains.
Leaving Lovelocks, Captain Glazier soon found himself again on the
barren desert. A side track of the railroad, named White Plains, gave him
rest for the night. The spot is surrounded by a white alkali desert, covered in
places with salt and alkali deposits. Hot Springs is another station in the
midst of the desert, and is so named from the hot springs whose rising
steam can be seen about half a mile from the station.
Hastening forward he reached Desert (Nevada), which he found to be
three hundred and thirty-five miles from San Francisco, and that the place is
rightly named. The winds that sweep the barren plains here, heap the sand
around the scattered sage brush till they resemble huge potato hills—a most
dreary place.
The captain found it quite a relief on reaching Wadsworth (Nevada), a
town of about five hundred souls, and three hundred and twenty-eight miles
from the end of his journey. It has several large stores, Chinamen's houses,
and hotels, in one of the latter of which he found refreshment and a bed. His
route had been for several days across dreary, monotonous plains, with
nothing but black desolation around him. Another world now opened to his
view—a world of beauty, grandeur and sublimity. Reluctantly leaving this
agreeable place, he crossed the Truckee River, and gazed with delightful
Francisco, and its elevation above the sea-level three thousand nine hundred
and seventy-seven feet. It is simply a station, with a few buildings
connected with the Central Pacific Railroad; but is a fine grazing region,
and large herds of cattle are fattened here upon the rich native grasses.
There is quite a settlement of farmers near Lovelocks. Before the railroad
came the pasture lands were renowned among the emigrants, who recruited
their stock after the wearisome journey across the plains.
Leaving Lovelocks, Captain Glazier soon found himself again on the
barren desert. A side track of the railroad, named White Plains, gave him
rest for the night. The spot is surrounded by a white alkali desert, covered in
places with salt and alkali deposits. Hot Springs is another station in the
midst of the desert, and is so named from the hot springs whose rising
steam can be seen about half a mile from the station.
Hastening forward he reached Desert (Nevada), which he found to be
three hundred and thirty-five miles from San Francisco, and that the place is
rightly named. The winds that sweep the barren plains here, heap the sand
around the scattered sage brush till they resemble huge potato hills—a most
dreary place.
The captain found it quite a relief on reaching Wadsworth (Nevada), a
town of about five hundred souls, and three hundred and twenty-eight miles
from the end of his journey. It has several large stores, Chinamen's houses,
and hotels, in one of the latter of which he found refreshment and a bed. His
route had been for several days across dreary, monotonous plains, with
nothing but black desolation around him. Another world now opened to his
view—a world of beauty, grandeur and sublimity. Reluctantly leaving this
agreeable place, he crossed the Truckee River, and gazed with delightful
Page 440
sensations upon the trees, the green meadows, comfortable farm-houses and
well-tilled fields of the ranches, as he rode forward.
He had now crossed the boundary line that divides Nevada from
California, and Truckee was the first place he halted at. This is a flourishing
little city of fifteen hundred inhabitants, one-third of whom are Chinese,
and is two hundred and fifty-nine miles from San Francisco. A large number
of good stores were seen here, and a considerable trade is carried on.
He next reached Summit (California). From this point the road descends
rapidly to the Valley of the Sacramento.
Several intermediate places having been stopped at, in which our traveler
obtained accommodation for a night, we hasten on with him to Sacramento,
where, on November twenty-first, he found himself again surrounded with
all the appliances of civilization. Sacramento has a population of twenty-
five thousand. The broad streets are shaded by heavy foliage. It is a city of
beautiful homes. Lovely cottages are surrounded by flowers, fruits and
vines; while some of the most elegant mansions in the State are in the midst
of grassy lawns, or gardens filled with the rarest flowers. Here is the State
capitol, a building that cost nearly $2,500,000 for its erection. Sacramento
is an important railroad centre, second only to San Francisco.
well-tilled fields of the ranches, as he rode forward.
He had now crossed the boundary line that divides Nevada from
California, and Truckee was the first place he halted at. This is a flourishing
little city of fifteen hundred inhabitants, one-third of whom are Chinese,
and is two hundred and fifty-nine miles from San Francisco. A large number
of good stores were seen here, and a considerable trade is carried on.
He next reached Summit (California). From this point the road descends
rapidly to the Valley of the Sacramento.
Several intermediate places having been stopped at, in which our traveler
obtained accommodation for a night, we hasten on with him to Sacramento,
where, on November twenty-first, he found himself again surrounded with
all the appliances of civilization. Sacramento has a population of twenty-
five thousand. The broad streets are shaded by heavy foliage. It is a city of
beautiful homes. Lovely cottages are surrounded by flowers, fruits and
vines; while some of the most elegant mansions in the State are in the midst
of grassy lawns, or gardens filled with the rarest flowers. Here is the State
capitol, a building that cost nearly $2,500,000 for its erection. Sacramento
is an important railroad centre, second only to San Francisco.
Page 441
CAPTAIN GLAZIER RIDING INTO THE PACIFIC—NEAR THE CLIFF HOUSE, SAN
FRANCISCO.
Brighton was one hundred and thirty-four miles from the termination of
his ride. At the farm-houses along the road numerous wind-mills were seen.
These are used to fill reservoirs for household wants, and are common in all
the valleys and plains of California.
A halt was made at Stockton, twenty-one miles from destination. This
city has a population of about fifteen thousand, and is only twenty-three feet
above the level of the sea. It was named to commemorate Commodore
Stockton's part in the conquest of California.
Using all despatch, Captain Glazier pushed on to San Francisco, and
entered the city November twenty-fourth, registering at the Palace Hotel.
He immediately after rode, in company with Mr. Walter Montgomery, and a
friend, to the Cliff House, reaching it by the toll-road. This beautiful seaside
resort is built on a prominence overlooking the ocean. Captain Glazier
walked his horse into the waters of the Pacific, and then felt that he had
accomplished his task. He had ridden in the saddle from the Atlantic to the
FRANCISCO.
Brighton was one hundred and thirty-four miles from the termination of
his ride. At the farm-houses along the road numerous wind-mills were seen.
These are used to fill reservoirs for household wants, and are common in all
the valleys and plains of California.
A halt was made at Stockton, twenty-one miles from destination. This
city has a population of about fifteen thousand, and is only twenty-three feet
above the level of the sea. It was named to commemorate Commodore
Stockton's part in the conquest of California.
Using all despatch, Captain Glazier pushed on to San Francisco, and
entered the city November twenty-fourth, registering at the Palace Hotel.
He immediately after rode, in company with Mr. Walter Montgomery, and a
friend, to the Cliff House, reaching it by the toll-road. This beautiful seaside
resort is built on a prominence overlooking the ocean. Captain Glazier
walked his horse into the waters of the Pacific, and then felt that he had
accomplished his task. He had ridden in the saddle from the Atlantic to the
Page 442
Pacific Ocean—from Boston to San Francisco—a distance of four thousand
one hundred and thirty-three miles, in just two hundred days.
He was now no longer the slave of duty, and would rest for a few days
and see the beautiful city before he returned to the east. He wandered about,
mostly on foot, visited and inspected the numerous public buildings, the
City Park, Woodward's Gardens, etc., and became convinced from personal
observation of the greatness and magnificence of this city on the Pacific,
with its three hundred thousand inhabitants, covering a territory of forty-
two square miles, and the growth of less than thirty years. On its eastern
front San Francisco extends along the bay, whose name it bears, bounded
on the north by the Golden Gate, and on the west washed by the Pacific
Ocean along a beach five or six miles in extent. It is not, however, a part of
our plan to describe this wonderful city, which has been done most
effectively by others.
one hundred and thirty-three miles, in just two hundred days.
He was now no longer the slave of duty, and would rest for a few days
and see the beautiful city before he returned to the east. He wandered about,
mostly on foot, visited and inspected the numerous public buildings, the
City Park, Woodward's Gardens, etc., and became convinced from personal
observation of the greatness and magnificence of this city on the Pacific,
with its three hundred thousand inhabitants, covering a territory of forty-
two square miles, and the growth of less than thirty years. On its eastern
front San Francisco extends along the bay, whose name it bears, bounded
on the north by the Golden Gate, and on the west washed by the Pacific
Ocean along a beach five or six miles in extent. It is not, however, a part of
our plan to describe this wonderful city, which has been done most
effectively by others.
Page 443
CHAPTER XXXV.
RETURN FROM CALIFORNIA.
Returns to the East by the "Iron Horse." — Boston Transcript on the journey on horseback. —
Resumes literary work. — "Peculiarities of American Cities." — Preface to book. — A
domestic incident. — A worthy son. — Claims of parents. — Purchases the old Homestead,
and presents it to his father and mother. — Letter to his parents.
We now accompany our subject on his return journey to the east. His
family and friends had naturally felt great concern for him during his long
and perilous ride, and he was anxious therefore to allay their fears for his
safety by presenting himself before them. He accordingly purchased a ticket
and left San Francisco by rail on the twenty-eighth of November, and after a
journey more rapid and comfortable than the one he had made on
horseback, arrived in New York city on December sixth.
Several of the eastern papers, on hearing of the captain's safe return,
furnished their readers with interesting, and, more or less, correct accounts
of the journey. We can find room only for that of the Boston Transcript:
"It will be remembered that on the ninth of May, 1876, Captain
Willard Glazier, the author of 'Battles for the Union,' and other works of
a military character, rode out of Boston with the intention of crossing
the continent on horseback. His object in undertaking this long and
tedious journey was to study at comparative leisure the line of country
which he traversed, and the habits and condition of the people he came
in contact with, the industrious and peaceful white, and the 'noble' and
belligerent red. According to the captain's note-book, he had a closer
RETURN FROM CALIFORNIA.
Returns to the East by the "Iron Horse." — Boston Transcript on the journey on horseback. —
Resumes literary work. — "Peculiarities of American Cities." — Preface to book. — A
domestic incident. — A worthy son. — Claims of parents. — Purchases the old Homestead,
and presents it to his father and mother. — Letter to his parents.
We now accompany our subject on his return journey to the east. His
family and friends had naturally felt great concern for him during his long
and perilous ride, and he was anxious therefore to allay their fears for his
safety by presenting himself before them. He accordingly purchased a ticket
and left San Francisco by rail on the twenty-eighth of November, and after a
journey more rapid and comfortable than the one he had made on
horseback, arrived in New York city on December sixth.
Several of the eastern papers, on hearing of the captain's safe return,
furnished their readers with interesting, and, more or less, correct accounts
of the journey. We can find room only for that of the Boston Transcript:
"It will be remembered that on the ninth of May, 1876, Captain
Willard Glazier, the author of 'Battles for the Union,' and other works of
a military character, rode out of Boston with the intention of crossing
the continent on horseback. His object in undertaking this long and
tedious journey was to study at comparative leisure the line of country
which he traversed, and the habits and condition of the people he came
in contact with, the industrious and peaceful white, and the 'noble' and
belligerent red. According to the captain's note-book, he had a closer
Page 444
opportunity of studying the characteristics of the terror than the toiler of
the plains.
"Accompanied by certain members of the 'Grand Army of the
Republic,' on the morning of May ninth, as far as Brighton, he there
took leave of them, and with one companion, rode as far as Albany, the
captain lecturing by the way wherever inducement offered, and handing
over the profits to the benefit of the Widows' and Orphans' Fund of the
G. A. R. Many of these lectures were well attended, and the receipts
large, as letters of thanks from the various 'Posts' testify.
"From Albany Captain Glazier pursued his journey alone, and rode
the same horse through the States of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio,
Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, as far as Omaha.
Thence he proceeded on whatever quadruped of the equine species he
could obtain, which was capable of shaking the dust from its feet
nimbly. That he was fortunate in this respect is proven by the fact that
he rode from Omaha to San Francisco, a distance of nineteen hundred
and eighty-eight miles in thirty days, making an average of about sixty-
seven miles per diem. The distance from Omaha to Cheyenne, five
hundred and twenty-two miles, he accomplished in six days; the
greatest distance accomplished in one day of fourteen hours was one
hundred and sixty-six miles, three mustangs being called into
requisition for the purpose. The entire time occupied by the journey was
two hundred days, the captain reaching the Golden Gate on the twenty-
fourth day of November. The actual number of days in the saddle was
one hundred and forty-four, which gives an average of twenty-eight
miles and seven-tenths per day.
"During this strange journey of more than four thousand miles,
Captain Glazier delivered one hundred and four lectures for the object
the plains.
"Accompanied by certain members of the 'Grand Army of the
Republic,' on the morning of May ninth, as far as Brighton, he there
took leave of them, and with one companion, rode as far as Albany, the
captain lecturing by the way wherever inducement offered, and handing
over the profits to the benefit of the Widows' and Orphans' Fund of the
G. A. R. Many of these lectures were well attended, and the receipts
large, as letters of thanks from the various 'Posts' testify.
"From Albany Captain Glazier pursued his journey alone, and rode
the same horse through the States of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio,
Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, as far as Omaha.
Thence he proceeded on whatever quadruped of the equine species he
could obtain, which was capable of shaking the dust from its feet
nimbly. That he was fortunate in this respect is proven by the fact that
he rode from Omaha to San Francisco, a distance of nineteen hundred
and eighty-eight miles in thirty days, making an average of about sixty-
seven miles per diem. The distance from Omaha to Cheyenne, five
hundred and twenty-two miles, he accomplished in six days; the
greatest distance accomplished in one day of fourteen hours was one
hundred and sixty-six miles, three mustangs being called into
requisition for the purpose. The entire time occupied by the journey was
two hundred days, the captain reaching the Golden Gate on the twenty-
fourth day of November. The actual number of days in the saddle was
one hundred and forty-four, which gives an average of twenty-eight
miles and seven-tenths per day.
"During this strange journey of more than four thousand miles,
Captain Glazier delivered one hundred and four lectures for the object
Page 445
before mentioned, and also for the benefit of the Custer Monument
Fund, and visited six hundred and forty-eight cities, villages and
stations. He tested the merits of three hundred and thirty-three hotels,
farm-houses and ranches, and made special visits to over one hundred
public institutions and places of resort. He killed three buffaloes, eight
antelopes, and twenty-two prairie wolves, thus enjoying to the full all
the pleasurable excitement of hunting on the plains.
"But on the thirty-first of October, while in the company of two
herders, the tables were turned, and a band of hostile Arrapahoes
suddenly disturbed the harmony of the occasion. After a lively
encounter, in which one of the Indians was despatched to the Happy
Hunting Grounds, Glazier and his companions were taken prisoners,
and one of the herders was gradually tortured to death. All that now
seemed to be required of the two survivors was patience—if they
desired to share a similar fate. But in the early morning of the second of
November, while their captors were asleep, they contrived not only to
escape, but to secure the arms which had been taken from them; and,
mounted on two mustangs belonging to the Indians, soon placed a
considerable distance between themselves and their too confident
guards. In the chase which ensued, Captain Glazier was separated from
his fellow-fugitive, and made good his own escape by dismounting two
of his pursuers, and eventually, after a long, hard gallop, dismounting
himself and hiding in a gulch. What the fate of the herder was he had no
means of discovering.
"Though a man of usually robust constitution, Captain Glazier felt the
transitions of climate acutely, but he experiences no ill effects from the
long journey now that it is over. The 'iron horse' brought him back to the
East of this continent in a few days, and there are probably few men in
Fund, and visited six hundred and forty-eight cities, villages and
stations. He tested the merits of three hundred and thirty-three hotels,
farm-houses and ranches, and made special visits to over one hundred
public institutions and places of resort. He killed three buffaloes, eight
antelopes, and twenty-two prairie wolves, thus enjoying to the full all
the pleasurable excitement of hunting on the plains.
"But on the thirty-first of October, while in the company of two
herders, the tables were turned, and a band of hostile Arrapahoes
suddenly disturbed the harmony of the occasion. After a lively
encounter, in which one of the Indians was despatched to the Happy
Hunting Grounds, Glazier and his companions were taken prisoners,
and one of the herders was gradually tortured to death. All that now
seemed to be required of the two survivors was patience—if they
desired to share a similar fate. But in the early morning of the second of
November, while their captors were asleep, they contrived not only to
escape, but to secure the arms which had been taken from them; and,
mounted on two mustangs belonging to the Indians, soon placed a
considerable distance between themselves and their too confident
guards. In the chase which ensued, Captain Glazier was separated from
his fellow-fugitive, and made good his own escape by dismounting two
of his pursuers, and eventually, after a long, hard gallop, dismounting
himself and hiding in a gulch. What the fate of the herder was he had no
means of discovering.
"Though a man of usually robust constitution, Captain Glazier felt the
transitions of climate acutely, but he experiences no ill effects from the
long journey now that it is over. The 'iron horse' brought him back to the
East of this continent in a few days, and there are probably few men in
Page 446
the States who have formed a higher opinion of the blessings of steam,
than Captain Willard Glazier."
Returned to Washington our soldier-author applied himself again to
literature, his ever active brain having been sufficiently recruited by the
comparative relaxation it had enjoyed during the long ride. One of the fruits
of his pen at this time was a volume entitled "Peculiarities of American
Cities," a subject upon which his flowing pen expatiates with great freedom
and a nice discrimination. That the reader may perceive the bent of Glazier's
mind at this period of his history, we here present the brief and succinct
preface to that work:
"It has occurred to the author very often," he writes, "that a volume
presenting the peculiar features, favorite resorts, and distinguishing
characteristics of the leading cities of America, would prove of interest to
thousands who could, at best, see them only in imagination; and to others
who, having visited them, would like to compare notes with one who has
made their peculiarities a study for many years.
"A residence in more than a hundred cities, including nearly all that are
introduced in this work, leads me to feel that I shall succeed in my purpose
of giving to the public a book, without the necessity of marching in slow,
and solemn procession before my readers, a monumental array of time-
honored statistics; on the contrary it will be my aim in the following pages
to talk of cities as I have seen and found them in my walks from day to day,
with but slight reference to their origin and history."
We will bring this chapter to a close by recording one incident in the life
of its hero, which, humble and common-place as it may be deemed by
than Captain Willard Glazier."
Returned to Washington our soldier-author applied himself again to
literature, his ever active brain having been sufficiently recruited by the
comparative relaxation it had enjoyed during the long ride. One of the fruits
of his pen at this time was a volume entitled "Peculiarities of American
Cities," a subject upon which his flowing pen expatiates with great freedom
and a nice discrimination. That the reader may perceive the bent of Glazier's
mind at this period of his history, we here present the brief and succinct
preface to that work:
"It has occurred to the author very often," he writes, "that a volume
presenting the peculiar features, favorite resorts, and distinguishing
characteristics of the leading cities of America, would prove of interest to
thousands who could, at best, see them only in imagination; and to others
who, having visited them, would like to compare notes with one who has
made their peculiarities a study for many years.
"A residence in more than a hundred cities, including nearly all that are
introduced in this work, leads me to feel that I shall succeed in my purpose
of giving to the public a book, without the necessity of marching in slow,
and solemn procession before my readers, a monumental array of time-
honored statistics; on the contrary it will be my aim in the following pages
to talk of cities as I have seen and found them in my walks from day to day,
with but slight reference to their origin and history."
We will bring this chapter to a close by recording one incident in the life
of its hero, which, humble and common-place as it may be deemed by
Page 447
some, is one which, in the judgment of a majority of our readers we venture
to think, reflects glory upon Willard Glazier as a son, and the nation may
well feel proud that can rear many such sons.
A subject of great domestic interest which had occupied his thoughts for
a considerable period, but to which he had, in his busy life, been unable
hitherto to give the necessary time and attention, at this time again forcibly
presented itself to his mind. Glazier's sense of a son's duty to his parents
was not of the ordinary type. He was profoundly conscious of the moral
obligation that devolved upon him, to render the declining years of his
parents as free from discomfort and anxiety as it was within his power to
do. They had nursed and trained him in infancy and boyhood; had set before
him daily the example of an upright life, and had instilled in him a love of
truth, honesty and every manly virtue. Their claim upon him, now that he
had met with a measure of success in life, was not to be ignored, and to a
good father and a good mother he would, so far as he was able, endeavor to
prove himself a good son.
The Old Homestead near the banks of the Oswegatchie, in St. Lawrence
County, New York, where his parents still resided; where all their children
had been born, and where many happy years had been passed, was not the
property of the Glazier family, and there was a possibility that the "dear old
folks" might in time have to remove from it. The thought of such a
contingency was painful to Willard Glazier. It was the spot of all others
around which his affections clung, and he resolved to make a strenuous
endeavor to possess himself of it, so that his father and mother might pass
their remaining days under its shelter.
He accordingly opened negotiations with the owners of the property for
the purchase of the Homestead, and was soon rejoiced to find himself the
sole proprietor of a place endeared to him by so many associations.
to think, reflects glory upon Willard Glazier as a son, and the nation may
well feel proud that can rear many such sons.
A subject of great domestic interest which had occupied his thoughts for
a considerable period, but to which he had, in his busy life, been unable
hitherto to give the necessary time and attention, at this time again forcibly
presented itself to his mind. Glazier's sense of a son's duty to his parents
was not of the ordinary type. He was profoundly conscious of the moral
obligation that devolved upon him, to render the declining years of his
parents as free from discomfort and anxiety as it was within his power to
do. They had nursed and trained him in infancy and boyhood; had set before
him daily the example of an upright life, and had instilled in him a love of
truth, honesty and every manly virtue. Their claim upon him, now that he
had met with a measure of success in life, was not to be ignored, and to a
good father and a good mother he would, so far as he was able, endeavor to
prove himself a good son.
The Old Homestead near the banks of the Oswegatchie, in St. Lawrence
County, New York, where his parents still resided; where all their children
had been born, and where many happy years had been passed, was not the
property of the Glazier family, and there was a possibility that the "dear old
folks" might in time have to remove from it. The thought of such a
contingency was painful to Willard Glazier. It was the spot of all others
around which his affections clung, and he resolved to make a strenuous
endeavor to possess himself of it, so that his father and mother might pass
their remaining days under its shelter.
He accordingly opened negotiations with the owners of the property for
the purchase of the Homestead, and was soon rejoiced to find himself the
sole proprietor of a place endeared to him by so many associations.
Page 448
The following letter to his parents will form a fitting conclusion to this
chapter:
102 Waverley Place,
New York, May 1st, 1878.
My Dear Father and Mother:
I am just in receipt of the papers which place me in possession of the
Old Homestead. This, I am sure, will be very pleasing news to you,
since it is my intention to make it the home of your declining years:
poor old grandmother, too, shall find it a welcome refuge while she
lives. I have never felt that I could see the home of my birth pass to
other hands; my heart still clings to it, and its hallowed associations,
with all the tenacity of former days. The first of May will, in future,
have special charms for me, for from this day, 1878, dates my claim to
that spot of earth which to me is dearer than all others.
Imagination often takes me back to the Old House on the Hill, where
your children spent many of the happiest hours of their childhood and
youth. In fancy I again visit the scenes of my boyhood—again chase the
butterfly, and pick the dandelion with Elvira and Marjorie in the shade
of the wide-spreading elms.
I have been working for you, dear parents, in the face of great
obstacles since the close of the war. If you think I have neglected you—
have not been home in ten long years, then I reply, I did not wish to see
you again until I could place you beyond the reach of want. One of the
objects of my life is to-day accomplished: and now, with love to all, and
the fervent hope that prosperity and happiness may wait upon you for
many, many years to come,
I remain, always,
chapter:
102 Waverley Place,
New York, May 1st, 1878.
My Dear Father and Mother:
I am just in receipt of the papers which place me in possession of the
Old Homestead. This, I am sure, will be very pleasing news to you,
since it is my intention to make it the home of your declining years:
poor old grandmother, too, shall find it a welcome refuge while she
lives. I have never felt that I could see the home of my birth pass to
other hands; my heart still clings to it, and its hallowed associations,
with all the tenacity of former days. The first of May will, in future,
have special charms for me, for from this day, 1878, dates my claim to
that spot of earth which to me is dearer than all others.
Imagination often takes me back to the Old House on the Hill, where
your children spent many of the happiest hours of their childhood and
youth. In fancy I again visit the scenes of my boyhood—again chase the
butterfly, and pick the dandelion with Elvira and Marjorie in the shade
of the wide-spreading elms.
I have been working for you, dear parents, in the face of great
obstacles since the close of the war. If you think I have neglected you—
have not been home in ten long years, then I reply, I did not wish to see
you again until I could place you beyond the reach of want. One of the
objects of my life is to-day accomplished: and now, with love to all, and
the fervent hope that prosperity and happiness may wait upon you for
many, many years to come,
I remain, always,
Page 449
Your most affectionate son,
Willard.
HEADWATERS OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
Willard.
HEADWATERS OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
Page 450
CHAPTER XXXVI.
THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER.
An interval of literary work. — Conception of another expedition. — Reflections upon the Old
Explorers. — Indian rumors. — Determined to find the true source of the Great River. —
Starting on the eventful journey. — Joined by his brother George and Barrett Channing Paine.
— Collecting materials for the expedition. — Brainerd the first point of departure. — Through
the Chippewa Country. — Seventy miles of government road. — Curiosity its own reward. —
Arrival at Leech Lake.
An interval of three years, from 1878 to 1881, now elapsed in the career
of Captain Glazier; years of retirement from public attention, but by no
means of inactivity on his part. During this period he was engaged mainly
in literary work, and in preparation for a forthcoming expedition which his
ever restless brain had evolved, and which, if successful, would furnish a
valuable contribution to the geography of North America.
The design of the expedition was no less than the discovery of the true
source of the "Father of Waters," the mighty Mississippi; and a voyage
thence, in a canoe, to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. It was a novel and
daring project.
The idea of such an undertaking had occurred to him while on his
horseback journey across the continent; of which a brief outline has been
given the reader in previous chapters. He had come to a point in his onward
progress which is noted for its beauty, being one of the most picturesque
spots on the Mississippi, the bridge spanning the river between Iowa and
Illinois, where the rock-divided stream flows grandly by under the shadow
of towering bluffs. His own words best describe the impression which the
THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER.
An interval of literary work. — Conception of another expedition. — Reflections upon the Old
Explorers. — Indian rumors. — Determined to find the true source of the Great River. —
Starting on the eventful journey. — Joined by his brother George and Barrett Channing Paine.
— Collecting materials for the expedition. — Brainerd the first point of departure. — Through
the Chippewa Country. — Seventy miles of government road. — Curiosity its own reward. —
Arrival at Leech Lake.
An interval of three years, from 1878 to 1881, now elapsed in the career
of Captain Glazier; years of retirement from public attention, but by no
means of inactivity on his part. During this period he was engaged mainly
in literary work, and in preparation for a forthcoming expedition which his
ever restless brain had evolved, and which, if successful, would furnish a
valuable contribution to the geography of North America.
The design of the expedition was no less than the discovery of the true
source of the "Father of Waters," the mighty Mississippi; and a voyage
thence, in a canoe, to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. It was a novel and
daring project.
The idea of such an undertaking had occurred to him while on his
horseback journey across the continent; of which a brief outline has been
given the reader in previous chapters. He had come to a point in his onward
progress which is noted for its beauty, being one of the most picturesque
spots on the Mississippi, the bridge spanning the river between Iowa and
Illinois, where the rock-divided stream flows grandly by under the shadow
of towering bluffs. His own words best describe the impression which the
Page 451
scene made upon him, and the consequent birth in his brain of the most
notable achievement of his life:—
"While crossing the continent on horseback from ocean to ocean, in
1876, I came to a bridge which spans the Mississippi between Rock Island,
Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa. As I saw the flood of this mighty stream
rolling beneath me, I turned in imagination to its discovery in 1541. I saw
the renowned De Soto upon its banks and buried in its depths: I
accompanied Marquette from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of
the Arkansas: I followed Father Hennepin northward to St. Anthony's Falls:
and I saw the daring La Salle plant the banner of France on the shores of the
Gulf of Mexico.
"Musing thus upon the exploits of the heroic old explorers who led the
way to this grand and peerless river of North America, I felt that it was a
subject of much regret that although its mouth was discovered by the
Chevalier La Salle nearly two hundred years ago, there was still much
uncertainty as to its true source. Within the last century several
distinguished explorers have attempted to find the primal reservoir of the
Great River. Beltrami, Nicollett, and Schoolcraft have each in turn claimed
the goal of their explorations. Numerous lakes, ponds, and rivers have from
time to time enjoyed the honor of standing at the head of the 'Father of
Waters.' Schoolcraft, finally, in 1832, decided upon a lake, which he named
Itasca, as the fountain-head, and succeeded in securing for it the recognition
of geographers and map-makers.
"Notwithstanding the fact, however, that the claim for geographical
honors was very generally accorded to Schoolcraft's lake, as being the
source of the Mississippi, I had frequently been told that many Indians
denied that their ideal river began its course in Lake Itasca, and asserted
that there were other lakes and rivers above and beyond that lake, unknown
notable achievement of his life:—
"While crossing the continent on horseback from ocean to ocean, in
1876, I came to a bridge which spans the Mississippi between Rock Island,
Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa. As I saw the flood of this mighty stream
rolling beneath me, I turned in imagination to its discovery in 1541. I saw
the renowned De Soto upon its banks and buried in its depths: I
accompanied Marquette from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of
the Arkansas: I followed Father Hennepin northward to St. Anthony's Falls:
and I saw the daring La Salle plant the banner of France on the shores of the
Gulf of Mexico.
"Musing thus upon the exploits of the heroic old explorers who led the
way to this grand and peerless river of North America, I felt that it was a
subject of much regret that although its mouth was discovered by the
Chevalier La Salle nearly two hundred years ago, there was still much
uncertainty as to its true source. Within the last century several
distinguished explorers have attempted to find the primal reservoir of the
Great River. Beltrami, Nicollett, and Schoolcraft have each in turn claimed
the goal of their explorations. Numerous lakes, ponds, and rivers have from
time to time enjoyed the honor of standing at the head of the 'Father of
Waters.' Schoolcraft, finally, in 1832, decided upon a lake, which he named
Itasca, as the fountain-head, and succeeded in securing for it the recognition
of geographers and map-makers.
"Notwithstanding the fact, however, that the claim for geographical
honors was very generally accorded to Schoolcraft's lake, as being the
source of the Mississippi, I had frequently been told that many Indians
denied that their ideal river began its course in Lake Itasca, and asserted
that there were other lakes and rivers above and beyond that lake, unknown
Page 452
to the white man, and that in them was to be found the original starting
forth of the mysterious stream. These reflections led me to conclude that
there was yet a rich field for exploration in the wilds of Minnesota."
Thus it was that Captain Glazier determined upon a search for this great
unknown of waters. The time, however, was not yet ripe for the fulfilment
of his purpose. There was promised work to be done, duties to the public
waiting to be fulfilled, various literary responsibilities accumulated from
the past which must be met, the projected undertaking itself to be specially
prepared for;—all this to be done before he could finally turn his face
towards his new purpose.
The intervening period was therefore occupied in carefully revising his
literary productions. Several of his books, written hastily at the close of the
war, had been published in rapid succession in a somewhat incomplete
form, and the constantly increasing demand for their subsequent editions
brought a public pressure to bear upon him for their needed revision which
could not well be resisted.
He had also other forthcoming works on his hands, which he was anxious
should be put into form before he again launched himself upon the sea of
uncertain ventures. In order to collect additional material for his book upon
the "Peculiarities of American Cities" it was necessary that he should make
an extensive traveling tour; consequently, a considerable portion of this
time was spent in visiting the leading cities of the United States and
Canada. Adding to all this the necessary preparatory labor attending his
contemplated voyage in search of the true source of the Mississippi, and it
will be seen that the years elapsing between his journey from ocean to
ocean and his latest expedition were actively and well employed.
At length, however, all his tasks were accomplished, and the month of
May, 1881, found him stopping for a few days at Cleveland, Ohio, in his
forth of the mysterious stream. These reflections led me to conclude that
there was yet a rich field for exploration in the wilds of Minnesota."
Thus it was that Captain Glazier determined upon a search for this great
unknown of waters. The time, however, was not yet ripe for the fulfilment
of his purpose. There was promised work to be done, duties to the public
waiting to be fulfilled, various literary responsibilities accumulated from
the past which must be met, the projected undertaking itself to be specially
prepared for;—all this to be done before he could finally turn his face
towards his new purpose.
The intervening period was therefore occupied in carefully revising his
literary productions. Several of his books, written hastily at the close of the
war, had been published in rapid succession in a somewhat incomplete
form, and the constantly increasing demand for their subsequent editions
brought a public pressure to bear upon him for their needed revision which
could not well be resisted.
He had also other forthcoming works on his hands, which he was anxious
should be put into form before he again launched himself upon the sea of
uncertain ventures. In order to collect additional material for his book upon
the "Peculiarities of American Cities" it was necessary that he should make
an extensive traveling tour; consequently, a considerable portion of this
time was spent in visiting the leading cities of the United States and
Canada. Adding to all this the necessary preparatory labor attending his
contemplated voyage in search of the true source of the Mississippi, and it
will be seen that the years elapsing between his journey from ocean to
ocean and his latest expedition were actively and well employed.
At length, however, all his tasks were accomplished, and the month of
May, 1881, found him stopping for a few days at Cleveland, Ohio, in his
Page 453
journey westward from New York. Leaving Cleveland on the first day of
June, he proceeded to Chicago, and without further tarrying went from that
city directly to St. Paul, Minnesota, intending to make this the first point for
gathering his forces and collecting the material needed for his coming
exploration. Here he was joined by his brother George and Barrett
Channing Paine, of Indianapolis, Indiana. The month of June was spent at
St. Paul in collecting tents, blankets, guns, ammunition, fishing tackle and
all the various paraphernalia necessary for a six weeks' sojourn in the
northern wilderness.
Finally, all arrangements being completed, the party left St. Paul on the
morning of July the fourth, to go to Brainerd, about a hundred miles above
St. Paul, which was to be the point of immediate departure for Leech Lake
and thence to Lake Itasca. Brief stoppages were made at Minneapolis,
Monticello, St. Cloud and Little Falls on their way up the river, until
Brainerd was reached July the seventh.
Brainerd is an enterprising little village at the point where the Northern
Pacific Railroad crosses the Mississippi, near the boundary of the Chippewa
Indian Reservation, and is the nearest point, of any consequence, to Lake
Itasca. Here Captain Glazier stopped for some days that he might further
inform himself upon the topography of the country, in order to decide on
the most feasible route to his destination, and also to provide such supplies
of food as were necessary. After consulting maps it was concluded that
although Schoolcraft and others had found Itasca by going up the river
through Lakes Winnibegoshish, Cass and Bemidji, the most direct course
would be by way of Leech Lake and the Kabekanka River. It was therefore
decided to take wagon conveyance to Leech Lake over what is known in
Northern Minnesota as the Government Road. This road stretches for
seventy miles through trackless pine forests and almost impenetrable
June, he proceeded to Chicago, and without further tarrying went from that
city directly to St. Paul, Minnesota, intending to make this the first point for
gathering his forces and collecting the material needed for his coming
exploration. Here he was joined by his brother George and Barrett
Channing Paine, of Indianapolis, Indiana. The month of June was spent at
St. Paul in collecting tents, blankets, guns, ammunition, fishing tackle and
all the various paraphernalia necessary for a six weeks' sojourn in the
northern wilderness.
Finally, all arrangements being completed, the party left St. Paul on the
morning of July the fourth, to go to Brainerd, about a hundred miles above
St. Paul, which was to be the point of immediate departure for Leech Lake
and thence to Lake Itasca. Brief stoppages were made at Minneapolis,
Monticello, St. Cloud and Little Falls on their way up the river, until
Brainerd was reached July the seventh.
Brainerd is an enterprising little village at the point where the Northern
Pacific Railroad crosses the Mississippi, near the boundary of the Chippewa
Indian Reservation, and is the nearest point, of any consequence, to Lake
Itasca. Here Captain Glazier stopped for some days that he might further
inform himself upon the topography of the country, in order to decide on
the most feasible route to his destination, and also to provide such supplies
of food as were necessary. After consulting maps it was concluded that
although Schoolcraft and others had found Itasca by going up the river
through Lakes Winnibegoshish, Cass and Bemidji, the most direct course
would be by way of Leech Lake and the Kabekanka River. It was therefore
decided to take wagon conveyance to Leech Lake over what is known in
Northern Minnesota as the Government Road. This road stretches for
seventy miles through trackless pine forests and almost impenetrable
Page 454
underbrush, the only habitations to be seen along its line being the half-way
houses erected for the accommodation of teamsters, who are engaged in
hauling government supplies, and the occasional wigwams of wandering
Indians. It was opened in 1856, by James Macaboy, for the convenience of
Indian agents and the fur trade.
At length, at eight o'clock on the bright, summer morning of Tuesday,
July the twelfth, Captain Glazier and his companions, fully equipped, and
with a driver celebrated for his knowledge of frontier life, began their long
and toilsome wagon journey. A ride of between three and four hours
brought them to Gull Lake, where a halt was proposed and made for rest
and refreshment.
This lake was for many years the home and headquarters of the noted
Chippewa chief, Hole-in-the-day, and has been the scene of many
sanguinary struggles between his braves and those of the equally noted
Sioux chief, Little Crow. The ruins of a block-house, remains of wigwams,
and a few scattered graves are all that is now left to tell the story of its
aboriginal conflicts. A family of four persons living in a log-house form the
white population of the place. Reuben Gray, the genial patriarch who
presides over this solitary household in the wilderness, delights in the title
of landlord, and his hotel (by courtesy) has become somewhat famous as
one of the pioneer half-way houses between Brainerd and Leech Lake.
After resting for a while and doing ample justice to the appetizing dinner
which was set before them, our travelers resumed their journey. Pine River
was their evening destination, and at five o'clock they reached the ranche of
George Barclay, the only white habitation to be found between their last
resting-place and Leech Lake. Here they were most agreeably surprised to
find very good accommodation for both man and beast.
houses erected for the accommodation of teamsters, who are engaged in
hauling government supplies, and the occasional wigwams of wandering
Indians. It was opened in 1856, by James Macaboy, for the convenience of
Indian agents and the fur trade.
At length, at eight o'clock on the bright, summer morning of Tuesday,
July the twelfth, Captain Glazier and his companions, fully equipped, and
with a driver celebrated for his knowledge of frontier life, began their long
and toilsome wagon journey. A ride of between three and four hours
brought them to Gull Lake, where a halt was proposed and made for rest
and refreshment.
This lake was for many years the home and headquarters of the noted
Chippewa chief, Hole-in-the-day, and has been the scene of many
sanguinary struggles between his braves and those of the equally noted
Sioux chief, Little Crow. The ruins of a block-house, remains of wigwams,
and a few scattered graves are all that is now left to tell the story of its
aboriginal conflicts. A family of four persons living in a log-house form the
white population of the place. Reuben Gray, the genial patriarch who
presides over this solitary household in the wilderness, delights in the title
of landlord, and his hotel (by courtesy) has become somewhat famous as
one of the pioneer half-way houses between Brainerd and Leech Lake.
After resting for a while and doing ample justice to the appetizing dinner
which was set before them, our travelers resumed their journey. Pine River
was their evening destination, and at five o'clock they reached the ranche of
George Barclay, the only white habitation to be found between their last
resting-place and Leech Lake. Here they were most agreeably surprised to
find very good accommodation for both man and beast.
Page 455
An excellent breakfast the next morning, with the fair prospect of
reaching by evening the first terminal point of their journey, put the
travelers in exuberant spirits for the day, and nothing but jolting over one of
the roughest roads ever encountered by them could have lessened their
enjoyment of the occasion. A short stop was made for luncheon at Fourteen
Mile Lake, and this being their first meal in the open air they were enabled,
together with the experience thus far gained in their journeying, to gauge
more accurately their supply of rations. It was readily discovered that they
would need at least a third more provisions for their expedition than would
be required for the ordinary occupations of in-door life; and it was at once
decided to provide an additional supply of bacon and dried meats before
leaving Leech Lake.
After luncheon the Captain's brother and Mr. Paine took a bath in the
lake, while he himself found amusement in duck-shooting and in chatting
with some straggling Chippewas, who were about launching their canoes
for a six weeks' hunting and fishing excursion. It happened that Captain
Glazier had never before seen birch bark canoes, and they were therefore
regarded by him with considerable interest, their use in the future being
indispensable to the success of his undertaking. Now the Captain possesses,
in common with most men of adventurous spirit, a characteristic desire to
get at the bottom facts of everything, and this curiosity here caused him a
laughable mishap; for, the better to examine it, he stepped into one of the
canoes, when, from want of experience in balancing himself in so light a
vessel, he was precipitated into the lake, much to his own discomfort but
greatly to the amusement of the spectators.
Firmly resolved upon more caution in the future, the Captain and his
companions pursued their journey towards Leech Lake, which was reached
at four o'clock in the afternoon.
reaching by evening the first terminal point of their journey, put the
travelers in exuberant spirits for the day, and nothing but jolting over one of
the roughest roads ever encountered by them could have lessened their
enjoyment of the occasion. A short stop was made for luncheon at Fourteen
Mile Lake, and this being their first meal in the open air they were enabled,
together with the experience thus far gained in their journeying, to gauge
more accurately their supply of rations. It was readily discovered that they
would need at least a third more provisions for their expedition than would
be required for the ordinary occupations of in-door life; and it was at once
decided to provide an additional supply of bacon and dried meats before
leaving Leech Lake.
After luncheon the Captain's brother and Mr. Paine took a bath in the
lake, while he himself found amusement in duck-shooting and in chatting
with some straggling Chippewas, who were about launching their canoes
for a six weeks' hunting and fishing excursion. It happened that Captain
Glazier had never before seen birch bark canoes, and they were therefore
regarded by him with considerable interest, their use in the future being
indispensable to the success of his undertaking. Now the Captain possesses,
in common with most men of adventurous spirit, a characteristic desire to
get at the bottom facts of everything, and this curiosity here caused him a
laughable mishap; for, the better to examine it, he stepped into one of the
canoes, when, from want of experience in balancing himself in so light a
vessel, he was precipitated into the lake, much to his own discomfort but
greatly to the amusement of the spectators.
Firmly resolved upon more caution in the future, the Captain and his
companions pursued their journey towards Leech Lake, which was reached
at four o'clock in the afternoon.
Page 456
Page 457
CHAPTER XXXVII.
HOME OF THE CHIPPEWAS.
HOME OF THE CHIPPEWAS.
Page 458
An embryonic red man. — A primitive hotel. — An unkempt
inhabitant of the forest. — Leech Lake. — Major Ruffe's arrival. —
White Cloud. — Paul Beaulieu and his theory about the source of the
Mississippi. — Che-no-wa-ge-sic. — Studying Indian manners and
customs. — Dining with Indian royalty. — Chippewa hospitality. —
How the wife of an Indian Chief entertains. — Souvenir of Flat Mouth.
— Return of Che-no-wa-ge-sic. — A council held. — An Indian speech.
— "No White Man has yet seen the head of the Father of Waters." —
Voyage of exploration. — Launching the canoes.
Upon the arrival of the travelers at Leech Lake their first glimpse of the
embryonic red man was a little fellow of about six years, who ran out of a
wigwam, brandishing a bow in one hand, and carrying arrows in the other.
He was very far from being warlike, however, for with the first glance at his
white brothers he suddenly disappeared in the bushes. A little further on
they came to a log-cabin, over the door of which was nailed a primitive pine
board, bearing the inscription—"Hotel."
Here they were received by a rough-looking man with long hair and
unkempt beard, wearing, besides one other garment, a pair of pants made
from a red blanket. The surroundings were certainly not inviting, and a
closer inspection of the squalid accommodation did not lead them to form
any more favorable opinion. However, travelers cannot always be choosers,
and they really fared much better than they had expected, dining very
agreeably on fresh fish and vegetables; breakfast the next morning being
selected from the same simple bill of fare, varied only by the addition of
"flap-jacks." In default of habitable beds their hammocks were swung from
the rafters of the loft.
inhabitant of the forest. — Leech Lake. — Major Ruffe's arrival. —
White Cloud. — Paul Beaulieu and his theory about the source of the
Mississippi. — Che-no-wa-ge-sic. — Studying Indian manners and
customs. — Dining with Indian royalty. — Chippewa hospitality. —
How the wife of an Indian Chief entertains. — Souvenir of Flat Mouth.
— Return of Che-no-wa-ge-sic. — A council held. — An Indian speech.
— "No White Man has yet seen the head of the Father of Waters." —
Voyage of exploration. — Launching the canoes.
Upon the arrival of the travelers at Leech Lake their first glimpse of the
embryonic red man was a little fellow of about six years, who ran out of a
wigwam, brandishing a bow in one hand, and carrying arrows in the other.
He was very far from being warlike, however, for with the first glance at his
white brothers he suddenly disappeared in the bushes. A little further on
they came to a log-cabin, over the door of which was nailed a primitive pine
board, bearing the inscription—"Hotel."
Here they were received by a rough-looking man with long hair and
unkempt beard, wearing, besides one other garment, a pair of pants made
from a red blanket. The surroundings were certainly not inviting, and a
closer inspection of the squalid accommodation did not lead them to form
any more favorable opinion. However, travelers cannot always be choosers,
and they really fared much better than they had expected, dining very
agreeably on fresh fish and vegetables; breakfast the next morning being
selected from the same simple bill of fare, varied only by the addition of
"flap-jacks." In default of habitable beds their hammocks were swung from
the rafters of the loft.
Page 459
Leech Lake is one of the most irregularly shaped bodies of water that can
be imagined. It has no well-defined form, being neither oval nor circular,
but rather a combination of curves and varied outlines made by peninsulas
and bays, of which only a map could convey any accurate idea. Ten islands
are found upon its surface, and seven rivers and creeks enter it from various
directions. It extends not less than twenty miles from North to South, and a
still greater distance from East to West, with a coast line of over four
hundred miles. It was for many years the seat of the Chippewa Indian
Agency, but is now consolidated with the White Earth and Red Lake
agencies. Major C. A. Ruffe is at present agent of the three departments,
with headquarters at White Earth. The village consists of some half dozen
government buildings, as many log-cabins, and about twenty or thirty
wigwams scattered here and there along the shore of one of the arms of the
lake.
The day after the arrival of Captain Glazier's party, the agency was
thrown into a state of excitement by the announcement that Major Ruffe
was on his way to Lake Winnibegoshish by way of Leech Lake. The Major
came the next day, accompanied by Captain Taylor of St. Cloud, one of the
pioneer surveyors of Minnesota; Paul Beaulieu, the veteran government
interpreter, and White Cloud, the present chief of the Mississippi Indians,
who succeeded Hole-in-the-day, the latter having been killed some time
before by one of the Leech Lake band.
Paul Beaulieu, the half-breed interpreter to Major Ruffe, possesses a fund
of information concerning the Upper Mississippi which cannot be ignored
by those who are in pursuit of its mysterious source, and Captain Glazier
considered himself most fortunate in meeting him before his departure for
Lake Itasca. Beaulieu deserves more than a passing mention, as he is a man
of wide experience, and is well known throughout Minnesota, and, in some
be imagined. It has no well-defined form, being neither oval nor circular,
but rather a combination of curves and varied outlines made by peninsulas
and bays, of which only a map could convey any accurate idea. Ten islands
are found upon its surface, and seven rivers and creeks enter it from various
directions. It extends not less than twenty miles from North to South, and a
still greater distance from East to West, with a coast line of over four
hundred miles. It was for many years the seat of the Chippewa Indian
Agency, but is now consolidated with the White Earth and Red Lake
agencies. Major C. A. Ruffe is at present agent of the three departments,
with headquarters at White Earth. The village consists of some half dozen
government buildings, as many log-cabins, and about twenty or thirty
wigwams scattered here and there along the shore of one of the arms of the
lake.
The day after the arrival of Captain Glazier's party, the agency was
thrown into a state of excitement by the announcement that Major Ruffe
was on his way to Lake Winnibegoshish by way of Leech Lake. The Major
came the next day, accompanied by Captain Taylor of St. Cloud, one of the
pioneer surveyors of Minnesota; Paul Beaulieu, the veteran government
interpreter, and White Cloud, the present chief of the Mississippi Indians,
who succeeded Hole-in-the-day, the latter having been killed some time
before by one of the Leech Lake band.
Paul Beaulieu, the half-breed interpreter to Major Ruffe, possesses a fund
of information concerning the Upper Mississippi which cannot be ignored
by those who are in pursuit of its mysterious source, and Captain Glazier
considered himself most fortunate in meeting him before his departure for
Lake Itasca. Beaulieu deserves more than a passing mention, as he is a man
of wide experience, and is well known throughout Minnesota, and, in some
Page 460
circles, throughout the country. He was born at Mackinaw, while General
Sibley was stationed there in the interest of the American Fur Company, of
which John Jacob Astor was then the head. His father was a Frenchman and
his mother an Indian. He received an English education, partly in the
government school of Mackinaw, and partly at Montreal. On leaving school
he was employed by the Fur Company, and sent all over the United States
from the St. Lawrence to Lower California. He crossed the continent with
the Stevens party on the first Northern Pacific survey, and rendered such
valuable services that he was presented with a testimonial in recognition of
his efficiency.
Beaulieu had a theory of his own regarding the source of the Mississippi,
based upon the stories of the Chippewas and other Indians of his
acquaintance. In conversation with Captain Glazier upon the subject he said
that to the west of Lake Itasca there was another lake, the outlet of which
united with the stream from the former, and which contributed a much
larger volume of water at its junction with the Mississippi than the outlet of
Lake Itasca. He therefore assumed that this nameless and almost unknown
lake was the true source of the Mississippi.
In corroboration of the Beaulieu theory Major Ruffe said that he had
heard the same opinion expressed by a number of old and reliable Indian
voyagers. It will thus be seen that there was a great diversity of sentiment
among the most trustworthy authorities as to the actual source of the Great
River.
Captain Glazier was greatly exercised on finding that his arrival at Leech
Lake was at a season when the local band of Indians, the Pillagers, as they
are called, were away upon their annual hunting and fishing excursion.
Their absence from the agency was a serious obstacle in the way of
immediate further progress, for the reason that, being compelled to take the
Sibley was stationed there in the interest of the American Fur Company, of
which John Jacob Astor was then the head. His father was a Frenchman and
his mother an Indian. He received an English education, partly in the
government school of Mackinaw, and partly at Montreal. On leaving school
he was employed by the Fur Company, and sent all over the United States
from the St. Lawrence to Lower California. He crossed the continent with
the Stevens party on the first Northern Pacific survey, and rendered such
valuable services that he was presented with a testimonial in recognition of
his efficiency.
Beaulieu had a theory of his own regarding the source of the Mississippi,
based upon the stories of the Chippewas and other Indians of his
acquaintance. In conversation with Captain Glazier upon the subject he said
that to the west of Lake Itasca there was another lake, the outlet of which
united with the stream from the former, and which contributed a much
larger volume of water at its junction with the Mississippi than the outlet of
Lake Itasca. He therefore assumed that this nameless and almost unknown
lake was the true source of the Mississippi.
In corroboration of the Beaulieu theory Major Ruffe said that he had
heard the same opinion expressed by a number of old and reliable Indian
voyagers. It will thus be seen that there was a great diversity of sentiment
among the most trustworthy authorities as to the actual source of the Great
River.
Captain Glazier was greatly exercised on finding that his arrival at Leech
Lake was at a season when the local band of Indians, the Pillagers, as they
are called, were away upon their annual hunting and fishing excursion.
Their absence from the agency was a serious obstacle in the way of
immediate further progress, for the reason that, being compelled to take the
Page 461
final step in their expedition to the source of the Mississippi from this point,
it was important that they should complete their equipment by securing an
interpreter, reliable guides and birch bark canoes.
"Find Rev. Edwin Benedict as soon as you reach Leech Lake" was the
last injunction Captain Glazier received on leaving Brainerd. Mr. Benedict
is Post Missionary, and one of the five representatives of the Episcopal
Church on the Chippewa Reservation, holding his commission from Bishop
Whipple of Minnesota. With this genial gentleman, Captain Glazier spent
the greater part of his time while waiting at the Agency, when not engaged
in preparations for the voyage. The courtesy of a semi-civilized bed, and the
convenience of a table, with pens, ink and paper, were luxuries to be
appreciated and not readily forgotten.
Conversations with Mr. Benedict and with Flat Mouth, chief of the
Chippewas, developed the unexpected fact that there was but one Indian in
the Chippewa country who had actually traversed the region which the
Captain and his party were about to explore, and that he was then visiting
some friends near Lake Winnibegoshish, and was not expected to return
until the following Saturday, some three days off.
Satisfied that Che-no-wa-ge-sic, the Chippewa brave referred to, would
prove indispensable to the success of his expedition, Captain Glazier
decided to await his return to the Agency. While thus detained the Captain
and his friends found themselves indebted to Major Ruffe for his untiring
efforts to relieve the monotony of their sojourn, and to render their
condition as agreeable as possible while within his sovereign borders.
As an important part of Captain Glazier's purpose in his Mississippi
expedition was to study the manners and customs of the people in the
several portions of the country along its banks, he took advantage of his
present detention to inquire into the habits and traits of the Indians with
it was important that they should complete their equipment by securing an
interpreter, reliable guides and birch bark canoes.
"Find Rev. Edwin Benedict as soon as you reach Leech Lake" was the
last injunction Captain Glazier received on leaving Brainerd. Mr. Benedict
is Post Missionary, and one of the five representatives of the Episcopal
Church on the Chippewa Reservation, holding his commission from Bishop
Whipple of Minnesota. With this genial gentleman, Captain Glazier spent
the greater part of his time while waiting at the Agency, when not engaged
in preparations for the voyage. The courtesy of a semi-civilized bed, and the
convenience of a table, with pens, ink and paper, were luxuries to be
appreciated and not readily forgotten.
Conversations with Mr. Benedict and with Flat Mouth, chief of the
Chippewas, developed the unexpected fact that there was but one Indian in
the Chippewa country who had actually traversed the region which the
Captain and his party were about to explore, and that he was then visiting
some friends near Lake Winnibegoshish, and was not expected to return
until the following Saturday, some three days off.
Satisfied that Che-no-wa-ge-sic, the Chippewa brave referred to, would
prove indispensable to the success of his expedition, Captain Glazier
decided to await his return to the Agency. While thus detained the Captain
and his friends found themselves indebted to Major Ruffe for his untiring
efforts to relieve the monotony of their sojourn, and to render their
condition as agreeable as possible while within his sovereign borders.
As an important part of Captain Glazier's purpose in his Mississippi
expedition was to study the manners and customs of the people in the
several portions of the country along its banks, he took advantage of his
present detention to inquire into the habits and traits of the Indians with
Page 462
whom he now came in daily contact. Some extracts from his private diary,
graphically portraying the characteristics which impressed him, are here
especially interesting, as evidence of a certain power of philosophic
reflection and inductive reasoning unusual in the mind of one so given to
the excitement of an active, enterprising life as was Captain Glazier, who as
soldier, author, and explorer certainly allowed himself little rest for the
quiet abstractions of the student.
"Through conversations with Major Ruffe I learned much of the pioneer
history of the post, and the attempts to civilize the Pillagers, as the Leech
Lake Indians are named. This band appears to have separated from the other
Chippewas at an early day, and to have taken upon themselves the duty of
defending this portion of the Chippewa frontier. They 'passed armed before
their brethren' in their march westward. Their geographical position was
one which required them to assume great responsibilities, and in the
defence of their chosen frontier they have distinguished themselves as brave
and active warriors. Many acts of intrepidity are related of them which
would be recorded with admiration had white men been the actors.
Perfectly versed in the arts of the forest they have gained many victories
over that powerful assemblage of tribes known as the Sioux. With fewer
numbers the Chippewas have never hesitated to fall upon their enemies, and
have defeated and routed them with a valor and resolution which in any
period of written warfare would have been stamped as heroic.
"It is not easy on the part of the government to repress the feelings of
hostility which have so long existed between the respective tribes, and to
convince them that they have lived into an age when milder maxims furnish
the basis of wise action....
"The domestic manners and habits of a people whose position is so
adverse to improvement could hardly be expected to present anything
graphically portraying the characteristics which impressed him, are here
especially interesting, as evidence of a certain power of philosophic
reflection and inductive reasoning unusual in the mind of one so given to
the excitement of an active, enterprising life as was Captain Glazier, who as
soldier, author, and explorer certainly allowed himself little rest for the
quiet abstractions of the student.
"Through conversations with Major Ruffe I learned much of the pioneer
history of the post, and the attempts to civilize the Pillagers, as the Leech
Lake Indians are named. This band appears to have separated from the other
Chippewas at an early day, and to have taken upon themselves the duty of
defending this portion of the Chippewa frontier. They 'passed armed before
their brethren' in their march westward. Their geographical position was
one which required them to assume great responsibilities, and in the
defence of their chosen frontier they have distinguished themselves as brave
and active warriors. Many acts of intrepidity are related of them which
would be recorded with admiration had white men been the actors.
Perfectly versed in the arts of the forest they have gained many victories
over that powerful assemblage of tribes known as the Sioux. With fewer
numbers the Chippewas have never hesitated to fall upon their enemies, and
have defeated and routed them with a valor and resolution which in any
period of written warfare would have been stamped as heroic.
"It is not easy on the part of the government to repress the feelings of
hostility which have so long existed between the respective tribes, and to
convince them that they have lived into an age when milder maxims furnish
the basis of wise action....
"The domestic manners and habits of a people whose position is so
adverse to improvement could hardly be expected to present anything
Page 463
strikingly different from other erratic bands of the Northwest. There is
indeed a remarkable conformity in the external habits of all our Northern
Indians. The necessity of changing their camps often to procure game or
fish, the want of domestic animals, the general dependence on wild rice,
and the custom of journeying in canoes has produced a general uniformity
of life, and it is emphatically a life of want and vicissitude. There is a
perpetual change between action and inanity in the mind which is a striking
peculiarity of the savage state, and there is such a general want of forecast
that most of their misfortunes and hardships, in war and peace, come
unexpectedly." ...
Our explorers were agreeably surprised one day during their stay at
Leech Lake by an invitation from Flat Mouth, the present ruler of the
Pillagers, to take dinner with him. Captain Glazier accepted the invitation
with pleasure, for it so happened that although he had for many years been
much among the natives of the forest he had never before had an
opportunity to dine with Indian royalty.
Flat Mouth is a descendant of Aish-ki-bug-e-koszh, the most famous of
all the Chippewa chiefs. He is stalwart in appearance and endowed with
marked talents, and well deserves the title of "chief." At the appointed time
for the dinner, Captain Glazier, accompanied by his brother and Mr. Paine,
went to his residence. They found him living in a comfortable log-house of
two rooms, well floored and roofed, with two small glass windows. A plain
board table stood in the centre of the front room, upon which the dinner was
served. Pine board benches were placed upon each side of the table and at
the ends, and they followed the example of the host in sitting down. Five
other persons were admitted to the meal, the wife of Flat Mouth, White
Cloud, chief of the Mississippis, and three Chippewa sub-chiefs. The wife
of Flat Mouth sat near him and poured out the tea, but ate or drank nothing
indeed a remarkable conformity in the external habits of all our Northern
Indians. The necessity of changing their camps often to procure game or
fish, the want of domestic animals, the general dependence on wild rice,
and the custom of journeying in canoes has produced a general uniformity
of life, and it is emphatically a life of want and vicissitude. There is a
perpetual change between action and inanity in the mind which is a striking
peculiarity of the savage state, and there is such a general want of forecast
that most of their misfortunes and hardships, in war and peace, come
unexpectedly." ...
Our explorers were agreeably surprised one day during their stay at
Leech Lake by an invitation from Flat Mouth, the present ruler of the
Pillagers, to take dinner with him. Captain Glazier accepted the invitation
with pleasure, for it so happened that although he had for many years been
much among the natives of the forest he had never before had an
opportunity to dine with Indian royalty.
Flat Mouth is a descendant of Aish-ki-bug-e-koszh, the most famous of
all the Chippewa chiefs. He is stalwart in appearance and endowed with
marked talents, and well deserves the title of "chief." At the appointed time
for the dinner, Captain Glazier, accompanied by his brother and Mr. Paine,
went to his residence. They found him living in a comfortable log-house of
two rooms, well floored and roofed, with two small glass windows. A plain
board table stood in the centre of the front room, upon which the dinner was
served. Pine board benches were placed upon each side of the table and at
the ends, and they followed the example of the host in sitting down. Five
other persons were admitted to the meal, the wife of Flat Mouth, White
Cloud, chief of the Mississippis, and three Chippewa sub-chiefs. The wife
of Flat Mouth sat near him and poured out the tea, but ate or drank nothing
Page 464
herself. Tea-cups, spoons, plates, knives and forks, all of plain manufacture,
were carefully arranged, the number corresponding with the guests. A fine
mess of bass and white fish cut up and very palatably broiled filled a dish in
the centre of the table, from which the host helped his guests. Birch bark
salt cellars containing pepper and salt mixed allowed each one to season his
fish with both or neither. A dish of blue berries picked on the shore of the
lake completed the repast.
While they were eating, the room became filled with Indians, apparently
the relatives and friends of Flat Mouth, and after the dinner was over,
speech-making being in order, White Cloud arose, and, assuming an
oratorical attitude, addressed Captain Glazier:
He expressed regret that white men had so long been in ignorance of the
source of the Mississippi, and said that although he had not himself seen the
head of the Great River, there were many braves of his tribe who were
familiar with its location. He hoped that his white brother had come
thoroughly prepared to explore the country beyond Lake Itasca, and that he
would not return to his friends until he had found the true source of the
"Father of Waters." Continuing he said: "I am told that Che-no-wa-ge-sic,
the Chippewa warrior, will accompany you. He is a great hunter and a
faithful guide. He can supply you with game and paddle your canoe. The
Chippewas are your friends, and will give you shelter in their wigwams."
After he had finished, Flat Mouth presented Captain Glazier with a
beautifully beaded pipe and tobacco pouch, the work of his favorite squaw,
and expressed an earnest hope for the complete success of the expedition.
Although Captain Glazier needed nothing to keep the memory of this novel
dinner fresh in his mind, he will always treasure this souvenir of Flat Mouth
among the many pleasant mementos of his visit to Leech Lake.
were carefully arranged, the number corresponding with the guests. A fine
mess of bass and white fish cut up and very palatably broiled filled a dish in
the centre of the table, from which the host helped his guests. Birch bark
salt cellars containing pepper and salt mixed allowed each one to season his
fish with both or neither. A dish of blue berries picked on the shore of the
lake completed the repast.
While they were eating, the room became filled with Indians, apparently
the relatives and friends of Flat Mouth, and after the dinner was over,
speech-making being in order, White Cloud arose, and, assuming an
oratorical attitude, addressed Captain Glazier:
He expressed regret that white men had so long been in ignorance of the
source of the Mississippi, and said that although he had not himself seen the
head of the Great River, there were many braves of his tribe who were
familiar with its location. He hoped that his white brother had come
thoroughly prepared to explore the country beyond Lake Itasca, and that he
would not return to his friends until he had found the true source of the
"Father of Waters." Continuing he said: "I am told that Che-no-wa-ge-sic,
the Chippewa warrior, will accompany you. He is a great hunter and a
faithful guide. He can supply you with game and paddle your canoe. The
Chippewas are your friends, and will give you shelter in their wigwams."
After he had finished, Flat Mouth presented Captain Glazier with a
beautifully beaded pipe and tobacco pouch, the work of his favorite squaw,
and expressed an earnest hope for the complete success of the expedition.
Although Captain Glazier needed nothing to keep the memory of this novel
dinner fresh in his mind, he will always treasure this souvenir of Flat Mouth
among the many pleasant mementos of his visit to Leech Lake.
Page 465
Here again, in referring to this dinner and those whom he met there,
Captain Glazier's diary furnishes one of his vivid pen-pictures in an
admirably conceived criticism upon the mental attributes and general
character of the distinguished Indian chief, White Cloud, the orator of the
feast.
"I was much gratified on this occasion by the presence of White Cloud,
whom I had been told was the most respectable man in the Chippewa
country; and if the term were applied to his intellectual qualities and the
power of drawing just conclusions from known premises, and the effects
which these have had on his standing and influence with his own tribe, it is
not misapplied. Shrewdness and quickness of perception most of the chiefs
possess, but there is more of the character of common sense and practical
reflection in White Cloud's remarks than I have observed in most of the
chiefs I have hitherto met. In his early life he was both a warrior and a
counselor, and these distinctions he held, not from any hereditary right, but
from the force of his own character. I found him quite ready to converse
upon those topics which were of most interest to him, and the sentiments he
expressed were such as would occur to a mind which had possessed itself of
facts and was capable of reasoning from them. His manners were grave and
dignified, and his oratory such as to render him popular wherever heard."
Upon the return of Chenowagesic and other Indians, a council was held
and Captain Glazier stated his object to them. They were asked to provide
maps of the country and to furnish an interpreter, guides and canoes. Of
course, it was impossible to conclude any such important negotiations as
attended an expedition involving the veritable source of the noble red man's
mystical stream without the characteristic Indian speech. Accordingly,
Chenowagesic arose, and with much dignity, extending his arm towards
Captain Glazier, said:
Captain Glazier's diary furnishes one of his vivid pen-pictures in an
admirably conceived criticism upon the mental attributes and general
character of the distinguished Indian chief, White Cloud, the orator of the
feast.
"I was much gratified on this occasion by the presence of White Cloud,
whom I had been told was the most respectable man in the Chippewa
country; and if the term were applied to his intellectual qualities and the
power of drawing just conclusions from known premises, and the effects
which these have had on his standing and influence with his own tribe, it is
not misapplied. Shrewdness and quickness of perception most of the chiefs
possess, but there is more of the character of common sense and practical
reflection in White Cloud's remarks than I have observed in most of the
chiefs I have hitherto met. In his early life he was both a warrior and a
counselor, and these distinctions he held, not from any hereditary right, but
from the force of his own character. I found him quite ready to converse
upon those topics which were of most interest to him, and the sentiments he
expressed were such as would occur to a mind which had possessed itself of
facts and was capable of reasoning from them. His manners were grave and
dignified, and his oratory such as to render him popular wherever heard."
Upon the return of Chenowagesic and other Indians, a council was held
and Captain Glazier stated his object to them. They were asked to provide
maps of the country and to furnish an interpreter, guides and canoes. Of
course, it was impossible to conclude any such important negotiations as
attended an expedition involving the veritable source of the noble red man's
mystical stream without the characteristic Indian speech. Accordingly,
Chenowagesic arose, and with much dignity, extending his arm towards
Captain Glazier, said:
Page 466
"My brother, the country you are going to visit is my hunting ground. I
have hunted there many years and planted corn on the shores of Lake
Itasca. My father, now an old man, remembers the first white chief who
came to look for the source of the Great River. But, my brother, no white
man has yet seen the head of the 'Father of Waters.' I will myself furnish the
maps you have requested, and will guide you onward. There are many lakes
and rivers in the way, but the waters are favorable. I shall talk with my
friends about the canoes, and see who will step forward to supply them. My
own canoe shall be one of the number."
But a few hours were required to complete the maps, and on the
following morning, three Chippewas, including Chenowagesic, brought
each a canoe and laid it down on the shore of the lake.
have hunted there many years and planted corn on the shores of Lake
Itasca. My father, now an old man, remembers the first white chief who
came to look for the source of the Great River. But, my brother, no white
man has yet seen the head of the 'Father of Waters.' I will myself furnish the
maps you have requested, and will guide you onward. There are many lakes
and rivers in the way, but the waters are favorable. I shall talk with my
friends about the canoes, and see who will step forward to supply them. My
own canoe shall be one of the number."
But a few hours were required to complete the maps, and on the
following morning, three Chippewas, including Chenowagesic, brought
each a canoe and laid it down on the shore of the lake.
Page 467
CHAPTER XXXVIII.
EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY.
Launching the canoes. — Flat Mouth and White Cloud again. — An inspiring scene. — Farewell to
Leech Lake. — Up the Kabekanka River. — Dinner at Lake Benedict. — Difficult navigation.
— A peaceful haven. — Supper and contentment. — Lake Garfield. — Preparations for first
portage. — Utter exhaustion. — Encampment for the night. — The cavalry column. — Lake
George and Lake Paine. — The Naiwa River. — Six miles from Itasca. — Camping on the
Minnesota watershed. — A startling discovery. — Rations giving out. — Ammunition gone.
— Arrival at Lake Itasca.
The following day, July seventeenth, was Sunday, and Captain Glazier,
being a guest of Rev. Edwin Benedict, felt some delicacy in commencing
his journey on the Sabbath. Mr. Benedict, however, greatly to his relief, not
only decided that there could be nothing objectionable in his doing so, but
also offered to launch his canoe and bid him God-speed. In fact, Mr.
Benedict had done all in his power to alleviate the discomfort of his stay, by
placing at his service the only "civilized" bed the village possessed, but now
Bishop Whipple was hourly expected to arrive in the course of his regular
visitations to the missionary posts he had established, and the Captain was
not inclined to monopolize a luxury which doubtless the Bishop would
appreciate as much as himself. Accordingly, early in the morning, which
proved to be clear and beautiful, the explorers met on the shore of the lake,
preparatory to their embarkation. A large number of Indians had assembled
to see them off. Flat Mouth was there, watching his white brothers with
interest as they stepped cautiously into the canoes, for Captain Glazier had
not forgotten his first experience with one of these light vessels. White
EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY.
Launching the canoes. — Flat Mouth and White Cloud again. — An inspiring scene. — Farewell to
Leech Lake. — Up the Kabekanka River. — Dinner at Lake Benedict. — Difficult navigation.
— A peaceful haven. — Supper and contentment. — Lake Garfield. — Preparations for first
portage. — Utter exhaustion. — Encampment for the night. — The cavalry column. — Lake
George and Lake Paine. — The Naiwa River. — Six miles from Itasca. — Camping on the
Minnesota watershed. — A startling discovery. — Rations giving out. — Ammunition gone.
— Arrival at Lake Itasca.
The following day, July seventeenth, was Sunday, and Captain Glazier,
being a guest of Rev. Edwin Benedict, felt some delicacy in commencing
his journey on the Sabbath. Mr. Benedict, however, greatly to his relief, not
only decided that there could be nothing objectionable in his doing so, but
also offered to launch his canoe and bid him God-speed. In fact, Mr.
Benedict had done all in his power to alleviate the discomfort of his stay, by
placing at his service the only "civilized" bed the village possessed, but now
Bishop Whipple was hourly expected to arrive in the course of his regular
visitations to the missionary posts he had established, and the Captain was
not inclined to monopolize a luxury which doubtless the Bishop would
appreciate as much as himself. Accordingly, early in the morning, which
proved to be clear and beautiful, the explorers met on the shore of the lake,
preparatory to their embarkation. A large number of Indians had assembled
to see them off. Flat Mouth was there, watching his white brothers with
interest as they stepped cautiously into the canoes, for Captain Glazier had
not forgotten his first experience with one of these light vessels. White
Page 468
Cloud, also, was there, chief of the Mississippis, thinking, mayhap,
somewhat sadly of the time when the great "Father of Waters" was known
only to the Red Man who hunted on its banks, or glided swiftly down its
stream, in happy ignorance of the days when city after city should line its
shores, and steamboats force their devious way through its waters. There,
too, were the friends and relatives of Chenowagesic and the other guides,
watching with characteristic gravity the final preparations. Rev. Mr.
Benedict, the only white man on the beach other than the explorers, stood
ready to launch the canoe.
CAPTAIN GLAZIER EMBARKING FOR THE HEADWATERS OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
It was a scene well worthy the painter's most cunning skill—the beautiful
lake, the wigwams dotting its shores here and there, the dark green of the
forest in the background, the Indians with their bright red blankets adding
bits of vivid coloring to the scene, and, at the water's edge, Captain Glazier,
upright and soldierly in bearing, ready to step into his canoe and start forth
in search of the mysterious springs which had hitherto baffled the
investigations of all previous explorers.
somewhat sadly of the time when the great "Father of Waters" was known
only to the Red Man who hunted on its banks, or glided swiftly down its
stream, in happy ignorance of the days when city after city should line its
shores, and steamboats force their devious way through its waters. There,
too, were the friends and relatives of Chenowagesic and the other guides,
watching with characteristic gravity the final preparations. Rev. Mr.
Benedict, the only white man on the beach other than the explorers, stood
ready to launch the canoe.
CAPTAIN GLAZIER EMBARKING FOR THE HEADWATERS OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
It was a scene well worthy the painter's most cunning skill—the beautiful
lake, the wigwams dotting its shores here and there, the dark green of the
forest in the background, the Indians with their bright red blankets adding
bits of vivid coloring to the scene, and, at the water's edge, Captain Glazier,
upright and soldierly in bearing, ready to step into his canoe and start forth
in search of the mysterious springs which had hitherto baffled the
investigations of all previous explorers.
Page 469
Finally, all was ready, the baggage being evenly distributed in the three
canoes with an Indian in each to guide and paddle it. Standing in the
foremost canoe Captain Glazier signified his readiness to start, when Mr.
Benedict pushed the light bark into the water, and waved his hat in token of
farewell. A general waving of hats followed, and soon our explorers found
themselves gliding swiftly over the bosom of the lake, and almost out of
sight of the friends who still watched them from the shore.
After an hour's paddling they reached the other side of the arm of the lake
on which the Agency is situated, and prepared for a short portage across a
point of land which brought them to a larger arm, where the wind and the
waves had a sweep of fifteen or twenty miles. Coasting along the shore for
some distance they finally paddled across the lake to the mouth of the
Kabekanka River. A brisk wind was blowing from the north, and the waves
ran so high as to cause some anxiety in the minds of those who were not
accustomed to the motion of a canoe; for, now they rose lightly to the top of
the wave and anon sank with a swash into the trough, splashing and dashing
the water over their bows. Gradually, however, as they became more used to
their frail barks, their anxiety lessened, and they began to enjoy the
beautiful prospect before them, and to inhale with delight the invigorating
breeze.
After two or three hours steady work they reached the inlet into which
this branch of the Kabekanka empties. So choked up is this inlet with reeds
and rushes that it required some skill to force an entrance for the canoes.
Finally they succeeded, and paddling up the river they came, at about
eleven o'clock, to a little lake caused by the widening of the stream, which
Captain Glazier named Lake Benedict, in honor of Rev. Edwin Benedict,
who had treated him so courteously during his stay at Leech Lake.
canoes with an Indian in each to guide and paddle it. Standing in the
foremost canoe Captain Glazier signified his readiness to start, when Mr.
Benedict pushed the light bark into the water, and waved his hat in token of
farewell. A general waving of hats followed, and soon our explorers found
themselves gliding swiftly over the bosom of the lake, and almost out of
sight of the friends who still watched them from the shore.
After an hour's paddling they reached the other side of the arm of the lake
on which the Agency is situated, and prepared for a short portage across a
point of land which brought them to a larger arm, where the wind and the
waves had a sweep of fifteen or twenty miles. Coasting along the shore for
some distance they finally paddled across the lake to the mouth of the
Kabekanka River. A brisk wind was blowing from the north, and the waves
ran so high as to cause some anxiety in the minds of those who were not
accustomed to the motion of a canoe; for, now they rose lightly to the top of
the wave and anon sank with a swash into the trough, splashing and dashing
the water over their bows. Gradually, however, as they became more used to
their frail barks, their anxiety lessened, and they began to enjoy the
beautiful prospect before them, and to inhale with delight the invigorating
breeze.
After two or three hours steady work they reached the inlet into which
this branch of the Kabekanka empties. So choked up is this inlet with reeds
and rushes that it required some skill to force an entrance for the canoes.
Finally they succeeded, and paddling up the river they came, at about
eleven o'clock, to a little lake caused by the widening of the stream, which
Captain Glazier named Lake Benedict, in honor of Rev. Edwin Benedict,
who had treated him so courteously during his stay at Leech Lake.
Page 470
Reaching the upper end of this lake they disembarked and prepared to enjoy
their noon-day meal.
A brief rest, in order the better to digest their hearty dinner, refreshed the
travelers so much that they soon re-embarked and pursued their voyage.
Leaving the lake they entered another branch of the Kabekanka, and found
that at its mouth the stream ran between low shores, and that its bed was so
overgrown with wild rice as to make it almost impossible for a canoe to
work its way through. Further up the river narrowed and ran more swiftly,
the wild rice giving place to snags and driftwood, which made navigation
even more toilsome. Almost worn out, our weary voyagers began to despair
of finding navigable waters, when to their great joy they espied at a little
distance what seemed like a pond filled with rushes. Struggling onward
once more they soon reached the spot, and found what they supposed to be
a pond was the outlet of a beautiful lake about seven miles long and three
broad, into whose quiet waters they glided with glad hearts and a shout of
delight.
It was now late in the afternoon, and time to look about for a camping-
ground, on which to spend the night. Paddling slowly up the lake, trolling
for fish as they went, they soon found a spot which answered their purpose
admirably. It was a bluff near the lake, wooded with Norway pines, and
sloping rather abruptly towards the water. By this time they had caught half
a dozen fine pickerel, and, disembarking, soon had their fire built, tents
pitched and hammocks swung. The guides prepared supper of broiled fish,
accompanied by such canned dainties as had been brought with them and
their keen appetites caused by the fresh breeze and toilsome paddling
prepared them to enjoy with zest their first supper in the open air.
Supper being over they whiled away the time very pleasantly by
commenting upon the experiences of the day, and discussing the object of
their noon-day meal.
A brief rest, in order the better to digest their hearty dinner, refreshed the
travelers so much that they soon re-embarked and pursued their voyage.
Leaving the lake they entered another branch of the Kabekanka, and found
that at its mouth the stream ran between low shores, and that its bed was so
overgrown with wild rice as to make it almost impossible for a canoe to
work its way through. Further up the river narrowed and ran more swiftly,
the wild rice giving place to snags and driftwood, which made navigation
even more toilsome. Almost worn out, our weary voyagers began to despair
of finding navigable waters, when to their great joy they espied at a little
distance what seemed like a pond filled with rushes. Struggling onward
once more they soon reached the spot, and found what they supposed to be
a pond was the outlet of a beautiful lake about seven miles long and three
broad, into whose quiet waters they glided with glad hearts and a shout of
delight.
It was now late in the afternoon, and time to look about for a camping-
ground, on which to spend the night. Paddling slowly up the lake, trolling
for fish as they went, they soon found a spot which answered their purpose
admirably. It was a bluff near the lake, wooded with Norway pines, and
sloping rather abruptly towards the water. By this time they had caught half
a dozen fine pickerel, and, disembarking, soon had their fire built, tents
pitched and hammocks swung. The guides prepared supper of broiled fish,
accompanied by such canned dainties as had been brought with them and
their keen appetites caused by the fresh breeze and toilsome paddling
prepared them to enjoy with zest their first supper in the open air.
Supper being over they whiled away the time very pleasantly by
commenting upon the experiences of the day, and discussing the object of
Page 471
their undertaking, and so free were they from all discomfort, even from that
caused by those torments, the mosquitoes, they felt ready to declare the
hardships of their journey had been much magnified. In this peaceful and
contented frame of mind they retired to their tents and slept soundly until
next morning.
Rising at break of day they were soon on the water making their way to
the head of the lake, where they breakfasted, and upon learning that no
name had ever been given to this beautiful body of water, Captain Glazier
designated it Lake Garfield, in honor of our murdered President.
CAMP AMONG THE PINES.
After breakfast they were informed by the guides that they had now come
to the end of uninterrupted water communication, and must prepare for a
portage of two and a half miles. Little did any of the white members of the
party guess what this meant, and so with light hearts they packed their traps
into convenient bundles and prepared to take up the line of march. The
Indians, in the meanwhile, had made for themselves packs weighing about a
hundred pounds. These packs they wrapped in blankets and secured with a
caused by those torments, the mosquitoes, they felt ready to declare the
hardships of their journey had been much magnified. In this peaceful and
contented frame of mind they retired to their tents and slept soundly until
next morning.
Rising at break of day they were soon on the water making their way to
the head of the lake, where they breakfasted, and upon learning that no
name had ever been given to this beautiful body of water, Captain Glazier
designated it Lake Garfield, in honor of our murdered President.
CAMP AMONG THE PINES.
After breakfast they were informed by the guides that they had now come
to the end of uninterrupted water communication, and must prepare for a
portage of two and a half miles. Little did any of the white members of the
party guess what this meant, and so with light hearts they packed their traps
into convenient bundles and prepared to take up the line of march. The
Indians, in the meanwhile, had made for themselves packs weighing about a
hundred pounds. These packs they wrapped in blankets and secured with a
Page 472
strap which passed over their foreheads, the packs resting on their
shoulders. Each then placed a canoe, bottom upwards, on top of his pack,
holding it there by means of a cross bar.
All were now ready, and the order, "March," was given. Off started the
Indians in single file with as much apparent ease as if they were taking a
pleasure walk along a well-beaten path instead of plunging, heavily laden,
into the recesses of a trackless forest. Captain Glazier, his brother and Mr.
Paine followed their lead, guided only by the white bottoms of the canoes
gleaming through the dense foliage. It was almost impossible to keep up
with the Indians, whose steady trot at times increased to a run, and in their
efforts to do so they barked their shins, scratched their hands and faces, tore
their clothes, and were almost devoured by the mosquitoes. On they went,
however, determined not to be beaten by the red man, who showed no sign
of fatigue or stopping. Finally, in spite of their determination to the
contrary, they felt absolutely compelled to cry "halt," when lo! the Indians
halted, removed their packs, and, smiling back at them, no doubt in
appreciation of their discomfort, calmly began to pick the blue berries
which grew in abundance all along the route. With a sigh of relief, the rest
of the party threw themselves full length upon the ground, utterly and
completely exhausted, and fairly groaned aloud when they saw the Indians
were about to resume their packs. There was no help for it, however, so
starting up they prepared to follow, but at a somewhat slower pace. For
several hours they continued their fatiguing journey, until, at eleven o'clock,
reaching a high, clear piece of ground, they decided to rest and have dinner.
After dinner they found they were far too weary to proceed, so the
Indians, who were apparently as fresh as when they first started, made two
trips to the next lake, carrying everything. On their last trip they were
shoulders. Each then placed a canoe, bottom upwards, on top of his pack,
holding it there by means of a cross bar.
All were now ready, and the order, "March," was given. Off started the
Indians in single file with as much apparent ease as if they were taking a
pleasure walk along a well-beaten path instead of plunging, heavily laden,
into the recesses of a trackless forest. Captain Glazier, his brother and Mr.
Paine followed their lead, guided only by the white bottoms of the canoes
gleaming through the dense foliage. It was almost impossible to keep up
with the Indians, whose steady trot at times increased to a run, and in their
efforts to do so they barked their shins, scratched their hands and faces, tore
their clothes, and were almost devoured by the mosquitoes. On they went,
however, determined not to be beaten by the red man, who showed no sign
of fatigue or stopping. Finally, in spite of their determination to the
contrary, they felt absolutely compelled to cry "halt," when lo! the Indians
halted, removed their packs, and, smiling back at them, no doubt in
appreciation of their discomfort, calmly began to pick the blue berries
which grew in abundance all along the route. With a sigh of relief, the rest
of the party threw themselves full length upon the ground, utterly and
completely exhausted, and fairly groaned aloud when they saw the Indians
were about to resume their packs. There was no help for it, however, so
starting up they prepared to follow, but at a somewhat slower pace. For
several hours they continued their fatiguing journey, until, at eleven o'clock,
reaching a high, clear piece of ground, they decided to rest and have dinner.
After dinner they found they were far too weary to proceed, so the
Indians, who were apparently as fresh as when they first started, made two
trips to the next lake, carrying everything. On their last trip they were
Page 473
accompanied by their exhausted white brethren, who succeeded at last in
summoning up sufficient resolution to carry themselves.
Embarking once more in their canoes they pulled through three small
lakes connected by creeks, finally camping for the night on the shore of a
fourth lake. The next morning they were up bright and early and ready to
resume their voyage, which for this day was through a chain of lakes
sometimes connected by small creeks, but more frequently requiring them
to make a portage from one to the other. Gabekanazeba, meaning "portage,"
is the Indian name applied to these lakes and the stream which connects
some of them; but Captain Glazier, assuming the right tacitly yielded to all
explorers, called them in order after the brave cavalry commanders of the
Rebellion. Bayard, Stoneman, Pleasanton, Custer, Kilpatrick, Gregg,
Buford and Davies, form the column, with Sheridan, as the name of the
largest and finest, at its head.
Finally, they reached a lake of considerable size whose Indian name,
translated, means Blue Snake. This they crossed at a point where its width
is about five miles, catching a number of fine bass as they went, and
camped for the night on a strip of land between it and a second lake about
half its size. These two bodies of water were respectively denominated by
Captain Glazier Lake George and Lake Paine, after his brother George and
Mr. Barrett Channing Paine, who accompanied him throughout his entire
voyage, sharing his dangers and rejoicing in his ultimate success.
Upon resuming their journey next morning, July twentieth, the canoes
were paddled across a corner of Lake Paine, and, after a portage of half a
mile, they entered a small river, called by the Indians Naiwa. This river they
descended for about five miles, and after making another short portage,
reached a little stream, upon the shore of which they rested for dinner.
Resuming their voyage they arrived at a beautiful lake late in the afternoon,
summoning up sufficient resolution to carry themselves.
Embarking once more in their canoes they pulled through three small
lakes connected by creeks, finally camping for the night on the shore of a
fourth lake. The next morning they were up bright and early and ready to
resume their voyage, which for this day was through a chain of lakes
sometimes connected by small creeks, but more frequently requiring them
to make a portage from one to the other. Gabekanazeba, meaning "portage,"
is the Indian name applied to these lakes and the stream which connects
some of them; but Captain Glazier, assuming the right tacitly yielded to all
explorers, called them in order after the brave cavalry commanders of the
Rebellion. Bayard, Stoneman, Pleasanton, Custer, Kilpatrick, Gregg,
Buford and Davies, form the column, with Sheridan, as the name of the
largest and finest, at its head.
Finally, they reached a lake of considerable size whose Indian name,
translated, means Blue Snake. This they crossed at a point where its width
is about five miles, catching a number of fine bass as they went, and
camped for the night on a strip of land between it and a second lake about
half its size. These two bodies of water were respectively denominated by
Captain Glazier Lake George and Lake Paine, after his brother George and
Mr. Barrett Channing Paine, who accompanied him throughout his entire
voyage, sharing his dangers and rejoicing in his ultimate success.
Upon resuming their journey next morning, July twentieth, the canoes
were paddled across a corner of Lake Paine, and, after a portage of half a
mile, they entered a small river, called by the Indians Naiwa. This river they
descended for about five miles, and after making another short portage,
reached a little stream, upon the shore of which they rested for dinner.
Resuming their voyage they arrived at a beautiful lake late in the afternoon,
Page 474
upon which Captain Glazier bestowed the name of Elvira, in memory of his
eldest sister.
Here the Indians informed them that they were only six miles from
Itasca, but the joy with which they received the good news was somewhat
checked when they heard that the whole distance, with the exception of one
small lake, must be made by portage. However, they had a night's rest
before them, so taking the canoes out of the water, they were carried to the
top of the nearest ridge of land, where the tents were pitched for the night.
Their camp was now situated on one of a series of diluvial ridges which
forms the highest ground between the Allegheny and Rocky Mountains. It
is, in fact, the watershed separating the Mississippi, Red River of the North
and St. Lawrence River systems, all these great streams having their origin
in springs or lakes found within this section of Minnesota.
While camping here a discovery was made which caused the party much
uneasiness. This was the startling fact that their supply of canned meats and
other rations was fast giving out! To appreciate their situation under these
circumstances we must remember that they were far from any trading post,
and in a country where they could not hope to find even an Indian at that
season of the year, the many lakes and marshy ground making hunting
impracticable. To add to their dismay, it was also discovered that during one
of the exhausting portages the trolling hooks had been lost in passing
through a bog, while their ammunition was reduced to sixty-five rounds.
Too late did the Captain regret the permission given to his brother and Mr.
Paine, both of whom were but amateur sportsmen, to fire at any game they
might see. They had blazed away recklessly during the entire voyage, so far
succeeding in killing but one duck. Evidently they could not be depended
upon to replenish the depleted larder. Something had to be done, and after
resolutions of strict economy were proposed and unanimously adopted, it
eldest sister.
Here the Indians informed them that they were only six miles from
Itasca, but the joy with which they received the good news was somewhat
checked when they heard that the whole distance, with the exception of one
small lake, must be made by portage. However, they had a night's rest
before them, so taking the canoes out of the water, they were carried to the
top of the nearest ridge of land, where the tents were pitched for the night.
Their camp was now situated on one of a series of diluvial ridges which
forms the highest ground between the Allegheny and Rocky Mountains. It
is, in fact, the watershed separating the Mississippi, Red River of the North
and St. Lawrence River systems, all these great streams having their origin
in springs or lakes found within this section of Minnesota.
While camping here a discovery was made which caused the party much
uneasiness. This was the startling fact that their supply of canned meats and
other rations was fast giving out! To appreciate their situation under these
circumstances we must remember that they were far from any trading post,
and in a country where they could not hope to find even an Indian at that
season of the year, the many lakes and marshy ground making hunting
impracticable. To add to their dismay, it was also discovered that during one
of the exhausting portages the trolling hooks had been lost in passing
through a bog, while their ammunition was reduced to sixty-five rounds.
Too late did the Captain regret the permission given to his brother and Mr.
Paine, both of whom were but amateur sportsmen, to fire at any game they
might see. They had blazed away recklessly during the entire voyage, so far
succeeding in killing but one duck. Evidently they could not be depended
upon to replenish the depleted larder. Something had to be done, and after
resolutions of strict economy were proposed and unanimously adopted, it
Page 475
was decided that hereafter the Captain should occupy the bow of the first
canoe, and, with gun cocked, be ready to fire at any game which a sudden
turn in the river might discover. How the explorers wished they could
subsist on the blue berries which were fully as abundant as the mosquitoes
along the entire route! But it required incessant eating of these to satisfy the
appetite, and even then, hunger, in a short time, asserted its former sway.
The morning following this discovery was so foggy that it was
impossible to make a start before seven o'clock. The day was warm, and the
journey unusually fatiguing, consisting mainly of a portage twice the length
of the first one they had encountered. It was, therefore, with unfeigned
delight that, late in the afternoon of the twenty-first of July, they discovered
the placid waters of Itasca just ahead of them. Launching their canoes, they
soon reached Schoolcraft Island, after a pull of about two miles, and
prepared to make this point their headquarters.
MAKING A PORTAGE.
Lake Itasca was discovered by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft in 1832, and was
located by him as the source of the Mississippi. It is a beautiful body of
canoe, and, with gun cocked, be ready to fire at any game which a sudden
turn in the river might discover. How the explorers wished they could
subsist on the blue berries which were fully as abundant as the mosquitoes
along the entire route! But it required incessant eating of these to satisfy the
appetite, and even then, hunger, in a short time, asserted its former sway.
The morning following this discovery was so foggy that it was
impossible to make a start before seven o'clock. The day was warm, and the
journey unusually fatiguing, consisting mainly of a portage twice the length
of the first one they had encountered. It was, therefore, with unfeigned
delight that, late in the afternoon of the twenty-first of July, they discovered
the placid waters of Itasca just ahead of them. Launching their canoes, they
soon reached Schoolcraft Island, after a pull of about two miles, and
prepared to make this point their headquarters.
MAKING A PORTAGE.
Lake Itasca was discovered by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft in 1832, and was
located by him as the source of the Mississippi. It is a beautiful body of
Page 476
water, with an extreme length of about five miles, and an average breadth of
a mile and a half. It has three arms of nearly equal size, and the island,
named after the discoverer of the lake, is situated near the point where they
come together. This island proved to be about three acres in extent, and is so
covered with underbrush that our gallant little party had much difficulty in
clearing a sufficient space for their camp. Only one or two trees of any size
were found, and on the largest of these, a pine, Mr. Paine carved their
names and the date of their arrival.
By this time Captain Glazier had become more than ever convinced,
through conversations with Chenowagesic, that he was right in his
preconceived opinion that Itasca was not the source of the Mississippi. He
was also satisfied that Chenowagesic was pre-eminently fitted to aid him in
discovering the fountain head, owing to the fact that he was thoroughly at
home in that region, having hunted and trapped there for many years. So
intense had become the Captain's desire not to return until he had
thoroughly explored Itasca and the surrounding country, that it was with an
anxious heart he now put the question to his companions: would they be
willing, on such a limited supply of rations as they had remaining, to assist
him in his explorations, or would they vote for an immediate descent of the
river? To his great relief he found he had so completely inoculated them, or
at least his brother and Mr. Paine, with his own ambition that with one
voice they decided in favor of a thorough exploration. The Indians were
soon persuaded to give their consent, and so, before retiring for the night,
the entire party expressed their determination to stand by the Captain until
he was satisfied that every effort had been made to discover the remotest
springs in which the Great River really had its origin.
a mile and a half. It has three arms of nearly equal size, and the island,
named after the discoverer of the lake, is situated near the point where they
come together. This island proved to be about three acres in extent, and is so
covered with underbrush that our gallant little party had much difficulty in
clearing a sufficient space for their camp. Only one or two trees of any size
were found, and on the largest of these, a pine, Mr. Paine carved their
names and the date of their arrival.
By this time Captain Glazier had become more than ever convinced,
through conversations with Chenowagesic, that he was right in his
preconceived opinion that Itasca was not the source of the Mississippi. He
was also satisfied that Chenowagesic was pre-eminently fitted to aid him in
discovering the fountain head, owing to the fact that he was thoroughly at
home in that region, having hunted and trapped there for many years. So
intense had become the Captain's desire not to return until he had
thoroughly explored Itasca and the surrounding country, that it was with an
anxious heart he now put the question to his companions: would they be
willing, on such a limited supply of rations as they had remaining, to assist
him in his explorations, or would they vote for an immediate descent of the
river? To his great relief he found he had so completely inoculated them, or
at least his brother and Mr. Paine, with his own ambition that with one
voice they decided in favor of a thorough exploration. The Indians were
soon persuaded to give their consent, and so, before retiring for the night,
the entire party expressed their determination to stand by the Captain until
he was satisfied that every effort had been made to discover the remotest
springs in which the Great River really had its origin.
Page 477
MAP OF LAKE GLAZIER
Page 478
CHAPTER XXXIX.
DISCOVERY OF THE SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
Short rations. — Empty haversacks and depleted cartridge-boxes. — Statement of Chenowagesic.
— Captain Glazier's diary. — Vivid description. — Coasting Itasca. — Chenowagesic
puzzled. — The barrier overcome. — Victory! the Infant Mississippi. — Enthusiastic desire to
see the source. — The goal reached. — A beautiful lake. — The fountain head. — An
American the first white man to stand by its side. — Schoolcraft. — How he came to miss the
lake. — Appropriate ceremonies. — Captain Glazier's speech. — Naming the lake. —
Chenowagesic. — Military honors. — "Three cheers for the explorer."
Captain Glazier had instructed his Indian guides to wake him early the
following morning, July twenty-second; but when he himself awoke at six
o'clock he found the remainder of the party still sound asleep, the toilsome
portages of the preceding day having completely exhausted them. Rousing
his companions, preparations were begun for breakfast, which consisted of
a small piece of bacon and one "flap-jack" each. But the determination of
the previous night had so inspirited all that the small dimensions of the
breakfast were scarcely noticed, and the conversation turned upon the
absorbing topic—would they discover a source of the Mississippi other than
Lake Itasca?
Chenowagesic again repeated his statement that there was another lake to
the south, which he called Pokegama, meaning, "a lake on the side of or
beyond another lake." This lake, he said, was smaller than Itasca, but
contributed to the latter through its largest inflowing stream. Captain
Glazier, therefore, instructed him to guide them to this lake and allow them
DISCOVERY OF THE SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI.
Short rations. — Empty haversacks and depleted cartridge-boxes. — Statement of Chenowagesic.
— Captain Glazier's diary. — Vivid description. — Coasting Itasca. — Chenowagesic
puzzled. — The barrier overcome. — Victory! the Infant Mississippi. — Enthusiastic desire to
see the source. — The goal reached. — A beautiful lake. — The fountain head. — An
American the first white man to stand by its side. — Schoolcraft. — How he came to miss the
lake. — Appropriate ceremonies. — Captain Glazier's speech. — Naming the lake. —
Chenowagesic. — Military honors. — "Three cheers for the explorer."
Captain Glazier had instructed his Indian guides to wake him early the
following morning, July twenty-second; but when he himself awoke at six
o'clock he found the remainder of the party still sound asleep, the toilsome
portages of the preceding day having completely exhausted them. Rousing
his companions, preparations were begun for breakfast, which consisted of
a small piece of bacon and one "flap-jack" each. But the determination of
the previous night had so inspirited all that the small dimensions of the
breakfast were scarcely noticed, and the conversation turned upon the
absorbing topic—would they discover a source of the Mississippi other than
Lake Itasca?
Chenowagesic again repeated his statement that there was another lake to
the south, which he called Pokegama, meaning, "a lake on the side of or
beyond another lake." This lake, he said, was smaller than Itasca, but
contributed to the latter through its largest inflowing stream. Captain
Glazier, therefore, instructed him to guide them to this lake and allow them
Page 479
to make their own observations regarding it. Accordingly, breakfast being
over, the canoes were launched and the coasting of Itasca begun.
Captain Glazier's own account of the events succeeding this breakfast on
Schoolcraft Island is so clear, and his description brings so vivid a picture
before the eye of the reader, that it is only necessary to quote the following
passages from his diary for the reader to understand the importance of the
discovery which he made:
"Notwithstanding the fact that we were now confronted with empty
haversacks and depleted cartridge boxes my companions were still eager to
follow my lead in the work of exploration beyond Itasca, which from the
beginning had been the controlling incentive of our expedition, the grand
objective towards which we bent all our energies. To stand at the source; to
look upon the remotest rills and springs which contribute to the birth of the
Great River of North America, to write 'Finis' in the volume opened by the
renowned De Soto more than three hundred years ago, and in which
Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, La Hontan, Carver, Pike, Beltrami,
Schoolcraft and Nicollet have successively inscribed their names, were
quite enough to revive the drooping spirits of the most depressed.
"During our encampment on the island Chenowagesic again reminded
me that he had planted corn there many years before, and that his wigwam
once stood near the spot where we had pitched our tents. He also repeated
what he had told me before launching the canoes at Leech Lake that the
region about Lake Itasca was his hunting-ground, and that he was
thoroughly acquainted with all the rivers, lakes and ponds within a hundred
miles. He further said that Paul Beaulieu was in error concerning the source
of the Great River, and led me to conclude that the primal reservoir was
above and beyond Itasca, and that this lake was simply an expansion of the
Mississippi, as are Bemidji, Cass, Winnibegoshish and several others.
over, the canoes were launched and the coasting of Itasca begun.
Captain Glazier's own account of the events succeeding this breakfast on
Schoolcraft Island is so clear, and his description brings so vivid a picture
before the eye of the reader, that it is only necessary to quote the following
passages from his diary for the reader to understand the importance of the
discovery which he made:
"Notwithstanding the fact that we were now confronted with empty
haversacks and depleted cartridge boxes my companions were still eager to
follow my lead in the work of exploration beyond Itasca, which from the
beginning had been the controlling incentive of our expedition, the grand
objective towards which we bent all our energies. To stand at the source; to
look upon the remotest rills and springs which contribute to the birth of the
Great River of North America, to write 'Finis' in the volume opened by the
renowned De Soto more than three hundred years ago, and in which
Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, La Hontan, Carver, Pike, Beltrami,
Schoolcraft and Nicollet have successively inscribed their names, were
quite enough to revive the drooping spirits of the most depressed.
"During our encampment on the island Chenowagesic again reminded
me that he had planted corn there many years before, and that his wigwam
once stood near the spot where we had pitched our tents. He also repeated
what he had told me before launching the canoes at Leech Lake that the
region about Lake Itasca was his hunting-ground, and that he was
thoroughly acquainted with all the rivers, lakes and ponds within a hundred
miles. He further said that Paul Beaulieu was in error concerning the source
of the Great River, and led me to conclude that the primal reservoir was
above and beyond Itasca, and that this lake was simply an expansion of the
Mississippi, as are Bemidji, Cass, Winnibegoshish and several others.
Page 480
"Fully convinced that the statements of Chenowagesic were entirely
trustworthy, and knowing from past experience that he was perfectly
reliable as a guide, we put our canoes into the water at eight o'clock, and at
once began the work of coasting Itasca for its feeders. We found the outlets
of six small streams, two having well-defined mouths, and four filtering
into the lake through bogs. The upper end of the southwestern arm is
heavily margined with rushes and swamp grass, and it was not without
considerable difficulty that we forced our way through this natural barrier
into the larger of the two open streams which flow into this end of the lake.
"Although perfectly familiar with the topography of the country, and
entirely confident that he could lead us to the beautiful lake which he had so
often described, Chenowagesic was for some moments greatly disturbed by
the network of rushes in which we found ourselves temporarily entangled.
Leaping from his canoe he pushed the rushes right and left with his paddle,
and soon, to our great delight, threw up his hands and gave a characteristic
Chippewa yell, thereby signifying that he had found the object of his
search. Returning, he seized the bow of my canoe, and pulled it after him
through the rushes out into the clear, glistening waters of the infant
Mississippi, which, at the point of entering Itasca, is seven feet wide, and
from twelve to fifteen inches deep.
"Lusty work with our paddles for half an hour brought us to a blockade
of fallen timber. Determined to float in my canoe upon the surface of the
lake towards which we were paddling, I directed the guides to remove the
obstructions, and continue to urge the canoes rapidly forward, although
opposed by a strong and constantly increasing current. Sometimes we found
it necessary to lift the canoes over logs, and occasionally to remove
diminutive sand-bars from the bed of the stream with our paddles. As we
neared the head of this primal section of the mighty river, we could readily
trustworthy, and knowing from past experience that he was perfectly
reliable as a guide, we put our canoes into the water at eight o'clock, and at
once began the work of coasting Itasca for its feeders. We found the outlets
of six small streams, two having well-defined mouths, and four filtering
into the lake through bogs. The upper end of the southwestern arm is
heavily margined with rushes and swamp grass, and it was not without
considerable difficulty that we forced our way through this natural barrier
into the larger of the two open streams which flow into this end of the lake.
"Although perfectly familiar with the topography of the country, and
entirely confident that he could lead us to the beautiful lake which he had so
often described, Chenowagesic was for some moments greatly disturbed by
the network of rushes in which we found ourselves temporarily entangled.
Leaping from his canoe he pushed the rushes right and left with his paddle,
and soon, to our great delight, threw up his hands and gave a characteristic
Chippewa yell, thereby signifying that he had found the object of his
search. Returning, he seized the bow of my canoe, and pulled it after him
through the rushes out into the clear, glistening waters of the infant
Mississippi, which, at the point of entering Itasca, is seven feet wide, and
from twelve to fifteen inches deep.
"Lusty work with our paddles for half an hour brought us to a blockade
of fallen timber. Determined to float in my canoe upon the surface of the
lake towards which we were paddling, I directed the guides to remove the
obstructions, and continue to urge the canoes rapidly forward, although
opposed by a strong and constantly increasing current. Sometimes we found
it necessary to lift the canoes over logs, and occasionally to remove
diminutive sand-bars from the bed of the stream with our paddles. As we
neared the head of this primal section of the mighty river, we could readily
Page 481
touch both shores with our hands at the same time, while the average depth
of water in the channel did not exceed ten inches.
"Every paddle-stroke seemed to increase the ardor with which we were
carried forward. The desire to see the actual source of a river so celebrated
as the Mississippi, whose mouth had been reached nearly two centuries
before, was doubtless the impelling motive. In their eagerness to obtain a
first view of the beautiful lake toward which we were paddling, and greatly
annoyed by the slow progress made in the canoes, my brother and Paine
stepped ashore and proposed a race to the crest of the hill which
Chenowagesic told them overhung the lake. To this proposition of my
companions I made objection and insisted that all should see the goal of our
expedition from the canoes. What had long been sought at last appeared
suddenly. On pulling and pushing our way through a network of rushes
similar to the one encountered on leaving Itasca, the cheering sight of a
transparent body of water burst upon our view. It was a beautiful lake—the
source of the 'Father of Waters.'
LAKE GLAZIER—SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI. Discovered by Captain Glazier, July 22,
1881.
of water in the channel did not exceed ten inches.
"Every paddle-stroke seemed to increase the ardor with which we were
carried forward. The desire to see the actual source of a river so celebrated
as the Mississippi, whose mouth had been reached nearly two centuries
before, was doubtless the impelling motive. In their eagerness to obtain a
first view of the beautiful lake toward which we were paddling, and greatly
annoyed by the slow progress made in the canoes, my brother and Paine
stepped ashore and proposed a race to the crest of the hill which
Chenowagesic told them overhung the lake. To this proposition of my
companions I made objection and insisted that all should see the goal of our
expedition from the canoes. What had long been sought at last appeared
suddenly. On pulling and pushing our way through a network of rushes
similar to the one encountered on leaving Itasca, the cheering sight of a
transparent body of water burst upon our view. It was a beautiful lake—the
source of the 'Father of Waters.'
LAKE GLAZIER—SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI. Discovered by Captain Glazier, July 22,
1881.
Page 482
"A few moments later and our little flotilla of three canoes was put in
motion, headed for a small promontory which we discerned at the opposite
end of the lake. We paddled slowly across one of the purest and most
tranquil sheets of water we had encountered in our voyage. Not a breath of
air was stirring. We halted frequently to scan its shores, and to run our eyes
along the verdure-covered hills which enclose its basin. These elevations
are at a distance of from three to four miles, and are covered chiefly with
white pines, intermingled with the cedar, spruce and tamarack. The beach is
fringed with a mixed foliage of the evergreen species. At one point we
observed pond lilies, and at another a small quantity of wild rice.
"As we neared the promontory towards which we were paddling, a deer
was seen standing on the shore, and an eagle swept majestically over our
heads with food for her young, which we soon discovered were securely
lodged in the top of a tall pine. The water-fowl noticed upon the lake were
apparently little disturbed by our presence, and seldom left the surface of
the water.
"This lake is about a mile and a half in its greatest diameter, and would
be nearly an oval in form, but for a single promontory which extends its
shores into the lake so as to give it in outline the appearance of a heart. Its
feeders are three boggy streams, two of which enter on the right and left of
the headland, and have their origin in springs at the foot of sand-hills, from
five to six miles distant. The third is but little more than a mile in length,
has no clearly defined course, and is the outlet of a small lake situated in a
marsh to the south-westward. These three creeks were named in the order of
their discovery: Eagle, Excelsior and Deer. The small lake, which is the
source of Eagle Creek, I called Alice, after my daughter.
"Having satisfied myself as to its remotest feeders, I called my
companions into line at the foot of the promontory which overlooks the
motion, headed for a small promontory which we discerned at the opposite
end of the lake. We paddled slowly across one of the purest and most
tranquil sheets of water we had encountered in our voyage. Not a breath of
air was stirring. We halted frequently to scan its shores, and to run our eyes
along the verdure-covered hills which enclose its basin. These elevations
are at a distance of from three to four miles, and are covered chiefly with
white pines, intermingled with the cedar, spruce and tamarack. The beach is
fringed with a mixed foliage of the evergreen species. At one point we
observed pond lilies, and at another a small quantity of wild rice.
"As we neared the promontory towards which we were paddling, a deer
was seen standing on the shore, and an eagle swept majestically over our
heads with food for her young, which we soon discovered were securely
lodged in the top of a tall pine. The water-fowl noticed upon the lake were
apparently little disturbed by our presence, and seldom left the surface of
the water.
"This lake is about a mile and a half in its greatest diameter, and would
be nearly an oval in form, but for a single promontory which extends its
shores into the lake so as to give it in outline the appearance of a heart. Its
feeders are three boggy streams, two of which enter on the right and left of
the headland, and have their origin in springs at the foot of sand-hills, from
five to six miles distant. The third is but little more than a mile in length,
has no clearly defined course, and is the outlet of a small lake situated in a
marsh to the south-westward. These three creeks were named in the order of
their discovery: Eagle, Excelsior and Deer. The small lake, which is the
source of Eagle Creek, I called Alice, after my daughter.
"Having satisfied myself as to its remotest feeders, I called my
companions into line at the foot of the promontory which overlooks the
Page 483
lake, and talked for a few moments of the Mississippi and its explorers,
telling them I was confident that we were looking upon the True Source of
the Great River; that we had completed a work begun by De Soto in 1541,
and had corrected a geographical error of half a century's standing.
Concluding my remarks, I requested a volley from their fire-arms for each
member of the party, in commemoration of our discovery. When the firing
ceased, Paine gave me a surprise by stepping to the front and proposing
'that the newly discovered lake be named "Glazier" in honor of the leader of
the expedition.' The proposition was seconded by Moses Legard, the
interpreter, and carried by acclamation, notwithstanding my protest that it
should retain its Indian name, Pokegama.
"Much to the surprise of every one, as we were about closing our
ceremonies, Chenowagesic assumed an oratorical attitude, and addressed
me as follows in a few words of true Indian eloquence: 'My brother, I have
come with you through many lakes and rivers to the head of the Father of
Waters. The shores of this lake are my hunting-ground. Here I have had my
wigwam and planted corn for many years. When I again roam through these
forests, and look on this lake, source of the Great River, I will look on you.'
"The latitude of this lake is not far from 47°. Its height above the sea is
an object of geographical interest which, in the absence of actual survey, it
may subserve the purposes of useful inquiry to estimate. From notes taken
during the ascent it cannot be less than seven feet above Lake Itasca.
Adding the estimate of 1,575 feet submitted by Schoolcraft in 1832, as the
elevation of that lake, the Mississippi may be said to originate in an altitude
of 1,582 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Taking former estimates as the basis
and computing reasonably through the western fork, its length may be
placed at 3,184 miles. Assuming that the barometrical height of its source is
1,582 feet, it has a mean descent of over six inches per mile.
telling them I was confident that we were looking upon the True Source of
the Great River; that we had completed a work begun by De Soto in 1541,
and had corrected a geographical error of half a century's standing.
Concluding my remarks, I requested a volley from their fire-arms for each
member of the party, in commemoration of our discovery. When the firing
ceased, Paine gave me a surprise by stepping to the front and proposing
'that the newly discovered lake be named "Glazier" in honor of the leader of
the expedition.' The proposition was seconded by Moses Legard, the
interpreter, and carried by acclamation, notwithstanding my protest that it
should retain its Indian name, Pokegama.
"Much to the surprise of every one, as we were about closing our
ceremonies, Chenowagesic assumed an oratorical attitude, and addressed
me as follows in a few words of true Indian eloquence: 'My brother, I have
come with you through many lakes and rivers to the head of the Father of
Waters. The shores of this lake are my hunting-ground. Here I have had my
wigwam and planted corn for many years. When I again roam through these
forests, and look on this lake, source of the Great River, I will look on you.'
"The latitude of this lake is not far from 47°. Its height above the sea is
an object of geographical interest which, in the absence of actual survey, it
may subserve the purposes of useful inquiry to estimate. From notes taken
during the ascent it cannot be less than seven feet above Lake Itasca.
Adding the estimate of 1,575 feet submitted by Schoolcraft in 1832, as the
elevation of that lake, the Mississippi may be said to originate in an altitude
of 1,582 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Taking former estimates as the basis
and computing reasonably through the western fork, its length may be
placed at 3,184 miles. Assuming that the barometrical height of its source is
1,582 feet, it has a mean descent of over six inches per mile.
Page 484
"At Lake Bemidji the Mississippi reaches its highest northing, which is in
the neighborhood of 47° 30'. The origin of the river in an untraveled and
secluded region between Leech Lake and the Red River of the North, not
less than a degree of latitude south of Turtle Lake, which was for a long
time supposed to be the source, removes both forks of the stream outside
the usual track of the fur-traders, and presents a good reason, perhaps, why
its fountain-head has remained so long enveloped in uncertainty."
The information imparted in the foregoing extract brings the whole gist
of the important discovery within the compass of a few paragraphs, and it
will be readily seen from this clear description of the new-found lake that
the source of the Mississippi is at last correctly located. Many others have
attempted to find it: Schoolcraft was sent out by the Government especially
for its discovery, but it remained for Captain Glazier to successfully
accomplish an undertaking which had hitherto baffled the most determined
explorers. This, too, he did entirely at his own expense, and with no other
motive than such as an ardent search after truth inspires in ambitious minds.
He had long doubted that Itasca was the source of our greatest river. He
knew no other way of satisfying his doubt than by going himself to the
remotest headwaters of the mighty stream. He therefore went there, for with
him to think is to determine, to determine is to act. Friends tried to persuade
him he was engaging in a useless and extravagant expedition, and those to
whom he applied for information respecting the country through which he
must pass warned him that he would have to undergo many hardships; but
to all this advice he turned a deaf ear. His active, energetic, and enterprising
temperament was proof against all fear of discomfort, and his desire to
know the truth overruled every other feeling. And, when at last he stood by
the beautiful lake, the goal of his search, all the trials and annoyances of his
arduous journey sank into insignificance—lost in the depths of his content.
the neighborhood of 47° 30'. The origin of the river in an untraveled and
secluded region between Leech Lake and the Red River of the North, not
less than a degree of latitude south of Turtle Lake, which was for a long
time supposed to be the source, removes both forks of the stream outside
the usual track of the fur-traders, and presents a good reason, perhaps, why
its fountain-head has remained so long enveloped in uncertainty."
The information imparted in the foregoing extract brings the whole gist
of the important discovery within the compass of a few paragraphs, and it
will be readily seen from this clear description of the new-found lake that
the source of the Mississippi is at last correctly located. Many others have
attempted to find it: Schoolcraft was sent out by the Government especially
for its discovery, but it remained for Captain Glazier to successfully
accomplish an undertaking which had hitherto baffled the most determined
explorers. This, too, he did entirely at his own expense, and with no other
motive than such as an ardent search after truth inspires in ambitious minds.
He had long doubted that Itasca was the source of our greatest river. He
knew no other way of satisfying his doubt than by going himself to the
remotest headwaters of the mighty stream. He therefore went there, for with
him to think is to determine, to determine is to act. Friends tried to persuade
him he was engaging in a useless and extravagant expedition, and those to
whom he applied for information respecting the country through which he
must pass warned him that he would have to undergo many hardships; but
to all this advice he turned a deaf ear. His active, energetic, and enterprising
temperament was proof against all fear of discomfort, and his desire to
know the truth overruled every other feeling. And, when at last he stood by
the beautiful lake, the goal of his search, all the trials and annoyances of his
arduous journey sank into insignificance—lost in the depths of his content.
Page 485
His companions gazed with delight upon the peaceful scene which lay
before them; and, as they noted the peculiar outline of the lake, what
wonder that the thought came—this was indeed the heart of the Mississippi,
pulsating with life for the great stream flowing onward and ever onward,
enriching and ennobling the land, until at last it loses itself, by reason of its
own vastness, in the waters of the Ocean.
They rejoiced, too, that the first white man to stand at the fountain-head
of America's greatest river was an American—an American who had fought
bravely and suffered many privations for his country. And as they watched
the eagle, whirling in his flight over their heads, they felt glad that he had
chosen this spot for his home, in which to rear his young in the same proud,
free spirit which made him so fit an emblem for their glorious land.
Much astonishment was expressed by those of the party who were aware
of Schoolcraft's expedition in 1832, that he should have missed finding this
lake so closely connected with Itasca, and various were the surmises as to
the cause of this remarkable oversight. One plausible suggestion was, that
the rushes and reeds had so obstructed the entrance of the stream into
Itasca, that not having a previous knowledge of its whereabouts, there was
nothing surprising in its being overlooked. By far the most probable theory,
however, was advanced by Captain Glazier, who stated, quoting Schoolcraft
himself as authority, that when he reached Itasca he was too much hurried
to make a thorough exploration. He had made an engagement to meet some
Indians in council at the mouth of the Crow-Wing River, fully seven days'
journey from this point, and he had not more than the seven days to
accomplish it. Accordingly, as his mind had been prepared by his guides all
along to accept Itasca as the true source, he only stopped long enough to see
and hurriedly coast the lake, and then returned to the Indian council on
Crow-Wing River. This is Schoolcraft's own statement, and there can be no
before them; and, as they noted the peculiar outline of the lake, what
wonder that the thought came—this was indeed the heart of the Mississippi,
pulsating with life for the great stream flowing onward and ever onward,
enriching and ennobling the land, until at last it loses itself, by reason of its
own vastness, in the waters of the Ocean.
They rejoiced, too, that the first white man to stand at the fountain-head
of America's greatest river was an American—an American who had fought
bravely and suffered many privations for his country. And as they watched
the eagle, whirling in his flight over their heads, they felt glad that he had
chosen this spot for his home, in which to rear his young in the same proud,
free spirit which made him so fit an emblem for their glorious land.
Much astonishment was expressed by those of the party who were aware
of Schoolcraft's expedition in 1832, that he should have missed finding this
lake so closely connected with Itasca, and various were the surmises as to
the cause of this remarkable oversight. One plausible suggestion was, that
the rushes and reeds had so obstructed the entrance of the stream into
Itasca, that not having a previous knowledge of its whereabouts, there was
nothing surprising in its being overlooked. By far the most probable theory,
however, was advanced by Captain Glazier, who stated, quoting Schoolcraft
himself as authority, that when he reached Itasca he was too much hurried
to make a thorough exploration. He had made an engagement to meet some
Indians in council at the mouth of the Crow-Wing River, fully seven days'
journey from this point, and he had not more than the seven days to
accomplish it. Accordingly, as his mind had been prepared by his guides all
along to accept Itasca as the true source, he only stopped long enough to see
and hurriedly coast the lake, and then returned to the Indian council on
Crow-Wing River. This is Schoolcraft's own statement, and there can be no
Page 486
doubt that it is the true reason for his failure to locate the source correctly.
He never saw the beautiful lake to the south of Itasca, fed by the springs
and streams of the marshes which give birth to the Infant Mississippi.
Therefore, he could not know that Itasca was but an expansion of the
stream, like other lakes in its onward course, a sudden growth, as it were,
which gave promise of the vast proportions the mighty giant would
hereafter assume. There would be something almost sad in his coming so
near and yet missing the mark at which he had aimed, if it were not that he
lived and died in the belief that he was right in his assertion that the great
Father of Waters rose in the lake which he, oddly enough, named Itasca.
Oddly, because Itasca is a name given by the Indians to the mysteries of
their religion and necromantic arts, and Schoolcraft, by his decided
statements in regard to the lake, succeeded in enveloping in mystery the
true source for another fifty years. Why it should ever have been a mystery
is a question often raised; but there can be no doubt that it is owing to the
fact that no fur traders and but few Indians ever penetrate the boggy,
swampy, lake-covered regions of Northern Minnesota.
Our explorers, having finished their survey of the lake, now disembarked
and prepared to hold suitable and becoming ceremonies to celebrate their
momentous discovery. First they drank of the clear, cool water to the health
of Captain Glazier, who had led them on to making this grand achievement.
The Captain then thanked them in a few eloquent and appropriate remarks
for their good wishes and also for their faith in him, and the determination
they had shown to stand by him until he had reached the goal he sought. He
spoke, too, of the magnitude and importance of their discovery, of the
knowledge it would add to the geographical lore of the country, and of the
strangeness of the fact that the source of their mightiest river had so long
been a disputed question. The cause of this he attributed to the peculiarities
He never saw the beautiful lake to the south of Itasca, fed by the springs
and streams of the marshes which give birth to the Infant Mississippi.
Therefore, he could not know that Itasca was but an expansion of the
stream, like other lakes in its onward course, a sudden growth, as it were,
which gave promise of the vast proportions the mighty giant would
hereafter assume. There would be something almost sad in his coming so
near and yet missing the mark at which he had aimed, if it were not that he
lived and died in the belief that he was right in his assertion that the great
Father of Waters rose in the lake which he, oddly enough, named Itasca.
Oddly, because Itasca is a name given by the Indians to the mysteries of
their religion and necromantic arts, and Schoolcraft, by his decided
statements in regard to the lake, succeeded in enveloping in mystery the
true source for another fifty years. Why it should ever have been a mystery
is a question often raised; but there can be no doubt that it is owing to the
fact that no fur traders and but few Indians ever penetrate the boggy,
swampy, lake-covered regions of Northern Minnesota.
Our explorers, having finished their survey of the lake, now disembarked
and prepared to hold suitable and becoming ceremonies to celebrate their
momentous discovery. First they drank of the clear, cool water to the health
of Captain Glazier, who had led them on to making this grand achievement.
The Captain then thanked them in a few eloquent and appropriate remarks
for their good wishes and also for their faith in him, and the determination
they had shown to stand by him until he had reached the goal he sought. He
spoke, too, of the magnitude and importance of their discovery, of the
knowledge it would add to the geographical lore of the country, and of the
strangeness of the fact that the source of their mightiest river had so long
been a disputed question. The cause of this he attributed to the peculiarities
Page 487
of the region in which it rose, the many lakes and swamps making much
traveling impracticable; and recalling the hardships which they themselves
had encountered, expressed his belief that it was not to be wondered at that
earlier explorers had been deterred from making the venture at a time when
civilization was even further remote than it was at present. He then
recounted some of the exploits of the heroic old explorers, and, reminding
his companions that three hundred years had passed away since white men
first beheld the mighty stream by whose cradle they were now standing, he
congratulated them on completing the work begun by De Soto, Marquette,
La Salle, Hennepin and Joliet.
When he had finished Captain Glazier, true to his soldierly instincts,
proposed firing six volleys over the lake, one in honor of each member of
the party. This was accordingly done, and Mr. Paine closed the ceremonies
by leading off with three hearty American cheers for "the discoverer and the
discovery." The Indians chimed in with a Chippewa yell, and then, while
the air was still reverberating with the sound of their voices, they all paused
to take in once more the scene of their explorations.
traveling impracticable; and recalling the hardships which they themselves
had encountered, expressed his belief that it was not to be wondered at that
earlier explorers had been deterred from making the venture at a time when
civilization was even further remote than it was at present. He then
recounted some of the exploits of the heroic old explorers, and, reminding
his companions that three hundred years had passed away since white men
first beheld the mighty stream by whose cradle they were now standing, he
congratulated them on completing the work begun by De Soto, Marquette,
La Salle, Hennepin and Joliet.
When he had finished Captain Glazier, true to his soldierly instincts,
proposed firing six volleys over the lake, one in honor of each member of
the party. This was accordingly done, and Mr. Paine closed the ceremonies
by leading off with three hearty American cheers for "the discoverer and the
discovery." The Indians chimed in with a Chippewa yell, and then, while
the air was still reverberating with the sound of their voices, they all paused
to take in once more the scene of their explorations.
Page 488
CHAPTER XL.
DOWN THE GREAT RIVER.
Voyage from Source to Sea. — Three thousand miles in an open canoe. — "Pioneers of the
Mississippi." — A thrilling lecture. — The long voyage begun. — Mosquitoes. — Hunger and
exhaustion. — The Captain kills an otter. — Lakes Bemidji and Winnibegoshish. — An Indian
missionary. — Wind-bound. — Chenowagesic bids farewell to the Captain. — Pokegama
Falls. — Grand Rapids. — Meeting the first steamboat. — Aitkin. — Great enthusiasm. —
The new canoes. — Leaving Aitkin. — Arrival at Little Falls. — Escorted in triumph to the
town. — "Captain Glazier! A speech! A speech!" — Lake Pepin. — An appalling storm. — St.
Louis. — Southern hospitality. — New Orleans. — Arrival at the Gulf of Mexico. — End of
voyage.
Having decided to his entire satisfaction that the newly located lake was
the true source of the Great River, Captain Glazier was ready to begin his
descent of the stream, for, as yet, but a small portion of his great
undertaking had been accomplished. True, he had done what had never been
done before—he had penetrated into the innermost recesses of the mystery
which had so long enshrouded the head-waters of the Mississippi, and
traversed a part of the country where white man had never trod before; he
had added greatly to the geographical knowledge of his country's mightiest
river, and satisfied the spirit of investigation which had impelled him to
begin this novel adventure; but the by no means least interesting, and at the
same time, practical part of his voyage still lay before him. De Soto,
Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, Joliet and Schoolcraft, all had navigated but
portions of the great flood of water to which they owe their renown; he
would descend its entire course from its source in the wilds of Minnesota to
its outlet in the Gulf of Mexico. He would become familiar with the most
DOWN THE GREAT RIVER.
Voyage from Source to Sea. — Three thousand miles in an open canoe. — "Pioneers of the
Mississippi." — A thrilling lecture. — The long voyage begun. — Mosquitoes. — Hunger and
exhaustion. — The Captain kills an otter. — Lakes Bemidji and Winnibegoshish. — An Indian
missionary. — Wind-bound. — Chenowagesic bids farewell to the Captain. — Pokegama
Falls. — Grand Rapids. — Meeting the first steamboat. — Aitkin. — Great enthusiasm. —
The new canoes. — Leaving Aitkin. — Arrival at Little Falls. — Escorted in triumph to the
town. — "Captain Glazier! A speech! A speech!" — Lake Pepin. — An appalling storm. — St.
Louis. — Southern hospitality. — New Orleans. — Arrival at the Gulf of Mexico. — End of
voyage.
Having decided to his entire satisfaction that the newly located lake was
the true source of the Great River, Captain Glazier was ready to begin his
descent of the stream, for, as yet, but a small portion of his great
undertaking had been accomplished. True, he had done what had never been
done before—he had penetrated into the innermost recesses of the mystery
which had so long enshrouded the head-waters of the Mississippi, and
traversed a part of the country where white man had never trod before; he
had added greatly to the geographical knowledge of his country's mightiest
river, and satisfied the spirit of investigation which had impelled him to
begin this novel adventure; but the by no means least interesting, and at the
same time, practical part of his voyage still lay before him. De Soto,
Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, Joliet and Schoolcraft, all had navigated but
portions of the great flood of water to which they owe their renown; he
would descend its entire course from its source in the wilds of Minnesota to
its outlet in the Gulf of Mexico. He would become familiar with the most
Page 489
striking features of the country on either side, and study through personal
intercourse the varying phases of American character and life, as he passed
from the fur-bearing, lumber-dealing States of the North, by the vast wheat
fields of the West, and finally reach the cotton and sugar plantations of the
South. No one had ever attempted this before, and it is probable no one will
ever attempt it again, for the perils of a voyage of three thousand miles in
an open canoe are not purely imaginary. And yet this was the only way in
which he could satisfactorily and practically accomplish his object of
making careful and minute observations along the route. Then, too, being
himself so much interested in all that concerned the great "Father of
Waters," he wished to awaken in others a like interest, and to effect this
prepared a lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," which he intended
to deliver at every town of importance on both banks as he floated down the
stream. "Pay tribute to those to whom tribute is due" is his motto, and so the
tragic fate of De Soto, the sad but poetic death of Marquette, and the
triumphant banner of La Salle, called forth from his ready pen a lecture
replete with historical interest.
Standing, then, by the source of the mighty river, around which so many
beautiful Indian legends cluster, and about which the white man has ever
been curious, the Captain felt a natural throb of pride that so much of his
great undertaking had been successfully achieved, and a hope that the future
held further good in store for him.
Giving the order for embarkation the canoes were soon gliding across the
water bound for Lake Itasca. Entering this lake, a short stop was made at
Schoolcraft's Island in order to obtain the remainder of their luggage; after
which they re-embarked, at three o'clock in the afternoon, and continued the
descent of the river.
intercourse the varying phases of American character and life, as he passed
from the fur-bearing, lumber-dealing States of the North, by the vast wheat
fields of the West, and finally reach the cotton and sugar plantations of the
South. No one had ever attempted this before, and it is probable no one will
ever attempt it again, for the perils of a voyage of three thousand miles in
an open canoe are not purely imaginary. And yet this was the only way in
which he could satisfactorily and practically accomplish his object of
making careful and minute observations along the route. Then, too, being
himself so much interested in all that concerned the great "Father of
Waters," he wished to awaken in others a like interest, and to effect this
prepared a lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," which he intended
to deliver at every town of importance on both banks as he floated down the
stream. "Pay tribute to those to whom tribute is due" is his motto, and so the
tragic fate of De Soto, the sad but poetic death of Marquette, and the
triumphant banner of La Salle, called forth from his ready pen a lecture
replete with historical interest.
Standing, then, by the source of the mighty river, around which so many
beautiful Indian legends cluster, and about which the white man has ever
been curious, the Captain felt a natural throb of pride that so much of his
great undertaking had been successfully achieved, and a hope that the future
held further good in store for him.
Giving the order for embarkation the canoes were soon gliding across the
water bound for Lake Itasca. Entering this lake, a short stop was made at
Schoolcraft's Island in order to obtain the remainder of their luggage; after
which they re-embarked, at three o'clock in the afternoon, and continued the
descent of the river.
Page 490
From Lake Itasca the Mississippi flows almost directly north, then takes
a turn to the east, and finally sweeps with ever increasing volume south to
the Gulf of Mexico. At first it quietly pursues its course between rich
meadows, and promises easy and safe navigation, so that our little band of
explorers after leaving Itasca expected to have a quiet and uneventful
voyage until they reached the inhabited part of the country. Such was not
the case, however, for they soon found their progress very much impeded
by drift-wood, snags, rapids, and boulders of every size and description.
They overcame these obstacles in various ways, all requiring much exertion
and endurance, and many a time their patience was nearly exhausted.
Sometimes they forced the canoes under the logs which lay across the
stream, and again cut a passage-way through them. Now they removed the
drift from their path and now were obliged to lift the canoes over it. A little
further on a huge boulder would confront them, making it necessary to
disembark and carry the boats around. Presently a dangerous rapid would
be met, and in shooting it some member of the party would be precipitated
into, the water, or perhaps a hole stove in one of the canoes. At last they
were obliged to make a portage of about half a mile, and upon launching
again, soon discovered that the principal obstructions had been overcome.
This was a great relief to them, for the intolerable annoyance of swarms of
mosquitoes which came in clouds about them, biting even through their
clothing, was quite enough to bear patiently without having the hardships
consequent upon such rugged voyaging to endure.
a turn to the east, and finally sweeps with ever increasing volume south to
the Gulf of Mexico. At first it quietly pursues its course between rich
meadows, and promises easy and safe navigation, so that our little band of
explorers after leaving Itasca expected to have a quiet and uneventful
voyage until they reached the inhabited part of the country. Such was not
the case, however, for they soon found their progress very much impeded
by drift-wood, snags, rapids, and boulders of every size and description.
They overcame these obstacles in various ways, all requiring much exertion
and endurance, and many a time their patience was nearly exhausted.
Sometimes they forced the canoes under the logs which lay across the
stream, and again cut a passage-way through them. Now they removed the
drift from their path and now were obliged to lift the canoes over it. A little
further on a huge boulder would confront them, making it necessary to
disembark and carry the boats around. Presently a dangerous rapid would
be met, and in shooting it some member of the party would be precipitated
into, the water, or perhaps a hole stove in one of the canoes. At last they
were obliged to make a portage of about half a mile, and upon launching
again, soon discovered that the principal obstructions had been overcome.
This was a great relief to them, for the intolerable annoyance of swarms of
mosquitoes which came in clouds about them, biting even through their
clothing, was quite enough to bear patiently without having the hardships
consequent upon such rugged voyaging to endure.
Page 491
CAPTAIN GLAZIER RUNNING RAPIDS ON THE UPPER MISSISSIPPI.
Laborious, however, as they found this unusually rough canoeing, and
troublesome as were the mosquitoes, both trials sank into insignificance
when compared with their ever present danger of starvation. It will be
remembered how bravely all had decided, when they first made the startling
discovery that their supplies were at a low ebb, to pursue their
investigations even at the risk of running completely out of rations. The
strictest economy had been observed ever since, but despite all their care
they now found that unless they could reach a trading-post within a couple
of days they would be compelled to subsist on such game and fish as they
could capture; rather a precarious means of existence to say the least,
especially as they had but a very few rounds of ammunition left. It was
unanimously voted that Captain Glazier, who was by far the best marksman
of the party, should occupy the bow of the first canoe, and gun in hand be
ready to fire at any game which he had a reasonable chance of hitting. One
day while he was thus keeping a sharp lookout for anything which gave
promise of a meal, Chenowagesic pointed excitedly to a small, black spot
Laborious, however, as they found this unusually rough canoeing, and
troublesome as were the mosquitoes, both trials sank into insignificance
when compared with their ever present danger of starvation. It will be
remembered how bravely all had decided, when they first made the startling
discovery that their supplies were at a low ebb, to pursue their
investigations even at the risk of running completely out of rations. The
strictest economy had been observed ever since, but despite all their care
they now found that unless they could reach a trading-post within a couple
of days they would be compelled to subsist on such game and fish as they
could capture; rather a precarious means of existence to say the least,
especially as they had but a very few rounds of ammunition left. It was
unanimously voted that Captain Glazier, who was by far the best marksman
of the party, should occupy the bow of the first canoe, and gun in hand be
ready to fire at any game which he had a reasonable chance of hitting. One
day while he was thus keeping a sharp lookout for anything which gave
promise of a meal, Chenowagesic pointed excitedly to a small, black spot
Page 492
just showing above the water, and told the Captain it was an otter. The
Captain fired, and to the gratification of all, the animal turned over on its
back dead. That day they were unable to bag anything else, and when they
encamped for the night the Indians prepared the otter for supper. At first the
white members of the party refused to share the meal, but hunger was too
much for them, and so, conquering their prejudices, they satisfied their
appetites with the meat, which probably resembles cat meat more nearly
than any other kind. The next day the Indians managed to kill several ducks
by driving them under the water and then spearing them with their paddles;
and the Captain's brother, having improvised a very ingenious trolling hook,
succeeded in catching two fish. The main part of their diet, however, for
four long days, consisted simply of blue berries, and Captain Glazier
became so weak from hunger and exhaustion that he was barely able to sit
upright. At last they met an Indian, a few miles from Lake Bemidji, who
supplied them with dried fish and other provisions, and that night they
encamped on the shores of the lake.
The next day they pursued their voyage under more favorable
circumstances, the larder being tolerably well supplied, the river free from
obstructions, and flowing between beautiful groves and rich meadows. Late
in the afternoon they reached Cass Lake, where they pitched their tents for
the night, and the following day found them at Lake Winnibegoshish, the
largest expansion of the Mississippi.
Their arrival at this lake was at a time when a strong south wind blew the
waters into white-capped waves, which ran very high, and the canoes were
nearly swamped before they could be forced into the little bay upon the
shores of which the Indian village stands. This village consists of about a
dozen wigwams and log-houses, and presents nothing more inviting than a
fine view of this beautiful lake. An Indian missionary named Kit-chi-no-din
Captain fired, and to the gratification of all, the animal turned over on its
back dead. That day they were unable to bag anything else, and when they
encamped for the night the Indians prepared the otter for supper. At first the
white members of the party refused to share the meal, but hunger was too
much for them, and so, conquering their prejudices, they satisfied their
appetites with the meat, which probably resembles cat meat more nearly
than any other kind. The next day the Indians managed to kill several ducks
by driving them under the water and then spearing them with their paddles;
and the Captain's brother, having improvised a very ingenious trolling hook,
succeeded in catching two fish. The main part of their diet, however, for
four long days, consisted simply of blue berries, and Captain Glazier
became so weak from hunger and exhaustion that he was barely able to sit
upright. At last they met an Indian, a few miles from Lake Bemidji, who
supplied them with dried fish and other provisions, and that night they
encamped on the shores of the lake.
The next day they pursued their voyage under more favorable
circumstances, the larder being tolerably well supplied, the river free from
obstructions, and flowing between beautiful groves and rich meadows. Late
in the afternoon they reached Cass Lake, where they pitched their tents for
the night, and the following day found them at Lake Winnibegoshish, the
largest expansion of the Mississippi.
Their arrival at this lake was at a time when a strong south wind blew the
waters into white-capped waves, which ran very high, and the canoes were
nearly swamped before they could be forced into the little bay upon the
shores of which the Indian village stands. This village consists of about a
dozen wigwams and log-houses, and presents nothing more inviting than a
fine view of this beautiful lake. An Indian missionary named Kit-chi-no-din
Page 493
is stationed here, and treated the party with marked courtesy and hospitality,
although he could speak but very little English. During the two days in
which they were wind-bound and obliged to remain inactive, the Captain
took several meals with him, and once attended service in the little log-
church of which he had been installed rector by Bishop Whipple.
During their enforced stay at Lake Winnibegoshish, Chenowagesic bade
farewell to Captain Glazier and returned to his home at Leech Lake. Every
effort was made by the Captain, who had found him invaluable as a guide,
to persuade him to continue the voyage with them; but his mind was so
filled with the legends he had heard of the Lower Mississippi that no
inducement could prevail with him. The Indians of these northern regions
very commonly believe that the eddies and whirlpools found in the river
further down its course are mysterious monsters, and that the surrounding
country is full of strange animals and fearful sights.
On the third day of their stay at the village, the wind moderated
somewhat and they made an attempt to coast along part of the lake, hoping
to reach the outlet in that way. But after struggling with the waves all the
morning they came to a small inlet, and were forced by the again increasing
wind to seek shelter in it.
The next morning another start was made, and, after some very rough
paddling, the party at length arrived at the outlet of the lake, and from
thence pursued the even tenor of their way without any further interruption
until they reached Pokegama Falls, two miles and a half above Grand
Rapids. Here they found a number of white men, the first they had seen
since leaving Leech Lake, encamped and engaged in building a small
steamboat to run up to Lake Winnibegoshish. After a portage around the
Falls they entered Grand Rapids, where they were rejoiced to find a post-
office, a hotel called the Potter House, and a few other evidences of
although he could speak but very little English. During the two days in
which they were wind-bound and obliged to remain inactive, the Captain
took several meals with him, and once attended service in the little log-
church of which he had been installed rector by Bishop Whipple.
During their enforced stay at Lake Winnibegoshish, Chenowagesic bade
farewell to Captain Glazier and returned to his home at Leech Lake. Every
effort was made by the Captain, who had found him invaluable as a guide,
to persuade him to continue the voyage with them; but his mind was so
filled with the legends he had heard of the Lower Mississippi that no
inducement could prevail with him. The Indians of these northern regions
very commonly believe that the eddies and whirlpools found in the river
further down its course are mysterious monsters, and that the surrounding
country is full of strange animals and fearful sights.
On the third day of their stay at the village, the wind moderated
somewhat and they made an attempt to coast along part of the lake, hoping
to reach the outlet in that way. But after struggling with the waves all the
morning they came to a small inlet, and were forced by the again increasing
wind to seek shelter in it.
The next morning another start was made, and, after some very rough
paddling, the party at length arrived at the outlet of the lake, and from
thence pursued the even tenor of their way without any further interruption
until they reached Pokegama Falls, two miles and a half above Grand
Rapids. Here they found a number of white men, the first they had seen
since leaving Leech Lake, encamped and engaged in building a small
steamboat to run up to Lake Winnibegoshish. After a portage around the
Falls they entered Grand Rapids, where they were rejoiced to find a post-
office, a hotel called the Potter House, and a few other evidences of
Page 494
civilization, such as a comfortable bed, the first they had slept in for many
days.
After leaving Grand Rapids nothing of any importance occurred until
Aitkin was reached, four days later, unless we except meeting the first
steamboat they had seen on the river. This was quite an exciting event, for
the passengers on the boat knowing from the papers that Captain Glazier's
party were on their way to Aitkin, recognized them, and testified their
pleasure in the meeting by cheering, waving their handkerchiefs and hats,
and calling after the explorers kind wishes for their safety and success.
At Aitkin, the most northern town on the Mississippi, a brief rest was
taken before the Captain embarked on the second stage of his seaward
voyage. He had now entered the bounds of civilization, and from this point
the principal incidents of his expedition were such as would naturally occur
in a country where the people delight to honor enterprise, courage and
ambition. All along the route great enthusiasm was evinced. When it was
announced through the medium of the press at what time he would reach a
given point, the inhabitants flocked to the landing-place to do him honor;
and many, more impatient than the rest, would put out in canoes and skiffs
to meet him on the way. Upon disembarking he would be escorted to his
hotel, usually preceded by a band playing "Hail to the Chief" or other
appropriate airs, and wherever he delivered his lecture large audiences
greeted him, curious to see and hear the man who had at last discovered the
source of the Mississippi, and who had come so far on its mighty waters in
a frail canoe. Everywhere he charmed all who met him by the courtesy of
his manners, the eloquence and interest of his conversation, and the
modesty with which he spoke of his important undertaking. Some, indeed,
were disappointed by his lecture, having hoped to hear an account of his
discoveries. But while Captain Glazier might with perfect propriety have
days.
After leaving Grand Rapids nothing of any importance occurred until
Aitkin was reached, four days later, unless we except meeting the first
steamboat they had seen on the river. This was quite an exciting event, for
the passengers on the boat knowing from the papers that Captain Glazier's
party were on their way to Aitkin, recognized them, and testified their
pleasure in the meeting by cheering, waving their handkerchiefs and hats,
and calling after the explorers kind wishes for their safety and success.
At Aitkin, the most northern town on the Mississippi, a brief rest was
taken before the Captain embarked on the second stage of his seaward
voyage. He had now entered the bounds of civilization, and from this point
the principal incidents of his expedition were such as would naturally occur
in a country where the people delight to honor enterprise, courage and
ambition. All along the route great enthusiasm was evinced. When it was
announced through the medium of the press at what time he would reach a
given point, the inhabitants flocked to the landing-place to do him honor;
and many, more impatient than the rest, would put out in canoes and skiffs
to meet him on the way. Upon disembarking he would be escorted to his
hotel, usually preceded by a band playing "Hail to the Chief" or other
appropriate airs, and wherever he delivered his lecture large audiences
greeted him, curious to see and hear the man who had at last discovered the
source of the Mississippi, and who had come so far on its mighty waters in
a frail canoe. Everywhere he charmed all who met him by the courtesy of
his manners, the eloquence and interest of his conversation, and the
modesty with which he spoke of his important undertaking. Some, indeed,
were disappointed by his lecture, having hoped to hear an account of his
discoveries. But while Captain Glazier might with perfect propriety have
Page 495
spoken of his own exploits after recounting in glowing terms those of the
old explorers, he is too modest and reserved to say aught which might in the
least seem to detract from the achievements of his heroic predecessors.
Therefore, as his subject was the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," he spoke
only of their exploits, giving them in eloquent words their just tribute of
praise, and leaving it to others to say that what they had only begun he had
triumphantly finished.
Upon leaving Aitkin on the fifteenth of August the birch bark canoes,
with the exception of the one used by the Captain himself, were abandoned,
their places being taken by a Rushton canoe, named "Alice," after his
daughter, and a Racine canoe of the Rob Roy pattern. Their departure from
this thriving little city was the signal for an enthusiastic demonstration on
the part of its inhabitants, who congregated on the shore to see them off.
Captain Glazier acknowledged the compliment in a short speech, and then,
stepping into his canoe, the little flotilla paddled away amidst the cheers of
the multitude.
From this point the descent of the river was comparatively easy. Except
when rainy weather or violent winds prevailed, the voyagers found much to
enjoy in the novel life they were leading, the varying scenery they met, and
the altogether different phase which the Mississippi, the great waterway of
internal commerce in North America, presented to them.
At Brainerd the Captain delivered his lecture for the first time, to a
crowded and appreciative audience. From Brainerd the party dropped down
the river to the antiquated town of Crow-Wing, opposite the mouth of the
Crow-Wing River. Remaining here over night they re-embarked next
morning, and gliding down the stream arrived at about three o'clock in the
afternoon at a point just above Little Falls. Here they were met by a number
of row-boats and escorted to the town. As the little fleet approached the
old explorers, he is too modest and reserved to say aught which might in the
least seem to detract from the achievements of his heroic predecessors.
Therefore, as his subject was the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," he spoke
only of their exploits, giving them in eloquent words their just tribute of
praise, and leaving it to others to say that what they had only begun he had
triumphantly finished.
Upon leaving Aitkin on the fifteenth of August the birch bark canoes,
with the exception of the one used by the Captain himself, were abandoned,
their places being taken by a Rushton canoe, named "Alice," after his
daughter, and a Racine canoe of the Rob Roy pattern. Their departure from
this thriving little city was the signal for an enthusiastic demonstration on
the part of its inhabitants, who congregated on the shore to see them off.
Captain Glazier acknowledged the compliment in a short speech, and then,
stepping into his canoe, the little flotilla paddled away amidst the cheers of
the multitude.
From this point the descent of the river was comparatively easy. Except
when rainy weather or violent winds prevailed, the voyagers found much to
enjoy in the novel life they were leading, the varying scenery they met, and
the altogether different phase which the Mississippi, the great waterway of
internal commerce in North America, presented to them.
At Brainerd the Captain delivered his lecture for the first time, to a
crowded and appreciative audience. From Brainerd the party dropped down
the river to the antiquated town of Crow-Wing, opposite the mouth of the
Crow-Wing River. Remaining here over night they re-embarked next
morning, and gliding down the stream arrived at about three o'clock in the
afternoon at a point just above Little Falls. Here they were met by a number
of row-boats and escorted to the town. As the little fleet approached the
Page 496
land the shores were seen to be crowded with people, and the band struck
up, merrily "A Life on the Ocean Wave," "See the Conquering Hero
comes," and other complimentary airs. As soon as a landing was effected,
cries of "Captain Glazier! Captain Glazier! a speech! a speech!" went up,
and in response to the demand the Captain made a few remarks. First,
thanking them for the kind interest manifested in his voyage, he continued:
"I find a great deal of speculation as I go down the river in regard to the
objects of this expedition, and it may be well to state what they really are.
My desire is to study thoroughly the people, industries, and general features
of the grandest valley in the world—a valley which extends from the great
watershed almost on the northern boundary of the United States to the Gulf
of Mexico, a distance of three thousand miles, and where the occupations of
the people change from the lumbering and fur-hunting of the north to the
cotton and sugar-raising of the south. To do this carefully and at leisure I
take a method of traveling by which I can devote as much time as is
necessary to every section of the river, and by which I can observe from a
standpoint not reached by the ordinary traveler. This, ladies and gentlemen,
is why you see me to-day descending the Mississippi in a canoe."
The Captain was then escorted to his hotel by the band, and in the
evening delivered his lecture at Vasaly Hall, continuing his voyage the
following day. Between this point and Minneapolis numerous and
dangerous rapids were met, all of which were passed in safety, and the Falls
of St. Anthony were reached without accident. Below these Falls the
scenery was very beautiful, although the immense number of rain storms
interfered sadly with the pleasure of sight-seeing.
When the party arrived at Lake Pepin, a beautiful body of water, thirty
miles in length and three in breadth, and surrounded by majestic bluffs, they
found navigation almost impossible. The winds sweeping down between the
up, merrily "A Life on the Ocean Wave," "See the Conquering Hero
comes," and other complimentary airs. As soon as a landing was effected,
cries of "Captain Glazier! Captain Glazier! a speech! a speech!" went up,
and in response to the demand the Captain made a few remarks. First,
thanking them for the kind interest manifested in his voyage, he continued:
"I find a great deal of speculation as I go down the river in regard to the
objects of this expedition, and it may be well to state what they really are.
My desire is to study thoroughly the people, industries, and general features
of the grandest valley in the world—a valley which extends from the great
watershed almost on the northern boundary of the United States to the Gulf
of Mexico, a distance of three thousand miles, and where the occupations of
the people change from the lumbering and fur-hunting of the north to the
cotton and sugar-raising of the south. To do this carefully and at leisure I
take a method of traveling by which I can devote as much time as is
necessary to every section of the river, and by which I can observe from a
standpoint not reached by the ordinary traveler. This, ladies and gentlemen,
is why you see me to-day descending the Mississippi in a canoe."
The Captain was then escorted to his hotel by the band, and in the
evening delivered his lecture at Vasaly Hall, continuing his voyage the
following day. Between this point and Minneapolis numerous and
dangerous rapids were met, all of which were passed in safety, and the Falls
of St. Anthony were reached without accident. Below these Falls the
scenery was very beautiful, although the immense number of rain storms
interfered sadly with the pleasure of sight-seeing.
When the party arrived at Lake Pepin, a beautiful body of water, thirty
miles in length and three in breadth, and surrounded by majestic bluffs, they
found navigation almost impossible. The winds sweeping down between the
Page 497
bluffs caused the waves to rise so high that even the river steamers had been
compelled to tie up and wait for the storm to subside. The Captain,
however, had an engagement to lecture at Lake City, half way down the
lake, and as he had never yet failed to appear at the appointed time he now
insisted upon attempting to reach his destination. The river men in vain
endeavored to dissuade him from his purpose. It took all day to make a pull
of sixteen miles, and many a time it seemed as if the frail canoes would
certainly be swamped; but nevertheless they arrived at Lake City in time for
the lecture. And it may be mentioned here that in this voyage, as in his
journey from Ocean to Ocean, he seldom failed to keep an engagement to
lecture. No matter what the stress of weather or unforeseen accident which
would have delayed most men, he surmounted every obstacle and
invariably appeared on the platform at the appointed hour.
Bad weather, violent squalls, and dangerous rapids were of frequent
occurrence, but nothing succeeded in crippling the energy which Captain
Glazier had all along exhibited. His mind was bent upon reaching the Gulf
in his canoe, and he pursued his course unmindful of the dangers which he
almost daily encountered. At La Crosse the expedition was reduced in
number to the Captain and Mr. Paine, who, for the remainder of the voyage,
used the "Alice."
St. Louis was reached on the eighth of October, and the voyagers were
heartily welcomed by the various boat-clubs of the city and by many
influential citizens. On October the tenth, they re-embarked and continued
their voyage towards the Gulf.
From here Cairo, Memphis, Vicksburg, Natchez, and Baton Rouge were
the chief halting-places, although many a time night overtook them before
they could reach a town or city, and then they would be entertained at some
plantation near the shore with true southern hospitality. Everywhere they
compelled to tie up and wait for the storm to subside. The Captain,
however, had an engagement to lecture at Lake City, half way down the
lake, and as he had never yet failed to appear at the appointed time he now
insisted upon attempting to reach his destination. The river men in vain
endeavored to dissuade him from his purpose. It took all day to make a pull
of sixteen miles, and many a time it seemed as if the frail canoes would
certainly be swamped; but nevertheless they arrived at Lake City in time for
the lecture. And it may be mentioned here that in this voyage, as in his
journey from Ocean to Ocean, he seldom failed to keep an engagement to
lecture. No matter what the stress of weather or unforeseen accident which
would have delayed most men, he surmounted every obstacle and
invariably appeared on the platform at the appointed hour.
Bad weather, violent squalls, and dangerous rapids were of frequent
occurrence, but nothing succeeded in crippling the energy which Captain
Glazier had all along exhibited. His mind was bent upon reaching the Gulf
in his canoe, and he pursued his course unmindful of the dangers which he
almost daily encountered. At La Crosse the expedition was reduced in
number to the Captain and Mr. Paine, who, for the remainder of the voyage,
used the "Alice."
St. Louis was reached on the eighth of October, and the voyagers were
heartily welcomed by the various boat-clubs of the city and by many
influential citizens. On October the tenth, they re-embarked and continued
their voyage towards the Gulf.
From here Cairo, Memphis, Vicksburg, Natchez, and Baton Rouge were
the chief halting-places, although many a time night overtook them before
they could reach a town or city, and then they would be entertained at some
plantation near the shore with true southern hospitality. Everywhere they
Page 498
were received with the utmost cordiality. The various cities along the banks
of the river seemed to vie with each other in doing honor to Captain
Glazier; the press spoke in the highest terms of his expedition and of his
great success, and every opportunity was afforded him to make the most
minute observations respecting the customs, manner of life, business
enterprise, and political condition of the people of the different States.
These observations he proposed to embody in a work to be entitled "Down
the Great River"—a work which, in the light of the Captain's well-known
facility as a writer, cannot fail to be both interesting and instructive.
New Orleans was reached at last, but as the Captain intended to return
there after visiting Port Eads, no stop was made, and the "Alice" paddled
past the Crescent City, arriving at the Jetties on the fifteenth of November,
one hundred and seventeen days after beginning the descent of the river
from its new found source, Lake Glazier.
Many citizens of Port Eads had assembled in small boats at the entrance
to the Gulf to see the "Alice" and her gallant crew in the act of completing
their long voyage. Cheer upon cheer rent the air as the beautiful little canoe,
bearing aloft at the bow a pennant with the inscription "Alice," and at the
stern the glorious "Stars and Stripes," paddled from the mouth of the river
out into the wide expanse of the Gulf. Guns were discharged, flags
enthusiastically waved, and every possible demonstration made which
could give expression to the excitement of the occasion.
Reaching the beacon, the Captain and Mr. Paine disembarked, and,
clambering up on the wall, gazed out on the salt waters of the Gulf, hardly
able to realize that this was actually the goal towards which they had been
slowly paddling for almost four months.
Thus ended the longest canoe voyage on record. De Soto, Marquette, La
Salle, Hennepin, Joliet, and Schoolcraft, had all navigated sections of the
of the river seemed to vie with each other in doing honor to Captain
Glazier; the press spoke in the highest terms of his expedition and of his
great success, and every opportunity was afforded him to make the most
minute observations respecting the customs, manner of life, business
enterprise, and political condition of the people of the different States.
These observations he proposed to embody in a work to be entitled "Down
the Great River"—a work which, in the light of the Captain's well-known
facility as a writer, cannot fail to be both interesting and instructive.
New Orleans was reached at last, but as the Captain intended to return
there after visiting Port Eads, no stop was made, and the "Alice" paddled
past the Crescent City, arriving at the Jetties on the fifteenth of November,
one hundred and seventeen days after beginning the descent of the river
from its new found source, Lake Glazier.
Many citizens of Port Eads had assembled in small boats at the entrance
to the Gulf to see the "Alice" and her gallant crew in the act of completing
their long voyage. Cheer upon cheer rent the air as the beautiful little canoe,
bearing aloft at the bow a pennant with the inscription "Alice," and at the
stern the glorious "Stars and Stripes," paddled from the mouth of the river
out into the wide expanse of the Gulf. Guns were discharged, flags
enthusiastically waved, and every possible demonstration made which
could give expression to the excitement of the occasion.
Reaching the beacon, the Captain and Mr. Paine disembarked, and,
clambering up on the wall, gazed out on the salt waters of the Gulf, hardly
able to realize that this was actually the goal towards which they had been
slowly paddling for almost four months.
Thus ended the longest canoe voyage on record. De Soto, Marquette, La
Salle, Hennepin, Joliet, and Schoolcraft, had all navigated sections of the
Page 499
Mississippi, but Captain Glazier was the first to traverse its entire course,
from the remotest headwaters to the outlet, a distance of three thousand one
hundred and eighty-four miles. This, too, he had done in a frail canoe,
amidst heavy rains and violent winds, in heat and cold, in sunshine and in
storm, steadily pursuing his course, unfaltering in his purpose, deterred by
no danger, determined only on success. In the wilds of Minnesota he stood
by the beautiful little lake whose placid bosom first nourishes the infant
stream. Paddling onward with the current, ever increasing in strength and
volume, he passed from the dense forests of the North where nature holds
undisputed sway, into the realms of a civilization growing daily greater and
greater. Finally he reached the broad Gulf, in which the "Father of Waters,"
now strong in the strength of maturity, and vast in his proportions, pours his
mighty flood. Every variety of climate, soil and production came under his
observation, and all the striking peculiarities of the Northern, Western and
Southern character. No other man had ever accomplished this, and therefore
it is not difficult to imagine that Captain Glazier's emotions, when he first
saw the salt spray of the Gulf dash high over the seaward wall of the Jetties,
were of an elevated order, and lifted him for the time above the plane of
every-day life. His long voyage was completed, the objective at which he
had aimed was reached, and his plans had all been attended with success.
Of little consequence now were the dangers he had encountered, the
annoyances which had beset him, the difficulties he had surmounted. He
was proud of the fact that he was the first to stand at the fountain-head of
his country's grandest river, and was the first to traverse its entire course
despite the turbulent waters and dangerous whirlpools which threatened
often to engulf him, and now at its outlet could write "finis" to the great
work of his life. Few men in the world can say as much—for the energy,
perseverance, unfaltering will and indomitable courage which characterize
from the remotest headwaters to the outlet, a distance of three thousand one
hundred and eighty-four miles. This, too, he had done in a frail canoe,
amidst heavy rains and violent winds, in heat and cold, in sunshine and in
storm, steadily pursuing his course, unfaltering in his purpose, deterred by
no danger, determined only on success. In the wilds of Minnesota he stood
by the beautiful little lake whose placid bosom first nourishes the infant
stream. Paddling onward with the current, ever increasing in strength and
volume, he passed from the dense forests of the North where nature holds
undisputed sway, into the realms of a civilization growing daily greater and
greater. Finally he reached the broad Gulf, in which the "Father of Waters,"
now strong in the strength of maturity, and vast in his proportions, pours his
mighty flood. Every variety of climate, soil and production came under his
observation, and all the striking peculiarities of the Northern, Western and
Southern character. No other man had ever accomplished this, and therefore
it is not difficult to imagine that Captain Glazier's emotions, when he first
saw the salt spray of the Gulf dash high over the seaward wall of the Jetties,
were of an elevated order, and lifted him for the time above the plane of
every-day life. His long voyage was completed, the objective at which he
had aimed was reached, and his plans had all been attended with success.
Of little consequence now were the dangers he had encountered, the
annoyances which had beset him, the difficulties he had surmounted. He
was proud of the fact that he was the first to stand at the fountain-head of
his country's grandest river, and was the first to traverse its entire course
despite the turbulent waters and dangerous whirlpools which threatened
often to engulf him, and now at its outlet could write "finis" to the great
work of his life. Few men in the world can say as much—for the energy,
perseverance, unfaltering will and indomitable courage which characterize
Page 500
Willard Glazier are of rare occurrence, and entitle him to a prominent
position in the ranks of America's distinguished sons.
position in the ranks of America's distinguished sons.
Page 501
CHAPTER XLI.
RECEPTION BY THE NEW ORLEANS ACADEMY OF SCIENCES.
Captain Glazier returns to New Orleans. — A general ovation. — Flattering opinions of the press.
— Introduction to the Mayor. — Freedom of the City tendered. — Special meeting of the New
Orleans Academy of Sciences. — Presentation of the "Alice" to the Academy. — Captain
Glazier's address. — The President's Response. — Resolutions of thanks and appreciation
passed. — Visit to the Arsenal of the Washington Artillery. — Welcome by the Old Guard of
the Louisiana Tigers. — Pleasant memories of the "Crescent City."
After standing for some time looking out upon the vast expanse of water
which lay before him, Captain Glazier hailed a passing boat and, towing the
"Alice" after them, he and Mr. Paine were rowed back to Port Eads. Here
they were very hospitably entertained until the arrival of the homeward-
bound steamship "Margaret," which they boarded and on which they
returned to New Orleans. There they met with the most cordial reception;
people everywhere were curious to see Captain Glazier, and anxious to
show their appreciation of his enterprising spirit and the success which had
attended his last remarkable exploit. The press, not only of New Orleans,
but all through the Mississippi Valley, gave glowing accounts of his voyage
and of the reception tendered him at its conclusion. The Mayor offered him
the freedom of the city, and the New Orleans Academy of Sciences gave
him a public reception, at which resolutions were passed recognizing the
important results of his expedition, and thanking him for the beautiful canoe
"Alice," which he had presented to that learned body.
The following account of this reception is taken from the "St. Louis
Republican" of November twenty-eighth, and is presented to the reader
RECEPTION BY THE NEW ORLEANS ACADEMY OF SCIENCES.
Captain Glazier returns to New Orleans. — A general ovation. — Flattering opinions of the press.
— Introduction to the Mayor. — Freedom of the City tendered. — Special meeting of the New
Orleans Academy of Sciences. — Presentation of the "Alice" to the Academy. — Captain
Glazier's address. — The President's Response. — Resolutions of thanks and appreciation
passed. — Visit to the Arsenal of the Washington Artillery. — Welcome by the Old Guard of
the Louisiana Tigers. — Pleasant memories of the "Crescent City."
After standing for some time looking out upon the vast expanse of water
which lay before him, Captain Glazier hailed a passing boat and, towing the
"Alice" after them, he and Mr. Paine were rowed back to Port Eads. Here
they were very hospitably entertained until the arrival of the homeward-
bound steamship "Margaret," which they boarded and on which they
returned to New Orleans. There they met with the most cordial reception;
people everywhere were curious to see Captain Glazier, and anxious to
show their appreciation of his enterprising spirit and the success which had
attended his last remarkable exploit. The press, not only of New Orleans,
but all through the Mississippi Valley, gave glowing accounts of his voyage
and of the reception tendered him at its conclusion. The Mayor offered him
the freedom of the city, and the New Orleans Academy of Sciences gave
him a public reception, at which resolutions were passed recognizing the
important results of his expedition, and thanking him for the beautiful canoe
"Alice," which he had presented to that learned body.
The following account of this reception is taken from the "St. Louis
Republican" of November twenty-eighth, and is presented to the reader
Page 502
because, being the testimony of an eye-witness, it cannot fail to give a clear
idea of the manner in which the scientists of the city, and the people
generally, appreciated Captain Glazier and the work which he had
accomplished.
[Correspondence of the Republican.]
"New Orleans, November 23, 1881.
"The termination of the noted and unprecedented exploring expedition
and canoe trip of the Soldier-Author, Captain Willard Glazier, extending
from his new-found true source of the mighty Mississippi River to the Gulf
of Mexico, culminated, after one hundred and seventeen days' voyage, in a
very general and complimentary recognition and ovation on the part of the
officials and distinguished citizens of New Orleans. In company with Dr. J.
S. Copes, President of the Academy of Sciences, the successful explorer
was presented to his honor, Mayor Shakespear, and was by him warmly
welcomed, and the freedom of the city generously tendered him. In
appreciative recognition of the hospitality extended him the distinguished
soldier, author, and explorer, felt it a pleasing as well as an appropriate
opportunity to present his beautiful canoe, which had safely carried him
through his long and perilous voyage, to the New Orleans Academy of
Sciences. The occasion of the presentation and acceptance was one of high
order and much manifest interest. In presenting the canoe Captain Glazier
tendered the following letter:
"St. Charles Hotel,
New Orleans, November 21, 1881.
Joseph S. Copes, M. D.
President New Orleans Academy of Sciences:
Dear Sir:—I have just concluded upon the border of the State of
Louisiana, a voyage of observation and exploration; and as you have
idea of the manner in which the scientists of the city, and the people
generally, appreciated Captain Glazier and the work which he had
accomplished.
[Correspondence of the Republican.]
"New Orleans, November 23, 1881.
"The termination of the noted and unprecedented exploring expedition
and canoe trip of the Soldier-Author, Captain Willard Glazier, extending
from his new-found true source of the mighty Mississippi River to the Gulf
of Mexico, culminated, after one hundred and seventeen days' voyage, in a
very general and complimentary recognition and ovation on the part of the
officials and distinguished citizens of New Orleans. In company with Dr. J.
S. Copes, President of the Academy of Sciences, the successful explorer
was presented to his honor, Mayor Shakespear, and was by him warmly
welcomed, and the freedom of the city generously tendered him. In
appreciative recognition of the hospitality extended him the distinguished
soldier, author, and explorer, felt it a pleasing as well as an appropriate
opportunity to present his beautiful canoe, which had safely carried him
through his long and perilous voyage, to the New Orleans Academy of
Sciences. The occasion of the presentation and acceptance was one of high
order and much manifest interest. In presenting the canoe Captain Glazier
tendered the following letter:
"St. Charles Hotel,
New Orleans, November 21, 1881.
Joseph S. Copes, M. D.
President New Orleans Academy of Sciences:
Dear Sir:—I have just concluded upon the border of the State of
Louisiana, a voyage of observation and exploration; and as you have
Page 503
expressed considerable interest in the results of my expedition, and
manifested a desire to possess the canoe in which the explorations were
made, I find pleasure in presenting it to your honorable society as a
souvenir of my voyage and discoveries.
During this canoe journey of over three thousand miles, beginning at
the headwaters of the Mississippi and extending to the Gulf of Mexico,
I had the satisfaction of locating the source of the Great River which we
have traversed, and feel a pride in having corrected a geographical error
of half a century's standing.
I will not now enter into a detailed account of my explorations on the
Upper Mississippi, but shall take the earliest opportunity of transmitting
to your secretary a complete history of the voyage, which will be issued
in book form as soon as the matter can be prepared for publication.
Very respectfully yours,
Willard Glazier.
"A special meeting of the Academy of Sciences was held at No. 46
Carondelet street, Dr. J. S. Copes, president, in the chair, for the purpose of
receiving from Captain Willard Glazier the handsome cedar canoe 'Alice,'
with which he navigated the Mississippi River from Aitkin to the Gulf.
"By invitation Captain Glazier gave an account of his explorations on the
Upper Mississippi and especially of that section of country beyond Lake
Itasca, which body of water has hitherto been considered the fountain-head
of the Great River.
"Dr. Copes in the name of the Academy thanked Captain Glazier for his
valuable gift, which would be highly prized, and then congratulated the
explorer upon his contribution to American geographical knowledge,
comparing him with De Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, and Joliet,
manifested a desire to possess the canoe in which the explorations were
made, I find pleasure in presenting it to your honorable society as a
souvenir of my voyage and discoveries.
During this canoe journey of over three thousand miles, beginning at
the headwaters of the Mississippi and extending to the Gulf of Mexico,
I had the satisfaction of locating the source of the Great River which we
have traversed, and feel a pride in having corrected a geographical error
of half a century's standing.
I will not now enter into a detailed account of my explorations on the
Upper Mississippi, but shall take the earliest opportunity of transmitting
to your secretary a complete history of the voyage, which will be issued
in book form as soon as the matter can be prepared for publication.
Very respectfully yours,
Willard Glazier.
"A special meeting of the Academy of Sciences was held at No. 46
Carondelet street, Dr. J. S. Copes, president, in the chair, for the purpose of
receiving from Captain Willard Glazier the handsome cedar canoe 'Alice,'
with which he navigated the Mississippi River from Aitkin to the Gulf.
"By invitation Captain Glazier gave an account of his explorations on the
Upper Mississippi and especially of that section of country beyond Lake
Itasca, which body of water has hitherto been considered the fountain-head
of the Great River.
"Dr. Copes in the name of the Academy thanked Captain Glazier for his
valuable gift, which would be highly prized, and then congratulated the
explorer upon his contribution to American geographical knowledge,
comparing him with De Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, and Joliet,
Page 504
whose highest fame was connected with discoveries relating to the
Mississippi.
"In the course of his remarks the learned doctor said that De Soto
penetrated the continent of North America in pursuit of gold and
accidentally discovered the Mississippi. Marquette, the zealous missionary,
traversed the river from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of the
Arkansas. La Salle pursued his explorations from the mouth of the Illinois
to the Gulf, his sole aim seeming to be the conquest of North America in the
name of the King of France. Hennepin explored but a small section of the
stream, extending from the mouth of the Wisconsin to St. Anthony's Falls,
while Captain Glazier has made the important discovery of its primal
reservoir and traversed its entire length from source to sea.
"The members of the Academy listened with great interest to Captain
Glazier's graphic account of his discovery, and also to the intellectual and
historical address of Dr. Copes.
"Dr. J. R. Walker then offered the following resolutions:
Resolved:—That the thanks of this Academy are due and are hereby
tendered to Captain Willard Glazier for the donation of his beautiful
canoe "Alice," and for the brief narrative of his explorations at the
source of the Mississippi River, and of his voyage thence to the Gulf of
Mexico.
Resolved:—That this Academy not only gratefully accepts this
handsome gift, but promises to preserve and cherish it as a souvenir of
Captain Glazier's high qualities as an explorer and contributor to the
increase of American geographical knowledge.
"Mr. H. Dudley Coleman moved as an amendment thereto that a copy of
the resolutions be appropriately written and framed, and presented to
Mississippi.
"In the course of his remarks the learned doctor said that De Soto
penetrated the continent of North America in pursuit of gold and
accidentally discovered the Mississippi. Marquette, the zealous missionary,
traversed the river from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of the
Arkansas. La Salle pursued his explorations from the mouth of the Illinois
to the Gulf, his sole aim seeming to be the conquest of North America in the
name of the King of France. Hennepin explored but a small section of the
stream, extending from the mouth of the Wisconsin to St. Anthony's Falls,
while Captain Glazier has made the important discovery of its primal
reservoir and traversed its entire length from source to sea.
"The members of the Academy listened with great interest to Captain
Glazier's graphic account of his discovery, and also to the intellectual and
historical address of Dr. Copes.
"Dr. J. R. Walker then offered the following resolutions:
Resolved:—That the thanks of this Academy are due and are hereby
tendered to Captain Willard Glazier for the donation of his beautiful
canoe "Alice," and for the brief narrative of his explorations at the
source of the Mississippi River, and of his voyage thence to the Gulf of
Mexico.
Resolved:—That this Academy not only gratefully accepts this
handsome gift, but promises to preserve and cherish it as a souvenir of
Captain Glazier's high qualities as an explorer and contributor to the
increase of American geographical knowledge.
"Mr. H. Dudley Coleman moved as an amendment thereto that a copy of
the resolutions be appropriately written and framed, and presented to
Page 505
Captain Glazier, and that a committee of three be appointed to prepare the
same in accordance therewith.
"The resolutions as amended were unanimously adopted, when Dr. Copes
appointed as the committee, Messrs. Coleman, Walker, and Blanchard.
"The suggestion made by Mr. Coleman that the canoe remain at the
arsenal of the Battalion Washington Artillery until such time as the
Academy prepare a suitable place for it was acceded to.
"At the conclusion of the meeting Mr. Coleman escorted Captain Glazier
to the Washington Artillery Arsenal, and introduced him to Colonel J. B.
Richardson, commanding the battalion, who accepted for the command the
care of the canoe, and extended to Captain Glazier the hospitalities of the
battalion during his stay in the city. Colonel Richardson and Mr. Coleman
then took him around the arsenal and showed him its attractive features."
It will be readily seen from this letter that the members of the New
Orleans Academy of Sciences were much impressed with the importance of
the discovery Captain Glazier had made. The resolutions which they passed
were afterwards handsomely framed and sent to him at St. Louis.
Among the many courtesies which were tendered the Captain during his
stay in New Orleans, he perhaps felt most deeply the royal welcome which
was given him by the Old Guard of the Louisiana Tigers. In his own words
"they could not do too much" for him, and when we remember that only
twenty years have passed away since these brave men and the gallant Union
soldier fought on opposite sides on the battlefields of Virginia, it cannot be
wondered at that he was much impressed with the cordiality of his reception
by his former foes.
same in accordance therewith.
"The resolutions as amended were unanimously adopted, when Dr. Copes
appointed as the committee, Messrs. Coleman, Walker, and Blanchard.
"The suggestion made by Mr. Coleman that the canoe remain at the
arsenal of the Battalion Washington Artillery until such time as the
Academy prepare a suitable place for it was acceded to.
"At the conclusion of the meeting Mr. Coleman escorted Captain Glazier
to the Washington Artillery Arsenal, and introduced him to Colonel J. B.
Richardson, commanding the battalion, who accepted for the command the
care of the canoe, and extended to Captain Glazier the hospitalities of the
battalion during his stay in the city. Colonel Richardson and Mr. Coleman
then took him around the arsenal and showed him its attractive features."
It will be readily seen from this letter that the members of the New
Orleans Academy of Sciences were much impressed with the importance of
the discovery Captain Glazier had made. The resolutions which they passed
were afterwards handsomely framed and sent to him at St. Louis.
Among the many courtesies which were tendered the Captain during his
stay in New Orleans, he perhaps felt most deeply the royal welcome which
was given him by the Old Guard of the Louisiana Tigers. In his own words
"they could not do too much" for him, and when we remember that only
twenty years have passed away since these brave men and the gallant Union
soldier fought on opposite sides on the battlefields of Virginia, it cannot be
wondered at that he was much impressed with the cordiality of his reception
by his former foes.
Page 506
At the headquarters of the Washington Artillery, too, he found many who
as Confederate officers and soldiers had formerly been his opponents in the
war, but nothing could exceed the heartiness of their welcome and the good-
fellowship which they displayed. They showed him their old battle-flags
still religiously kept, but a moment afterwards pointed to the Stars and
Stripes which occupied a prominent position in the room. Altogether
Captain Glazier found it difficult to realize that there had ever been other
than the most cordial feeling between the North and South, and this as
much as anything else tended to make his stay in New Orleans a pleasure
which he will long remember.
as Confederate officers and soldiers had formerly been his opponents in the
war, but nothing could exceed the heartiness of their welcome and the good-
fellowship which they displayed. They showed him their old battle-flags
still religiously kept, but a moment afterwards pointed to the Stars and
Stripes which occupied a prominent position in the room. Altogether
Captain Glazier found it difficult to realize that there had ever been other
than the most cordial feeling between the North and South, and this as
much as anything else tended to make his stay in New Orleans a pleasure
which he will long remember.
Page 507
CHAPTER XLII.
BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
Return to St. Louis. — Lecture at Mercantile Library Hall. — Brilliant audience. — The Missouri
Historical Society present. — Eloquent introduction by Judge Todd. — "Pioneers of the
Mississippi." — Presentation of the "Itasca" to the Historical Society. — Remarks of Captain
Silas Bent on accepting the canoe. — Congratulations of the audience. — Closing scene.
On leaving New Orleans Captain Glazier returned to St. Louis, having an
engagement there to deliver his lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi."
He had been unable to remain long enough for this purpose during his
previous visit to the city on his way down the river, as winter was rapidly
approaching and it was expedient to reach the Gulf as soon as possible.
Therefore, as many were anxious to hear a lecture which had been so highly
spoken of by the press of other cities, he had been induced to return with
this object in view.
He was also desirous of presenting one of his canoes, the "Itasca," to the
Missouri Historical Society in recognition of the unbounded hospitality he
had enjoyed at the hands of the citizens of St. Louis, and it was decided that
the donation of the canoe, a beautiful specimen of the Rob Roy pattern,
should take place on the night of the lecture.
Accordingly, on the evening of January fourteenth, a large audience
consisting of members of the Historical Society, Academy of Sciences,
clergy, officers and teachers of the public schools, and the various boat
clubs of the city, assembled at Mercantile Library Hall to listen to his
BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
Return to St. Louis. — Lecture at Mercantile Library Hall. — Brilliant audience. — The Missouri
Historical Society present. — Eloquent introduction by Judge Todd. — "Pioneers of the
Mississippi." — Presentation of the "Itasca" to the Historical Society. — Remarks of Captain
Silas Bent on accepting the canoe. — Congratulations of the audience. — Closing scene.
On leaving New Orleans Captain Glazier returned to St. Louis, having an
engagement there to deliver his lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi."
He had been unable to remain long enough for this purpose during his
previous visit to the city on his way down the river, as winter was rapidly
approaching and it was expedient to reach the Gulf as soon as possible.
Therefore, as many were anxious to hear a lecture which had been so highly
spoken of by the press of other cities, he had been induced to return with
this object in view.
He was also desirous of presenting one of his canoes, the "Itasca," to the
Missouri Historical Society in recognition of the unbounded hospitality he
had enjoyed at the hands of the citizens of St. Louis, and it was decided that
the donation of the canoe, a beautiful specimen of the Rob Roy pattern,
should take place on the night of the lecture.
Accordingly, on the evening of January fourteenth, a large audience
consisting of members of the Historical Society, Academy of Sciences,
clergy, officers and teachers of the public schools, and the various boat
clubs of the city, assembled at Mercantile Library Hall to listen to his
Page 508
thrilling lecture on the pioneer explorers of the Mississippi, and to witness
the formalities of the presentation.
At eight o'clock, Captain Glazier, accompanied by Judge Albert Todd, an
eminent lawyer, and vice-president of the Historical Society, made his
appearance on the platform, and, after the storm of applause which greeted
their entry had subsided, Judge Todd stepped to the front and introduced the
lecturer in the following terms:—
Mark Twain wrote that in his oriental travels he visited the grave of
our common ancestor, Adam, and as a filial mourner he copiously wept
over it. To me, the grave of our common ancestress, Eve, would be
more worthy of my filial affection; but instead of weeping over it, I
should proudly rejoice by reason of her irrepressible desire for
knowledge. She boldly gratified this desire, and thereby lifted Adam up
from the indolent, browsing life that he seemed disposed and content to
pass in the "Garden," and gave birth to that spirit of inquiry and
investigation which is developing and elevating their posterity to "man's
pride of place"—"a little lower than the angels," by keeping them ever
discontented with the status quo, and constantly pressing on to the
"mark of their high calling" beneath the blazing legend "Excelsior." It is
the ceaseless unrest of the spirit, one of the greatest evidences of the
soul's immortality, that is continually contracting the boundaries of the
unknown in geography and astronomy, in physics and metaphysics, in
all their varied departments. Of those pre-eminently illustrating it in
geography were Jason and his Argonauts; Columbus, De Gama and
Magellan; De Soto, Marquette and La Salle; Cabot and Cook; Speke,
Baker, Livingstone and Franklin; and our own Ledyard, Lewis, Clarke,
Kane, Hall and Stanley. And this evening will appear before you
the formalities of the presentation.
At eight o'clock, Captain Glazier, accompanied by Judge Albert Todd, an
eminent lawyer, and vice-president of the Historical Society, made his
appearance on the platform, and, after the storm of applause which greeted
their entry had subsided, Judge Todd stepped to the front and introduced the
lecturer in the following terms:—
Mark Twain wrote that in his oriental travels he visited the grave of
our common ancestor, Adam, and as a filial mourner he copiously wept
over it. To me, the grave of our common ancestress, Eve, would be
more worthy of my filial affection; but instead of weeping over it, I
should proudly rejoice by reason of her irrepressible desire for
knowledge. She boldly gratified this desire, and thereby lifted Adam up
from the indolent, browsing life that he seemed disposed and content to
pass in the "Garden," and gave birth to that spirit of inquiry and
investigation which is developing and elevating their posterity to "man's
pride of place"—"a little lower than the angels," by keeping them ever
discontented with the status quo, and constantly pressing on to the
"mark of their high calling" beneath the blazing legend "Excelsior." It is
the ceaseless unrest of the spirit, one of the greatest evidences of the
soul's immortality, that is continually contracting the boundaries of the
unknown in geography and astronomy, in physics and metaphysics, in
all their varied departments. Of those pre-eminently illustrating it in
geography were Jason and his Argonauts; Columbus, De Gama and
Magellan; De Soto, Marquette and La Salle; Cabot and Cook; Speke,
Baker, Livingstone and Franklin; and our own Ledyard, Lewis, Clarke,
Kane, Hall and Stanley. And this evening will appear before you
Page 509
another of these irrepressible discontents who would know what is still
hidden at any risk or privation.
Impelled by this spirit of enterprise in search of Truth, Captain
Willard Glazier has discovered, at last, the true source of our grand and
peerless river, the "Father of Waters," down which he has floated and
paddled in frail canoes, a distance of more than three thousand miles, to
its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. One of these canoes is now placed here
in your view, and will be presented to-night by its navigator to our
Historical Society.
Nearly two hundred years ago La Salle discovered the mouth of the
Mississippi, yet only now in this year of grace, 1881, was ascertained its
true fountain source.
This, the latest achievement of Captain Glazier, is only in the natural
course of his antecedents. Born as late as 1841, he has already gone
through the experiences of the Adamic labors of a tiller of the soil, the
hard toils of the student and of the successful teacher; of the dashing
and brilliant cavalry officer in the Union army through the whole period
of our late war, from its disastrous beginning to its successful ending; of
the sufferings of capture and imprisonment in the notorious "Libby" and
other prisons, and of a daring and perilous escape from their cruel walls;
of an adventurous tourist on horseback through the most civilized and
savage portions of our continent, beginning with the feet of his horse in
the waters of the Atlantic, and ending with their splash in the waters of
the Pacific. He delivered lectures along his route wherever a civilized
audience could be collected, and suffered capture by the Indians, with
all its sensational romance and hideous prospects.
From the material of these antecedents he has written and published
several books of singular interest and national value.
hidden at any risk or privation.
Impelled by this spirit of enterprise in search of Truth, Captain
Willard Glazier has discovered, at last, the true source of our grand and
peerless river, the "Father of Waters," down which he has floated and
paddled in frail canoes, a distance of more than three thousand miles, to
its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. One of these canoes is now placed here
in your view, and will be presented to-night by its navigator to our
Historical Society.
Nearly two hundred years ago La Salle discovered the mouth of the
Mississippi, yet only now in this year of grace, 1881, was ascertained its
true fountain source.
This, the latest achievement of Captain Glazier, is only in the natural
course of his antecedents. Born as late as 1841, he has already gone
through the experiences of the Adamic labors of a tiller of the soil, the
hard toils of the student and of the successful teacher; of the dashing
and brilliant cavalry officer in the Union army through the whole period
of our late war, from its disastrous beginning to its successful ending; of
the sufferings of capture and imprisonment in the notorious "Libby" and
other prisons, and of a daring and perilous escape from their cruel walls;
of an adventurous tourist on horseback through the most civilized and
savage portions of our continent, beginning with the feet of his horse in
the waters of the Atlantic, and ending with their splash in the waters of
the Pacific. He delivered lectures along his route wherever a civilized
audience could be collected, and suffered capture by the Indians, with
all its sensational romance and hideous prospects.
From the material of these antecedents he has written and published
several books of singular interest and national value.
Page 510
From this brief sketch we would naturally expect to see a stalwart
man, massive and powerful in form and muscle. Our conception of men
of big deeds is that they also are big. But David was a stripling when he
slew Goliath of Gath. Napoleon was characterized by the society ladies
of the period of his early career as "Puss in Boots." Our own Fremont
and Eads would seem at sight capable of only the ordinarily exposed
duties of life. Of like physique is the subject of this introduction.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is now my pleasant privilege to introduce to
your acquaintance Captain Willard Glazier as the lecturer for the
evening.
At the close of Judge Todd's introduction, Captain Glazier began his
instructive historic lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," holding the
attention of all present by the interest of his subject and the eloquence of his
delivery. Beginning with De Soto, the discoverer of the Great River, he
gave an account of his early life and adventures, of his ambition to found an
empire like that of Cortez, and of his arrival at the mighty stream in whose
waters he soon found his final resting-place.
Marquette, the self-sacrificing missionary, was brought vividly before the
mind's eye of the hearer as the Captain described in glowing terms the zeal
with which he preached the Gospel to the poor benighted Indians, and drew
a picture with all its poetical surroundings of his death and burial in the
wilderness.
La Salle came next, pushing onward down the river until he planted his
triumphant banner on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and took possession
of the surrounding country in the name of the King of France. Hennepin
and Joliet then claimed the attention of the eloquent speaker, and their
exploits were clearly and forcibly recounted in graphic language. Other
man, massive and powerful in form and muscle. Our conception of men
of big deeds is that they also are big. But David was a stripling when he
slew Goliath of Gath. Napoleon was characterized by the society ladies
of the period of his early career as "Puss in Boots." Our own Fremont
and Eads would seem at sight capable of only the ordinarily exposed
duties of life. Of like physique is the subject of this introduction.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is now my pleasant privilege to introduce to
your acquaintance Captain Willard Glazier as the lecturer for the
evening.
At the close of Judge Todd's introduction, Captain Glazier began his
instructive historic lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," holding the
attention of all present by the interest of his subject and the eloquence of his
delivery. Beginning with De Soto, the discoverer of the Great River, he
gave an account of his early life and adventures, of his ambition to found an
empire like that of Cortez, and of his arrival at the mighty stream in whose
waters he soon found his final resting-place.
Marquette, the self-sacrificing missionary, was brought vividly before the
mind's eye of the hearer as the Captain described in glowing terms the zeal
with which he preached the Gospel to the poor benighted Indians, and drew
a picture with all its poetical surroundings of his death and burial in the
wilderness.
La Salle came next, pushing onward down the river until he planted his
triumphant banner on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and took possession
of the surrounding country in the name of the King of France. Hennepin
and Joliet then claimed the attention of the eloquent speaker, and their
exploits were clearly and forcibly recounted in graphic language. Other
Page 511
explorers were mentioned, but these formed the ground-work of the lecture
—a lecture replete with historical interest, and crowded with such a vivid
portrayal of incidents that from beginning to end one can see as in a
panorama the Great River and all the mighty men whose fame is
indissolubly connected with the history of its waters.
At the conclusion of the lecture the following letter to the President of the
Historical Society was read:
1310 Olive Street,
St. Louis, January 14, 1882.
Edwin Harrison, Esq.,
President Missouri Historical Society:
Dear Sir:—In my recent canoe voyage down the Mississippi, it was
my good fortune to receive many courtesies at the hands of the press,
boat clubs, and other citizens of St. Louis. This, coupled with the fact
that you have expressed considerable interest in the result of my
explorations, inclines me to present to you the "Itasca," one of the
canoes used in the expedition, for the Museum of your Society, as a
memento of my voyage and discoveries.
During this tour of observation and exploration, extending from the
headwaters of the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, I had the
satisfaction of locating the true source of the mighty stream down which
we paddled our canoes to the sea.
I am not now in a position to give you a detailed account of my
explorations on the Great River, but shall avail myself of the earliest
opportunity to transmit to your Secretary a complete history of the
voyage, which will be issued in book form as soon as the matter can be
put in proper shape for publication.
Very truly yours,
—a lecture replete with historical interest, and crowded with such a vivid
portrayal of incidents that from beginning to end one can see as in a
panorama the Great River and all the mighty men whose fame is
indissolubly connected with the history of its waters.
At the conclusion of the lecture the following letter to the President of the
Historical Society was read:
1310 Olive Street,
St. Louis, January 14, 1882.
Edwin Harrison, Esq.,
President Missouri Historical Society:
Dear Sir:—In my recent canoe voyage down the Mississippi, it was
my good fortune to receive many courtesies at the hands of the press,
boat clubs, and other citizens of St. Louis. This, coupled with the fact
that you have expressed considerable interest in the result of my
explorations, inclines me to present to you the "Itasca," one of the
canoes used in the expedition, for the Museum of your Society, as a
memento of my voyage and discoveries.
During this tour of observation and exploration, extending from the
headwaters of the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, I had the
satisfaction of locating the true source of the mighty stream down which
we paddled our canoes to the sea.
I am not now in a position to give you a detailed account of my
explorations on the Great River, but shall avail myself of the earliest
opportunity to transmit to your Secretary a complete history of the
voyage, which will be issued in book form as soon as the matter can be
put in proper shape for publication.
Very truly yours,
Page 512
Willard Glazier.
In response to this letter Captain Silas Bent, late of the United States
Navy, accepted for the Society the canoe in these words:
Captain Glazier:—It becomes my pleasant duty to accept for the
Missouri Historical Society this beautiful canoe, which has itself
become historic by reason of the service it has rendered you. It shall be
deposited with other treasured relics in our museum.
I have also to express to you the high appreciation in which the
Society holds the valuable contributions to geographical knowledge
resulting from your explorations among the headwaters of the
Mississippi River, and your discovery of the remotest lake that
contributes to the perennial birth of this hydra-headed "Father of
Waters," whose Genesis near the Arctic regions gives it a length of more
than three thousand miles to the tropical gulf, to which it bears upon its
ample bosom in safety the freightage of an empire.
I desire, too, to thank you for the interesting lecture just given us
upon the achievements of the heroic old explorers, who have in
centuries past preceded you in investigations of the characteristics of
this river. But whilst past investigations have made us familiar with the
general character of the stream, and the peculiarities of its many
mouths, yet we know very little of its source; and should be gratified I
am sure if you could give us this evening a brief account of the
circumstances attending your explorations in that direction, and of the
difficulties you had to encounter in the accomplishment of your object.
In compliance with Captain Bent's request that he would give some
account of the events connected with his discovery of the source of the
Mississippi, Captain Glazier, greatly to the satisfaction of his large and
In response to this letter Captain Silas Bent, late of the United States
Navy, accepted for the Society the canoe in these words:
Captain Glazier:—It becomes my pleasant duty to accept for the
Missouri Historical Society this beautiful canoe, which has itself
become historic by reason of the service it has rendered you. It shall be
deposited with other treasured relics in our museum.
I have also to express to you the high appreciation in which the
Society holds the valuable contributions to geographical knowledge
resulting from your explorations among the headwaters of the
Mississippi River, and your discovery of the remotest lake that
contributes to the perennial birth of this hydra-headed "Father of
Waters," whose Genesis near the Arctic regions gives it a length of more
than three thousand miles to the tropical gulf, to which it bears upon its
ample bosom in safety the freightage of an empire.
I desire, too, to thank you for the interesting lecture just given us
upon the achievements of the heroic old explorers, who have in
centuries past preceded you in investigations of the characteristics of
this river. But whilst past investigations have made us familiar with the
general character of the stream, and the peculiarities of its many
mouths, yet we know very little of its source; and should be gratified I
am sure if you could give us this evening a brief account of the
circumstances attending your explorations in that direction, and of the
difficulties you had to encounter in the accomplishment of your object.
In compliance with Captain Bent's request that he would give some
account of the events connected with his discovery of the source of the
Mississippi, Captain Glazier, greatly to the satisfaction of his large and
Page 513
appreciative audience, now briefly narrated the leading incidents in his
voyage of exploration.
When he had concluded his personal narrative many came forward to
congratulate him upon his discovery, and to express their appreciation of
the great work he had accomplished. All inspected the "Itasca," which
occupied a prominent position on the platform, with the curiosity human
nature invariably feels concerning any object closely connected with the
fame of a distinguished man or daring exploit. The beautiful canoe was
afterwards placed on exhibition at the rooms of the Historical Society.
voyage of exploration.
When he had concluded his personal narrative many came forward to
congratulate him upon his discovery, and to express their appreciation of
the great work he had accomplished. All inspected the "Itasca," which
occupied a prominent position on the platform, with the curiosity human
nature invariably feels concerning any object closely connected with the
fame of a distinguished man or daring exploit. The beautiful canoe was
afterwards placed on exhibition at the rooms of the Historical Society.
Page 514
CHAPTER XLIII.
GREETINGS OF THE VOYAGE.
An interesting souvenir. — Greeting at Lake Glazier. — Petition to Geographical Societies. —
Voice from Aitkin, Gate City of the Upper Mississippi. — Tributes from Brainerd. — An old
friend at La Crosse. — Welcome at Davenport. — Greetings at St. Louis. — Senator Lamar.
— Royal welcome at Bayou Tunica. — Sentiment of Port Eads. — Congratulations of the
officers of the "Margaret." — Greetings from New Orleans. — "Fame's triple wreath." —
Closing remarks.
Such an expedition as Captain Glazier has recently concluded inevitably
gives birth to many souvenirs and trophies of the undertaking which are
always interesting, not only to their immediate recipient but also to the
public generally; for a man of his calibre is in one sense public property,
and as such everything associated with any important enterprise of his, is
loudly demanded by men of all classes without regard to what would be
considered its privacy under other circumstances. It was the author's good
fortune to see such a souvenir of the voyage—an album in which are
inscribed the autographs of eminent men from various points along the
entire route traversed, the first being dated at the source of the Mississippi,
and the last on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico; and the thought occurred
to him that this memento of the latest exploit in Captain Glazier's exciting
life could not fail to be an object of some interest to the reader who had thus
far followed the soldier, author, and explorer in his eventful and successful
career. He therefore obtained permission to make a few extracts from the
large number before him, and these Greetings of the Voyage are now
GREETINGS OF THE VOYAGE.
An interesting souvenir. — Greeting at Lake Glazier. — Petition to Geographical Societies. —
Voice from Aitkin, Gate City of the Upper Mississippi. — Tributes from Brainerd. — An old
friend at La Crosse. — Welcome at Davenport. — Greetings at St. Louis. — Senator Lamar.
— Royal welcome at Bayou Tunica. — Sentiment of Port Eads. — Congratulations of the
officers of the "Margaret." — Greetings from New Orleans. — "Fame's triple wreath." —
Closing remarks.
Such an expedition as Captain Glazier has recently concluded inevitably
gives birth to many souvenirs and trophies of the undertaking which are
always interesting, not only to their immediate recipient but also to the
public generally; for a man of his calibre is in one sense public property,
and as such everything associated with any important enterprise of his, is
loudly demanded by men of all classes without regard to what would be
considered its privacy under other circumstances. It was the author's good
fortune to see such a souvenir of the voyage—an album in which are
inscribed the autographs of eminent men from various points along the
entire route traversed, the first being dated at the source of the Mississippi,
and the last on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico; and the thought occurred
to him that this memento of the latest exploit in Captain Glazier's exciting
life could not fail to be an object of some interest to the reader who had thus
far followed the soldier, author, and explorer in his eventful and successful
career. He therefore obtained permission to make a few extracts from the
large number before him, and these Greetings of the Voyage are now
Page 515
presented to the public as a fitting conclusion to the story of the Captain's
journey from source to sea.
The first in order is naturally that of Barrett Channing Paine, his constant
companion during the entire voyage. Standing by the discoverer's side at the
fountain-head of the Great River, he wrote:
Lake Glazier, Minnesota,
July 22, 1881.
My Dear Captain:—From this beautiful lake where the mighty
Mississippi rises, my best wishes follow you down the course of the
"Father of Waters" till it mingles its flood with the sea.
Very truly yours,
Barrett Channing Paine.
We next quote a petition of Captain Glazier's companions to the
Geographical Societies of the country, although it is not found in the album.
It was published in the Missouri "Republican" and various other
newspapers, but being dated Schoolcraft Island, the first stopping place
after leaving the source of the river, it seems quite naturally to follow the
greeting of Mr. Paine:
Schoolcraft Island,
Lake Itasca, July 22, 1881.
To Geographical and Historical Societies:—We the undersigned,
companions of Captain Willard Glazier, in his voyage of exploration to
the headwaters of the Mississippi, are fully convinced that the lake
located by him is beyond question the source of the "Father of Waters."
The privilege of bestowing a name upon the new discovery having
been delegated to us, we hereby name it Lake Glazier in honor of the
leader of the expedition, whose energy, perseverance and pluck carried
journey from source to sea.
The first in order is naturally that of Barrett Channing Paine, his constant
companion during the entire voyage. Standing by the discoverer's side at the
fountain-head of the Great River, he wrote:
Lake Glazier, Minnesota,
July 22, 1881.
My Dear Captain:—From this beautiful lake where the mighty
Mississippi rises, my best wishes follow you down the course of the
"Father of Waters" till it mingles its flood with the sea.
Very truly yours,
Barrett Channing Paine.
We next quote a petition of Captain Glazier's companions to the
Geographical Societies of the country, although it is not found in the album.
It was published in the Missouri "Republican" and various other
newspapers, but being dated Schoolcraft Island, the first stopping place
after leaving the source of the river, it seems quite naturally to follow the
greeting of Mr. Paine:
Schoolcraft Island,
Lake Itasca, July 22, 1881.
To Geographical and Historical Societies:—We the undersigned,
companions of Captain Willard Glazier, in his voyage of exploration to
the headwaters of the Mississippi, are fully convinced that the lake
located by him is beyond question the source of the "Father of Waters."
The privilege of bestowing a name upon the new discovery having
been delegated to us, we hereby name it Lake Glazier in honor of the
leader of the expedition, whose energy, perseverance and pluck carried
Page 516
us through many difficulties and brought us at last to the shores of this
beautiful lake—the True Source of the Great River.
We respectfully petition all Geographical Societies to give it that
recognition which has heretofore been accorded to Lake Itasca, and to
which it is justly entitled as the primal reservoir of the grandest river on
this continent.
Barrett Channing Paine, White
Indianapolis, Indiana. Companions.
George Herbert Glazier, }
Chicago, Illinois.
Moses Lagard, Interpreter
Chenowagesic, and
Sebatise Lagard, } Indian
Leech Lake, Minnesota, Guides.
The inhabitants of Aitkin, the first town of importance on the Upper
Mississippi, took great interest in the expedition, and did all they could to
show their appreciation of the intrepid explorers. The following is from the
pen of Warren Potter, one of the pioneer citizens of the place:
Aitkin, Minnesota,
August 15, 1881.
Captain Willard Glazier:—As you float in your birch canoe upon
the bosom of the "Father of Waters" toward the sea, remember Aitkin,
the Gate City of the Upper Mississippi.
Yours very truly,
Warren Potter.
beautiful lake—the True Source of the Great River.
We respectfully petition all Geographical Societies to give it that
recognition which has heretofore been accorded to Lake Itasca, and to
which it is justly entitled as the primal reservoir of the grandest river on
this continent.
Barrett Channing Paine, White
Indianapolis, Indiana. Companions.
George Herbert Glazier, }
Chicago, Illinois.
Moses Lagard, Interpreter
Chenowagesic, and
Sebatise Lagard, } Indian
Leech Lake, Minnesota, Guides.
The inhabitants of Aitkin, the first town of importance on the Upper
Mississippi, took great interest in the expedition, and did all they could to
show their appreciation of the intrepid explorers. The following is from the
pen of Warren Potter, one of the pioneer citizens of the place:
Aitkin, Minnesota,
August 15, 1881.
Captain Willard Glazier:—As you float in your birch canoe upon
the bosom of the "Father of Waters" toward the sea, remember Aitkin,
the Gate City of the Upper Mississippi.
Yours very truly,
Warren Potter.
Page 517
Brainerd, situated at the point where the Northern Pacific Railroad
crosses the Mississippi, is a thriving town, and has the honor of possessing
the first newspaper encountered in the descent of the river. This paper, the
Brainerd "Tribune," exhibited much cordial interest in Captain Glazier and
his successful explorations, and from time to time published accounts of the
voyage. The autographs of its editor, Arthur E. Chase, is found in the
album, as is that of Hon. Chauncey B. Sleeper, district attorney for the
county, who introduced him to the first audience before which he delivered
his lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi:"
Brainerd, Minnesota,
August 19, 1881.
Dear Captain:—That your voyage down the Great "Father of Waters"
may be fraught with experiences both pleasant to yourself and
beneficial to the public; and that your undertaking may prove a worthy
epoch in American history, is the wish of
Your sincere friend,
Arthur E. Chase.
Brainerd,
August 19, 1881.
To Captain Willard Glazier:—My cordial good wishes go with you
on your long and interesting journey. May it result in benefit to yourself
and your fellow-man.
Chauncey B. Sleeper,
District Attorney.
At St. Cloud, Judge L. A. Evans introduced Captain Glazier to his
audience on the evening of his lecture in that city, and wrote as follows in
the album:
St. Cloud, Minnesota,
crosses the Mississippi, is a thriving town, and has the honor of possessing
the first newspaper encountered in the descent of the river. This paper, the
Brainerd "Tribune," exhibited much cordial interest in Captain Glazier and
his successful explorations, and from time to time published accounts of the
voyage. The autographs of its editor, Arthur E. Chase, is found in the
album, as is that of Hon. Chauncey B. Sleeper, district attorney for the
county, who introduced him to the first audience before which he delivered
his lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi:"
Brainerd, Minnesota,
August 19, 1881.
Dear Captain:—That your voyage down the Great "Father of Waters"
may be fraught with experiences both pleasant to yourself and
beneficial to the public; and that your undertaking may prove a worthy
epoch in American history, is the wish of
Your sincere friend,
Arthur E. Chase.
Brainerd,
August 19, 1881.
To Captain Willard Glazier:—My cordial good wishes go with you
on your long and interesting journey. May it result in benefit to yourself
and your fellow-man.
Chauncey B. Sleeper,
District Attorney.
At St. Cloud, Judge L. A. Evans introduced Captain Glazier to his
audience on the evening of his lecture in that city, and wrote as follows in
the album:
St. Cloud, Minnesota,
Page 518
August 23, 1881.
To Captain Glazier:—May your life voyage and your contemplated
voyage to the mouth of our Great River prove pleasant and profitable.
L. A. Evans.
Hon. Samuel E. Adams, whose patriotic greeting we quote next, is the
editor of the Monticello "Times," and was one of the early pioneers of
Wright County, Minnesota.
Monticello,
August 24, 1881.
Love of one's country is always commendable, and may your labors
in its defence in the past, and its development in the future, be crowned
with imperishable renown.
Very truly yours,
Samuel E. Adams.
At Hastings, Captain Glazier was cordially and hospitably entertained by
the proprietor and editor of the Hastings "Gazette," and other prominent
citizens. On parting Mr. Todd writes the following in the album:
Hastings, Minnesota,
September 5, 1881.
With the cordial good wishes of the "Gazette" for a prosperous
voyage to the Gulf.
Fraternally,
Irving Todd.
The friendly writer of the following is loyal to his State while greeting
the man who evokes the sentiment:
Davenport, Iowa,
September 25, 1881.
To Captain Glazier:—May your life voyage and your contemplated
voyage to the mouth of our Great River prove pleasant and profitable.
L. A. Evans.
Hon. Samuel E. Adams, whose patriotic greeting we quote next, is the
editor of the Monticello "Times," and was one of the early pioneers of
Wright County, Minnesota.
Monticello,
August 24, 1881.
Love of one's country is always commendable, and may your labors
in its defence in the past, and its development in the future, be crowned
with imperishable renown.
Very truly yours,
Samuel E. Adams.
At Hastings, Captain Glazier was cordially and hospitably entertained by
the proprietor and editor of the Hastings "Gazette," and other prominent
citizens. On parting Mr. Todd writes the following in the album:
Hastings, Minnesota,
September 5, 1881.
With the cordial good wishes of the "Gazette" for a prosperous
voyage to the Gulf.
Fraternally,
Irving Todd.
The friendly writer of the following is loyal to his State while greeting
the man who evokes the sentiment:
Davenport, Iowa,
September 25, 1881.
Page 519
Dear Captain:—As you plough the "Father of Waters" in your frail
bark, think of "Iowa the Beautiful."
Charles G. Plummer.
At Davenport, Iowa, Captain Glazier had the pleasure of again meeting
Colonel P. A. J. Russell, city editor of the "Democrat." This gentleman had
been the first to greet him on his arrival in that city during his journey
across the continent in 1876, and it was with much cordiality that he now
shook hands with the Captain and congratulated him upon the success of his
latest expedition. But we will let him express his sentiments in his own
language:
Davenport, on the Mississippi,
September 25, 1881.
To Captain Glazier:
Safety and success—thus far
Adown this mighty stream;
May Heaven guard your progress still
And grant fulfilment of your dream.
Very truly yours, P. A. J. Russell.
The first man to welcome Captain Glazier at La Crosse was Pearce Giles,
an old acquaintance whom he had known for many years in the East. Mr.
Giles tenders his congratulations in these words:
La Crosse, Wisconsin,
September 10, 1881.
My Dear Captain:—I congratulate you on your important discovery
of the True Source of the Mississippi—a discovery which must
associate your name forever with the "Father of Waters." The
bark, think of "Iowa the Beautiful."
Charles G. Plummer.
At Davenport, Iowa, Captain Glazier had the pleasure of again meeting
Colonel P. A. J. Russell, city editor of the "Democrat." This gentleman had
been the first to greet him on his arrival in that city during his journey
across the continent in 1876, and it was with much cordiality that he now
shook hands with the Captain and congratulated him upon the success of his
latest expedition. But we will let him express his sentiments in his own
language:
Davenport, on the Mississippi,
September 25, 1881.
To Captain Glazier:
Safety and success—thus far
Adown this mighty stream;
May Heaven guard your progress still
And grant fulfilment of your dream.
Very truly yours, P. A. J. Russell.
The first man to welcome Captain Glazier at La Crosse was Pearce Giles,
an old acquaintance whom he had known for many years in the East. Mr.
Giles tenders his congratulations in these words:
La Crosse, Wisconsin,
September 10, 1881.
My Dear Captain:—I congratulate you on your important discovery
of the True Source of the Mississippi—a discovery which must
associate your name forever with the "Father of Waters." The
Page 520
intelligence, earnestness, pluck and persistence you have displayed in
this, as in numerous other ways, are such as to give you a place among
the great Americans who have not lived in vain for their country.
Always sincerely yours,
Pearce Giles.
The visit to Trempealeau, on the left bank of the river, introduced the
canoeists to some extremely agreeable people, whose hearty and
disinterested welcome will be long remembered by Captain Glazier. The
sentiment of one of them is thus kindly expressed:
Trempealeau, Wisconsin,
September 11, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—My best wishes follow you down the "Father of
Waters" and through Life's Voyage.
Very sincerely yours,
M. H. Melchior.
While at Bellevue, Captain Glazier was entertained most agreeably by
Hon. W. O. Evans, editor of the Bellevue "Republican" who welcomed him
on his arrival, and launched his canoe when he resumed his voyage. He
seemed greatly interested in the Captain's explorations, and expressed his
interest in this manner:
Bellevue, Iowa,
September 18, 1881.
Dear Captain:—That health, wealth, success and perpetual youth
may attend you in all your grand schemes and enterprises through the
Voyage of Life is the wish of your new-made friend,
W. O. Evans.
this, as in numerous other ways, are such as to give you a place among
the great Americans who have not lived in vain for their country.
Always sincerely yours,
Pearce Giles.
The visit to Trempealeau, on the left bank of the river, introduced the
canoeists to some extremely agreeable people, whose hearty and
disinterested welcome will be long remembered by Captain Glazier. The
sentiment of one of them is thus kindly expressed:
Trempealeau, Wisconsin,
September 11, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—My best wishes follow you down the "Father of
Waters" and through Life's Voyage.
Very sincerely yours,
M. H. Melchior.
While at Bellevue, Captain Glazier was entertained most agreeably by
Hon. W. O. Evans, editor of the Bellevue "Republican" who welcomed him
on his arrival, and launched his canoe when he resumed his voyage. He
seemed greatly interested in the Captain's explorations, and expressed his
interest in this manner:
Bellevue, Iowa,
September 18, 1881.
Dear Captain:—That health, wealth, success and perpetual youth
may attend you in all your grand schemes and enterprises through the
Voyage of Life is the wish of your new-made friend,
W. O. Evans.
Page 521
At Hannibal, Captain Glazier landed and remained three days, during
which interval he met one or two valued friends. Before launching his
canoe this entry found a place in the album:
Hannibal, Missouri,
October 3, 1881.
Dear Captain:—May the Mississippi—that Grand Old Patriarch of
Rivers—carry you safely to the Gulf!
A. M. Paget.
The "Post-Dispatch" one of the leading newspapers of St. Louis, was
foremost in publishing accounts of the explorer's voyage from the time he
left the headwaters of the Mississippi until he reached the Gulf, and hence
the autograph of its editor, Colonel John A. Cockerill, now editor of the
New York "World," is of special interest:
St. Louis, Missouri,
October 8, 1881.
The "Post-Dispatch," sailing on prosperous sea, sends greeting and
good wishes to Captain Glazier and all daring navigators.
John A. Cockerill.
Thomas E. Garrett, of the staff of the "Republican," inscribed the
following poetic tribute:
Missouri Republican Office,
St. Louis, October 14, 1881.
On land and water—staunch and true,
You steer and paddle your own canoe,
Strong arm, brave heart, will pull you through.
Very truly yours,
Thomas E. Garrett.
which interval he met one or two valued friends. Before launching his
canoe this entry found a place in the album:
Hannibal, Missouri,
October 3, 1881.
Dear Captain:—May the Mississippi—that Grand Old Patriarch of
Rivers—carry you safely to the Gulf!
A. M. Paget.
The "Post-Dispatch" one of the leading newspapers of St. Louis, was
foremost in publishing accounts of the explorer's voyage from the time he
left the headwaters of the Mississippi until he reached the Gulf, and hence
the autograph of its editor, Colonel John A. Cockerill, now editor of the
New York "World," is of special interest:
St. Louis, Missouri,
October 8, 1881.
The "Post-Dispatch," sailing on prosperous sea, sends greeting and
good wishes to Captain Glazier and all daring navigators.
John A. Cockerill.
Thomas E. Garrett, of the staff of the "Republican," inscribed the
following poetic tribute:
Missouri Republican Office,
St. Louis, October 14, 1881.
On land and water—staunch and true,
You steer and paddle your own canoe,
Strong arm, brave heart, will pull you through.
Very truly yours,
Thomas E. Garrett.
Page 522
The editor of the Helena "Yeoman" writes:
Helena, Arkansas,
October 22, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—May your present voyage down the great
Mississippi redound to your credit, and add to the honors you have
already won.
W. L. Morris,
"Yeoman" Office.
Prof. J. J. Flahift, Superintendent of Public Instruction at Helena, greets
the navigator in these terms:
Helena, Arkansas,
October 26, 1881.
"Nothing great is lightly won,
Nothing won is lost;
Every good deed nobly done,
Will repay the cost;
Leave to Heaven in humble trust
All you will to do,"
But, to reach the Gulf, you must
Paddle your own canoe.
J. J. Flahift.
At Natchez, Captain Glazier had the pleasure of hearing Senator Lamar
deliver a political speech, and was afterwards introduced to him at the
Foster House, where both were registered. The Senator seemed much
interested in the Captain's explorations, and so signifies over his autograph:
Natchez, Mississippi,
November 3, 1881.
Helena, Arkansas,
October 22, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—May your present voyage down the great
Mississippi redound to your credit, and add to the honors you have
already won.
W. L. Morris,
"Yeoman" Office.
Prof. J. J. Flahift, Superintendent of Public Instruction at Helena, greets
the navigator in these terms:
Helena, Arkansas,
October 26, 1881.
"Nothing great is lightly won,
Nothing won is lost;
Every good deed nobly done,
Will repay the cost;
Leave to Heaven in humble trust
All you will to do,"
But, to reach the Gulf, you must
Paddle your own canoe.
J. J. Flahift.
At Natchez, Captain Glazier had the pleasure of hearing Senator Lamar
deliver a political speech, and was afterwards introduced to him at the
Foster House, where both were registered. The Senator seemed much
interested in the Captain's explorations, and so signifies over his autograph:
Natchez, Mississippi,
November 3, 1881.
Page 523
Glad to have met you, Captain Glazier, and I leave with you my best
wishes for the success of your undertaking.
L. Q. C. Lamar.
Bayou Tunica will always be held in pleasant remembrance by Captain
Glazier, for he was there most hospitably received and entertained by John
J. Winn, a prosperous merchant and planter. Mr. Winn insisted upon his
remaining with him for two days during the progress of a violent storm
which rendered the river unnavigable, and every effort was made to make
the time pass agreeably. His greeting to the explorer is short but to the
point:
Bayou Tunica, Louisiana,
November 5, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—May your voyage to the Gulf be a pleasant one.
John J. Winn.
Captain Glazier's first acquaintance with a sugar plantation was made on
reaching the estates of Messrs. V. U. Lefebre and son, who are extensively
engaged in the production of this staple of commerce. This firm is counted
among the wealthiest sugar planters of Plaquemine Parish, owning and
controlling three large plantations. The Captain made the most of his
opportunity to learn something of the art of sugar manufacture. The cane-
field and sugar-mill and every detail were explained by his polite host, from
the cutting of the canes to the refining process. The Captain and his
companion were hospitably entertained an entire day, and on parting the
senior Mr. Lefebre greeted him in French, the tongue of his mother country:
Eliza Plantation, Louisiana,
November 9, 1881.
Cher Capitaine:—J'espère que votre voyage au Golfe sera agréable
que vous garderes un bon souvenir de la Louisiane.
wishes for the success of your undertaking.
L. Q. C. Lamar.
Bayou Tunica will always be held in pleasant remembrance by Captain
Glazier, for he was there most hospitably received and entertained by John
J. Winn, a prosperous merchant and planter. Mr. Winn insisted upon his
remaining with him for two days during the progress of a violent storm
which rendered the river unnavigable, and every effort was made to make
the time pass agreeably. His greeting to the explorer is short but to the
point:
Bayou Tunica, Louisiana,
November 5, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—May your voyage to the Gulf be a pleasant one.
John J. Winn.
Captain Glazier's first acquaintance with a sugar plantation was made on
reaching the estates of Messrs. V. U. Lefebre and son, who are extensively
engaged in the production of this staple of commerce. This firm is counted
among the wealthiest sugar planters of Plaquemine Parish, owning and
controlling three large plantations. The Captain made the most of his
opportunity to learn something of the art of sugar manufacture. The cane-
field and sugar-mill and every detail were explained by his polite host, from
the cutting of the canes to the refining process. The Captain and his
companion were hospitably entertained an entire day, and on parting the
senior Mr. Lefebre greeted him in French, the tongue of his mother country:
Eliza Plantation, Louisiana,
November 9, 1881.
Cher Capitaine:—J'espère que votre voyage au Golfe sera agréable
que vous garderes un bon souvenir de la Louisiane.
Page 524
Votre sincère,
V. U. Lefebre.
The inhabitants of Port Eads, the terminal point of the voyage, displayed,
if possible, a more lively interest in the expedition than those of any other
town along the river, for here it was that the goal was reached and the
Captain's long and hazardous undertaking placed beyond the risk of failure.
Some description has already been given of the triumphant manner in which
the arrival of the "Alice" at the Gulf was proclaimed by the people, and the
following lines of F. C. Welschaus, one of the citizens, expresses, in all
probability, the general sentiment of Port Eads:
Port Eads, Louisiana,
November 15, 1881.
To The Discoverer of the Mississippi's Source:—May all your
undertakings prove as successful as this one.
F. C. Welschaus.
This kindly wish of Mr. Welschaus in reality concludes the greetings of
the voyage proper, but when Captain Glazier returned to New Orleans from
Port Eads, and afterwards to St. Louis, others were added to the number,
some of which are of so much interest that the author takes pleasure in
quoting them.
The first in point of time was written by the officers of the steamship
Margaret, on board of which Captain Glazier steamed back to New
Orleans. This vessel was engaged in the fruit trade between the Crescent
City and ports in Central America. His reception and entertainment by the
officers was characteristic of sailors in general, cordial and hospitable in the
extreme. They expressed great wonder that a mere landsman could make
such an extended voyage in so small a boat, and many questions were asked
V. U. Lefebre.
The inhabitants of Port Eads, the terminal point of the voyage, displayed,
if possible, a more lively interest in the expedition than those of any other
town along the river, for here it was that the goal was reached and the
Captain's long and hazardous undertaking placed beyond the risk of failure.
Some description has already been given of the triumphant manner in which
the arrival of the "Alice" at the Gulf was proclaimed by the people, and the
following lines of F. C. Welschaus, one of the citizens, expresses, in all
probability, the general sentiment of Port Eads:
Port Eads, Louisiana,
November 15, 1881.
To The Discoverer of the Mississippi's Source:—May all your
undertakings prove as successful as this one.
F. C. Welschaus.
This kindly wish of Mr. Welschaus in reality concludes the greetings of
the voyage proper, but when Captain Glazier returned to New Orleans from
Port Eads, and afterwards to St. Louis, others were added to the number,
some of which are of so much interest that the author takes pleasure in
quoting them.
The first in point of time was written by the officers of the steamship
Margaret, on board of which Captain Glazier steamed back to New
Orleans. This vessel was engaged in the fruit trade between the Crescent
City and ports in Central America. His reception and entertainment by the
officers was characteristic of sailors in general, cordial and hospitable in the
extreme. They expressed great wonder that a mere landsman could make
such an extended voyage in so small a boat, and many questions were asked
Page 525
and answered upon this subject. Their farewell greeting is thus entered in
the album:
On Board Steamship "Margaret," ®8:November 16, 1881.
To Captain Willard Glazier:—We congratulate you upon the
successful completion of your great undertaking, and ask you to accept
the following as our sincere wish and fervent prayer:
"May your bark of mortality
Glide down the stream of Time,
And land at last at that glorious haven
Where nothing reigns supreme
But joy, health, prosperity and happiness."
John Otteson, Commander.
Richard Hunter, Chief Officer.
Albert J. Schlesinger, Purser.
While in New Orleans, Captain Glazier had an opportunity to listen to a
sermon by Rev. B. M. Palmer, a prominent clergyman of that city. The
Captain afterwards had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Palmer, who inscribed
this beautiful wish in the album:
New Orleans, Louisiana,
November 22, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—May your exploration of the Mississippi from its
source to its mouth be typical of your Voyage of Life, as it rolls with its
swelling flood into the bosom of God.
Yours in the Faith of the Gospel,
B. M. Palmer,
Pastor First Presbyterian Church.
the album:
On Board Steamship "Margaret," ®8:November 16, 1881.
To Captain Willard Glazier:—We congratulate you upon the
successful completion of your great undertaking, and ask you to accept
the following as our sincere wish and fervent prayer:
"May your bark of mortality
Glide down the stream of Time,
And land at last at that glorious haven
Where nothing reigns supreme
But joy, health, prosperity and happiness."
John Otteson, Commander.
Richard Hunter, Chief Officer.
Albert J. Schlesinger, Purser.
While in New Orleans, Captain Glazier had an opportunity to listen to a
sermon by Rev. B. M. Palmer, a prominent clergyman of that city. The
Captain afterwards had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Palmer, who inscribed
this beautiful wish in the album:
New Orleans, Louisiana,
November 22, 1881.
Captain Glazier:—May your exploration of the Mississippi from its
source to its mouth be typical of your Voyage of Life, as it rolls with its
swelling flood into the bosom of God.
Yours in the Faith of the Gospel,
B. M. Palmer,
Pastor First Presbyterian Church.
Page 526
The greetings from New Orleans would be incomplete without some
reference to H. Dudley Coleman, a member of the New Orleans Academy
of Sciences, and also of the Washington Artillery, of that city, who extended
many courtesies to Captain Glazier. Mr. Coleman was a cavalry officer in
the Confederate Army, and his command had been frequently opposed to
that of the Union soldier on the battle-fields of Virginia. His Southern
gallantry, however, prompted a cordial greeting, and the true gentleman
appeared in the numerous attentions he showered on his former adversary in
arms. Captain Glazier was greatly impressed by this display of good
feeling, and the evident desire manifested on the part of many Southern
gentlemen who received him to bury the animosities of the late war and
promote a state of harmony and cordial friendship. The blue and the grey
are no longer estranged, or such a hearty reception could not have been
accorded to Captain Glazier, whose name and reputation were well known
to many in the Crescent City as of a prolific writer on military subjects from
a Union standpoint. Mr. Coleman's apparently sincere expressions of a deep
friendly interest in the Captain's exploits on the Mississippi impressed him
very sensibly. Want of space must be our excuse for not including his long
and very cordial greeting in the album.
Albert G. Blanchard, also a member of the New Orleans Academy of
Sciences, and formerly a brigadier-general, C. S. A., shows his appreciation
of the explorations which Captain Glazier had successfully completed in
these terms:
I congratulate you on your successful exploration of the headwaters
of the Mississippi River. Your name will always be honored with that of
Robert Cavalier de la Salle, the discoverer of the outlet of this river as
you are of its source.
Very respectfully your obedient servant,
reference to H. Dudley Coleman, a member of the New Orleans Academy
of Sciences, and also of the Washington Artillery, of that city, who extended
many courtesies to Captain Glazier. Mr. Coleman was a cavalry officer in
the Confederate Army, and his command had been frequently opposed to
that of the Union soldier on the battle-fields of Virginia. His Southern
gallantry, however, prompted a cordial greeting, and the true gentleman
appeared in the numerous attentions he showered on his former adversary in
arms. Captain Glazier was greatly impressed by this display of good
feeling, and the evident desire manifested on the part of many Southern
gentlemen who received him to bury the animosities of the late war and
promote a state of harmony and cordial friendship. The blue and the grey
are no longer estranged, or such a hearty reception could not have been
accorded to Captain Glazier, whose name and reputation were well known
to many in the Crescent City as of a prolific writer on military subjects from
a Union standpoint. Mr. Coleman's apparently sincere expressions of a deep
friendly interest in the Captain's exploits on the Mississippi impressed him
very sensibly. Want of space must be our excuse for not including his long
and very cordial greeting in the album.
Albert G. Blanchard, also a member of the New Orleans Academy of
Sciences, and formerly a brigadier-general, C. S. A., shows his appreciation
of the explorations which Captain Glazier had successfully completed in
these terms:
I congratulate you on your successful exploration of the headwaters
of the Mississippi River. Your name will always be honored with that of
Robert Cavalier de la Salle, the discoverer of the outlet of this river as
you are of its source.
Very respectfully your obedient servant,
Page 527
Albert G. Blanchard,
Deputy City Surveyor.
New Orleans,
November 22, 1881.
We next quote from the pen of Dr. J. S. Copes, the learned President of
the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. Dr. Copes manifested an intense
interest in the results of Captain Glazier's expedition, and endeavored by
every method within his power to show the high estimation in which he
held the intrepid explorer:
Captain Glazier:—I congratulate you upon the successful
completion of your search for the primal reservoir of the Mississippi
River. It would be well for the country to erect before the view of its
youths and young men two monuments, three thousand miles asunder—
the one at the source, the other at the mouth of the great river of North
America—upon which should be chiseled "Enterprise, Courage, Faith,
Fortitude, Patriotism, Philanthropy," leaving to posterity the selection of
an illustrative name to be engraven on each one when events shall have
pointed conclusively to the benefactors most worthy of this honor.
With great respect,
Yours very truly,
J. S. Copes,
President New Orleans Academy of Sciences.
New Orleans,
November 19, 1881.
We will conclude this pleasing souvenir of the voyage by quoting the
sentiment of Judge Albert Todd, who, it will be remembered, introduced
Captain Glazier to his audience at St. Louis upon the occasion of his lecture
Deputy City Surveyor.
New Orleans,
November 22, 1881.
We next quote from the pen of Dr. J. S. Copes, the learned President of
the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. Dr. Copes manifested an intense
interest in the results of Captain Glazier's expedition, and endeavored by
every method within his power to show the high estimation in which he
held the intrepid explorer:
Captain Glazier:—I congratulate you upon the successful
completion of your search for the primal reservoir of the Mississippi
River. It would be well for the country to erect before the view of its
youths and young men two monuments, three thousand miles asunder—
the one at the source, the other at the mouth of the great river of North
America—upon which should be chiseled "Enterprise, Courage, Faith,
Fortitude, Patriotism, Philanthropy," leaving to posterity the selection of
an illustrative name to be engraven on each one when events shall have
pointed conclusively to the benefactors most worthy of this honor.
With great respect,
Yours very truly,
J. S. Copes,
President New Orleans Academy of Sciences.
New Orleans,
November 19, 1881.
We will conclude this pleasing souvenir of the voyage by quoting the
sentiment of Judge Albert Todd, who, it will be remembered, introduced
Captain Glazier to his audience at St. Louis upon the occasion of his lecture
Page 528
on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," and the presentation of the "Itasca" to
the Missouri Historical Society. Judge Todd is one of the oldest and most
reputed citizens of St. Louis, and showed an especial appreciation of the
Captain's endeavors to increase the geographical lore of the Mississippi
River:
To Captain Willard Glazier—Greeting:
With triple wreaths doth Fame thine head now crown;
The patriot-Soldier's, in fierce battles won;
The "Pen's," than the "Sword's," mankind's greater boon,
The bold Explorer's finding where was born
The rivers' King, till now, like Nile's, unknown.
· · · · ·
May years of high emprise increase thy fame,
And with thy death arise a deathless name.
Albert Todd,
Vice-President Missouri Historical Society.
St. Louis, January 14, 1882.
The career of Captain Glazier up to the present time affords much food
for thought and speculation. His life is pre-eminently a life of success, and
is a brilliant example of what can be accomplished by the aid of an
indomitable will and untiring energy. Although his early advantages of
education and position were of a most ordinary description, nothing he has
ever attempted failed, and none of his successes have been mediocre. As a
soldier he rose from a private to the rank of captain, and was known as one
the Missouri Historical Society. Judge Todd is one of the oldest and most
reputed citizens of St. Louis, and showed an especial appreciation of the
Captain's endeavors to increase the geographical lore of the Mississippi
River:
To Captain Willard Glazier—Greeting:
With triple wreaths doth Fame thine head now crown;
The patriot-Soldier's, in fierce battles won;
The "Pen's," than the "Sword's," mankind's greater boon,
The bold Explorer's finding where was born
The rivers' King, till now, like Nile's, unknown.
· · · · ·
May years of high emprise increase thy fame,
And with thy death arise a deathless name.
Albert Todd,
Vice-President Missouri Historical Society.
St. Louis, January 14, 1882.
The career of Captain Glazier up to the present time affords much food
for thought and speculation. His life is pre-eminently a life of success, and
is a brilliant example of what can be accomplished by the aid of an
indomitable will and untiring energy. Although his early advantages of
education and position were of a most ordinary description, nothing he has
ever attempted failed, and none of his successes have been mediocre. As a
soldier he rose from a private to the rank of captain, and was known as one
Page 529
of the bravest officers on the field—one of the best disciplinarians in camp;
as an author his works are found in nearly every home in the land, and are
read with interest by people of all ages, classes, and conditions of life; as a
lecturer, the press has ever spoken of him in the kindliest and most
favorable terms; as an equestrian traveler he accomplished a feat never
before attempted, and probably knows more about the wide stretch of
country through which he passed than any other man living; as a navigator
and explorer he not only discovered what had baffled the most determined
of all previous explorers, the source of the Mississippi River, but also
"paddled his own canoe" down the entire course from its fountain-head to
the Gulf of Mexico. He has then unquestionably succeeded in all that he has
undertaken; and, as all men aim at success, the query naturally arises, why
is it that Willard Glazier occupies so high a position in each of his many
fields of labor? The answer in all probability lies in the fact that while many
men have ambition, few have the untiring industry, the calm perseverance,
the determined will, and unfaltering faith in themselves to grasp and hold
the objects of that ambition. Captain Glazier has never known what failure
means, and recalling the events of his life as portrayed in this narrative, now
drawing to a close, we can understand why this is true. Unceasing labor
seems to have been his motto. As soon as he had pursued one path of
industry or research until it could lead him no further, he sought out and
traversed another with unexampled patience and unflagging zeal. What
wonder in the light of such energy that unqualified success has crowned his
well-directed efforts!
His career affords an example which all men would do well to reflect
upon and imitate. May the Youth of America, by the contemplation of a life
still comparatively young and yet so fraught with mighty deeds, be
especially inspired with the ambition to follow in his footsteps, and a will to
as an author his works are found in nearly every home in the land, and are
read with interest by people of all ages, classes, and conditions of life; as a
lecturer, the press has ever spoken of him in the kindliest and most
favorable terms; as an equestrian traveler he accomplished a feat never
before attempted, and probably knows more about the wide stretch of
country through which he passed than any other man living; as a navigator
and explorer he not only discovered what had baffled the most determined
of all previous explorers, the source of the Mississippi River, but also
"paddled his own canoe" down the entire course from its fountain-head to
the Gulf of Mexico. He has then unquestionably succeeded in all that he has
undertaken; and, as all men aim at success, the query naturally arises, why
is it that Willard Glazier occupies so high a position in each of his many
fields of labor? The answer in all probability lies in the fact that while many
men have ambition, few have the untiring industry, the calm perseverance,
the determined will, and unfaltering faith in themselves to grasp and hold
the objects of that ambition. Captain Glazier has never known what failure
means, and recalling the events of his life as portrayed in this narrative, now
drawing to a close, we can understand why this is true. Unceasing labor
seems to have been his motto. As soon as he had pursued one path of
industry or research until it could lead him no further, he sought out and
traversed another with unexampled patience and unflagging zeal. What
wonder in the light of such energy that unqualified success has crowned his
well-directed efforts!
His career affords an example which all men would do well to reflect
upon and imitate. May the Youth of America, by the contemplation of a life
still comparatively young and yet so fraught with mighty deeds, be
especially inspired with the ambition to follow in his footsteps, and a will to
Page 530
"carve with many a sharp incision," from the shapeless block which lies
before each, the rounded outlines of a strong and noble character.
before each, the rounded outlines of a strong and noble character.
Page 531
"SWORD AND PEN" COMMENDATIONS.
EXTRACTS FROM NOTICES OF THE PRESS.
Syracuse Times.
"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," is
written in a very entertaining style. It gives interesting sketches of Captain
Glazier from boyhood down, and many amusing incidents are related, in
which is embraced a period covering the lively war times. Near the end of
the work is given a minute description of Captain Glazier's discovery of the
source of the Mississippi River, in 1881; in which, of course, Lake Itasca
loses its claim. The captain, after many adventures, reached the true head of
the Great River, which lies many miles back and beyond Lake Itasca, and
from thence he made a voyage down the "Father of Waters" in a birch
canoe, to the Gulf of Mexico. The book is written by John Algernon Owens,
contains 516 pages printed in attractive style, adorned with numerous fine
wood cuts, and is generally attractive; in fact, people who have read
"Battles for the Union" and "Heroes of Three Wars" with so much interest
will be equally interested in the adventurous life of the soldier-author.
Chicago Tribune.
"Sword and Pen" comprises incidents and reminiscences in the life of
Captain Willard Glazier, and in addition to his army experience gives
details of a novel and adventurous feat accomplished in 1876. In that year
he rode on horseback across the Continent from Boston to San Francisco.
Over 200 days were occupied in making the trip, and the distance traveled
was more than 4,000 miles. His object in undertaking this journey was to
EXTRACTS FROM NOTICES OF THE PRESS.
Syracuse Times.
"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," is
written in a very entertaining style. It gives interesting sketches of Captain
Glazier from boyhood down, and many amusing incidents are related, in
which is embraced a period covering the lively war times. Near the end of
the work is given a minute description of Captain Glazier's discovery of the
source of the Mississippi River, in 1881; in which, of course, Lake Itasca
loses its claim. The captain, after many adventures, reached the true head of
the Great River, which lies many miles back and beyond Lake Itasca, and
from thence he made a voyage down the "Father of Waters" in a birch
canoe, to the Gulf of Mexico. The book is written by John Algernon Owens,
contains 516 pages printed in attractive style, adorned with numerous fine
wood cuts, and is generally attractive; in fact, people who have read
"Battles for the Union" and "Heroes of Three Wars" with so much interest
will be equally interested in the adventurous life of the soldier-author.
Chicago Tribune.
"Sword and Pen" comprises incidents and reminiscences in the life of
Captain Willard Glazier, and in addition to his army experience gives
details of a novel and adventurous feat accomplished in 1876. In that year
he rode on horseback across the Continent from Boston to San Francisco.
Over 200 days were occupied in making the trip, and the distance traveled
was more than 4,000 miles. His object in undertaking this journey was to
Page 532
study at comparative leisure the section of country through which he would
pass, and note the habits of the people he came in contact with. During this
trip he was captured by the Indians after a severe fight, and one of the
herders comprising the party was burned at the stake. In 1881, Captain
Glazier started on an expedition to discover the source of the Mississippi
River. In this he was successful, and immediately thereafter commenced the
descent of the river, passing its entire length from the source to the Gulf of
Mexico, in a small open canoe. The new book entitled "Sword and Pen"
gives a minute and graphic description of the overland ride and the trip
down the Mississippi, as well as the early army experience of the well-
known soldier and author.
Hamilton (Ont.) Times.
"Sword and Pen" is a work replete with stirring pen-pictures of events in
the history of the United States during a critical period of its history. Its
description of the principal incidents in the late war, and the suffering of the
author and others in that detestable "Black Hole of Calcutta"—the Libby
Prison—are most graphic. Willard Glazier's life was not confined to
warfare, though he saw service in nearly all the great battles between the
North and South. A few years ago he rode on horseback from ocean to
ocean, and his observations on that extraordinary trip are also included in
this handsome and interesting volume. He discovered the true source of the
Mississippi in northern Minnesota, and afterwards performed the journey of
3,000 miles to the sea board in an open canoe, and a very interesting
account of these journeyings is given in the concluding chapters of the work
which is throughout beautifully illustrated.
Troy Daily Times.
pass, and note the habits of the people he came in contact with. During this
trip he was captured by the Indians after a severe fight, and one of the
herders comprising the party was burned at the stake. In 1881, Captain
Glazier started on an expedition to discover the source of the Mississippi
River. In this he was successful, and immediately thereafter commenced the
descent of the river, passing its entire length from the source to the Gulf of
Mexico, in a small open canoe. The new book entitled "Sword and Pen"
gives a minute and graphic description of the overland ride and the trip
down the Mississippi, as well as the early army experience of the well-
known soldier and author.
Hamilton (Ont.) Times.
"Sword and Pen" is a work replete with stirring pen-pictures of events in
the history of the United States during a critical period of its history. Its
description of the principal incidents in the late war, and the suffering of the
author and others in that detestable "Black Hole of Calcutta"—the Libby
Prison—are most graphic. Willard Glazier's life was not confined to
warfare, though he saw service in nearly all the great battles between the
North and South. A few years ago he rode on horseback from ocean to
ocean, and his observations on that extraordinary trip are also included in
this handsome and interesting volume. He discovered the true source of the
Mississippi in northern Minnesota, and afterwards performed the journey of
3,000 miles to the sea board in an open canoe, and a very interesting
account of these journeyings is given in the concluding chapters of the work
which is throughout beautifully illustrated.
Troy Daily Times.
Page 533
The Works of Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, are so well
known and popular that a life of the writer cannot fail to be interesting to a
large portion of the public. A very complete and excellent account of
Glazier and his achievements has been prepared by John Algernon Owens,
and published by P. W. Ziegler & Co., Philadelphia. The book bears the title
of "Sword and Pen," and recounts the ventures and adventures of the
subject of it in war and literature, comprising incidents and reminiscences
of his childhood, his checkered life as a student and teacher, and his
remarkable career as a soldier and author; embracing also the story of his
unprecedented journey from ocean to ocean on horseback, and an account
of his discovery of the source of the Mississippi river, and his canoe voyage
from thence to the Gulf of Mexico. The story is told in the simple, direct
way that appeals at once to one's favorable attention. It is an exciting, in
some portions a thrilling narrative, recounting some of the most dramatic
and tragic scenes of the war, in which Glazier, as a youthful cavalry officer,
bore a brave and manly part, being then but nineteen years old. The lad
abandoned his studies and his school teaching and went from Troy to
become a member of the Harris light cavalry, with which he served during
many a bloody fray. He was captured by the rebels and shared the hard fate
that fell to many a poor Union soldier in the prison pens of the South, and
the recital of this part of his experience will recall the angry blood to the
face of every old soldier who reads it, and arouse the sentient sympathies of
every patriot who peruses the volume. The book contains an appreciative
yet discriminating criticism of Glazier's literary achievements, and is in
every sense worthy of the hero with whom it deals. It is profusely illustrated
with battle and other scenes, and is accompanied by a map giving an
accurate presentation of the route pursued by Captain Glazier in his trip to
the source of the Mississippi. Altogether this is a book well worth reading.
known and popular that a life of the writer cannot fail to be interesting to a
large portion of the public. A very complete and excellent account of
Glazier and his achievements has been prepared by John Algernon Owens,
and published by P. W. Ziegler & Co., Philadelphia. The book bears the title
of "Sword and Pen," and recounts the ventures and adventures of the
subject of it in war and literature, comprising incidents and reminiscences
of his childhood, his checkered life as a student and teacher, and his
remarkable career as a soldier and author; embracing also the story of his
unprecedented journey from ocean to ocean on horseback, and an account
of his discovery of the source of the Mississippi river, and his canoe voyage
from thence to the Gulf of Mexico. The story is told in the simple, direct
way that appeals at once to one's favorable attention. It is an exciting, in
some portions a thrilling narrative, recounting some of the most dramatic
and tragic scenes of the war, in which Glazier, as a youthful cavalry officer,
bore a brave and manly part, being then but nineteen years old. The lad
abandoned his studies and his school teaching and went from Troy to
become a member of the Harris light cavalry, with which he served during
many a bloody fray. He was captured by the rebels and shared the hard fate
that fell to many a poor Union soldier in the prison pens of the South, and
the recital of this part of his experience will recall the angry blood to the
face of every old soldier who reads it, and arouse the sentient sympathies of
every patriot who peruses the volume. The book contains an appreciative
yet discriminating criticism of Glazier's literary achievements, and is in
every sense worthy of the hero with whom it deals. It is profusely illustrated
with battle and other scenes, and is accompanied by a map giving an
accurate presentation of the route pursued by Captain Glazier in his trip to
the source of the Mississippi. Altogether this is a book well worth reading.
Page 534
Scranton Republican.
"Sword and Pen" by John Algernon Owens, a story of endurance, patient
toil, danger and daring, very entertaining, as well as instructive. In Mr.
Owens Captain Glazier has found a biographer who has done him justice,
and who has made a book that will be widely read.
Oswego Times and Express.
We have before us a new book, entitled "Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and
Adventures in War and Literature." It is a biography of the soldier-author,
Willard Glazier, a type of the adventurous American of which we may
justly be proud. It takes up the boyish life of Willard Glazier, takes him
from the school-room as a pupil to the school-room as a teacher, until the
war of the Rebellion called him to the army. It details his adventures as a
member of the Ira Harris Cavalry until his capture by the rebels, and the life
he led in the prisons of the South; and is detailed in a graphic manner. When
the war was over the same spirit of adventure which sent him to the front in
the army drove him into other adventures. The horseback ride from ocean to
ocean is described in an interesting style, followed by the search for the true
source of the Mississippi River and its successful termination, together with
an account of his canoe voyage to the Gulf of Mexico. The book is full of
action, and is interesting as giving a correct history of the life of this
remarkable man. It is profusely illustrated, and is accompanied by a map of
the section covered by the source of the Mississippi.
Boston Transcript.
The biography of Willard Glazier, under the title of "Sword and Pen," has
achieved a large sale in the Eastern, Western and Middle States. The subject
of the biography, who is still living, was a bright, wide-awake lad, whose
childhood was not more eventful than that of hundreds of other boys of like
"Sword and Pen" by John Algernon Owens, a story of endurance, patient
toil, danger and daring, very entertaining, as well as instructive. In Mr.
Owens Captain Glazier has found a biographer who has done him justice,
and who has made a book that will be widely read.
Oswego Times and Express.
We have before us a new book, entitled "Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and
Adventures in War and Literature." It is a biography of the soldier-author,
Willard Glazier, a type of the adventurous American of which we may
justly be proud. It takes up the boyish life of Willard Glazier, takes him
from the school-room as a pupil to the school-room as a teacher, until the
war of the Rebellion called him to the army. It details his adventures as a
member of the Ira Harris Cavalry until his capture by the rebels, and the life
he led in the prisons of the South; and is detailed in a graphic manner. When
the war was over the same spirit of adventure which sent him to the front in
the army drove him into other adventures. The horseback ride from ocean to
ocean is described in an interesting style, followed by the search for the true
source of the Mississippi River and its successful termination, together with
an account of his canoe voyage to the Gulf of Mexico. The book is full of
action, and is interesting as giving a correct history of the life of this
remarkable man. It is profusely illustrated, and is accompanied by a map of
the section covered by the source of the Mississippi.
Boston Transcript.
The biography of Willard Glazier, under the title of "Sword and Pen," has
achieved a large sale in the Eastern, Western and Middle States. The subject
of the biography, who is still living, was a bright, wide-awake lad, whose
childhood was not more eventful than that of hundreds of other boys of like
Page 535
condition. He was ambitious, energetic, and wholly free from any bad habit
which would operate as a drawback upon his advancement in life. His
parents were not able to do more for him in the way of an education than to
send him to a common district school, but he thirsted for an education, and
his mind was continually busy devising ways and means to secure it. The
much-needed money to pay his expenses at the Albany Normal School was
at last gained by trapping minks, whose skins were worth from two to four
dollars. From the Normal he went to teach school, and was engaged in this
profession when the civil war broke out. He was then nineteen years old.
The first shot fired at Sumter changed his whole life plans, and the summer
of 1861 found him in the field as sergeant in the Second New York Cavalry.
He participated in a good many exciting contests, and was finally wounded
and captured at Brandy Station, in October, 1863. The story of his life in
prison is vividly told. He made his escape after fourteen months'
imprisonment, and made his way through the enemy's lines into Sherman's
army. After the war he wrote a volume made up of his war experiences,
entitled "Capture, Prison Pen, and Escape," over 400,000 copies of which
have been sold. In 1876, Captain Glazier started from the Revere House, in
this city, to cross the Continent on horseback, a feat which he successfully
performed, reaching San Francisco in two hundred days from the time of
starting—a distance of 4,133 miles. In 1881, he made a canoe voyage down
the Mississippi of 3,000 miles. Captain Glazier is the author of several
books, and has won considerable reputation as a lecturer. The book before
us will be read with deep interest, not only for what it is worth historically,
but as showing what can be accomplished by pluck and brains without the
backing of money.
Buffalo News.
which would operate as a drawback upon his advancement in life. His
parents were not able to do more for him in the way of an education than to
send him to a common district school, but he thirsted for an education, and
his mind was continually busy devising ways and means to secure it. The
much-needed money to pay his expenses at the Albany Normal School was
at last gained by trapping minks, whose skins were worth from two to four
dollars. From the Normal he went to teach school, and was engaged in this
profession when the civil war broke out. He was then nineteen years old.
The first shot fired at Sumter changed his whole life plans, and the summer
of 1861 found him in the field as sergeant in the Second New York Cavalry.
He participated in a good many exciting contests, and was finally wounded
and captured at Brandy Station, in October, 1863. The story of his life in
prison is vividly told. He made his escape after fourteen months'
imprisonment, and made his way through the enemy's lines into Sherman's
army. After the war he wrote a volume made up of his war experiences,
entitled "Capture, Prison Pen, and Escape," over 400,000 copies of which
have been sold. In 1876, Captain Glazier started from the Revere House, in
this city, to cross the Continent on horseback, a feat which he successfully
performed, reaching San Francisco in two hundred days from the time of
starting—a distance of 4,133 miles. In 1881, he made a canoe voyage down
the Mississippi of 3,000 miles. Captain Glazier is the author of several
books, and has won considerable reputation as a lecturer. The book before
us will be read with deep interest, not only for what it is worth historically,
but as showing what can be accomplished by pluck and brains without the
backing of money.
Buffalo News.
Page 536
The readers of Captain Willard Glazier's works will be pleased with the
biography of this remarkable man, published by P. W. Ziegler & Co., of
Philadelphia. Captain Glazier's life is full of exciting interest, and the well-
written biography holds the reader's attention to the last. The account of the
discovery of the true source of the Mississippi is especially interesting from
the fact that it gives the best account of that memorable event that has ever
been published.
Albany Sunday Press.
"Sword and Pen." This work is the biography of a man already well-
known by the American public as a soldier and an author. The subject is an
especially interesting one to the people of this section, as Captain Glazier
was born in St. Lawrence county of this State, and spent some years of his
life in this city. His works have been read with interest by thousands, and
now those who have enjoyed them will have the opportunity to learn
something of the author who has for so long delighted them. This biography
gives a very full and interesting account of the principal events in Captain
Glazier's life, among which we notice especially his remarkable journey
from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean on horseback, his discovery of the
true source of the Mississippi River, and his canoe voyage thence to the
Gulf of Mexico. All these episodes are profusely and elegantly illustrated.
Newark Register.
"Sword and Pen" is the suggestive title of a very readable and interesting
biography of Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, by John Algernon
Owens. "Biography," the author tells us in his preface, "to be interesting,
must be a transcript of an eventful as well as a remarkable career; and to be
instructive, its subject should be exemplary in his aims and in his mode of
attaining them." The subject of this biography certainly fulfills these
biography of this remarkable man, published by P. W. Ziegler & Co., of
Philadelphia. Captain Glazier's life is full of exciting interest, and the well-
written biography holds the reader's attention to the last. The account of the
discovery of the true source of the Mississippi is especially interesting from
the fact that it gives the best account of that memorable event that has ever
been published.
Albany Sunday Press.
"Sword and Pen." This work is the biography of a man already well-
known by the American public as a soldier and an author. The subject is an
especially interesting one to the people of this section, as Captain Glazier
was born in St. Lawrence county of this State, and spent some years of his
life in this city. His works have been read with interest by thousands, and
now those who have enjoyed them will have the opportunity to learn
something of the author who has for so long delighted them. This biography
gives a very full and interesting account of the principal events in Captain
Glazier's life, among which we notice especially his remarkable journey
from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean on horseback, his discovery of the
true source of the Mississippi River, and his canoe voyage thence to the
Gulf of Mexico. All these episodes are profusely and elegantly illustrated.
Newark Register.
"Sword and Pen" is the suggestive title of a very readable and interesting
biography of Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, by John Algernon
Owens. "Biography," the author tells us in his preface, "to be interesting,
must be a transcript of an eventful as well as a remarkable career; and to be
instructive, its subject should be exemplary in his aims and in his mode of
attaining them." The subject of this biography certainly fulfills these
Page 537
requirements, and a much bolder and less graceful narrative of his
adventures and exploits would, without doubt, be interesting and
instructive. Mr. Owens has, however, heightened the interest, and pointed
the moral of his subject's remarkable career by his clear and correct style,
and lively and picturesque narrative. Captain Glazier was born in northern
New York, near the St. Lawrence, in 1841. His boyhood was passed in the
country, and filled with all a rustic lad's delights and exploits as well as
disadvantages and privations. Fighting hard for an education, he became a
teacher, continuing in this peaceful vocation until the outbreak of the
rebellion summoned him to his country's defence. Passing through a
succession of the most remarkable adventures and escapes in the war, and
rising from the ranks to a captain's post, Captain Glazier has, since the war,
become widely known as the soldier-author, and the triumphs of his pen
have been fully as great as, if not greater than, those of his sword. The work
is well printed and handsomely bound, and will prove very popular.
Boston Globe.
The adventures of Willard Glazier admirably narrated by John Algernon
Owens, under the title of "Sword and Pen," is a fascinating biography in
which the author has woven many pleasing incidents, sometimes quite out
of the line of his story, yet always to the point and always entertaining. The
war adventures of Glazier, who is called the "Soldier-author," have already
been largely read and appreciated, particularly by old soldiers. Willard
Glazier has enjoyed quite a literary renown, the sale of his first book,
"Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," having been over 400,000 volumes. Mr.
Owens has now given us Captain Glazier's life in a neatly bound volume,
from the press of P. W. Ziegler & Co. of Philadelphia. The hero of this story
had an eventful career which made it interesting. Born of parents of small
means, but of the old Puritan stock, and excellent character, and bred and
adventures and exploits would, without doubt, be interesting and
instructive. Mr. Owens has, however, heightened the interest, and pointed
the moral of his subject's remarkable career by his clear and correct style,
and lively and picturesque narrative. Captain Glazier was born in northern
New York, near the St. Lawrence, in 1841. His boyhood was passed in the
country, and filled with all a rustic lad's delights and exploits as well as
disadvantages and privations. Fighting hard for an education, he became a
teacher, continuing in this peaceful vocation until the outbreak of the
rebellion summoned him to his country's defence. Passing through a
succession of the most remarkable adventures and escapes in the war, and
rising from the ranks to a captain's post, Captain Glazier has, since the war,
become widely known as the soldier-author, and the triumphs of his pen
have been fully as great as, if not greater than, those of his sword. The work
is well printed and handsomely bound, and will prove very popular.
Boston Globe.
The adventures of Willard Glazier admirably narrated by John Algernon
Owens, under the title of "Sword and Pen," is a fascinating biography in
which the author has woven many pleasing incidents, sometimes quite out
of the line of his story, yet always to the point and always entertaining. The
war adventures of Glazier, who is called the "Soldier-author," have already
been largely read and appreciated, particularly by old soldiers. Willard
Glazier has enjoyed quite a literary renown, the sale of his first book,
"Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," having been over 400,000 volumes. Mr.
Owens has now given us Captain Glazier's life in a neatly bound volume,
from the press of P. W. Ziegler & Co. of Philadelphia. The hero of this story
had an eventful career which made it interesting. Born of parents of small
means, but of the old Puritan stock, and excellent character, and bred and
Page 538
nurtured in the midst of the wildest and grandest scenery in the rugged
county of St. Lawrence, with no opportunities for culture, except such as he
made for himself, he rose by his ambition, and was the builder of his own
fortune. There is a strong lesson pointed out by the graphic history of his
career. It teaches to the young uncompromising duty in every relation of life
—self-denial and pluck.
Newark Daily Journal.
"Sword and Pen; or, the Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier."
Willard Glazier is an author who has risen into popularity almost
unprecedented in this country. It is said that his first book, "Capture, Prison-
Pen, and Escape," written from facts noted in his diary after a wonderful
career on the battle-field, and in prisons of the South, reached the enormous
sale of 400,000 volumes. "Sword and Pen" is the story of Captain Glazier's
life. Born in obscurity, and toiling for an education with great perseverance
and against obstacles that seemed almost unsurmountable, he became a
teacher of the first rank when only eighteen years of age. Enlisting in the
Second New York Cavalry, at the very beginning of the war, he served
gallantly under General Kilpatrick in all the battles of Virginia up to
October 19, when he was taken prisoner at New Baltimore, after having two
horses shot under him. He participated in digging the tunnel out of Libby
Prison, through which one hundred and fifteen Union prisoners escaped.
Glazier, however, was left behind. From Richmond he was sent to Danville
and other prisons, frequently attempting to escape. He was sent to
Charleston jail, where, with other prisoners, he was placed under fire of the
Union guns on Morris Island. Next he was sent to Columbia, and then
comes a thrilling recital of escapes and recaptures; wading through swamps
and across rivers at night, and lying hidden in thickets or negro huts by day;
tracked by blood-hounds, frequently shot at; enduring the pangs of
county of St. Lawrence, with no opportunities for culture, except such as he
made for himself, he rose by his ambition, and was the builder of his own
fortune. There is a strong lesson pointed out by the graphic history of his
career. It teaches to the young uncompromising duty in every relation of life
—self-denial and pluck.
Newark Daily Journal.
"Sword and Pen; or, the Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier."
Willard Glazier is an author who has risen into popularity almost
unprecedented in this country. It is said that his first book, "Capture, Prison-
Pen, and Escape," written from facts noted in his diary after a wonderful
career on the battle-field, and in prisons of the South, reached the enormous
sale of 400,000 volumes. "Sword and Pen" is the story of Captain Glazier's
life. Born in obscurity, and toiling for an education with great perseverance
and against obstacles that seemed almost unsurmountable, he became a
teacher of the first rank when only eighteen years of age. Enlisting in the
Second New York Cavalry, at the very beginning of the war, he served
gallantly under General Kilpatrick in all the battles of Virginia up to
October 19, when he was taken prisoner at New Baltimore, after having two
horses shot under him. He participated in digging the tunnel out of Libby
Prison, through which one hundred and fifteen Union prisoners escaped.
Glazier, however, was left behind. From Richmond he was sent to Danville
and other prisons, frequently attempting to escape. He was sent to
Charleston jail, where, with other prisoners, he was placed under fire of the
Union guns on Morris Island. Next he was sent to Columbia, and then
comes a thrilling recital of escapes and recaptures; wading through swamps
and across rivers at night, and lying hidden in thickets or negro huts by day;
tracked by blood-hounds, frequently shot at; enduring the pangs of
Page 539
starvation, thirst, cold and rain, the hero finally reached Sherman's lines
after encountering a hundred deadly perils. The brave boy was a prisoner
when the term of his enlistment expired, but he immediately applied for and
obtained a new commission, and after a brief visit to his parents, he re-
entered the army and served until the end of the war. The story is thrillingly
told, yet between the many tragic events depicted, there occur frequent
humorous episodes, especially those delineating negro character. Young
Glazier's brilliant career as the writer of "Soldiers of the Saddle," "Capture,
Prison-Pen, and Escape," "Battles for the Union," "Heroes of Three Wars,"
"Peculiarities of American Cities," etc., is fully given, with copious extracts
from each work, together with highly favorable notices from the Boston
Post, New York Tribune, Chicago Inter-Ocean and other leading
newspapers. The last part of the book is devoted to a voluminous and
somewhat roseate description of Captain Glazier's highly successful lecture
tour on horseback from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean; his discovery of
the source of the Mississippi River, and his canoe voyage from thence to the
Gulf of Mexico. Captain Glazier is unquestionably a hero, possessing
genius of a high order, and as he is now only forty-two years of age, it
would seem that there are still brilliant achievements before him. Whatever
may be said of the literary merits of his biography, the history is of
absorbing interest. It is such that takes hold of the popular heart, and the
hundreds of thousands of Grand Army men who read it will seem to "fight
their battles o'er again."
New York Herald.
"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," by
John Algernon Owens, is a well-written book and altogether readable. It
describes the humble origin of one who afterwards became one of the most
dashing officers in the Federal cavalry service during the war for the Union.
after encountering a hundred deadly perils. The brave boy was a prisoner
when the term of his enlistment expired, but he immediately applied for and
obtained a new commission, and after a brief visit to his parents, he re-
entered the army and served until the end of the war. The story is thrillingly
told, yet between the many tragic events depicted, there occur frequent
humorous episodes, especially those delineating negro character. Young
Glazier's brilliant career as the writer of "Soldiers of the Saddle," "Capture,
Prison-Pen, and Escape," "Battles for the Union," "Heroes of Three Wars,"
"Peculiarities of American Cities," etc., is fully given, with copious extracts
from each work, together with highly favorable notices from the Boston
Post, New York Tribune, Chicago Inter-Ocean and other leading
newspapers. The last part of the book is devoted to a voluminous and
somewhat roseate description of Captain Glazier's highly successful lecture
tour on horseback from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean; his discovery of
the source of the Mississippi River, and his canoe voyage from thence to the
Gulf of Mexico. Captain Glazier is unquestionably a hero, possessing
genius of a high order, and as he is now only forty-two years of age, it
would seem that there are still brilliant achievements before him. Whatever
may be said of the literary merits of his biography, the history is of
absorbing interest. It is such that takes hold of the popular heart, and the
hundreds of thousands of Grand Army men who read it will seem to "fight
their battles o'er again."
New York Herald.
"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," by
John Algernon Owens, is a well-written book and altogether readable. It
describes the humble origin of one who afterwards became one of the most
dashing officers in the Federal cavalry service during the war for the Union.
Page 540
It tells of the vicissitudes of a life restless but resolute, and which bears the
stamp of heroism and success. There are stories of school-days full of the
activity and frivolity of youth, of failure and fortune, and a graphic sketch
of the turning point in Glazier's career, which came with the rebellion. From
the day he entered the ranks of the Harris Light Cavalry his course was
steadily onward and upward, rising from corporal to be the captain of brave
men nerved to the utmost endurance and inured to the dangers and
hardships of war. The ensuing pages ring with the enthusiasm of martial
achievements, of peril by day and night, of capture, of the dungeon, and the
thrilling escape. The book closes with a vivid account of his famous ride on
horseback from ocean to ocean, from Boston to San Francisco. This
unparalleled ride was accomplished by Captain Glazier in 1876, the
Centennial year, and serves as a fitting conclusion to a career marked by
indomitable industry, true courage and unquestioned success, showing that
stamp of heroism and success. There are stories of school-days full of the
activity and frivolity of youth, of failure and fortune, and a graphic sketch
of the turning point in Glazier's career, which came with the rebellion. From
the day he entered the ranks of the Harris Light Cavalry his course was
steadily onward and upward, rising from corporal to be the captain of brave
men nerved to the utmost endurance and inured to the dangers and
hardships of war. The ensuing pages ring with the enthusiasm of martial
achievements, of peril by day and night, of capture, of the dungeon, and the
thrilling escape. The book closes with a vivid account of his famous ride on
horseback from ocean to ocean, from Boston to San Francisco. This
unparalleled ride was accomplished by Captain Glazier in 1876, the
Centennial year, and serves as a fitting conclusion to a career marked by
indomitable industry, true courage and unquestioned success, showing that
Page 541
"Honor and shame from no condition rise;
Act well your part, there all the honor lies."
The book is profusely illustrated and will be an interesting addition to
either a public or private library.
Hartford Courant.
"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," the
soldier-author, by John Algernon Owens. Captain Glazier has had a very
lively career both during the war and since, in explorations on the upper
Mississippi. He is the author of a long list of war books himself, which have
been much commended by the press, for their thrilling narrative style,
patriotic enthusiasm, and dash. He is evidently of the stuff of which
American heroes are made. The book claims for him high rank as an
explorer and discoverer in being the first to definitely locate the True
Source of the Mississippi. It is a readable story of an adventurous life, and
being fully illustrated, commends itself to all classes of readers.
Cincinnati Commercial Gazette.
John Algernon Owens has compiled incidents and reminiscences in the
life of Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, and the work should occupy a
position on the shelf of every library. The writings of Captain Glazier are
too well known to need any words of commendation from us, his "Capture,
Prison-Pen, and Escape," issued soon after the close of the war, having been
among the most extensively read annals of the war. The "Sword and Pen"
gives a sketch of the early life and adventures of the soldier-author, his
school-boy days, and the incidents of that halcyon period of youth, all of
which reads like a romance. His academic life is then detailed, after which
the stern realities of life are encountered. His military life follows, and his
Act well your part, there all the honor lies."
The book is profusely illustrated and will be an interesting addition to
either a public or private library.
Hartford Courant.
"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," the
soldier-author, by John Algernon Owens. Captain Glazier has had a very
lively career both during the war and since, in explorations on the upper
Mississippi. He is the author of a long list of war books himself, which have
been much commended by the press, for their thrilling narrative style,
patriotic enthusiasm, and dash. He is evidently of the stuff of which
American heroes are made. The book claims for him high rank as an
explorer and discoverer in being the first to definitely locate the True
Source of the Mississippi. It is a readable story of an adventurous life, and
being fully illustrated, commends itself to all classes of readers.
Cincinnati Commercial Gazette.
John Algernon Owens has compiled incidents and reminiscences in the
life of Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, and the work should occupy a
position on the shelf of every library. The writings of Captain Glazier are
too well known to need any words of commendation from us, his "Capture,
Prison-Pen, and Escape," issued soon after the close of the war, having been
among the most extensively read annals of the war. The "Sword and Pen"
gives a sketch of the early life and adventures of the soldier-author, his
school-boy days, and the incidents of that halcyon period of youth, all of
which reads like a romance. His academic life is then detailed, after which
the stern realities of life are encountered. His military life follows, and his
Page 542
capture by the Confederate troops. Then follows a recital of the dreary and
monotonous routine of prison life, together with a vivid account of the
scenes enumerated, the escape, and the final entry into the Federal lines. His
life after re-entering the cavalry is given, and finally his career as an author
and travels across the Continent. The work is written in an attractive style
with a recital of much that has never been told before, while the old is so
garnished that it cannot fail to interest all classes of readers.
Wilmington Morning News.
"Sword and Pen" is the life of Willard Glazier, who was born in St.
Lawrence county, New York, in 1841, of parents of narrow means, who was
a bright, mischievous boy, who educated himself by his own efforts, and
became a country school-teacher; who enlisted in the Harris Light Cavalry
(a New York regiment), at the beginning of the war; who was promoted
from the ranks on account of soldierly qualities and personal bravery, to the
office of first lieutenant; who was captured by the rebels and imprisoned in
Libby Prison and other rebel pens; who finally escaped and made his way
on foot under great privations to General Sherman's lines during that
commander's "march to the sea;" who had made full notes of his varied
army experience, and from these had written several very popular books
about military life at that time, and who, hence, is designated, "The Soldier-
Author," and appears to be enjoying all the quiet rewards of a patient,
industrious, and resolute effort to improve himself and his fortunes in every
legitimate and proper way. As an account of a boy of the people it is clear
and instructive; as a picture of patriotic and courageous military service at a
time of public peril, it is graphic and often thrilling; as a picture of a
determined and honorable effort by a young man of generous instincts, to
make his own way in the world, it is wholesome and useful. Its style will
probably make its obvious lessons the more impressive to the mass of
monotonous routine of prison life, together with a vivid account of the
scenes enumerated, the escape, and the final entry into the Federal lines. His
life after re-entering the cavalry is given, and finally his career as an author
and travels across the Continent. The work is written in an attractive style
with a recital of much that has never been told before, while the old is so
garnished that it cannot fail to interest all classes of readers.
Wilmington Morning News.
"Sword and Pen" is the life of Willard Glazier, who was born in St.
Lawrence county, New York, in 1841, of parents of narrow means, who was
a bright, mischievous boy, who educated himself by his own efforts, and
became a country school-teacher; who enlisted in the Harris Light Cavalry
(a New York regiment), at the beginning of the war; who was promoted
from the ranks on account of soldierly qualities and personal bravery, to the
office of first lieutenant; who was captured by the rebels and imprisoned in
Libby Prison and other rebel pens; who finally escaped and made his way
on foot under great privations to General Sherman's lines during that
commander's "march to the sea;" who had made full notes of his varied
army experience, and from these had written several very popular books
about military life at that time, and who, hence, is designated, "The Soldier-
Author," and appears to be enjoying all the quiet rewards of a patient,
industrious, and resolute effort to improve himself and his fortunes in every
legitimate and proper way. As an account of a boy of the people it is clear
and instructive; as a picture of patriotic and courageous military service at a
time of public peril, it is graphic and often thrilling; as a picture of a
determined and honorable effort by a young man of generous instincts, to
make his own way in the world, it is wholesome and useful. Its style will
probably make its obvious lessons the more impressive to the mass of
Page 543
readers; and its general circulation among the young men of this country,
nine-tenths of whom must make their own fortunes if they are to have any,
will be a public benefit. It teaches honesty, self-help and patriotism; and we
cannot have too many teachers at work upon these things.
New York Tribune.
The history of a famous man can never fail to interest the reading public,
especially when it records such adventures and dangers as those through
which the hero of the "Sword and Pen" passed. Willard Glazier's connection
with the great civil war is a fact rendering unusually fascinating his
biography, as perhaps no other fact could have done. The battles in which
he fought are those around which centre the deepest interest, and the vivid
descriptions of his life in Libby Prison, his unsuccessful attempt at escape
therefrom, and his later imprisonment at Camp Oglethorpe, are replete with
interest to both old and young. The book is written in a bright, attractive
style, and is well illustrated with many cuts of true war life and its thrilling
incidents. For the old, and especially the young, it is a book calculated to
work much good, teaching lessons of patriotism, self-reliance, and
perseverance. His life was one of unusual events, and his indomitable
ambition to advance was not the least of his many excellent qualities. Like
many other well-known men, he began life in humble circumstances, and
only to his own efforts was due the great success he achieved. The author,
John Algernon Owens, brings out vividly the strong points of his hero's
character, and throws around the whole narrative a halo of bright fancy,
which renders the book as attractive as the most highly wrought romance.
Baltimore American.
"Sword and Pen." Willard Glazier has made himself prominent both in
war and literature. He cast his lot with the Federal cause, and served for a
nine-tenths of whom must make their own fortunes if they are to have any,
will be a public benefit. It teaches honesty, self-help and patriotism; and we
cannot have too many teachers at work upon these things.
New York Tribune.
The history of a famous man can never fail to interest the reading public,
especially when it records such adventures and dangers as those through
which the hero of the "Sword and Pen" passed. Willard Glazier's connection
with the great civil war is a fact rendering unusually fascinating his
biography, as perhaps no other fact could have done. The battles in which
he fought are those around which centre the deepest interest, and the vivid
descriptions of his life in Libby Prison, his unsuccessful attempt at escape
therefrom, and his later imprisonment at Camp Oglethorpe, are replete with
interest to both old and young. The book is written in a bright, attractive
style, and is well illustrated with many cuts of true war life and its thrilling
incidents. For the old, and especially the young, it is a book calculated to
work much good, teaching lessons of patriotism, self-reliance, and
perseverance. His life was one of unusual events, and his indomitable
ambition to advance was not the least of his many excellent qualities. Like
many other well-known men, he began life in humble circumstances, and
only to his own efforts was due the great success he achieved. The author,
John Algernon Owens, brings out vividly the strong points of his hero's
character, and throws around the whole narrative a halo of bright fancy,
which renders the book as attractive as the most highly wrought romance.
Baltimore American.
"Sword and Pen." Willard Glazier has made himself prominent both in
war and literature. He cast his lot with the Federal cause, and served for a
Page 544
time as a private soldier in the Second Regiment, New York Cavalry. A little
later he won laurels at the battles of Cedar Mountain, Manassas,
Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Brandy Station, and other historic spots, and
rose rapidly in rank, until at the sharp skirmish near Buckland Mills he led
his comrades as their captain, and was himself captured. All these features
in the career of the soldier-author are portrayed in the most interesting style,
and are followed by a graphic description of life in Libby Prison. Mr.
Owens winds together the thread of detail in the ventures and adventures of
his hero, so that the book reads more like a romance than a veritable history.
The book is divided into three parts, which are so closely interwoven that
the whole forms one continuous story of a very adventurous life. The hero
escapes from Libby, but is recaptured and confined at Camp Oglethorpe, in
Georgia. He also escapes from this prison, and with the assistance of
negroes, finally reaches the Federal lines. In 1876, he crossed the Continent
on horseback, and was captured by hostile Indians. He escapes and
subsequently planned the way for an expedition to the source of the
Mississippi River.
Philadelphia Ledger.
"Sword and Pen" by John Algernon Owens. Captain Glazier, the soldier-
author, is the writer of several popular works about the war—"Soldiers of
the Saddle," "Battles for the Union," etc. Though still a young man he has
had a most eventful life, serving throughout the war, and passing through
many adventures of which he has since made good use in his life as an
author. He has also accomplished the remarkable feat of riding from Boston
to San Francisco on horseback. This memoir tells the story of his life in
attractive narrative form, and is full of interesting tales of the war.
Philadelphia Evening Star.
later he won laurels at the battles of Cedar Mountain, Manassas,
Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Brandy Station, and other historic spots, and
rose rapidly in rank, until at the sharp skirmish near Buckland Mills he led
his comrades as their captain, and was himself captured. All these features
in the career of the soldier-author are portrayed in the most interesting style,
and are followed by a graphic description of life in Libby Prison. Mr.
Owens winds together the thread of detail in the ventures and adventures of
his hero, so that the book reads more like a romance than a veritable history.
The book is divided into three parts, which are so closely interwoven that
the whole forms one continuous story of a very adventurous life. The hero
escapes from Libby, but is recaptured and confined at Camp Oglethorpe, in
Georgia. He also escapes from this prison, and with the assistance of
negroes, finally reaches the Federal lines. In 1876, he crossed the Continent
on horseback, and was captured by hostile Indians. He escapes and
subsequently planned the way for an expedition to the source of the
Mississippi River.
Philadelphia Ledger.
"Sword and Pen" by John Algernon Owens. Captain Glazier, the soldier-
author, is the writer of several popular works about the war—"Soldiers of
the Saddle," "Battles for the Union," etc. Though still a young man he has
had a most eventful life, serving throughout the war, and passing through
many adventures of which he has since made good use in his life as an
author. He has also accomplished the remarkable feat of riding from Boston
to San Francisco on horseback. This memoir tells the story of his life in
attractive narrative form, and is full of interesting tales of the war.
Philadelphia Evening Star.
Page 545
Captain Willard Glazier, who is well known as the author of several
popular works about the late war, some of which have had an extraordinary
sale, has himself been made the subject of a book by Mr. John Algernon
Owens. Captain Glazier has had an eventful life; has been a teacher, a
soldier, an author, explorer and a horseback tourist; and there is much in his
career inculcating the value of self-reliance and other sterling qualities. He
has found an appreciative biographer in Mr. Owens, whose work will more
especially interest soldiers and those fond of reading of adventure.
Philadelphia Evening Bulletin.
"Sword and Pen" is a book describing the ventures and adventures of
Captain Willard Glazier, who was one of the many gallant heroes of the
civil war, and who wrote some clever books about it after he had laid aside
the sword for the pen. The author of the present work is John Algernon
Owens, and the account he gives of Glazier's youth and young manhood,
his experiences in battle, in prison, after peace came, in domestic life and in
literature, is full of interest, entertainment and instruction. We heartily
commend it to our readers.
Philadelphia Inquirer.
Of course all Americans remember Captain Willard Glazier, the well-
known soldier-author, who has made himself prominent in war and in
literature. The present volume is a more than usually interesting one, and is
most carefully and effectively gotten up. It relates graphically the ventures
and adventures of Glazier from his youth to the present time; and many of
the adventures through which he passed are so thrilling as to seem almost
impossible, yet facts prove them true. Glazier's youth is minutely detailed;
we are treated to a series of adventures by the youngster, which induce us to
believe that his bump of reverence for his teachers and elders was
popular works about the late war, some of which have had an extraordinary
sale, has himself been made the subject of a book by Mr. John Algernon
Owens. Captain Glazier has had an eventful life; has been a teacher, a
soldier, an author, explorer and a horseback tourist; and there is much in his
career inculcating the value of self-reliance and other sterling qualities. He
has found an appreciative biographer in Mr. Owens, whose work will more
especially interest soldiers and those fond of reading of adventure.
Philadelphia Evening Bulletin.
"Sword and Pen" is a book describing the ventures and adventures of
Captain Willard Glazier, who was one of the many gallant heroes of the
civil war, and who wrote some clever books about it after he had laid aside
the sword for the pen. The author of the present work is John Algernon
Owens, and the account he gives of Glazier's youth and young manhood,
his experiences in battle, in prison, after peace came, in domestic life and in
literature, is full of interest, entertainment and instruction. We heartily
commend it to our readers.
Philadelphia Inquirer.
Of course all Americans remember Captain Willard Glazier, the well-
known soldier-author, who has made himself prominent in war and in
literature. The present volume is a more than usually interesting one, and is
most carefully and effectively gotten up. It relates graphically the ventures
and adventures of Glazier from his youth to the present time; and many of
the adventures through which he passed are so thrilling as to seem almost
impossible, yet facts prove them true. Glazier's youth is minutely detailed;
we are treated to a series of adventures by the youngster, which induce us to
believe that his bump of reverence for his teachers and elders was
Page 546
represented by a cavity. But passing through the incidents that precede the
age of manhood, he turned up in the Second Regiment, New York Cavalry.
From that time until the close of the war, Glazier's career was a stirring one.
From the early fight at Flipper's Orchard, he successively took part in the
battles of Cedar Mountain, Manassas, Fredericksburg, Brandy Station,
Gettysburg and other engagements. At the cavalry engagement of New
Baltimore he was taken prisoner, and soon thereafter made the acquaintance
of the inside of Libby Prison. We get many glimpses of life in that well-
known Prison-Pen, and are treated to numerous pathetic and humorous
incidents that fell under Glazier's notice. All have read of what was endured
by such of the Union soldiers who passed that ordeal, and the reader can,
therefore, imagine what fell to the lot of this dashing cavalryman. The great
tunnel attempt at escape is graphically told. Glazier also got a taste of
prison fare at Camp Oglethorpe in Georgia. But he made his escape, and fed
and sheltered by negroes, at last, after a second capture, reached the Federal
lines. Soon after the war he wrote a book, called "Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape;" later he wrote another volume, called "Three Years in the Federal
Cavalry." After this came "Battles for the Union," speedily to be followed
by "Heroes of Three Wars." After this he rode across the Continent on
horseback, and then took the lecture field, and indeed he has proved himself
a thorough American in being able to do anything and everything equally
well. Being possessed of an energy and audacity that were perfectly
marvelous, he rushed in, as Shakespeare observes, "where angels feared to
tread." It is a miracle that he ever lived to relate them, for Libby Prison
experience alone was sufficient to destroy the constitution of the majority of
the prisoners. "Sword and Pen" will have a large sale.
age of manhood, he turned up in the Second Regiment, New York Cavalry.
From that time until the close of the war, Glazier's career was a stirring one.
From the early fight at Flipper's Orchard, he successively took part in the
battles of Cedar Mountain, Manassas, Fredericksburg, Brandy Station,
Gettysburg and other engagements. At the cavalry engagement of New
Baltimore he was taken prisoner, and soon thereafter made the acquaintance
of the inside of Libby Prison. We get many glimpses of life in that well-
known Prison-Pen, and are treated to numerous pathetic and humorous
incidents that fell under Glazier's notice. All have read of what was endured
by such of the Union soldiers who passed that ordeal, and the reader can,
therefore, imagine what fell to the lot of this dashing cavalryman. The great
tunnel attempt at escape is graphically told. Glazier also got a taste of
prison fare at Camp Oglethorpe in Georgia. But he made his escape, and fed
and sheltered by negroes, at last, after a second capture, reached the Federal
lines. Soon after the war he wrote a book, called "Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape;" later he wrote another volume, called "Three Years in the Federal
Cavalry." After this came "Battles for the Union," speedily to be followed
by "Heroes of Three Wars." After this he rode across the Continent on
horseback, and then took the lecture field, and indeed he has proved himself
a thorough American in being able to do anything and everything equally
well. Being possessed of an energy and audacity that were perfectly
marvelous, he rushed in, as Shakespeare observes, "where angels feared to
tread." It is a miracle that he ever lived to relate them, for Libby Prison
experience alone was sufficient to destroy the constitution of the majority of
the prisoners. "Sword and Pen" will have a large sale.
Page 547
APPENDIX
BY THE
PUBLISHERS OF
"DOWN THE GREAT RIVER."
BY THE
PUBLISHERS OF
"DOWN THE GREAT RIVER."
Page 548
ADDENDUM.
The following Appendix to "Down the Great River," by Captain Willard
Glazier, is here reproduced in verification of his claim to the discovery of
the true source of the Mississippi.
P. W. Ziegler & Co., Publishers.
720 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, May 10, 1889.
The publishers of Captain Willard Glazier's Works, having recently had
their attention drawn to sundry articles in the public prints calling in
question his claim to have located the source of the Mississippi, conclude to
invite the consideration of the reader to a few of the many press notices,
letters of endorsement and other papers placed at their disposal by friends
of the explorer, bearing directly upon the subject of the primal reservoir or
true source of the Great River. In view of the apparent incredulity of some
critics, it is thought expedient to lay this matter before the public in
connection with Captain Glazier's latest work, "Down the Great River,"
which gives a detailed account of his discovery, in order that a sound and
enlightened conclusion may be arrived at upon the merits of the claim
presented.
The following Appendix to "Down the Great River," by Captain Willard
Glazier, is here reproduced in verification of his claim to the discovery of
the true source of the Mississippi.
P. W. Ziegler & Co., Publishers.
720 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, May 10, 1889.
The publishers of Captain Willard Glazier's Works, having recently had
their attention drawn to sundry articles in the public prints calling in
question his claim to have located the source of the Mississippi, conclude to
invite the consideration of the reader to a few of the many press notices,
letters of endorsement and other papers placed at their disposal by friends
of the explorer, bearing directly upon the subject of the primal reservoir or
true source of the Great River. In view of the apparent incredulity of some
critics, it is thought expedient to lay this matter before the public in
connection with Captain Glazier's latest work, "Down the Great River,"
which gives a detailed account of his discovery, in order that a sound and
enlightened conclusion may be arrived at upon the merits of the claim
presented.
Page 549
I. LETTERS FROM BARRETT CHANNING
PAINE.
We commence with the press correspondence of Mr. Barrett Channing
Paine, who, at the period of the Glazier expedition, was a reporter on the
staff of the Saint Paul Pioneer Press, and subsequently Managing Editor of
the Saint Paul Globe. This gentleman accompanied Captain Glazier to the
source of the Mississippi, and thence down the river in a canoe to the Gulf
of Mexico. During the entire voyage Mr. Paine was in constant
correspondence with the Pioneer Press and leading papers of various cities
on the banks of the Mississippi, to which he furnished detailed accounts of
the discovery and incidents of the journey. We present only a few of these
letters, selected from a large number, for the perusal of the reader. The
writer was certainly in a position to know the truth of the matters upon
which he so intelligently reports.
Letter to the Brainerd (Minnesota) Tribune from Channing Paine:
"Schoolcraft Island,
"Lake Itasca, Minnesota,
"July 22, 1881.
"To the Editor of the Tribune:
"Captain Glazier's party arrived at this much-talked-of lake last
evening, reaching the south-eastern arm by a three mile portage, and
then paddling down to the Island, where we encamped. We left Leech
Lake on the sixteenth, after cordial farewells with the gentlemen then at
the Agency, especially Mr. Nichols and Rev. Edwin Benedict, to whose
PAINE.
We commence with the press correspondence of Mr. Barrett Channing
Paine, who, at the period of the Glazier expedition, was a reporter on the
staff of the Saint Paul Pioneer Press, and subsequently Managing Editor of
the Saint Paul Globe. This gentleman accompanied Captain Glazier to the
source of the Mississippi, and thence down the river in a canoe to the Gulf
of Mexico. During the entire voyage Mr. Paine was in constant
correspondence with the Pioneer Press and leading papers of various cities
on the banks of the Mississippi, to which he furnished detailed accounts of
the discovery and incidents of the journey. We present only a few of these
letters, selected from a large number, for the perusal of the reader. The
writer was certainly in a position to know the truth of the matters upon
which he so intelligently reports.
Letter to the Brainerd (Minnesota) Tribune from Channing Paine:
"Schoolcraft Island,
"Lake Itasca, Minnesota,
"July 22, 1881.
"To the Editor of the Tribune:
"Captain Glazier's party arrived at this much-talked-of lake last
evening, reaching the south-eastern arm by a three mile portage, and
then paddling down to the Island, where we encamped. We left Leech
Lake on the sixteenth, after cordial farewells with the gentlemen then at
the Agency, especially Mr. Nichols and Rev. Edwin Benedict, to whose
Page 550
kindness we were greatly indebted. Launching our little fleet of canoes,
three in number, on the billowy surface of the lake, we started for our
first objective, Lake Itasca. After leaving Leech Lake our way lay up a
river called by the Indians Gabakauazeba. The river broadens out a
short distance from the lake, but narrows again and becomes tortuous
and full of snags. Passing safely through all these, we reached, late in
the afternoon, a fine lake nearly ten miles long, upon the shore of which
we encamped. Next morning we paddled to the upper end of the lake,
and were there introduced to our first real portage. Two miles and a half
over a very rough country—the hardest work we ever undertook—
brought us to another but smaller lake, and then, for five days, lakes and
portages followed each other in rapid succession, until at length the
waters of Itasca burst upon our view. The talk of our guides, coupled
with what we had heard at Leech Lake, had led Captain Glazier to the
conclusion that, whatever the source of the Mississippi might be, there
was reasonable ground for the belief that Lake Itasca was not. Chief
among the theories advanced by the Indian guides, one of whom,
Chenowagesic, had hunted and trapped for years at the headwaters of
this river, was that there existed a lake of good dimensions and wooded
shores above Itasca, which poured its waters into the so-called source,
and which was itself really the source of the Great River. They also
stated (correctly, as we afterwards learned) that the stream which flowed
from the lake spoken of by Paul Beaulieu as perhaps the source,
contributed much less water to the main stream at its confluence with it
than did the stream from Itasca. Resolved to explore the lake above
Itasca, the captain started with two canoes, next morning, from
Schoolcraft Island, and pushed up to the head of the lake.
Chenowagesic piloted us through the rushes with which this end of
three in number, on the billowy surface of the lake, we started for our
first objective, Lake Itasca. After leaving Leech Lake our way lay up a
river called by the Indians Gabakauazeba. The river broadens out a
short distance from the lake, but narrows again and becomes tortuous
and full of snags. Passing safely through all these, we reached, late in
the afternoon, a fine lake nearly ten miles long, upon the shore of which
we encamped. Next morning we paddled to the upper end of the lake,
and were there introduced to our first real portage. Two miles and a half
over a very rough country—the hardest work we ever undertook—
brought us to another but smaller lake, and then, for five days, lakes and
portages followed each other in rapid succession, until at length the
waters of Itasca burst upon our view. The talk of our guides, coupled
with what we had heard at Leech Lake, had led Captain Glazier to the
conclusion that, whatever the source of the Mississippi might be, there
was reasonable ground for the belief that Lake Itasca was not. Chief
among the theories advanced by the Indian guides, one of whom,
Chenowagesic, had hunted and trapped for years at the headwaters of
this river, was that there existed a lake of good dimensions and wooded
shores above Itasca, which poured its waters into the so-called source,
and which was itself really the source of the Great River. They also
stated (correctly, as we afterwards learned) that the stream which flowed
from the lake spoken of by Paul Beaulieu as perhaps the source,
contributed much less water to the main stream at its confluence with it
than did the stream from Itasca. Resolved to explore the lake above
Itasca, the captain started with two canoes, next morning, from
Schoolcraft Island, and pushed up to the head of the lake.
Chenowagesic piloted us through the rushes with which this end of
Page 551
Itasca is filled, and presently we found ourselves in a small but rapid
stream, up which we went, and after following its windings, paddled
again through some rushes, and then shot out upon the smooth surface
of a beautiful lake. This lake is about two miles long by a mile and a
half broad, and its shape is that of a heart. The shores are beautifully
wooded, and its waters are deep and clear. On its one promontory our
party landed. After exploring its shores, and first slaking our thirst at a
spring of ice-cold water which bubbled up near by, we were marshalled
in line, and Captain Glazier made a few remarks pertinent to the
discovery of the true source of the Father of Waters. After this six
volleys were fired in honor of the occasion, and then the question of a
name for the new lake arose. This being left for the party to decide, I
addressed my companions, and after alluding to the time, money and
energy expended by the leader of the expedition, proposed that it be
named Lake Glazier in his honor. This proposition was received with
applause and carried by acclamation, and it was further decided that the
name and date should be blazed on a pine tree which stood
conspicuously on the point. After this we re-embarked in our canoes and
returned to the Island."
In the following letter Channing Paine gives a further account of the
discovery of the head of the Great River:
"Douglas House,
"Aitkin, Minnesota,
"August 11, 1881.
"To the Editor—Saint Louis Globe-Democrat:
stream, up which we went, and after following its windings, paddled
again through some rushes, and then shot out upon the smooth surface
of a beautiful lake. This lake is about two miles long by a mile and a
half broad, and its shape is that of a heart. The shores are beautifully
wooded, and its waters are deep and clear. On its one promontory our
party landed. After exploring its shores, and first slaking our thirst at a
spring of ice-cold water which bubbled up near by, we were marshalled
in line, and Captain Glazier made a few remarks pertinent to the
discovery of the true source of the Father of Waters. After this six
volleys were fired in honor of the occasion, and then the question of a
name for the new lake arose. This being left for the party to decide, I
addressed my companions, and after alluding to the time, money and
energy expended by the leader of the expedition, proposed that it be
named Lake Glazier in his honor. This proposition was received with
applause and carried by acclamation, and it was further decided that the
name and date should be blazed on a pine tree which stood
conspicuously on the point. After this we re-embarked in our canoes and
returned to the Island."
In the following letter Channing Paine gives a further account of the
discovery of the head of the Great River:
"Douglas House,
"Aitkin, Minnesota,
"August 11, 1881.
"To the Editor—Saint Louis Globe-Democrat:
Page 552
"Lake Itasca, for many years, has been regarded, both by
geographical societies and map-makers, as well as by the public
generally, as the source of the grandest of rivers—the mighty
Mississippi. But geographical knowledge, like all other knowledge, is of
little consequence if it is not progressive, and in its history we have seen
the firmly-rooted beliefs of centuries torn up and tossed aside by the
explorations and reasoning of intrepid travellers, who, respecting truth
and facts more than mere theory, have accepted nothing without proof,
merely because others have so accepted it. This is the ground occupied
by Captain Willard Glazier in his explorations in search of the source of
the Mississippi.
"Starting for the headwaters of this great river in July last, he learned
that the dense forests which surround the source of the Father of Waters
were rarely penetrated by white men, or even by Indians, at any time
except in winter, when lakes and rivers were frozen up, and the whole
surface of the country covered with a mantle of snow.
"He also heard through the interpreter and Indian guides who
accompanied him that the aboriginal inhabitants of these primeval
forests did not regard Itasca as the source; but, while rejecting it,
differed among themselves as to what lake really was the fountain-head.
Some claimed that the stream from Itasca was not itself the main
stream, but flowed into the river proper some three miles below the
lake. The stream to which it was tributary, though narrower, was, they
claimed, deeper and swifter, bringing to the united streams more water
than the one from Lake Itasca.
"Others considered the Itascan stream as the main one, but spoke of
another lake, broad and beautiful, which lay above Itasca and poured its
clear waters into the accepted source through a small stream which
geographical societies and map-makers, as well as by the public
generally, as the source of the grandest of rivers—the mighty
Mississippi. But geographical knowledge, like all other knowledge, is of
little consequence if it is not progressive, and in its history we have seen
the firmly-rooted beliefs of centuries torn up and tossed aside by the
explorations and reasoning of intrepid travellers, who, respecting truth
and facts more than mere theory, have accepted nothing without proof,
merely because others have so accepted it. This is the ground occupied
by Captain Willard Glazier in his explorations in search of the source of
the Mississippi.
"Starting for the headwaters of this great river in July last, he learned
that the dense forests which surround the source of the Father of Waters
were rarely penetrated by white men, or even by Indians, at any time
except in winter, when lakes and rivers were frozen up, and the whole
surface of the country covered with a mantle of snow.
"He also heard through the interpreter and Indian guides who
accompanied him that the aboriginal inhabitants of these primeval
forests did not regard Itasca as the source; but, while rejecting it,
differed among themselves as to what lake really was the fountain-head.
Some claimed that the stream from Itasca was not itself the main
stream, but flowed into the river proper some three miles below the
lake. The stream to which it was tributary, though narrower, was, they
claimed, deeper and swifter, bringing to the united streams more water
than the one from Lake Itasca.
"Others considered the Itascan stream as the main one, but spoke of
another lake, broad and beautiful, which lay above Itasca and poured its
clear waters into the accepted source through a small stream which
Page 553
entered the southern arm of Lake Itasca. Captain Glazier determined to
thoroughly examine all this region, and to settle definitely and forever
the true source of the Mississippi.
"Acting in accordance with this resolution, he pushed on toward
Itasca, intending to make it a starting-point for further exploration.
Reaching this objective point after innumerable hardships, he camped
on Schoolcraft Island, and after a day of rest directed operations toward
the lakes and streams of the surrounding country.
"Thoroughly surveying the stream that the Indians claimed to be the
main one, he found it much inferior in volume to that from Itasca. This
point settled, he closely examined the shores of Lake Itasca for tributary
streams, finding but three of any importance. Of these three the one by
far the largest came in at the extreme head of the lake, at a point where
it is nearly filled with bulrushes.
"Taking two canoes, Captain Glazier ascended this stream, which,
though shallow, is rapid, yet so narrow in places that to jump across it
would be an easy task. Following its windings, he entered what
appeared to be a lake filled with rushes. Pushing through this barrier,
however, the canoes soon glided out upon the still surface of a beautiful
lake, clear as crystal, with pebbly bottom, and its shores covered with a
thick growth of pine. This lake is formed in the shape of a heart, having
but one marked promontory. Its greatest length is about two miles and
its width a mile and a half.
"Captain Glazier found that this fine lake was fed by three rivulets,
which rose in swamps a few miles from the lake, and thoroughly
convinced that this body of water was the true source of the Mississippi,
he proclaimed it as such. Without waiting for discussion, the members
of the party decided unanimously to call it Lake Glazier in his honor.
thoroughly examine all this region, and to settle definitely and forever
the true source of the Mississippi.
"Acting in accordance with this resolution, he pushed on toward
Itasca, intending to make it a starting-point for further exploration.
Reaching this objective point after innumerable hardships, he camped
on Schoolcraft Island, and after a day of rest directed operations toward
the lakes and streams of the surrounding country.
"Thoroughly surveying the stream that the Indians claimed to be the
main one, he found it much inferior in volume to that from Itasca. This
point settled, he closely examined the shores of Lake Itasca for tributary
streams, finding but three of any importance. Of these three the one by
far the largest came in at the extreme head of the lake, at a point where
it is nearly filled with bulrushes.
"Taking two canoes, Captain Glazier ascended this stream, which,
though shallow, is rapid, yet so narrow in places that to jump across it
would be an easy task. Following its windings, he entered what
appeared to be a lake filled with rushes. Pushing through this barrier,
however, the canoes soon glided out upon the still surface of a beautiful
lake, clear as crystal, with pebbly bottom, and its shores covered with a
thick growth of pine. This lake is formed in the shape of a heart, having
but one marked promontory. Its greatest length is about two miles and
its width a mile and a half.
"Captain Glazier found that this fine lake was fed by three rivulets,
which rose in swamps a few miles from the lake, and thoroughly
convinced that this body of water was the true source of the Mississippi,
he proclaimed it as such. Without waiting for discussion, the members
of the party decided unanimously to call it Lake Glazier in his honor.
Page 554
Modestly expressing his thanks for this mark of their appreciation,
Captain Glazier said that, though he firmly believed this lake to be the
source of the river, he should relax none of his vigilance on the trip
through the unknown part of the stream, but would carefully examine
all water flowing into the Mississippi, in order to be positive as to the
main stream."
On reaching Hastings, Captain Glazier and his fellow-voyagers were
hospitably entertained by some of the leading citizens and Mr. Paine
addressed the following letter to the Editor of the Hastings Gazette:
"Foster House,
"Hastings, Minnesota,
"September 5, 1881.
"To the Editor of the Gazette:
"For many years the source of the Mississippi was as much a mystery
as is at present that of the Nile. But when in 1832 Schoolcraft made his
official exploration of the headwaters of this great water-course, and
after a long and arduous journey up the stream reached a lake which he
named Itasca, and pronounced it the head of the river, the matter was
considered settled, and speculation was no longer rife in regard to this
point. Now, however, it has been proved by Captain Willard Glazier
beyond doubt that the lake which has so long enjoyed the honor of
being the source of our greatest river had an honor it did not merit.
"Going thither with the object of visiting the head of the river,
Captain Glazier was led to suspect by the talk of his guides, one of
whom, Chenowagesic, had hunted and trapped for years in the region
around the source, that Lake Itasca had really no greater claim to be
Captain Glazier said that, though he firmly believed this lake to be the
source of the river, he should relax none of his vigilance on the trip
through the unknown part of the stream, but would carefully examine
all water flowing into the Mississippi, in order to be positive as to the
main stream."
On reaching Hastings, Captain Glazier and his fellow-voyagers were
hospitably entertained by some of the leading citizens and Mr. Paine
addressed the following letter to the Editor of the Hastings Gazette:
"Foster House,
"Hastings, Minnesota,
"September 5, 1881.
"To the Editor of the Gazette:
"For many years the source of the Mississippi was as much a mystery
as is at present that of the Nile. But when in 1832 Schoolcraft made his
official exploration of the headwaters of this great water-course, and
after a long and arduous journey up the stream reached a lake which he
named Itasca, and pronounced it the head of the river, the matter was
considered settled, and speculation was no longer rife in regard to this
point. Now, however, it has been proved by Captain Willard Glazier
beyond doubt that the lake which has so long enjoyed the honor of
being the source of our greatest river had an honor it did not merit.
"Going thither with the object of visiting the head of the river,
Captain Glazier was led to suspect by the talk of his guides, one of
whom, Chenowagesic, had hunted and trapped for years in the region
around the source, that Lake Itasca had really no greater claim to be
Page 555
considered the head of the river than Cass Lake, or Bemidji or
Winnibegoshish, all larger and finer lakes than Itasca. Above and
beyond Itasca lay another lake. This, with its feeding springs, was the
source of the mighty river, and this lake, if it existed, Captain Glazier
resolved to visit and explore. After a long and severe journey he reached
it, being the first white traveller to float upon its surface; and after
thoroughly examining its feeders and the narrow stream through which
it flowed into Itasca, he felt that he had found the true source of the
Mississippi. Nevertheless, he continued his explorations along the river
below Itasca after passing through that lake, and satisfied himself
thoroughly that the new lake was at the head of the main stream. In
speaking of the source of the Mississippi, therefore, we should
henceforth call it Lake Glazier instead of Lake Itasca."
The following description of Lake Glazier from the pen of Channing
Paine appeared in the Dubuque Herald of September sixth, 1881:
Lake Glazier.
"The new-found source of the Mississippi is a sparkling little gem of
a lake, situated above and beyond Lake Itasca. It nestles among the
pines of an unfrequented and wild region of Northern Minnesota, many
miles from the nearest white settlement, and just on the dividing ridge
which forms the great watershed of North America. Within a few miles
of it can be found lakes and streams, whose waters are tributary to the
Red River of the North and the Yellowstone, thus reaching the sea
thousands of miles from the mouth of the mighty Mississippi, which
flows in a limpid brook from Lake Glazier. This lake, discovered to be
the source of one of the greatest rivers of the world, by Captain Willard
Glazier, on the Twenty-second of July, 1881, is about two miles in
Winnibegoshish, all larger and finer lakes than Itasca. Above and
beyond Itasca lay another lake. This, with its feeding springs, was the
source of the mighty river, and this lake, if it existed, Captain Glazier
resolved to visit and explore. After a long and severe journey he reached
it, being the first white traveller to float upon its surface; and after
thoroughly examining its feeders and the narrow stream through which
it flowed into Itasca, he felt that he had found the true source of the
Mississippi. Nevertheless, he continued his explorations along the river
below Itasca after passing through that lake, and satisfied himself
thoroughly that the new lake was at the head of the main stream. In
speaking of the source of the Mississippi, therefore, we should
henceforth call it Lake Glazier instead of Lake Itasca."
The following description of Lake Glazier from the pen of Channing
Paine appeared in the Dubuque Herald of September sixth, 1881:
Lake Glazier.
"The new-found source of the Mississippi is a sparkling little gem of
a lake, situated above and beyond Lake Itasca. It nestles among the
pines of an unfrequented and wild region of Northern Minnesota, many
miles from the nearest white settlement, and just on the dividing ridge
which forms the great watershed of North America. Within a few miles
of it can be found lakes and streams, whose waters are tributary to the
Red River of the North and the Yellowstone, thus reaching the sea
thousands of miles from the mouth of the mighty Mississippi, which
flows in a limpid brook from Lake Glazier. This lake, discovered to be
the source of one of the greatest rivers of the world, by Captain Willard
Glazier, on the Twenty-second of July, 1881, is about two miles in
Page 556
greatest diameter, and would be nearly round in shape but for a single
promontory, whose rocky shores give it in outline the form of a heart.
The waters of the lake are exceedingly clear and pure, coming from
springs, some being at the bottom, but the three most prominent rise a
few miles back, in low, wet land enclosed by sand-hills, and flow into
the lake in little rills. On the very point of the promontory is a spring
whose waters are as cold as ice, and at which the Glazier party slaked
their thirst while exploring the shores of the new lake. So lonely is the
region around the lake that for fourteen days not even a red-skin was
seen, and wearied by the hardships of this rough country, yet with a
feeling of having added something to geographical knowledge, the
Captain and his party were glad to return to civilization."
The Saint Louis Post-Dispatch published the following, with several
other communications, from Mr. Paine:
"1310 Olive Street,
"Saint Louis, Missouri,
"October 10, 1881.
"To the Editor—Post-Dispatch:
"Lake Itasca has been considered to be the source of the Mississippi
for so many years that any man who disputes its title to that honor is
looked upon as a radical and one bent upon upsetting all our
preconceived geographical ideas. Still it is a fact that Lake Itasca is not
the source, and has no greater claim to being called so than has Cass
Lake or Lake Bemidji or Lake Pepin. This fact was discovered beyond
all doubt by Captain Willard Glazier, who equipped an expedition last
July and started for the headwaters of the Mississippi. Reaching Lake
promontory, whose rocky shores give it in outline the form of a heart.
The waters of the lake are exceedingly clear and pure, coming from
springs, some being at the bottom, but the three most prominent rise a
few miles back, in low, wet land enclosed by sand-hills, and flow into
the lake in little rills. On the very point of the promontory is a spring
whose waters are as cold as ice, and at which the Glazier party slaked
their thirst while exploring the shores of the new lake. So lonely is the
region around the lake that for fourteen days not even a red-skin was
seen, and wearied by the hardships of this rough country, yet with a
feeling of having added something to geographical knowledge, the
Captain and his party were glad to return to civilization."
The Saint Louis Post-Dispatch published the following, with several
other communications, from Mr. Paine:
"1310 Olive Street,
"Saint Louis, Missouri,
"October 10, 1881.
"To the Editor—Post-Dispatch:
"Lake Itasca has been considered to be the source of the Mississippi
for so many years that any man who disputes its title to that honor is
looked upon as a radical and one bent upon upsetting all our
preconceived geographical ideas. Still it is a fact that Lake Itasca is not
the source, and has no greater claim to being called so than has Cass
Lake or Lake Bemidji or Lake Pepin. This fact was discovered beyond
all doubt by Captain Willard Glazier, who equipped an expedition last
July and started for the headwaters of the Mississippi. Reaching Lake
Page 557
Itasca after a journey of great hardship, he camped on Schoolcraft
Island, and, using this as a base of operations, he thoroughly explored
the lakes and rivers which contribute their waters to the infant
Mississippi. The various theories and stories heard from his Indian
guides were considered as clues and faithfully followed up until their
truth or falsity was ascertained. Success at length crowned his efforts,
for a beautiful lake was found above Itasca, and in the direct line of the
course of the river below Itasca, which lake proved to be the farthest
water—the extreme head of the Mississippi. The lake, which the
members of the expedition voted to call Lake Glazier, in honor of their
leader, is about two miles in diameter, with clear and beautiful water,
fed by springs, and altogether one of the prettiest lakes of its size in
Minnesota. The stream which flows from it into Itasca is quite rapid,
though so narrow that in some places one can easily jump across it."
The following account of an interview with Mr. Paine is extracted from
the New Orleans Democrat of November twentieth, 1881:
"There arrived at the Jetties on the fifteenth a tiny cedar canoe,
bearing aloft at the bows a pennant with the inscription Alice, and at the
stern a United States flag. Its officers and crew consisted of Captain
Willard Glazier, a distinguished writer, and a reportorial companion,
Mr. Barrett Channing Paine, of the Saint Paul Pioneer Press, who had
come all the way down the Mississippi, from its source, in this frail
bark. Great, indeed, was the joy of the voyagers as they glided down to
the mouth of the river, and saw the salt spray of the Gulf dash high over
the seaward wall of the Jetties. After clambering up by the beacon, and
standing gazing at the broad expanse of water, toward which they had
been paddling for the last four months, until they were drenched by an
Island, and, using this as a base of operations, he thoroughly explored
the lakes and rivers which contribute their waters to the infant
Mississippi. The various theories and stories heard from his Indian
guides were considered as clues and faithfully followed up until their
truth or falsity was ascertained. Success at length crowned his efforts,
for a beautiful lake was found above Itasca, and in the direct line of the
course of the river below Itasca, which lake proved to be the farthest
water—the extreme head of the Mississippi. The lake, which the
members of the expedition voted to call Lake Glazier, in honor of their
leader, is about two miles in diameter, with clear and beautiful water,
fed by springs, and altogether one of the prettiest lakes of its size in
Minnesota. The stream which flows from it into Itasca is quite rapid,
though so narrow that in some places one can easily jump across it."
The following account of an interview with Mr. Paine is extracted from
the New Orleans Democrat of November twentieth, 1881:
"There arrived at the Jetties on the fifteenth a tiny cedar canoe,
bearing aloft at the bows a pennant with the inscription Alice, and at the
stern a United States flag. Its officers and crew consisted of Captain
Willard Glazier, a distinguished writer, and a reportorial companion,
Mr. Barrett Channing Paine, of the Saint Paul Pioneer Press, who had
come all the way down the Mississippi, from its source, in this frail
bark. Great, indeed, was the joy of the voyagers as they glided down to
the mouth of the river, and saw the salt spray of the Gulf dash high over
the seaward wall of the Jetties. After clambering up by the beacon, and
standing gazing at the broad expanse of water, toward which they had
been paddling for the last four months, until they were drenched by an
Page 558
unusually heavy wave, the two men again descended slowly, scarcely
conscious that their long voyage was finished. Hailing a passing boat,
they boarded her, and the light canoe was made fast behind and towed
back to Port Eads, where the travellers were most hospitably entertained
until the arrival of an inward bound steamship to bring them to New
Orleans.
"As this is by far the longest canoe voyage ever made, and extended
the whole length of the Great River, some account of the expedition, its
aims and incidents, cannot fail to be of interest.
"A representative of the Democrat had the pleasure of meeting
Barrett Channing Paine, who accompanied Captain Glazier, and from
him learned the following particulars of the voyage:
"Captain Willard Glazier is a serious, soldierly-looking man, and a
military author of repute. Among his best known works are 'Soldiers of
the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape,' 'Battles for the Union,'
'Heroes of Three Wars,' and 'Peculiarities of American Cities.' The
Captain does not look like a man of thoughtless, adventurous
disposition, and it seems strange at first that he should have made the
voyage in the manner he did; but it looks sensible enough when his
reasons are taken into consideration. The Captain made the trip
avowedly for the purpose of study and observation, as he did his
horseback ride across the continent, from Boston to San Francisco, in
1876. He wished to thoroughly understand the people of the great
valley, their social conditions, industries and modes of life. He also
expected to obtain much enjoyment from the changing scenery and
climate. Had he travelled by steamboat or railway, he would have been
whisked through the country in a week or so, and would have had
absolutely no opportunity for obtaining an inside view of the condition
conscious that their long voyage was finished. Hailing a passing boat,
they boarded her, and the light canoe was made fast behind and towed
back to Port Eads, where the travellers were most hospitably entertained
until the arrival of an inward bound steamship to bring them to New
Orleans.
"As this is by far the longest canoe voyage ever made, and extended
the whole length of the Great River, some account of the expedition, its
aims and incidents, cannot fail to be of interest.
"A representative of the Democrat had the pleasure of meeting
Barrett Channing Paine, who accompanied Captain Glazier, and from
him learned the following particulars of the voyage:
"Captain Willard Glazier is a serious, soldierly-looking man, and a
military author of repute. Among his best known works are 'Soldiers of
the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape,' 'Battles for the Union,'
'Heroes of Three Wars,' and 'Peculiarities of American Cities.' The
Captain does not look like a man of thoughtless, adventurous
disposition, and it seems strange at first that he should have made the
voyage in the manner he did; but it looks sensible enough when his
reasons are taken into consideration. The Captain made the trip
avowedly for the purpose of study and observation, as he did his
horseback ride across the continent, from Boston to San Francisco, in
1876. He wished to thoroughly understand the people of the great
valley, their social conditions, industries and modes of life. He also
expected to obtain much enjoyment from the changing scenery and
climate. Had he travelled by steamboat or railway, he would have been
whisked through the country in a week or so, and would have had
absolutely no opportunity for obtaining an inside view of the condition
Page 559
of affairs. In addition to seeing the country, the Captain designed
delivering a lecture prepared specially for the purpose on the 'Pioneers
of the Mississippi,' in all the important towns on his route. The lecture
treated chiefly of the early explorers—De Soto, Marquette, La Salle,
and Hennepin.
"Actuated by these motives, he procured a fine cedar canoe of the
Rushton model, which he shipped to Aitkin, the most northerly point on
the river reached by rail. He then went forward, himself, to Saint Paul,
accompanied by his brother, where he was joined by his present
companion, and there made final preparations for the long voyage.
"At Brainerd the party left the line of the Northern Pacific Railroad,
and proceeded by wagon over a road, which was hardly more than a
trail, to Leech Lake, where the Government has an Indian Agency. The
country traversed was exceedingly wild, being almost without
inhabitants, and covered with a growth of jack-pines. It being the
blueberry season, quite a number of Indians were seen picking that fruit,
which grows there in abundance. As a rule the braves lay in the shade,
smoking or sleeping, while the squaws and children did the picking. At
night they found a stopping-place at Pine River, and the following
afternoon arrived at the Agency, where there are two trading-posts and a
number of white men.
"Here three birch-bark canoes were purchased, and the services of an
equal number of Indian guides procured, one of whom also acted in the
capacity of interpreter. All of these were required to reach the source of
the river, which was a matter of great difficulty and some danger. Lake
Itasca, which was then supposed by most people to be the source of the
Mississippi, lay five days' journey away, through an almost impassable
wilderness. Indeed, it was well-nigh impossible to find even an Indian
delivering a lecture prepared specially for the purpose on the 'Pioneers
of the Mississippi,' in all the important towns on his route. The lecture
treated chiefly of the early explorers—De Soto, Marquette, La Salle,
and Hennepin.
"Actuated by these motives, he procured a fine cedar canoe of the
Rushton model, which he shipped to Aitkin, the most northerly point on
the river reached by rail. He then went forward, himself, to Saint Paul,
accompanied by his brother, where he was joined by his present
companion, and there made final preparations for the long voyage.
"At Brainerd the party left the line of the Northern Pacific Railroad,
and proceeded by wagon over a road, which was hardly more than a
trail, to Leech Lake, where the Government has an Indian Agency. The
country traversed was exceedingly wild, being almost without
inhabitants, and covered with a growth of jack-pines. It being the
blueberry season, quite a number of Indians were seen picking that fruit,
which grows there in abundance. As a rule the braves lay in the shade,
smoking or sleeping, while the squaws and children did the picking. At
night they found a stopping-place at Pine River, and the following
afternoon arrived at the Agency, where there are two trading-posts and a
number of white men.
"Here three birch-bark canoes were purchased, and the services of an
equal number of Indian guides procured, one of whom also acted in the
capacity of interpreter. All of these were required to reach the source of
the river, which was a matter of great difficulty and some danger. Lake
Itasca, which was then supposed by most people to be the source of the
Mississippi, lay five days' journey away, through an almost impassable
wilderness. Indeed, it was well-nigh impossible to find even an Indian
Page 560
who had visited it. But at last one was found in the person of
Chenowagesic, a Chippewa brave, who consented to pilot the party to
that lake.
"On July seventeenth everything was in readiness, the three birch
canoes were launched on Leech Lake, and the voyage had fairly
commenced. After crossing Leech Lake the voyagers pushed up the
Gabecanazeba River, which was filled with rushes and wild rice.
Laboriously paddling through these, they reached another lake, and
encamped for the night. Next morning this lake was crossed, and the
first real hardship of the expedition confronted them in the shape of a
portage. The provisions and luggage were taken out of the canoes and
transported on the backs of the Indians across the country, a distance of
three miles, through underbrush so thick that they could not see ten feet
in advance. Five days were spent in this manner—first paddling across a
little lake, and then making a long portage, until at last Lake Itasca was
reached, and the party encamped on Schoolcraft Island. By this time the
Captain felt convinced from the talk of the guides, particularly of
Chenowagesic, the chief guide, whose words were translated to him,
that Itasca was not the source of the Great River.
"Determined to ascertain the truth, he proceeded at once to make a
thorough exploration of the headwaters of the river, guided in a great
measure by Chenowagesic, who had hunted and trapped for years in this
region. Various streams joining the infant Mississippi were examined,
and found to contain less water than that stream, thus establishing the
fact that Itasca is on the main stream. Then a thorough exploration of
the shores of the lake itself was made. Several creeks were found to
enter it, the chief of which came in at the southern end of the south-
western arm of the lake. Itasca, at this point, is filled with bulrushes,
Chenowagesic, a Chippewa brave, who consented to pilot the party to
that lake.
"On July seventeenth everything was in readiness, the three birch
canoes were launched on Leech Lake, and the voyage had fairly
commenced. After crossing Leech Lake the voyagers pushed up the
Gabecanazeba River, which was filled with rushes and wild rice.
Laboriously paddling through these, they reached another lake, and
encamped for the night. Next morning this lake was crossed, and the
first real hardship of the expedition confronted them in the shape of a
portage. The provisions and luggage were taken out of the canoes and
transported on the backs of the Indians across the country, a distance of
three miles, through underbrush so thick that they could not see ten feet
in advance. Five days were spent in this manner—first paddling across a
little lake, and then making a long portage, until at last Lake Itasca was
reached, and the party encamped on Schoolcraft Island. By this time the
Captain felt convinced from the talk of the guides, particularly of
Chenowagesic, the chief guide, whose words were translated to him,
that Itasca was not the source of the Great River.
"Determined to ascertain the truth, he proceeded at once to make a
thorough exploration of the headwaters of the river, guided in a great
measure by Chenowagesic, who had hunted and trapped for years in this
region. Various streams joining the infant Mississippi were examined,
and found to contain less water than that stream, thus establishing the
fact that Itasca is on the main stream. Then a thorough exploration of
the shores of the lake itself was made. Several creeks were found to
enter it, the chief of which came in at the southern end of the south-
western arm of the lake. Itasca, at this point, is filled with bulrushes,
Page 561
through which, with great difficulty, the explorers forced their way, but
were rewarded by finding themselves in a clear, swift-running stream,
having an average depth of about ten or twelve inches, and a width of
about five feet. Up this tortuous stream the canoes were pushed and
dragged, and finally the voyagers shot out upon the surface of a
beautiful heart-shaped lake, which proved, upon careful exploration, to
be the true source of the Father of Waters. After examining the shores,
the party landed on a rocky point, and Captain Glazier made a short
speech, expressing his confident belief that they had found the true
source of the Great River, and added something to the geographical
knowledge of the country. He was followed by Mr. Paine, who, after a
few introductory remarks, moved that the new lake be called Lake
Glazier, in honor of the man by whom it had been discovered. This
motion was adopted by the Captain's companions, and after drinking
from a spring of ice-cold water which bubbled up at their feet, the party
re-embarked. Lake Glazier is about two miles in greatest diameter, with
clear, deep waters and wooded shores, being altogether a prettier lake
than Itasca and both wider and deeper, to whose honors, as source of the
mighty Mississippi, it succeeds.
"Reporter.—Then which way did you proceed?"
"Mr. Paine.—From Lake Glazier the descent of the river began.
Below Itasca it runs in a northerly direction for a hundred miles or
more, and then swings round to the eastward, finally bending toward the
south, which general direction it afterwards maintains. For the first few
miles it runs between rich meadows, and the canoeists expected from
this that the voyage would be easy and agreeable. Such was not our
fortune, however, for we soon found the river to be obstructed by snags,
drift-wood and boulders of all sizes. Huge trees had in many places
were rewarded by finding themselves in a clear, swift-running stream,
having an average depth of about ten or twelve inches, and a width of
about five feet. Up this tortuous stream the canoes were pushed and
dragged, and finally the voyagers shot out upon the surface of a
beautiful heart-shaped lake, which proved, upon careful exploration, to
be the true source of the Father of Waters. After examining the shores,
the party landed on a rocky point, and Captain Glazier made a short
speech, expressing his confident belief that they had found the true
source of the Great River, and added something to the geographical
knowledge of the country. He was followed by Mr. Paine, who, after a
few introductory remarks, moved that the new lake be called Lake
Glazier, in honor of the man by whom it had been discovered. This
motion was adopted by the Captain's companions, and after drinking
from a spring of ice-cold water which bubbled up at their feet, the party
re-embarked. Lake Glazier is about two miles in greatest diameter, with
clear, deep waters and wooded shores, being altogether a prettier lake
than Itasca and both wider and deeper, to whose honors, as source of the
mighty Mississippi, it succeeds.
"Reporter.—Then which way did you proceed?"
"Mr. Paine.—From Lake Glazier the descent of the river began.
Below Itasca it runs in a northerly direction for a hundred miles or
more, and then swings round to the eastward, finally bending toward the
south, which general direction it afterwards maintains. For the first few
miles it runs between rich meadows, and the canoeists expected from
this that the voyage would be easy and agreeable. Such was not our
fortune, however, for we soon found the river to be obstructed by snags,
drift-wood and boulders of all sizes. Huge trees had in many places
Page 562
fallen completely across the river. These obstacles were surmounted in
different ways. Sometimes the canoes could be pressed down and made
to go under the logs; again, they would have to be carried around;
sometimes the drift would be removed, and sometimes the canoes
would be lifted over. At last they had to be carried across a portage for
half a mile, then launched again, until at length the obstructions were
passed. Meanwhile, and all through the journey, the mosquitoes hovered
around us in clouds, making life a burden, and causing all the members
of the expedition to forget their early Christian training.
"Leaving the obstructions behind, we sped smoothly between the
waving meadows once more lining the river. But a new hardship now
threatened us—our rations gave out entirely, and most of the
ammunition having become wet, starvation stared us in the face. To buy
anything in that wild country was, of course, impossible. This danger
was barely averted by the marksmanship of our leader, and the dexterity
of the Indian guides, who would occasionally kill a duck with their
paddles. We got down at last to 'hard pan,' and had gone without any
breakfast or supper the day we reached Lake Bemidji. Here we were
lucky enough to meet an Indian, who had a little flour and pork, and
having replenished our larder, we crossed the lake and continued our
course down the river.
"A new danger now beset us in the shape of rapids which would
occur every few miles, rendering canoe navigation extremely
hazardous. Several times holes were stove in the thin birchen canoes,
and a number of times we were precipitated into the water, but no one
was dangerously hurt, and the guides were very deft in repairing the
canoes.
different ways. Sometimes the canoes could be pressed down and made
to go under the logs; again, they would have to be carried around;
sometimes the drift would be removed, and sometimes the canoes
would be lifted over. At last they had to be carried across a portage for
half a mile, then launched again, until at length the obstructions were
passed. Meanwhile, and all through the journey, the mosquitoes hovered
around us in clouds, making life a burden, and causing all the members
of the expedition to forget their early Christian training.
"Leaving the obstructions behind, we sped smoothly between the
waving meadows once more lining the river. But a new hardship now
threatened us—our rations gave out entirely, and most of the
ammunition having become wet, starvation stared us in the face. To buy
anything in that wild country was, of course, impossible. This danger
was barely averted by the marksmanship of our leader, and the dexterity
of the Indian guides, who would occasionally kill a duck with their
paddles. We got down at last to 'hard pan,' and had gone without any
breakfast or supper the day we reached Lake Bemidji. Here we were
lucky enough to meet an Indian, who had a little flour and pork, and
having replenished our larder, we crossed the lake and continued our
course down the river.
"A new danger now beset us in the shape of rapids which would
occur every few miles, rendering canoe navigation extremely
hazardous. Several times holes were stove in the thin birchen canoes,
and a number of times we were precipitated into the water, but no one
was dangerously hurt, and the guides were very deft in repairing the
canoes.
Page 563
"A half-day's journey from Lake Bemidji is Cass Lake, a fine sheet of
water, twenty miles in length by ten wide. The next day,
Winnibegoshish, the largest lake of the Mississippi, was reached. It is
twenty miles in diameter, and greeted us with a heavy sea, which nearly
swamped us as we paddled across the corner to a few scattered
wigwams which form the little Indian village on its banks. Two days we
were wind-bound, getting away on the morning of the third. That night
our camp was invaded by a number of hostile Indians, but, owing to our
vigilance, bloodshed was avoided.
"In three days more Pokegama Falls were reached, and we saw the
first white man since leaving Leech Lake. Making a portage around the
falls, we shot Grand Rapids a few miles below, and slept that night
beneath the shelter of a roof. Nothing worthy of mention occurred
between this point and Aitkin, which we reached in four days, and at
last found ourselves within the bounds of civilization, and bade farewell
to our Indian guides. Captain Glazier tried to induce these dusky sons of
the forest to accompany him to the Gulf, but the stories they had heard
of the alligators and snakes of the Sunny South terrified them, and they
refused. A short rest was taken at Aitkin, and then we re-embarked in
the pretty modern canoes which awaited us there. The descent of the
river in these canoes was easy and pleasant. At all the principal towns
the Captain delivered his lecture, 'Pioneers of the Mississippi,' which
was listened to with great interest.
"Between Aitkin and Saint Paul numerous and dangerous rapids were
met, all of which were shot in safety; and the Falls of Saint Anthony
reached without accident. Below Saint Anthony Falls the scenery is
very beautiful, high bluffs arising with more or less abruptness from the
water's edge.
water, twenty miles in length by ten wide. The next day,
Winnibegoshish, the largest lake of the Mississippi, was reached. It is
twenty miles in diameter, and greeted us with a heavy sea, which nearly
swamped us as we paddled across the corner to a few scattered
wigwams which form the little Indian village on its banks. Two days we
were wind-bound, getting away on the morning of the third. That night
our camp was invaded by a number of hostile Indians, but, owing to our
vigilance, bloodshed was avoided.
"In three days more Pokegama Falls were reached, and we saw the
first white man since leaving Leech Lake. Making a portage around the
falls, we shot Grand Rapids a few miles below, and slept that night
beneath the shelter of a roof. Nothing worthy of mention occurred
between this point and Aitkin, which we reached in four days, and at
last found ourselves within the bounds of civilization, and bade farewell
to our Indian guides. Captain Glazier tried to induce these dusky sons of
the forest to accompany him to the Gulf, but the stories they had heard
of the alligators and snakes of the Sunny South terrified them, and they
refused. A short rest was taken at Aitkin, and then we re-embarked in
the pretty modern canoes which awaited us there. The descent of the
river in these canoes was easy and pleasant. At all the principal towns
the Captain delivered his lecture, 'Pioneers of the Mississippi,' which
was listened to with great interest.
"Between Aitkin and Saint Paul numerous and dangerous rapids were
met, all of which were shot in safety; and the Falls of Saint Anthony
reached without accident. Below Saint Anthony Falls the scenery is
very beautiful, high bluffs arising with more or less abruptness from the
water's edge.
Page 564
"Among other points of especial interest along the Upper Mississippi,
Lake Pepin occupies the most prominent position after Saint Anthony
Falls. Environed by majestic bluffs and with a length of thirty miles it
forms a very beautiful sheet of water. But though beautiful it is
treacherous, and the winds sweeping down between the high bluffs
frequently make navigation on its waters perilous. In the morning when
we reached its upper end we found to our dismay that the elements had
possession, and the waves ran so high that a number of river steamers
had been compelled to tie up and wait for the storm to subside. Captain
Glazier, however, having a lecture appointment at Lake City, half way
down the lake, determined to keep his appointment despite the weather,
and ventured forth regardless of the warning of the river men. It took us
all day to paddle a distance of sixteen miles, and many times it seemed
that our frail boats would be engulfed by the waves which dashed over
them; but the danger was passed in safety.
"From this point things went smoothly until the canoe fleet was just
below Winona, when a sudden and violent squall struck the boats and
came near sending us to the bottom. Fortunately, this too was
weathered, and then the only drawbacks encountered were the
continuous and strong headwinds and the seas consequent upon them,
which tried our nerves so frequently that they came at length to be
naturally expected. While on the Keokuk Rapids the wind blew so
strongly that it actually carried the boats up stream, and it was only by
the hardest paddling that any downward progress could be made.
"At La Crosse the expedition was reduced in number to the Captain
and myself, who proceeded to the Gulf in the Alice. Some days were
spent in all the principal towns. On October eighth Saint Louis was
reached, and we were welcomed by the various boat-clubs of the city
Lake Pepin occupies the most prominent position after Saint Anthony
Falls. Environed by majestic bluffs and with a length of thirty miles it
forms a very beautiful sheet of water. But though beautiful it is
treacherous, and the winds sweeping down between the high bluffs
frequently make navigation on its waters perilous. In the morning when
we reached its upper end we found to our dismay that the elements had
possession, and the waves ran so high that a number of river steamers
had been compelled to tie up and wait for the storm to subside. Captain
Glazier, however, having a lecture appointment at Lake City, half way
down the lake, determined to keep his appointment despite the weather,
and ventured forth regardless of the warning of the river men. It took us
all day to paddle a distance of sixteen miles, and many times it seemed
that our frail boats would be engulfed by the waves which dashed over
them; but the danger was passed in safety.
"From this point things went smoothly until the canoe fleet was just
below Winona, when a sudden and violent squall struck the boats and
came near sending us to the bottom. Fortunately, this too was
weathered, and then the only drawbacks encountered were the
continuous and strong headwinds and the seas consequent upon them,
which tried our nerves so frequently that they came at length to be
naturally expected. While on the Keokuk Rapids the wind blew so
strongly that it actually carried the boats up stream, and it was only by
the hardest paddling that any downward progress could be made.
"At La Crosse the expedition was reduced in number to the Captain
and myself, who proceeded to the Gulf in the Alice. Some days were
spent in all the principal towns. On October eighth Saint Louis was
reached, and we were welcomed by the various boat-clubs of the city
Page 565
and congratulated on having completed the first great section of the
navigable river. On October tenth we re-embarked and pushed on
towards the mouth of the river. Everywhere we were received with the
greatest cordiality. Cairo, Memphis, Vicksburg, Natchez and Baton
Rouge were the chief halting places, but frequently night overtook us
near some plantation house, and then we were the guests of the planters,
and were entertained with true Southern hospitality.
"Special occasion was taken by Captain Glazier to investigate the
cotton and sugar crops, the relations of the white and colored races, and
the future possibilities of the South; and with very gratifying results. At
last New Orleans was reached.
"As it was so near his journey's end, and as it was his intention to
return as soon as he had passed through the Jetties, the Captain
determined to pass the city on his downward trip without halting. This
was accordingly done, and three days' paddling brought us to Captain
Eads' great work. Remaining there a day we returned to the city.
"Thus far Mr. Paine; and thus ended the longest canoe voyage ever
made, and one which perhaps entailed more hardships on those who
made it than any other on record. Starting from the cold springs at its
source Captain Glazier followed the windings of the greatest river on
our continent from the pine forests and the wheat lands of the extreme
Northern States, through all the varying phases of climate and
industries, to the cotton and sugar-cane section of the South; past the
orange and banana groves, and on to the broad Gulf. Such a journey is
full of interesting and strange experiences, pleasures and hardships
intermingled, and has, Captain Glazier thinks, fully repaid the cost in
time, money and labor of the undertaking.
navigable river. On October tenth we re-embarked and pushed on
towards the mouth of the river. Everywhere we were received with the
greatest cordiality. Cairo, Memphis, Vicksburg, Natchez and Baton
Rouge were the chief halting places, but frequently night overtook us
near some plantation house, and then we were the guests of the planters,
and were entertained with true Southern hospitality.
"Special occasion was taken by Captain Glazier to investigate the
cotton and sugar crops, the relations of the white and colored races, and
the future possibilities of the South; and with very gratifying results. At
last New Orleans was reached.
"As it was so near his journey's end, and as it was his intention to
return as soon as he had passed through the Jetties, the Captain
determined to pass the city on his downward trip without halting. This
was accordingly done, and three days' paddling brought us to Captain
Eads' great work. Remaining there a day we returned to the city.
"Thus far Mr. Paine; and thus ended the longest canoe voyage ever
made, and one which perhaps entailed more hardships on those who
made it than any other on record. Starting from the cold springs at its
source Captain Glazier followed the windings of the greatest river on
our continent from the pine forests and the wheat lands of the extreme
Northern States, through all the varying phases of climate and
industries, to the cotton and sugar-cane section of the South; past the
orange and banana groves, and on to the broad Gulf. Such a journey is
full of interesting and strange experiences, pleasures and hardships
intermingled, and has, Captain Glazier thinks, fully repaid the cost in
time, money and labor of the undertaking.
Page 566
"The canoe in which this long voyage was made has been presented
by the Captain to the New Orleans Academy of Sciences.
"It may be well to mention that no one else has ever traversed either
in canoe, steamboat or otherwise more than two-thirds of the course of
the Mississippi; and when it is taken into consideration that the distance
is considerably over three thousand miles, and that the upper portion is
filled with rapids, logs and other obstructions, it is not to be wondered
at."
by the Captain to the New Orleans Academy of Sciences.
"It may be well to mention that no one else has ever traversed either
in canoe, steamboat or otherwise more than two-thirds of the course of
the Mississippi; and when it is taken into consideration that the distance
is considerably over three thousand miles, and that the upper portion is
filled with rapids, logs and other obstructions, it is not to be wondered
at."
Page 567
II. RECEPTION AT NEW ORLEANS AND SAINT
LOUIS.
On his return to New Orleans from the Gulf, with the purpose of viewing
the great maritime city of the South, Captain Glazier was met by Dr. J. S.
Copes, President of the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. This gentleman
introduced him to Mayor Shakespear, and arrangements were at once made
for a public reception by the Academy. The following interesting account of
the ceremony is taken from the New Orleans Picayune of November
twenty-first, 1881, and shows the estimate placed on the Captain's
exploratory labors by many of the most prominent residents of the Crescent
City:
"The termination of the exploring expedition and canoe trip of
Captain Willard Glazier, extending from his new-found source of the
Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico, culminated, after a voyage of one
hundred and seventeen days, in a very general and complimentary
recognition and ovation on the part of the officials and citizens of New
Orleans. In company with Dr. J. S. Copes, President of the Academy of
Sciences, Captain Glazier was presented to His Honor, Mayor
Shakespear was warmly welcomed, and the freedom of the city
tendered him.
"In appreciation of the generous hospitality extended to him, the
Captain expressed a wish to present his beautiful canoe, which had
safely carried him through his long voyage, to the Academy of
Sciences, and the following letter accompanied the presentation:
LOUIS.
On his return to New Orleans from the Gulf, with the purpose of viewing
the great maritime city of the South, Captain Glazier was met by Dr. J. S.
Copes, President of the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. This gentleman
introduced him to Mayor Shakespear, and arrangements were at once made
for a public reception by the Academy. The following interesting account of
the ceremony is taken from the New Orleans Picayune of November
twenty-first, 1881, and shows the estimate placed on the Captain's
exploratory labors by many of the most prominent residents of the Crescent
City:
"The termination of the exploring expedition and canoe trip of
Captain Willard Glazier, extending from his new-found source of the
Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico, culminated, after a voyage of one
hundred and seventeen days, in a very general and complimentary
recognition and ovation on the part of the officials and citizens of New
Orleans. In company with Dr. J. S. Copes, President of the Academy of
Sciences, Captain Glazier was presented to His Honor, Mayor
Shakespear was warmly welcomed, and the freedom of the city
tendered him.
"In appreciation of the generous hospitality extended to him, the
Captain expressed a wish to present his beautiful canoe, which had
safely carried him through his long voyage, to the Academy of
Sciences, and the following letter accompanied the presentation:
Page 568
"'Saint Charles Hotel,
"'New Orleans, Louisiana,
"'November 21, 1881.
"'Joseph S. Copes, M. D.,
"'President—New Orleans Academy of Sciences:
"'Dear Sir:—I have just concluded upon the border of the State of
Louisiana a voyage of observation, exploration, and discovery; and, as
you have expressed considerable interest in the results, and manifested a
desire to possess the canoe in which the voyage was made, I find
pleasure in presenting it to your honorable society as a souvenir of my
expedition.
"'During this canoe journey of over three thousand miles, beginning
at the headwaters of the Mississippi and extending to the Gulf of
Mexico, I had the satisfaction of locating the source of the Great River
which we have traversed, and feel a pride in having corrected a
geographical error of half a century's standing.
"'I will not now enter into a detailed account of my explorations on
the upper Mississippi, but shall take the earliest opportunity of
transmitting to your Secretary a complete narrative of the voyage,
which will be issued in book form as soon as the matter can be prepared
for publication.
"'Very respectfully yours,
"'Willard Glazier.'
"A special meeting of the Academy of Sciences was held—Dr. J. S.
Copes, President, in the chair—for the purpose of receiving from
Captain Glazier the handsome cedar canoe Alice, with which he had
navigated the Mississippi from Aitkin to the Gulf.
"'New Orleans, Louisiana,
"'November 21, 1881.
"'Joseph S. Copes, M. D.,
"'President—New Orleans Academy of Sciences:
"'Dear Sir:—I have just concluded upon the border of the State of
Louisiana a voyage of observation, exploration, and discovery; and, as
you have expressed considerable interest in the results, and manifested a
desire to possess the canoe in which the voyage was made, I find
pleasure in presenting it to your honorable society as a souvenir of my
expedition.
"'During this canoe journey of over three thousand miles, beginning
at the headwaters of the Mississippi and extending to the Gulf of
Mexico, I had the satisfaction of locating the source of the Great River
which we have traversed, and feel a pride in having corrected a
geographical error of half a century's standing.
"'I will not now enter into a detailed account of my explorations on
the upper Mississippi, but shall take the earliest opportunity of
transmitting to your Secretary a complete narrative of the voyage,
which will be issued in book form as soon as the matter can be prepared
for publication.
"'Very respectfully yours,
"'Willard Glazier.'
"A special meeting of the Academy of Sciences was held—Dr. J. S.
Copes, President, in the chair—for the purpose of receiving from
Captain Glazier the handsome cedar canoe Alice, with which he had
navigated the Mississippi from Aitkin to the Gulf.
Page 569
"By invitation, Captain Glazier gave an account of his explorations
on the Upper Mississippi, and especially of that section of country
beyond Lake Itasca, a body of water which has hitherto been considered
the fountain-head of the Great River.
"Dr. Copes, in the name of the Academy, thanked Captain Glazier for
his valuable gift, which would be highly prized, and then congratulated
him upon his contribution to American geographical knowledge. In the
course of his remarks, the learned doctor said that De Soto penetrated
the continent of North America in pursuit of gold, and accidentally
discovered the Mississippi. Marquette, the zealous missionary, traversed
the river from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of the Arkansas.
La Salle pursued his explorations from the mouth of the Illinois to the
Gulf, his sole aim seeming to be the conquest of North America in the
name of the King of France. Hennepin explored but a small section of
the stream, extending from the mouth of the Wisconsin to Saint
Anthony Falls; while Willard Glazier had made the discovery of its
primal reservoir, and traversed its entire length from source to sea.
"The members of the Academy listened with great interest to Captain
Glazier's account of his explorations and discovery, and also to the
historical address of the President.
"Dr. J. R. Walker then offered the following resolutions:
"'Resolved, That the thanks of this Academy are due, and are hereby
tendered, to Captain Willard Glazier for the donation of his beautiful
canoe, Alice, and for the brief narrative of his explorations at the source
of the Mississippi River, and of his voyage thence to the Gulf of
Mexico.
on the Upper Mississippi, and especially of that section of country
beyond Lake Itasca, a body of water which has hitherto been considered
the fountain-head of the Great River.
"Dr. Copes, in the name of the Academy, thanked Captain Glazier for
his valuable gift, which would be highly prized, and then congratulated
him upon his contribution to American geographical knowledge. In the
course of his remarks, the learned doctor said that De Soto penetrated
the continent of North America in pursuit of gold, and accidentally
discovered the Mississippi. Marquette, the zealous missionary, traversed
the river from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of the Arkansas.
La Salle pursued his explorations from the mouth of the Illinois to the
Gulf, his sole aim seeming to be the conquest of North America in the
name of the King of France. Hennepin explored but a small section of
the stream, extending from the mouth of the Wisconsin to Saint
Anthony Falls; while Willard Glazier had made the discovery of its
primal reservoir, and traversed its entire length from source to sea.
"The members of the Academy listened with great interest to Captain
Glazier's account of his explorations and discovery, and also to the
historical address of the President.
"Dr. J. R. Walker then offered the following resolutions:
"'Resolved, That the thanks of this Academy are due, and are hereby
tendered, to Captain Willard Glazier for the donation of his beautiful
canoe, Alice, and for the brief narrative of his explorations at the source
of the Mississippi River, and of his voyage thence to the Gulf of
Mexico.
Page 570
"'Resolved, That this Academy not only gratefully accepts this
handsome gift, but promises to preserve and cherish it as a souvenir of
Captain Glazier's high qualities as an explorer and contributor to the
increase of American geographical knowledge.'
"Mr. H. Dudley Coleman then moved that a copy of the resolutions
be appropriately written and framed, and presented to Captain Glazier;
and that a committee of three be appointed to prepare the same.
"The resolutions were unanimously adopted, when Dr. Copes
appointed as the committee Messrs. Coleman, Walker, and Blanchard.
"At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Coleman escorted Captain
Glazier to the Washington Artillery Arsenal, and introduced him to
Colonel J. B. Richardson, commanding the battalion, who extended to
Captain Glazier the hospitalities of the battalion during his stay in the
city."
BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
Captain Glazier returned to Saint Louis from New Orleans, having
engaged to deliver a lecture in that city on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi."
On his voyage down the river and visit to the city, he was unable to remain
long enough to fulfil the engagement, as winter was rapidly approaching,
and it was expedient to reach the Gulf as soon as possible. Moreover, he
wished to present one of his canoes—the Itasca—to the Missouri Historical
Society, in return for the hospitality he had received during his previous
brief visit; and it was arranged that the presentation should take place on the
night of the lecture. Accordingly, on the evening of January fourteenth,
1882, an audience consisting of members of the Historical Society, the
handsome gift, but promises to preserve and cherish it as a souvenir of
Captain Glazier's high qualities as an explorer and contributor to the
increase of American geographical knowledge.'
"Mr. H. Dudley Coleman then moved that a copy of the resolutions
be appropriately written and framed, and presented to Captain Glazier;
and that a committee of three be appointed to prepare the same.
"The resolutions were unanimously adopted, when Dr. Copes
appointed as the committee Messrs. Coleman, Walker, and Blanchard.
"At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Coleman escorted Captain
Glazier to the Washington Artillery Arsenal, and introduced him to
Colonel J. B. Richardson, commanding the battalion, who extended to
Captain Glazier the hospitalities of the battalion during his stay in the
city."
BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
Captain Glazier returned to Saint Louis from New Orleans, having
engaged to deliver a lecture in that city on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi."
On his voyage down the river and visit to the city, he was unable to remain
long enough to fulfil the engagement, as winter was rapidly approaching,
and it was expedient to reach the Gulf as soon as possible. Moreover, he
wished to present one of his canoes—the Itasca—to the Missouri Historical
Society, in return for the hospitality he had received during his previous
brief visit; and it was arranged that the presentation should take place on the
night of the lecture. Accordingly, on the evening of January fourteenth,
1882, an audience consisting of members of the Historical Society, the
Page 571
Academy of Sciences, clergy, officers and teachers of the public schools,
and the several boat clubs of the city, assembled at Mercantile Library Hall,
to listen to his lecture on the pioneer explorers of the Great River, and to
witness the presentation of the Itasca.
At eight o'clock, Captain Glazier, accompanied by Judge Albert Todd,
Vice-President of the Historical Society, appeared on the platform, and the
Judge introduced the lecturer in the following terms, as reported in the local
press:
"Mark Twain wrote that in his Oriental travels he visited the grave of
our common ancestor, Adam, and, as a filial mourner, he copiously wept
over it. To me the grave of our common ancestress, Eve, would be more
worthy of my filial affection, but, instead of weeping over it, I should
proudly rejoice by reason of her irrepressible desire for knowledge. She
boldly gratified this desire, and thereby lifted Adam up from the
indolent, browsing life that he seemed disposed and content to pass in
the 'Garden,' and gave birth to that spirit of inquiry and investigation
which is developing and elevating their posterity to 'man's pride of
place'—'a little lower than the angels'—by keeping them ever
discontented with the status quo, and constantly pressing on to the
'mark of their high calling' beneath the blazing legend 'Excelsior.' It is
this ceaseless unrest of the spirit, one of the greatest evidences of the
soul's immortality, that is continually contracting the boundaries of the
unknown in geography and astronomy, in physics and metaphysics, in
all their varied departments. Of those pre-eminently illustrating it in
geography were Jason and his Argonauts; Columbus, De Gama, and
Magellan; De Soto, Marquette, and La Salle; Cabot and Cook; Speke,
Baker, Livingstone, and Franklin; and our own Ledyard, Lewis, Clarke,
Kane, Hall, and Stanley. And this evening will appear before you
and the several boat clubs of the city, assembled at Mercantile Library Hall,
to listen to his lecture on the pioneer explorers of the Great River, and to
witness the presentation of the Itasca.
At eight o'clock, Captain Glazier, accompanied by Judge Albert Todd,
Vice-President of the Historical Society, appeared on the platform, and the
Judge introduced the lecturer in the following terms, as reported in the local
press:
"Mark Twain wrote that in his Oriental travels he visited the grave of
our common ancestor, Adam, and, as a filial mourner, he copiously wept
over it. To me the grave of our common ancestress, Eve, would be more
worthy of my filial affection, but, instead of weeping over it, I should
proudly rejoice by reason of her irrepressible desire for knowledge. She
boldly gratified this desire, and thereby lifted Adam up from the
indolent, browsing life that he seemed disposed and content to pass in
the 'Garden,' and gave birth to that spirit of inquiry and investigation
which is developing and elevating their posterity to 'man's pride of
place'—'a little lower than the angels'—by keeping them ever
discontented with the status quo, and constantly pressing on to the
'mark of their high calling' beneath the blazing legend 'Excelsior.' It is
this ceaseless unrest of the spirit, one of the greatest evidences of the
soul's immortality, that is continually contracting the boundaries of the
unknown in geography and astronomy, in physics and metaphysics, in
all their varied departments. Of those pre-eminently illustrating it in
geography were Jason and his Argonauts; Columbus, De Gama, and
Magellan; De Soto, Marquette, and La Salle; Cabot and Cook; Speke,
Baker, Livingstone, and Franklin; and our own Ledyard, Lewis, Clarke,
Kane, Hall, and Stanley. And this evening will appear before you
Page 572
another of these irrepressible discontents who would know what is still
hidden, at any risk or privation.
"Impelled by this spirit of enterprise, in search of truth, Captain
Willard Glazier has discovered, at last, the true source of our grand and
peerless river, the 'Father of Waters,' down which he has floated and
paddled in frail canoes, a distance of more than three thousand miles, to
its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. One of these canoes is now placed here
in your view, and will be presented to-night by its navigator to our
Historical Society. "Nearly two hundred years ago La Salle discovered
the mouth of the Mississippi, yet only now in this year of grace, 1881,
was ascertained its true fountain source.
"This, the latest achievement of Captain Glazier, is only in the natural
course of his antecedents. Born as late as 1841, he has already gone
through the experiences of the Adamic labors of a tiller of the soil, the
hard toils of the student and of the successful teacher; of the dashing
and brilliant cavalry officer in the Union army through the whole period
of our late war, from its disastrous beginning to its successful ending; of
the sufferings of capture and imprisonment in the notorious 'Libby,' and
other prisons, and of a daring and perilous escape from their cruel walls;
of an adventurous tourist on horseback through the most civilized and
savage portions of our continent, beginning with the feet of his horse in
the waters of the Atlantic, and ending with their splash in the waters of
the Pacific. He delivered lectures along his route wherever a civilized
audience could be collected, and suffered capture by the Indians, with
all its sensational romance and hideous prospects.
"From the material of these antecedents he has written and published
several books of singular interest and national value.
hidden, at any risk or privation.
"Impelled by this spirit of enterprise, in search of truth, Captain
Willard Glazier has discovered, at last, the true source of our grand and
peerless river, the 'Father of Waters,' down which he has floated and
paddled in frail canoes, a distance of more than three thousand miles, to
its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. One of these canoes is now placed here
in your view, and will be presented to-night by its navigator to our
Historical Society. "Nearly two hundred years ago La Salle discovered
the mouth of the Mississippi, yet only now in this year of grace, 1881,
was ascertained its true fountain source.
"This, the latest achievement of Captain Glazier, is only in the natural
course of his antecedents. Born as late as 1841, he has already gone
through the experiences of the Adamic labors of a tiller of the soil, the
hard toils of the student and of the successful teacher; of the dashing
and brilliant cavalry officer in the Union army through the whole period
of our late war, from its disastrous beginning to its successful ending; of
the sufferings of capture and imprisonment in the notorious 'Libby,' and
other prisons, and of a daring and perilous escape from their cruel walls;
of an adventurous tourist on horseback through the most civilized and
savage portions of our continent, beginning with the feet of his horse in
the waters of the Atlantic, and ending with their splash in the waters of
the Pacific. He delivered lectures along his route wherever a civilized
audience could be collected, and suffered capture by the Indians, with
all its sensational romance and hideous prospects.
"From the material of these antecedents he has written and published
several books of singular interest and national value.
Page 573
"From this brief sketch we would naturally expect to see a stalwart
man, massive and powerful in form and muscle. Our conceptions of
men of big deeds is that they are also big. But David was a stripling
when he slew Goliath of Gath. Napoleon was characterized by the
society ladies of the period of his early career as 'Puss in Boots,' Our
own Fremont and Eads would seem at sight capable of only the
ordinarily exposed duties of life. Of like physique is the subject of this
introduction.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is now my pleasant privilege to introduce
to your acquaintance Captain Willard Glazier as the lecturer for the
evening."
Captain Glazier then delivered his interesting historical lecture on the
"Pioneers of the Mississippi." The adventures and discoveries of De Soto,
Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, Joliet, and others, including the more recent
explorers, Pike, Beltrami, Schoolcraft, and Nicollet, were intelligently
discussed, and the attention of all present absorbed by the interest of the
subject. He spoke of the ambition of De Soto to found an empire like that of
Cortez in Mexico; of his arrival on the banks of the Great River, and finally
of his death and burial in its depths. Concerning Father Marquette, the
lecturer dwelt upon the zeal with which he preached the Gospel to the
benighted Indians, and his premature death and burial in the wilderness. La
Salle was then presented as an intrepid pioneer, pushing down the mighty
river to plant his banner on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and taking
possession of the country through which he had passed in the name of the
King of France. The exploits of Hennepin, Joliet, and others were then
recounted, and the lecturer gave evidence of great familiarity with the lives
man, massive and powerful in form and muscle. Our conceptions of
men of big deeds is that they are also big. But David was a stripling
when he slew Goliath of Gath. Napoleon was characterized by the
society ladies of the period of his early career as 'Puss in Boots,' Our
own Fremont and Eads would seem at sight capable of only the
ordinarily exposed duties of life. Of like physique is the subject of this
introduction.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is now my pleasant privilege to introduce
to your acquaintance Captain Willard Glazier as the lecturer for the
evening."
Captain Glazier then delivered his interesting historical lecture on the
"Pioneers of the Mississippi." The adventures and discoveries of De Soto,
Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, Joliet, and others, including the more recent
explorers, Pike, Beltrami, Schoolcraft, and Nicollet, were intelligently
discussed, and the attention of all present absorbed by the interest of the
subject. He spoke of the ambition of De Soto to found an empire like that of
Cortez in Mexico; of his arrival on the banks of the Great River, and finally
of his death and burial in its depths. Concerning Father Marquette, the
lecturer dwelt upon the zeal with which he preached the Gospel to the
benighted Indians, and his premature death and burial in the wilderness. La
Salle was then presented as an intrepid pioneer, pushing down the mighty
river to plant his banner on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and taking
possession of the country through which he had passed in the name of the
King of France. The exploits of Hennepin, Joliet, and others were then
recounted, and the lecturer gave evidence of great familiarity with the lives
Page 574
of these heroic pioneer explorers of the Mississippi. The following letter
was then read:
"1310 Olive Street,
"Saint Louis, Missouri,
"January 14, 1882.
"Edwin Harrison, Esq.,
"President Missouri Historical Society:
"Dear Sir:—In my recent canoe voyage down the Mississippi it was
my good fortune to receive many courtesies at the hands of the press,
boat clubs, and citizens of Saint Louis. This, coupled with the fact that
you have expressed considerable interest in the result of my
explorations, inclines me to present to you the Itasca, one of the canoes
used in the expedition, for the museum of your Society, as a memento
of my voyage and discovery.
"During this tour of observation, extending from the headwaters of
the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, I had the satisfaction of
locating the true source of the mighty stream down which we paddled
our canoes to the sea.
"I am not now able to give you a detailed account of my voyage, but
shall avail myself of the earliest opportunity to transmit to your
Secretary a complete history of it, which will be issued in book form as
soon as the material can be put in proper shape for publication.
"Very truly yours,
Willard Glazier."
Captain Silas Bent, late of the U. S. N., accepted the canoe for the
society, in the following words:
"Captain Glazier:
was then read:
"1310 Olive Street,
"Saint Louis, Missouri,
"January 14, 1882.
"Edwin Harrison, Esq.,
"President Missouri Historical Society:
"Dear Sir:—In my recent canoe voyage down the Mississippi it was
my good fortune to receive many courtesies at the hands of the press,
boat clubs, and citizens of Saint Louis. This, coupled with the fact that
you have expressed considerable interest in the result of my
explorations, inclines me to present to you the Itasca, one of the canoes
used in the expedition, for the museum of your Society, as a memento
of my voyage and discovery.
"During this tour of observation, extending from the headwaters of
the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, I had the satisfaction of
locating the true source of the mighty stream down which we paddled
our canoes to the sea.
"I am not now able to give you a detailed account of my voyage, but
shall avail myself of the earliest opportunity to transmit to your
Secretary a complete history of it, which will be issued in book form as
soon as the material can be put in proper shape for publication.
"Very truly yours,
Willard Glazier."
Captain Silas Bent, late of the U. S. N., accepted the canoe for the
society, in the following words:
"Captain Glazier:
Page 575
"It becomes my pleasant duty to accept, for the Missouri Historical
Society, this beautiful canoe, which has itself become historic by reason
of the service it has rendered you. It shall be deposited with other
treasured relics in our museum.
"I have also to express to you the high appreciation in which the
Society holds the valuable contribution to geographical knowledge
resulting from your explorations among the headwaters of the
Mississippi River, and your discovery of the remotest lake that
contributes to the perennial birth of this hydra-headed 'Father of Waters,'
whose genesis near the Arctic regions gives it a length of more than
three thousand miles to the tropical gulf, to which it bears upon its
ample bosom in safety the freightage of an empire.
"I desire, too, to thank you for the interesting lecture just given us
upon the achievements of the heroic old explorers, who have, in
centuries past, preceded you in investigations of the characteristics of
this river. But whilst past investigations have made us familiar with the
general character of the stream, and the peculiarities of its many
mouths, yet we know very little of its source; and should be gratified, I
am sure, if you could give us, this evening, a brief account of the
circumstances attending your explorations in that direction, and of the
difficulties you had to encounter in the accomplishment of your object."
In compliance with Captain Bent's request that he would give some
account of the events connected with the expedition to the source of the
Mississippi, Captain Glazier then briefly narrated the leading incidents of
his voyage and explorations. At the conclusion, several gentlemen came
forward to congratulate him upon the practical results of his undertaking
and expressed their appreciation of the work he had accomplished. The
Society, this beautiful canoe, which has itself become historic by reason
of the service it has rendered you. It shall be deposited with other
treasured relics in our museum.
"I have also to express to you the high appreciation in which the
Society holds the valuable contribution to geographical knowledge
resulting from your explorations among the headwaters of the
Mississippi River, and your discovery of the remotest lake that
contributes to the perennial birth of this hydra-headed 'Father of Waters,'
whose genesis near the Arctic regions gives it a length of more than
three thousand miles to the tropical gulf, to which it bears upon its
ample bosom in safety the freightage of an empire.
"I desire, too, to thank you for the interesting lecture just given us
upon the achievements of the heroic old explorers, who have, in
centuries past, preceded you in investigations of the characteristics of
this river. But whilst past investigations have made us familiar with the
general character of the stream, and the peculiarities of its many
mouths, yet we know very little of its source; and should be gratified, I
am sure, if you could give us, this evening, a brief account of the
circumstances attending your explorations in that direction, and of the
difficulties you had to encounter in the accomplishment of your object."
In compliance with Captain Bent's request that he would give some
account of the events connected with the expedition to the source of the
Mississippi, Captain Glazier then briefly narrated the leading incidents of
his voyage and explorations. At the conclusion, several gentlemen came
forward to congratulate him upon the practical results of his undertaking
and expressed their appreciation of the work he had accomplished. The
Page 576
Itasca, which occupied a prominent position on the platform, was duly
inspected, and afterwards removed to the rooms of the Historical Society.
inspected, and afterwards removed to the rooms of the Historical Society.
Page 577
III. LETTERS PERTINENT TO THE SUBJECT.
A letter from Captain Glazier which appeared in the Saint Paul Pioneer
Press in December, 1886, and was copied into several Eastern papers, is
here introduced as an epitomized narrative of the discovery. The journey to
the headwaters of the Mississippi, the launch of the canoes on Lake Itasca,
the search for its feeders and the finding of one larger than the others which
the Indian guides said flowed from another lake to the south of it; the
passage of the canoes up this feeder and the entrance of the explorers upon
a beautiful lake which they ascertained by sounding and measurement to be
wider and deeper than Itasca, and the veritable source of the Great River; all
this is succinctly told in the following letter of the leader of the expedition,
and we respectfully commend its perusal to the reader:
"To the Editor—Pioneer Press, Saint Paul, Minnesota:
"I solicit the favor of replying through your columns to articles in one
or two New York dailies calling in question my claim to have definitely
located, in 1881, the true source of the Mississippi River.
"When my attention was first drawn to the articles of those who seem
so much exercised by my expedition to the headwaters of the
Mississippi, I had no intention of replying, but have finally yielded to
the reasoning of friends who feel that longer silence might possibly be
construed to my disadvantage.
"I am well aware that I assume grave responsibility in locating the
source of the greatest river of North America and correcting a
geographical error of half a century's standing, especially since I follow
A letter from Captain Glazier which appeared in the Saint Paul Pioneer
Press in December, 1886, and was copied into several Eastern papers, is
here introduced as an epitomized narrative of the discovery. The journey to
the headwaters of the Mississippi, the launch of the canoes on Lake Itasca,
the search for its feeders and the finding of one larger than the others which
the Indian guides said flowed from another lake to the south of it; the
passage of the canoes up this feeder and the entrance of the explorers upon
a beautiful lake which they ascertained by sounding and measurement to be
wider and deeper than Itasca, and the veritable source of the Great River; all
this is succinctly told in the following letter of the leader of the expedition,
and we respectfully commend its perusal to the reader:
"To the Editor—Pioneer Press, Saint Paul, Minnesota:
"I solicit the favor of replying through your columns to articles in one
or two New York dailies calling in question my claim to have definitely
located, in 1881, the true source of the Mississippi River.
"When my attention was first drawn to the articles of those who seem
so much exercised by my expedition to the headwaters of the
Mississippi, I had no intention of replying, but have finally yielded to
the reasoning of friends who feel that longer silence might possibly be
construed to my disadvantage.
"I am well aware that I assume grave responsibility in locating the
source of the greatest river of North America and correcting a
geographical error of half a century's standing, especially since I follow
Page 578
in the footsteps of such eminent explorers as Pike, Beltrami, Schoolcraft
and Nicollet; and in view of the fact that I have presumed to pass the
limit of their explorations.
"For many years prior to 1881, I had been of the opinion that Lake
Itasca occupied an erroneous position in our geography. In fact I had
become satisfied through conversations with straggling Chippewas in
the Northwest, that the red man's ideal river did not rise in the lake
described by his white brother, but that there were other lakes and
streams beyond that lake and that some day the truth of their statements
would be verified.
"Thoroughly convinced that there was yet a field for exploration in
the wilds of Northern Minnesota I resolved, in 1876, to attempt a
settlement of the vexed question concerning the source of the
Mississippi at an early day. Finding the opportunity I sought in 1881 I
proceeded to Saint Paul in June of that year accompanied by Pearce
Giles, of Camden, New Jersey. Here I was joined by my brother
George, of Chicago, and Barrett Channing Paine, then an attaché of the
Pioneer Press.
"Having completed arrangements we moved from Saint Paul on the
morning of July Fourth with Brainerd as our immediate objective. Short
stops were made at Minneapolis, Monticello, Saint Cloud and Little
Falls on our way up the river. Brainerd was reached July seventh. This
enterprising town is situated near the boundary of the Chippewa Indian
Reservation and is the nearest place of consequence to Lake Itasca.
Here I again halted to further inform myself concerning the topography
of the country; to decide upon the most practicable route to our
destination, and to provide such extra supplies of rations and clothing as
might be considered adequate to the requirements of our undertaking.
and Nicollet; and in view of the fact that I have presumed to pass the
limit of their explorations.
"For many years prior to 1881, I had been of the opinion that Lake
Itasca occupied an erroneous position in our geography. In fact I had
become satisfied through conversations with straggling Chippewas in
the Northwest, that the red man's ideal river did not rise in the lake
described by his white brother, but that there were other lakes and
streams beyond that lake and that some day the truth of their statements
would be verified.
"Thoroughly convinced that there was yet a field for exploration in
the wilds of Northern Minnesota I resolved, in 1876, to attempt a
settlement of the vexed question concerning the source of the
Mississippi at an early day. Finding the opportunity I sought in 1881 I
proceeded to Saint Paul in June of that year accompanied by Pearce
Giles, of Camden, New Jersey. Here I was joined by my brother
George, of Chicago, and Barrett Channing Paine, then an attaché of the
Pioneer Press.
"Having completed arrangements we moved from Saint Paul on the
morning of July Fourth with Brainerd as our immediate objective. Short
stops were made at Minneapolis, Monticello, Saint Cloud and Little
Falls on our way up the river. Brainerd was reached July seventh. This
enterprising town is situated near the boundary of the Chippewa Indian
Reservation and is the nearest place of consequence to Lake Itasca.
Here I again halted to further inform myself concerning the topography
of the country; to decide upon the most practicable route to our
destination, and to provide such extra supplies of rations and clothing as
might be considered adequate to the requirements of our undertaking.
Page 579
"After consulting our maps I concluded that while Schoolcraft and
Nicollet had found Itasca by going up the river through Lakes
Winnibegoshish, Cass and Bemidji, a more direct course would be by
way of Leech Lake and the Kabekanka River.
"A careful study of the route to Leech Lake, with a few valuable
suggestions from Warren Leland, of Brainerd, one of its oldest pioneers,
led us to seek conveyance to the former place over what is known in
Northern Minnesota as the Government Road. This road stretches for
seventy-five miles, through immense pine forests, and the only
habitations to be seen from it are the 'half-way houses' erected for the
accommodation of teamsters who are engaged in hauling government
supplies; and the occasional wigwams of wandering Indians.
"While at the Leech Lake Agency it was our good fortune to meet the
post-missionary, Rev. Edwin Benedict; Major A. C. Ruffe, the Indian
Agent; Paul Beaulieu, the veteran Government Interpreter; White-
Cloud, chief of the Mississippi Indians; Flat-Mouth, head chief of the
Chippewas, and others well known at the Agency. Through
conversations with these parties I learned that pioneers of that region
were of the opinion that the lake located by Schoolcraft was the source
of the Mississippi, but that the Indians invariably claimed that the Great
River had its origin above and beyond Itasca, in a beautiful lake known
to them as Pokegama, signifying the 'place where the waters gather.'
"Beaulieu, who is perhaps the best authority in Minnesota, having
lived for more than sixty years within its borders, said that
Chenowagesic, who afterwards became my chief guide, was the most
intelligent Chippewa of his acquaintance, had made his home for many
years in the vicinity of the headwaters of the Mississippi, and that he
had always asserted, when maps were shown him, that a lake above
Nicollet had found Itasca by going up the river through Lakes
Winnibegoshish, Cass and Bemidji, a more direct course would be by
way of Leech Lake and the Kabekanka River.
"A careful study of the route to Leech Lake, with a few valuable
suggestions from Warren Leland, of Brainerd, one of its oldest pioneers,
led us to seek conveyance to the former place over what is known in
Northern Minnesota as the Government Road. This road stretches for
seventy-five miles, through immense pine forests, and the only
habitations to be seen from it are the 'half-way houses' erected for the
accommodation of teamsters who are engaged in hauling government
supplies; and the occasional wigwams of wandering Indians.
"While at the Leech Lake Agency it was our good fortune to meet the
post-missionary, Rev. Edwin Benedict; Major A. C. Ruffe, the Indian
Agent; Paul Beaulieu, the veteran Government Interpreter; White-
Cloud, chief of the Mississippi Indians; Flat-Mouth, head chief of the
Chippewas, and others well known at the Agency. Through
conversations with these parties I learned that pioneers of that region
were of the opinion that the lake located by Schoolcraft was the source
of the Mississippi, but that the Indians invariably claimed that the Great
River had its origin above and beyond Itasca, in a beautiful lake known
to them as Pokegama, signifying the 'place where the waters gather.'
"Beaulieu, who is perhaps the best authority in Minnesota, having
lived for more than sixty years within its borders, said that
Chenowagesic, who afterwards became my chief guide, was the most
intelligent Chippewa of his acquaintance, had made his home for many
years in the vicinity of the headwaters of the Mississippi, and that he
had always asserted, when maps were shown him, that a lake above
Page 580
Itasca would in time change a feature of those maps and confirm his
statement that Lake Itasca could not longer maintain its claim to being
the fountain-head of the Great River.
"Three days were spent at Leech Lake, during which time we secured
an interpreter, Indian guides and birch bark canoes. Everything being in
order we launched our canoes on the morning of July seventeenth.
Wishing, as previously explained, to approach Itasca by a different route
from that adopted by Schoolcraft and Nicollet who went up the
Mississippi from Lake Winnibegoshish, I crossed Leech Lake and
ascended the Kabekanka River, thence proceeding in a direct westerly
course through twenty-one lakes, alternated by as many portages,
reaching Itasca between two and three o'clock on the afternoon of the
twenty-first. The region traversed, we were told by the guides, had
never before been trodden by white men; and considering the nature of
the country it is not to be wondered at, as swamps, floating bogs, and
dense undergrowth were encountered throughout the entire journey.
"The work of coasting Itasca for its feeders was begun at an early
hour on the morning of the twenty-second. We found the outlets of six
small streams, two having well-defined mouths, and four filtering into
the lake through bogs. The upper or southern end of the south-western
arm of Lake Itasca is heavily margined with reeds and rushes, and it
was not without considerable difficulty that we forced our way through
this barrier into the larger of the two open streams which enter at this
point. This stream, at its mouth, is seven feet wide and about three feet
deep.
"Slow and sinuous progress of between two and three hundred yards
brought us to a blockade of logs and shallow water. Determined to float
in my canoe upon the surface of the lake towards which we were
statement that Lake Itasca could not longer maintain its claim to being
the fountain-head of the Great River.
"Three days were spent at Leech Lake, during which time we secured
an interpreter, Indian guides and birch bark canoes. Everything being in
order we launched our canoes on the morning of July seventeenth.
Wishing, as previously explained, to approach Itasca by a different route
from that adopted by Schoolcraft and Nicollet who went up the
Mississippi from Lake Winnibegoshish, I crossed Leech Lake and
ascended the Kabekanka River, thence proceeding in a direct westerly
course through twenty-one lakes, alternated by as many portages,
reaching Itasca between two and three o'clock on the afternoon of the
twenty-first. The region traversed, we were told by the guides, had
never before been trodden by white men; and considering the nature of
the country it is not to be wondered at, as swamps, floating bogs, and
dense undergrowth were encountered throughout the entire journey.
"The work of coasting Itasca for its feeders was begun at an early
hour on the morning of the twenty-second. We found the outlets of six
small streams, two having well-defined mouths, and four filtering into
the lake through bogs. The upper or southern end of the south-western
arm of Lake Itasca is heavily margined with reeds and rushes, and it
was not without considerable difficulty that we forced our way through
this barrier into the larger of the two open streams which enter at this
point. This stream, at its mouth, is seven feet wide and about three feet
deep.
"Slow and sinuous progress of between two and three hundred yards
brought us to a blockade of logs and shallow water. Determined to float
in my canoe upon the surface of the lake towards which we were
Page 581
paddling, I directed the guides to remove the obstructions, and
continued to urge the canoes rapidly forward, although opposed by a
strong and constantly increasing current. On pulling and pushing our
way through a network of rushes, similar to that encountered on leaving
Lake Itasca, the cheering sight of a tranquil and limpid sheet of water
burst upon our view.
"This lake, the Chippewa name of which is Pokegama, is about a
mile and a half in its greatest diameter, covers an area of two hundred
and fifty acres, and would be nearly an oval in form but for a single
promontory, which extends its shores into the lake, so as to give it in
outline the appearance of a heart. Its feeders are three small creeks, two
of which enter on the right and left of the headland, and have their
origin in springs at the foot of sand hills from two to three miles distant.
The third stream is but little more than a rivulet of a mile in length, has
no clearly defined course, and is the outlet of a small pond or lakelet to
the south-westward.
"The latitude of the lake in question is about 47°; its height above the
Atlantic Ocean 1,582 feet, and its distance from the Gulf of Mexico
3,184 miles.
"The statement that the lake now very generally accepted by
geographers, and educational publishers as the True Source of the
Mississippi was so regarded prior to the organization of my expedition
cannot be substantiated; for, on the contrary, both press and people
throughout Minnesota were ignorant of its existence, so far as we were
able to ascertain by diligent inquiry from Saint Paul to Brainerd; and, in
fact, I may add that the missionary, Indian agent, and post-trader at
Leech Lake knew no other source of the Mississippi than Lake Itasca,
except what they had been told by my chief guide, Chenowagesic, and a
continued to urge the canoes rapidly forward, although opposed by a
strong and constantly increasing current. On pulling and pushing our
way through a network of rushes, similar to that encountered on leaving
Lake Itasca, the cheering sight of a tranquil and limpid sheet of water
burst upon our view.
"This lake, the Chippewa name of which is Pokegama, is about a
mile and a half in its greatest diameter, covers an area of two hundred
and fifty acres, and would be nearly an oval in form but for a single
promontory, which extends its shores into the lake, so as to give it in
outline the appearance of a heart. Its feeders are three small creeks, two
of which enter on the right and left of the headland, and have their
origin in springs at the foot of sand hills from two to three miles distant.
The third stream is but little more than a rivulet of a mile in length, has
no clearly defined course, and is the outlet of a small pond or lakelet to
the south-westward.
"The latitude of the lake in question is about 47°; its height above the
Atlantic Ocean 1,582 feet, and its distance from the Gulf of Mexico
3,184 miles.
"The statement that the lake now very generally accepted by
geographers, and educational publishers as the True Source of the
Mississippi was so regarded prior to the organization of my expedition
cannot be substantiated; for, on the contrary, both press and people
throughout Minnesota were ignorant of its existence, so far as we were
able to ascertain by diligent inquiry from Saint Paul to Brainerd; and, in
fact, I may add that the missionary, Indian agent, and post-trader at
Leech Lake knew no other source of the Mississippi than Lake Itasca,
except what they had been told by my chief guide, Chenowagesic, and a
Page 582
few other Chippewas in that vicinity. Barrett Channing Paine, fully
confirms this statement in his letters to the Brainerd, Minneapolis, and
Saint Paul papers of that period. These letters prove most conclusively
that the people of Northern Minnesota had no knowledge whatever of
the lake beyond Itasca until its existence was announced by me through
the medium of the press in 1881.
"If the assumption by some writers that the lake to the south of Itasca
had been seen before my visit to that region in 1881 is well grounded, I
need only say in reply that it had not been assigned any geographical
importance prior to my visit; in other words, it had not been recognized
by any one as the true source of the Mississippi.
"When William Morrison, the fur-trader, pitched his tent on
Schoolcraft Island in 1804, he evidently did not know that the outlet of
the lake on which he looked was a part of the mighty river. Schoolcraft
followed, at the head of an expedition twenty-eight years later, and
claimed the lake as the source of the Mississippi. It is very generally
admitted that Morrison had seen Itasca before Schoolcraft, but no one
questioned that the latter was entitled to the credit of discovery, since he
was the first to establish the fact that the Mississippi was its outlet. My
claim to have definitely located the true source in the lake beyond Itasca
stands on precisely the same ground.
"I do not desire to pass a reasonable limit in an effort to insure
justice, but having consumed considerable time and money in locating
lakes and streams in Northern Minnesota, and having established that
the lake to the south of Itasca is the primal reservoir of the Mississippi, I
do not feel disposed to allow myself to be thrust aside by those who
know comparatively little or nothing of that region.
confirms this statement in his letters to the Brainerd, Minneapolis, and
Saint Paul papers of that period. These letters prove most conclusively
that the people of Northern Minnesota had no knowledge whatever of
the lake beyond Itasca until its existence was announced by me through
the medium of the press in 1881.
"If the assumption by some writers that the lake to the south of Itasca
had been seen before my visit to that region in 1881 is well grounded, I
need only say in reply that it had not been assigned any geographical
importance prior to my visit; in other words, it had not been recognized
by any one as the true source of the Mississippi.
"When William Morrison, the fur-trader, pitched his tent on
Schoolcraft Island in 1804, he evidently did not know that the outlet of
the lake on which he looked was a part of the mighty river. Schoolcraft
followed, at the head of an expedition twenty-eight years later, and
claimed the lake as the source of the Mississippi. It is very generally
admitted that Morrison had seen Itasca before Schoolcraft, but no one
questioned that the latter was entitled to the credit of discovery, since he
was the first to establish the fact that the Mississippi was its outlet. My
claim to have definitely located the true source in the lake beyond Itasca
stands on precisely the same ground.
"I do not desire to pass a reasonable limit in an effort to insure
justice, but having consumed considerable time and money in locating
lakes and streams in Northern Minnesota, and having established that
the lake to the south of Itasca is the primal reservoir of the Mississippi, I
do not feel disposed to allow myself to be thrust aside by those who
know comparatively little or nothing of that region.
Page 583
"Assuming that the statements of my party are incontrovertible
concerning the lake which we claim as the True Source of the Great
River, it follows naturally:
"I. That Lake Itasca cannot longer be recognized as the fountain-head
of the Mississippi, for the reason that it is the custom, agreeably to the
definition of geographers, to fix upon the remotest water, and a lake if
possible, as the source of a river.
"II. That the lake to the south of Itasca, and connected therewith by a
perennial stream, is the primal reservoir or True Source of the
Mississippi; that it was not so considered prior to the visit of my
expedition in 1881; and that my party was the first to locate its feeders
correctly, and discover its true relation to the Great River.
"III. That Schoolcraft could not have seen the lake located by me,
else he would have assigned it its true character in the narrative of his
expedition.
"IV. That Nicollet, who followed Schoolcraft, could not have been
aware of its existence, as he gives it no place upon his maps, or
description in the accounts of his explorations.
"V. That the lake known as Pokegama by the Chippewas was not
christened 'Glazier' by me, or through my instrumentality, but was so
named by my companions, in opposition to my wish that it should retain
its Indian appellation.
"Finally, whatever the verdict may be upon the merits of my claim to
have been the first to locate the source of the Mississippi River and
publish it to the world, if any person had seen this lake prior to 1881 it
was certainly not known to the white residents of Northern Minnesota,
or to the Indian tribes in the vicinity of its headwaters. Lake Itasca was
concerning the lake which we claim as the True Source of the Great
River, it follows naturally:
"I. That Lake Itasca cannot longer be recognized as the fountain-head
of the Mississippi, for the reason that it is the custom, agreeably to the
definition of geographers, to fix upon the remotest water, and a lake if
possible, as the source of a river.
"II. That the lake to the south of Itasca, and connected therewith by a
perennial stream, is the primal reservoir or True Source of the
Mississippi; that it was not so considered prior to the visit of my
expedition in 1881; and that my party was the first to locate its feeders
correctly, and discover its true relation to the Great River.
"III. That Schoolcraft could not have seen the lake located by me,
else he would have assigned it its true character in the narrative of his
expedition.
"IV. That Nicollet, who followed Schoolcraft, could not have been
aware of its existence, as he gives it no place upon his maps, or
description in the accounts of his explorations.
"V. That the lake known as Pokegama by the Chippewas was not
christened 'Glazier' by me, or through my instrumentality, but was so
named by my companions, in opposition to my wish that it should retain
its Indian appellation.
"Finally, whatever the verdict may be upon the merits of my claim to
have been the first to locate the source of the Mississippi River and
publish it to the world, if any person had seen this lake prior to 1881 it
was certainly not known to the white residents of Northern Minnesota,
or to the Indian tribes in the vicinity of its headwaters. Lake Itasca was
Page 584
still recognized as the fountain-head, was so placed upon maps, and
taught as such in all the schools of the country.
"I simply claim to have established the fact that there is a beautiful
lake above and beyond Itasca—wider and deeper than that lake—with
woodland shores—with three constantly flowing streams for its feeders
—and in every way worthy of the position it occupies as the primal
reservoir or true source of the Father of Waters.
"Willard Glazier.
Syracuse, New York, December, 1886."
A letter from Pearce Giles, of Camden, New Jersey, who was identified
with the Glazier expedition from its inception to its close:
"To the Editor—Boston Herald:
"In 1832 Henry Rowe Schoolcraft led an expedition through the
wilds of Northern Minnesota and discovered what he believed to be the
source of the Mississippi. Being at a loss for an appropriate name to
bestow upon the lake which constituted this supposed source, so the
story goes, he asked a companion what were the Latin words signifying
'true head,' and received in reply 'veritas caput.' This was rather a
ponderous name to give a comparatively small body of water, even
though the Father of Waters here took his first start in the world. The
explorer, therefore, conceived the idea of uniting the last two syllables
of the first word with the first syllable of the second, thus, by a novel
mode of orthography, forming a name which might easily pass for one
of Indian origin—Itasca. A person versed in orthographical science
would probably perceive at once that the name did not belong to the
taught as such in all the schools of the country.
"I simply claim to have established the fact that there is a beautiful
lake above and beyond Itasca—wider and deeper than that lake—with
woodland shores—with three constantly flowing streams for its feeders
—and in every way worthy of the position it occupies as the primal
reservoir or true source of the Father of Waters.
"Willard Glazier.
Syracuse, New York, December, 1886."
A letter from Pearce Giles, of Camden, New Jersey, who was identified
with the Glazier expedition from its inception to its close:
"To the Editor—Boston Herald:
"In 1832 Henry Rowe Schoolcraft led an expedition through the
wilds of Northern Minnesota and discovered what he believed to be the
source of the Mississippi. Being at a loss for an appropriate name to
bestow upon the lake which constituted this supposed source, so the
story goes, he asked a companion what were the Latin words signifying
'true head,' and received in reply 'veritas caput.' This was rather a
ponderous name to give a comparatively small body of water, even
though the Father of Waters here took his first start in the world. The
explorer, therefore, conceived the idea of uniting the last two syllables
of the first word with the first syllable of the second, thus, by a novel
mode of orthography, forming a name which might easily pass for one
of Indian origin—Itasca. A person versed in orthographical science
would probably perceive at once that the name did not belong to the
Page 585
same family of harsh Indian appellations which have affixed themselves
permanently to many towns and rivers in Wisconsin and Minnesota, but
was more allied to the softer language of southern Indian nations. But it
has now been discovered that Lake Itasca is not veritas caput; and Lake
Glazier, discovered in July, 1881, by Captain Willard Glazier, must be
regarded by all future generations as the true head of the Mississippi.
"The Mississippi, on its first stages, flows in a northerly direction, the
whole system of small lakes which contribute to it being surrounded on
the north and west by an amphitheatre of hills. Lake Glazier lies above
and beyond Lake Itasca, and its waters have an elevation of probably
seven feet above that lake, being connected therewith by a small, swift
stream. Lake Itasca is composed of three arms, extending in the form of
a trefoil, having a length of five miles and an average width of about
one mile. The upper, or southern end of its middle arm apparently
terminates in a swamp, which might easily have deceived any one not
familiar with the country. But Chenowagesic, Captain Glazier's Indian
guide, who had for years used the region of these lakes for his hunting-
ground, readily made his way through the reeds and rushes at the mouth
of the connecting stream. Lake Glazier at its outlet presents another
barricade of reeds, through which the party made their way in their
canoes.
"Lake Glazier is about two miles in length by a mile and a half in
breadth. Its shores, instead of being low and marshy, as are those of
many of the neighboring lakes, present finely wooded slopes and
surround the lake in what would have been the shape of a perfect oval,
had not a bold, rocky promontory indented its southern end, and given
to it the outline of a heart. On the point of this promontory is a spring
from which flows ice-cold water. The waters of the lake are exceedingly
permanently to many towns and rivers in Wisconsin and Minnesota, but
was more allied to the softer language of southern Indian nations. But it
has now been discovered that Lake Itasca is not veritas caput; and Lake
Glazier, discovered in July, 1881, by Captain Willard Glazier, must be
regarded by all future generations as the true head of the Mississippi.
"The Mississippi, on its first stages, flows in a northerly direction, the
whole system of small lakes which contribute to it being surrounded on
the north and west by an amphitheatre of hills. Lake Glazier lies above
and beyond Lake Itasca, and its waters have an elevation of probably
seven feet above that lake, being connected therewith by a small, swift
stream. Lake Itasca is composed of three arms, extending in the form of
a trefoil, having a length of five miles and an average width of about
one mile. The upper, or southern end of its middle arm apparently
terminates in a swamp, which might easily have deceived any one not
familiar with the country. But Chenowagesic, Captain Glazier's Indian
guide, who had for years used the region of these lakes for his hunting-
ground, readily made his way through the reeds and rushes at the mouth
of the connecting stream. Lake Glazier at its outlet presents another
barricade of reeds, through which the party made their way in their
canoes.
"Lake Glazier is about two miles in length by a mile and a half in
breadth. Its shores, instead of being low and marshy, as are those of
many of the neighboring lakes, present finely wooded slopes and
surround the lake in what would have been the shape of a perfect oval,
had not a bold, rocky promontory indented its southern end, and given
to it the outline of a heart. On the point of this promontory is a spring
from which flows ice-cold water. The waters of the lake are exceedingly
Page 586
clear and pure, proceeding from springs, some of them in the bottom of
the lake itself, and the others at a greater or less distance from its shores.
"Lake Glazier has three small feeders, one of them named Eagle
Creek, entering it near its outlet, and taking its rise a mile or so farther
south, in a small pond or lakelet, upon which Captain Glazier bestowed
the name of 'Alice,' after his daughter. Eagle Creek runs nearly parallel
with the western shore of the lake, a little distance from it. Two streams,
two or three miles in length, flow northward into Lake Glazier at its
southern extremity on either side of the indenting promontory. Excelsior
Creek, so named because it represents the very highest water of the
Mississippi, is the longer of these. Deer Creek, to the eastward, and
rising a little nearer the lake, has been so named for the reason that
numbers of deer were seen in its vicinity.
"Lake Glazier is thus supplied by three feeders, Eagle, Excelsior and
Deer Creeks, now named in the order of their importance, and as uniting
these waters in one common reservoir, this lake is undoubtedly entitled
to be regarded as the veritas caput—the true head of the Mississippi.
"Pearce Giles.
"Boston, August 6, 1886."
We insert here an interesting letter from Paul Beaulieu, Interpreter to the
United States Indian Agency, White Earth, Minnesota. Mr. Beaulieu is a
very intelligent half-breed, about sixty years of age, and has lived nearly all
his life in the neighborhood of the headwaters of the Mississippi. His
testimony, therefore, upon a subject with which he must necessarily be
familiar, will have due weight with the inquiring reader:
the lake itself, and the others at a greater or less distance from its shores.
"Lake Glazier has three small feeders, one of them named Eagle
Creek, entering it near its outlet, and taking its rise a mile or so farther
south, in a small pond or lakelet, upon which Captain Glazier bestowed
the name of 'Alice,' after his daughter. Eagle Creek runs nearly parallel
with the western shore of the lake, a little distance from it. Two streams,
two or three miles in length, flow northward into Lake Glazier at its
southern extremity on either side of the indenting promontory. Excelsior
Creek, so named because it represents the very highest water of the
Mississippi, is the longer of these. Deer Creek, to the eastward, and
rising a little nearer the lake, has been so named for the reason that
numbers of deer were seen in its vicinity.
"Lake Glazier is thus supplied by three feeders, Eagle, Excelsior and
Deer Creeks, now named in the order of their importance, and as uniting
these waters in one common reservoir, this lake is undoubtedly entitled
to be regarded as the veritas caput—the true head of the Mississippi.
"Pearce Giles.
"Boston, August 6, 1886."
We insert here an interesting letter from Paul Beaulieu, Interpreter to the
United States Indian Agency, White Earth, Minnesota. Mr. Beaulieu is a
very intelligent half-breed, about sixty years of age, and has lived nearly all
his life in the neighborhood of the headwaters of the Mississippi. His
testimony, therefore, upon a subject with which he must necessarily be
familiar, will have due weight with the inquiring reader:
Page 587
"U. S. Indian Service,
"White Earth Agency, Minnesota,
"May 25, 1884.
"Dear Sir:—I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of the sixteenth instant. In reply, I would respectfully state that
according to the ideas of the people of this section of country, for a
score of years past, in alluding to Lake Itasca, which is known only as
Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of this country, was never by them
considered as the head or source of the Father of Running Waters, or
May-see-see-be, as it is by them named. I have received a map showing
the route of exploration of Captain Willard Glazier in 1881, and being
well acquainted with his chief guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the
section of country explored by Captain Glazier his home for many years
in the past, and who has proved the truth of his often repeated assertion,
when maps were shown him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca
would in time change a feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world
that Lake Itasca cannot longer maintain its claim as being the fountain
head of Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be,
by the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide,
Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and it is
plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean by us, the
Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) that
Lake Glazier is located at the right place, and is the last lake on the
longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi.
"With respect, yours truly,
"Paul Beaulieu,
"U. S. Indian Interpreter."
"White Earth Agency, Minnesota,
"May 25, 1884.
"Dear Sir:—I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of the sixteenth instant. In reply, I would respectfully state that
according to the ideas of the people of this section of country, for a
score of years past, in alluding to Lake Itasca, which is known only as
Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of this country, was never by them
considered as the head or source of the Father of Running Waters, or
May-see-see-be, as it is by them named. I have received a map showing
the route of exploration of Captain Willard Glazier in 1881, and being
well acquainted with his chief guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the
section of country explored by Captain Glazier his home for many years
in the past, and who has proved the truth of his often repeated assertion,
when maps were shown him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca
would in time change a feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world
that Lake Itasca cannot longer maintain its claim as being the fountain
head of Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be,
by the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide,
Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and it is
plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean by us, the
Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) that
Lake Glazier is located at the right place, and is the last lake on the
longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi.
"With respect, yours truly,
"Paul Beaulieu,
"U. S. Indian Interpreter."
Page 588
An eastern correspondent addressed the following communication to the
Saint Paul Dispatch, in which he claims that the discovery of the true
source of the Mississippi should be credited to Captain Glazier:
"To the Editor—Saint Paul Dispatch:
"Having been a resident of Minnesota in 1855, I wish to say a word
about Captain Glazier and his discovery. Minnesota, at the time of my
residence there, was thinly settled. Minneapolis and Saint Anthony were
both straggling villages. Saint Paul could boast of something like
10,000 population. The nearest railroad point to the latter city was one
hundred and thirty miles distant. In winter Burbank's Northwestern
Express carried the mails and the very few passengers that could muster
courage to make the toilsome journey; and well do I remember my trip
over this route. I know that, at that time, there was a question with the
Sioux, Chippewas and many pioneers as to Lake Itasca being the source
of the Great River. There was a settled opinion that something would be
found beyond that would eventually prove to be the source of that
stream. I believe Captain Glazier to have been actuated by a desire to
establish the truth of this problem. Interested parties may seek to
withhold from him his rightful due as a discoverer, but notwithstanding
these attempts, in some schools in this region, Lake Glazier is taught as
the true source of the Mississippi. To attempt to discredit one who took
front rank for the preservation of the Union, and who suffered in many
rebel prisons, is altogether unworthy of the parties who are making
themselves conspicuous in the matter.
"J. C. Crane.
"West Millbury, Massachusetts, January, 1887."
Saint Paul Dispatch, in which he claims that the discovery of the true
source of the Mississippi should be credited to Captain Glazier:
"To the Editor—Saint Paul Dispatch:
"Having been a resident of Minnesota in 1855, I wish to say a word
about Captain Glazier and his discovery. Minnesota, at the time of my
residence there, was thinly settled. Minneapolis and Saint Anthony were
both straggling villages. Saint Paul could boast of something like
10,000 population. The nearest railroad point to the latter city was one
hundred and thirty miles distant. In winter Burbank's Northwestern
Express carried the mails and the very few passengers that could muster
courage to make the toilsome journey; and well do I remember my trip
over this route. I know that, at that time, there was a question with the
Sioux, Chippewas and many pioneers as to Lake Itasca being the source
of the Great River. There was a settled opinion that something would be
found beyond that would eventually prove to be the source of that
stream. I believe Captain Glazier to have been actuated by a desire to
establish the truth of this problem. Interested parties may seek to
withhold from him his rightful due as a discoverer, but notwithstanding
these attempts, in some schools in this region, Lake Glazier is taught as
the true source of the Mississippi. To attempt to discredit one who took
front rank for the preservation of the Union, and who suffered in many
rebel prisons, is altogether unworthy of the parties who are making
themselves conspicuous in the matter.
"J. C. Crane.
"West Millbury, Massachusetts, January, 1887."
Page 589
Letter from Mr. John Lovell, geographer and historian, and one of the
leading educational publishers of the Dominion of Canada:
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—I owe you an apology for not having earlier
acknowledged your courtesy in sending me a copy of your remarkably
interesting work 'Down the Great River.' Owing to illness and a variety
of calls on my time, I had not an opportunity ere this of finishing the
reading of it. I have no hesitation in saying that it is most interesting and
instructive, especially where you so ably summarize the results of
former expeditions, and where you describe in animated language the
aim, course, and outcome of your own explorations. You have had an
experience which has fallen to the lot of few travellers, and, in
certifying the source of the Father of Waters, have rendered a great
service to the cause of geographical discovery. The account of your
voyage from the newly discovered Source to the Gulf of Mexico gave
me much pleasure and information. The patience and endurance of the
brave fellows who were with you, considering the distance, in canoes, is
worthy of praise. Your own able management of the expedition is
worthy of all commendation and of substantial and immediate thanks
from the good men of your own wonderful country.
"Again I sincerely thank you for your handsome and most acceptable
present.
"With sincere respect, I remain, dear sir,
"Yours faithfully,
"John Lovell.
"Montreal, October 17, 1887."
leading educational publishers of the Dominion of Canada:
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—I owe you an apology for not having earlier
acknowledged your courtesy in sending me a copy of your remarkably
interesting work 'Down the Great River.' Owing to illness and a variety
of calls on my time, I had not an opportunity ere this of finishing the
reading of it. I have no hesitation in saying that it is most interesting and
instructive, especially where you so ably summarize the results of
former expeditions, and where you describe in animated language the
aim, course, and outcome of your own explorations. You have had an
experience which has fallen to the lot of few travellers, and, in
certifying the source of the Father of Waters, have rendered a great
service to the cause of geographical discovery. The account of your
voyage from the newly discovered Source to the Gulf of Mexico gave
me much pleasure and information. The patience and endurance of the
brave fellows who were with you, considering the distance, in canoes, is
worthy of praise. Your own able management of the expedition is
worthy of all commendation and of substantial and immediate thanks
from the good men of your own wonderful country.
"Again I sincerely thank you for your handsome and most acceptable
present.
"With sincere respect, I remain, dear sir,
"Yours faithfully,
"John Lovell.
"Montreal, October 17, 1887."
Page 590
The following letter will speak for itself. Mr. Gus. H. Beaulieu, of White
Earth, Minnesota, Deputy United States Marshal for the district, is an
educated half-breed, and cousin of Paul Beaulieu. His home is on the
Chippewa Indian Reservation, within sixty miles of the source of the
Mississippi. In this letter he presents the Indian theory as to the comparative
volume of water in the two lakes—Glazier and Itasca:
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—I have been somewhat interested in your discussion
regarding the source of the Mississippi. Even had you never proclaimed
to the world your discoveries, from information received by me from
Indians and old mixed-blood Indian voyageurs, there would have
always been a doubt existing with me as to whether Itasca was the head
of the Mississippi.
"Henry Beaulieu, a brother of Paul Beaulieu, always maintained that
Lake Glazier was the true source of the Mississippi. I remember that,
after his return from Itasca with Mr. Chambers of the New York Herald,
I think in 1872, he said that Winnibegoshish or Cass Lake might as well
be called the source of the Mississippi as Itasca. Other mixed-blood
have repeatedly stated the same thing. I mention this to show you what
the general opinion is among Indians and those of mixed blood.
"Chenowagesic's theory concerning the head of the Mississippi is
this: That while Itasca presents a larger surface than Lake Glazier, it
does not contain as much water as the latter. He arrives at this
conclusion from the fact that Itasca freezes over two or three weeks
before Lake Glazier. This, he says, is a sure sign that the latter lake is
the deeper of the two, and contains more water. His arguments in favor
of Lake Glazier are rather novel, and, as a matter of course, are taken
from an Indian's standpoint.
Earth, Minnesota, Deputy United States Marshal for the district, is an
educated half-breed, and cousin of Paul Beaulieu. His home is on the
Chippewa Indian Reservation, within sixty miles of the source of the
Mississippi. In this letter he presents the Indian theory as to the comparative
volume of water in the two lakes—Glazier and Itasca:
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—I have been somewhat interested in your discussion
regarding the source of the Mississippi. Even had you never proclaimed
to the world your discoveries, from information received by me from
Indians and old mixed-blood Indian voyageurs, there would have
always been a doubt existing with me as to whether Itasca was the head
of the Mississippi.
"Henry Beaulieu, a brother of Paul Beaulieu, always maintained that
Lake Glazier was the true source of the Mississippi. I remember that,
after his return from Itasca with Mr. Chambers of the New York Herald,
I think in 1872, he said that Winnibegoshish or Cass Lake might as well
be called the source of the Mississippi as Itasca. Other mixed-blood
have repeatedly stated the same thing. I mention this to show you what
the general opinion is among Indians and those of mixed blood.
"Chenowagesic's theory concerning the head of the Mississippi is
this: That while Itasca presents a larger surface than Lake Glazier, it
does not contain as much water as the latter. He arrives at this
conclusion from the fact that Itasca freezes over two or three weeks
before Lake Glazier. This, he says, is a sure sign that the latter lake is
the deeper of the two, and contains more water. His arguments in favor
of Lake Glazier are rather novel, and, as a matter of course, are taken
from an Indian's standpoint.
Page 591
"Yours truly,
"Gus. H. Beaulieu.
"White Earth, Minnesota, December 17, 1887."
"Gus. H. Beaulieu.
"White Earth, Minnesota, December 17, 1887."
Page 592
IV. PUBLIC OPINION IN MINNESOTA.
The evidence here presented in support of Lake Glazier, is, in our
judgment, most conclusive; we may add, overwhelming. Many of the most
prominent citizens of the State in which the Great River takes its rise
volunteer their endorsement of a claim, of the merits of which, they must
necessarily be better informed than persons living at a remote distance from
the head of the river. State authorities, including the Governor and his staff;
senators and representatives, many of whom have resided from twenty to
forty years in Minnesota; pioneers, clergymen, and school-teachers, with
many of the leading citizens; editors, school-superintendents, professional
men, and others, strongly affirm that Lake Itasca is not the source of the
Mississippi, but that the lake to the south of it, definitely located by Captain
Glazier, is the primal reservoir or true source of the Father of Waters. These
witnesses, moreover, unequivocally assert that the credit of the discovery
should be awarded to the man who made it, notwithstanding the groundless
opposition of a few cavillers who have never themselves visited within
many hundred miles a region they affect to be so marvelously familiar with.
From His Excellency, A. R. McGill, Governor of Minnesota:
"Captain Glazier's claim to be the discoverer of the true source of the
Mississippi seems reasonable, to say the least. I have been a resident of
Minnesota twenty-six years, and never until Captain Glazier's
expedition, heard the claim of Itasca being the source of the Great River
seriously questioned."
The evidence here presented in support of Lake Glazier, is, in our
judgment, most conclusive; we may add, overwhelming. Many of the most
prominent citizens of the State in which the Great River takes its rise
volunteer their endorsement of a claim, of the merits of which, they must
necessarily be better informed than persons living at a remote distance from
the head of the river. State authorities, including the Governor and his staff;
senators and representatives, many of whom have resided from twenty to
forty years in Minnesota; pioneers, clergymen, and school-teachers, with
many of the leading citizens; editors, school-superintendents, professional
men, and others, strongly affirm that Lake Itasca is not the source of the
Mississippi, but that the lake to the south of it, definitely located by Captain
Glazier, is the primal reservoir or true source of the Father of Waters. These
witnesses, moreover, unequivocally assert that the credit of the discovery
should be awarded to the man who made it, notwithstanding the groundless
opposition of a few cavillers who have never themselves visited within
many hundred miles a region they affect to be so marvelously familiar with.
From His Excellency, A. R. McGill, Governor of Minnesota:
"Captain Glazier's claim to be the discoverer of the true source of the
Mississippi seems reasonable, to say the least. I have been a resident of
Minnesota twenty-six years, and never until Captain Glazier's
expedition, heard the claim of Itasca being the source of the Great River
seriously questioned."
Page 593
From Hon. Horace Austin, Ex-Governor:
"I think that it would be a very proper thing to do under the
circumstances that Captain Glazier's services should be recognized by
the passage of a bill by the Legislature giving his name to the lake
which is the real source of the Mississippi."
From Hon. W. H. Gale, Ex-Lieutenant-Governor, Winona
"I have been a resident of Minnesota for more than twenty-eight
years, and I believe it was the generally accepted opinion of the people
of this State that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi River,
until after the expedition of Captain Willard Glazier, and his publication
to the world that another lake south of Lake Itasca was the true source,
to which lake has been given the name of Lake Glazier. This is now
generally recognized as the true source and head of the Mississippi, and
Captain Glazier as the man who first made known that fact to the
world."
From F. W. Seeley, Adjutant-General
"I desire to say, in justice to Captain Glazier, that, having been a
resident of Minnesota for twenty-five years, and quite familiar with the
geography of the State, it is my belief that he was the first to discover
the true source of the Mississippi River and publish it to the world."
"I think that it would be a very proper thing to do under the
circumstances that Captain Glazier's services should be recognized by
the passage of a bill by the Legislature giving his name to the lake
which is the real source of the Mississippi."
From Hon. W. H. Gale, Ex-Lieutenant-Governor, Winona
"I have been a resident of Minnesota for more than twenty-eight
years, and I believe it was the generally accepted opinion of the people
of this State that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi River,
until after the expedition of Captain Willard Glazier, and his publication
to the world that another lake south of Lake Itasca was the true source,
to which lake has been given the name of Lake Glazier. This is now
generally recognized as the true source and head of the Mississippi, and
Captain Glazier as the man who first made known that fact to the
world."
From F. W. Seeley, Adjutant-General
"I desire to say, in justice to Captain Glazier, that, having been a
resident of Minnesota for twenty-five years, and quite familiar with the
geography of the State, it is my belief that he was the first to discover
the true source of the Mississippi River and publish it to the world."
Page 594
From Moses E. Clapp, Attorney-General:
"From such information as I have on the subject, I am convinced that
the actual source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the
published accounts of the explorations of Captain Willard Glazier."
From H. W. Childs, Assistant Attorney-General:
"There is, in my opinion, no reason or ground for disputing Captain
Glazier's claim to have located the body of water now undoubtedly
regarded as the source of the Mississippi River, and appropriately
named Lake Glazier."
From J. K. Moore, Private Secretary to Governor McGill:
"From the evidence, it seems clear to me that the actual source of the
Mississippi River had never been recognized until Captain Glazier
made its discovery in 1881."
From Gus. H. Beaulieu, Deputy U. S. Marshal, District of Minnesota:
"Having been born and raised in the State of Minnesota, and a
resident of White Earth Indian Reservation, and being familiar with the
Indian traditions, I certify that Itasca Lake had never been considered
the source of the Mississippi by the best informed Chippewa Indians.
Although I had never seen any published maps to the contrary, prior to
the expedition of Captain Glazier in 1881, from the best information I
"From such information as I have on the subject, I am convinced that
the actual source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the
published accounts of the explorations of Captain Willard Glazier."
From H. W. Childs, Assistant Attorney-General:
"There is, in my opinion, no reason or ground for disputing Captain
Glazier's claim to have located the body of water now undoubtedly
regarded as the source of the Mississippi River, and appropriately
named Lake Glazier."
From J. K. Moore, Private Secretary to Governor McGill:
"From the evidence, it seems clear to me that the actual source of the
Mississippi River had never been recognized until Captain Glazier
made its discovery in 1881."
From Gus. H. Beaulieu, Deputy U. S. Marshal, District of Minnesota:
"Having been born and raised in the State of Minnesota, and a
resident of White Earth Indian Reservation, and being familiar with the
Indian traditions, I certify that Itasca Lake had never been considered
the source of the Mississippi by the best informed Chippewa Indians.
Although I had never seen any published maps to the contrary, prior to
the expedition of Captain Glazier in 1881, from the best information I
Page 595
have among the Indians, I now regard Lake Glazier as the true source
of the Mississippi River. I regard his chief guide, Chenowagesic, as the
best authority among the Indians regarding the section of country about
the headwaters of the Mississippi, and consider him thoroughly
reliable."
From Ed. W. S. Tingle, St. Paul Globe:
"After a study of the literature of the subject, I am convinced that the
lake to which the name of Glazier was given by the Glazier exploring
expedition is undoubtedly the true source of the Mississippi, and that
Captain Glazier was the first to call general public attention to the fact."
From Rev. W. T. Chase, Pastor First Baptist Church, Minneapolis:
"There seems no reasonable doubt that the actual source of the
Mississippi had never been recognized until Captain Willard Glazier
made its discovery in 1881. Captain Glazier merits the gratitude of
every citizen of the United States who is interested in knowing all that
is knowable about the great Father of Waters."
From Ex-Mayor Pillsbury, Minneapolis:
"From the best information I have been able to obtain, I am satisfied
that Captain Willard Glazier was the first person that discovered the true
source of the Mississippi."
of the Mississippi River. I regard his chief guide, Chenowagesic, as the
best authority among the Indians regarding the section of country about
the headwaters of the Mississippi, and consider him thoroughly
reliable."
From Ed. W. S. Tingle, St. Paul Globe:
"After a study of the literature of the subject, I am convinced that the
lake to which the name of Glazier was given by the Glazier exploring
expedition is undoubtedly the true source of the Mississippi, and that
Captain Glazier was the first to call general public attention to the fact."
From Rev. W. T. Chase, Pastor First Baptist Church, Minneapolis:
"There seems no reasonable doubt that the actual source of the
Mississippi had never been recognized until Captain Willard Glazier
made its discovery in 1881. Captain Glazier merits the gratitude of
every citizen of the United States who is interested in knowing all that
is knowable about the great Father of Waters."
From Ex-Mayor Pillsbury, Minneapolis:
"From the best information I have been able to obtain, I am satisfied
that Captain Willard Glazier was the first person that discovered the true
source of the Mississippi."
Page 596
From Rev. J. L. Pitner, Pastor Methodist Episcopal Church,
Minneapolis:
"From the evidence I have examined, I am convinced that the real
source of the Mississippi was not known prior to 1881. I am quite sure
the claims of Lake Glazier are not ill-founded, and that in its deep, cool
bosom the Great River takes its rise."
From John E. Bradley, Superintendent Public Schools, Minneapolis:
"From such examination as I have been able to give to the problem of
the true source of the Mississippi, it seems to be satisfactorily
established that Lake Glazier is to be so regarded."
From Hon. Samuel E. Adams, Member of the Minnesota Historical
Society, Monticello:
"I have no doubt of the correctness of Captain Glazier's statement that
he discovered the new source of the Mississippi now bearing his name."
From John H. Elliott, Secretary Y. M. C. A., Minneapolis:
"I have no hesitation in stating that I believe Lake Glazier to be the
real source of the Mississippi River, and that Captain Glazier's claims
are entitled to respectful and grateful recognition."
Minneapolis:
"From the evidence I have examined, I am convinced that the real
source of the Mississippi was not known prior to 1881. I am quite sure
the claims of Lake Glazier are not ill-founded, and that in its deep, cool
bosom the Great River takes its rise."
From John E. Bradley, Superintendent Public Schools, Minneapolis:
"From such examination as I have been able to give to the problem of
the true source of the Mississippi, it seems to be satisfactorily
established that Lake Glazier is to be so regarded."
From Hon. Samuel E. Adams, Member of the Minnesota Historical
Society, Monticello:
"I have no doubt of the correctness of Captain Glazier's statement that
he discovered the new source of the Mississippi now bearing his name."
From John H. Elliott, Secretary Y. M. C. A., Minneapolis:
"I have no hesitation in stating that I believe Lake Glazier to be the
real source of the Mississippi River, and that Captain Glazier's claims
are entitled to respectful and grateful recognition."
Page 597
From J. S. McLain, Evening Journal, Minneapolis:
"I have no reason to question the claim of Captain Glazier to have
been the first to correctly map the section of country about the source of
the Mississippi, or that the body of water which bears his name is the
true source of the Great River."
From Albert Shaw, Minneapolis Tribune:
"Unquestionably Captain Glazier may claim the credit of having
called public attention to the fact that there is a lake beyond Lake Itasca
which is more strictly to be considered as the source of the Mississippi.
That the lake will always be called Lake Glazier, and that it will
henceforth be spoken of everywhere as the source of the Great River, I
have no doubt; nor do I doubt the propriety of the name."
From Judge John P. Rea, Commander-in-Chief G.A.R., Minneapolis:
"I have resided in Minnesota eleven years, and always supposed that
Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I never heard the fact
questioned until within the past four or five years. From all the evidence
I have upon the subject, I am satisfied that Lake Glazier is the true
source."
From G. M. Wing, Secretary North-West Indian Commission,
Minneapolis:
"Concerning the real source of the Mississippi, I would say that the
lake which Captain Willard Glazier has located, and which he claims to
"I have no reason to question the claim of Captain Glazier to have
been the first to correctly map the section of country about the source of
the Mississippi, or that the body of water which bears his name is the
true source of the Great River."
From Albert Shaw, Minneapolis Tribune:
"Unquestionably Captain Glazier may claim the credit of having
called public attention to the fact that there is a lake beyond Lake Itasca
which is more strictly to be considered as the source of the Mississippi.
That the lake will always be called Lake Glazier, and that it will
henceforth be spoken of everywhere as the source of the Great River, I
have no doubt; nor do I doubt the propriety of the name."
From Judge John P. Rea, Commander-in-Chief G.A.R., Minneapolis:
"I have resided in Minnesota eleven years, and always supposed that
Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I never heard the fact
questioned until within the past four or five years. From all the evidence
I have upon the subject, I am satisfied that Lake Glazier is the true
source."
From G. M. Wing, Secretary North-West Indian Commission,
Minneapolis:
"Concerning the real source of the Mississippi, I would say that the
lake which Captain Willard Glazier has located, and which he claims to
Page 598
be the source, is no doubt more properly the true source of this Great
River than Lake Itasca. There is no doubt whatever in my mind but that
Captain Glazier was the first person to discover that fact, and make the
same known to the world; and that fact alone, though it might have been
visited before, should entitle him to the honor of naming the same. I
have been over the route traversed by Captain Glazier and party, and
find that the map which he has published is a correct delineation of that
section."
From Hon. J. G. Lawrence, Ex-Senator, Wabasha:
"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of having
discovered the true source of the Mississippi in a lake above Lake
Itasca, and now named Lake Glazier."
From Judge L. A. Evans, Ex-Mayor, Saint Cloud
"First Mayor of Saint Cloud, and have served six terms as such. Have
resided in Saint Cloud for thirty years. I believe that Lake Glazier is the
true source of the Mississippi River, and this is the opinion of the
majority of the people residing in this part of the State."
From Will E. Haskell, President and Managing Editor, Minneapolis
Tribune:
River than Lake Itasca. There is no doubt whatever in my mind but that
Captain Glazier was the first person to discover that fact, and make the
same known to the world; and that fact alone, though it might have been
visited before, should entitle him to the honor of naming the same. I
have been over the route traversed by Captain Glazier and party, and
find that the map which he has published is a correct delineation of that
section."
From Hon. J. G. Lawrence, Ex-Senator, Wabasha:
"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of having
discovered the true source of the Mississippi in a lake above Lake
Itasca, and now named Lake Glazier."
From Judge L. A. Evans, Ex-Mayor, Saint Cloud
"First Mayor of Saint Cloud, and have served six terms as such. Have
resided in Saint Cloud for thirty years. I believe that Lake Glazier is the
true source of the Mississippi River, and this is the opinion of the
majority of the people residing in this part of the State."
From Will E. Haskell, President and Managing Editor, Minneapolis
Tribune:
Page 599
"There can be no longer any doubt, when the question is carefully
considered, that the credit of discovering the true source of the
Mississippi belongs to Captain Willard Glazier. Captain Glazier's
discovery has now become an accepted geographical fact, and future
generations of school-boys will speak knowingly of Lake Glazier, as
we did in our youth of Itasca."
From J. O. Simmons, Little Falls.
"Have been a resident of Little Falls for the past twenty-nine years;
County Attorney and justice of the peace for several years; would state
that I am personally acquainted with the half-breed Indian interpreter,
Paul Beaulieu. Have known him since June, 1857, and know him to be a
person of intelligence, great experience, and personal knowledge of the
northern portion of Minnesota, which up to very recently has been a
vast wilderness occupied only by the Chippewas. Have often conversed
with him relative to the country north of us, and speaking of the
Mississippi, have heard him say that Lake Itasca was not the fountain
head; that there was a stream emptying its waters into Itasca from a lake
a short distance above the latter, and which, in his opinion, was the true
source. Since Captain Glazier's exploration, I accept the lake bearing his
name as the true source of the Mississippi."
From Rev. Andrew D. Stowe, Rector, Trinity Church, Anoka:
"This is to certify that from the testimony of Indians and Half-breeds
living at White Earth Agency, Minnesota, during my residence there of
considered, that the credit of discovering the true source of the
Mississippi belongs to Captain Willard Glazier. Captain Glazier's
discovery has now become an accepted geographical fact, and future
generations of school-boys will speak knowingly of Lake Glazier, as
we did in our youth of Itasca."
From J. O. Simmons, Little Falls.
"Have been a resident of Little Falls for the past twenty-nine years;
County Attorney and justice of the peace for several years; would state
that I am personally acquainted with the half-breed Indian interpreter,
Paul Beaulieu. Have known him since June, 1857, and know him to be a
person of intelligence, great experience, and personal knowledge of the
northern portion of Minnesota, which up to very recently has been a
vast wilderness occupied only by the Chippewas. Have often conversed
with him relative to the country north of us, and speaking of the
Mississippi, have heard him say that Lake Itasca was not the fountain
head; that there was a stream emptying its waters into Itasca from a lake
a short distance above the latter, and which, in his opinion, was the true
source. Since Captain Glazier's exploration, I accept the lake bearing his
name as the true source of the Mississippi."
From Rev. Andrew D. Stowe, Rector, Trinity Church, Anoka:
"This is to certify that from the testimony of Indians and Half-breeds
living at White Earth Agency, Minnesota, during my residence there of
Page 600
two years, I am persuaded that Lake Glazier, instead of Itasca, is the
real source of the Mississippi."
From D. Sinclair, Winona:
"In the autumn of 1862 I spent several weeks in that portion of
Northern Minnesota, extending from Crow Wing to Leech Lake, and the
country about Red Lake, in company with Paul Beaulieu, the well-
known Indian guide and interpreter. During a conversation as to the
source of the Mississippi, Beaulieu informed me that Lake Itasca was
not the real source of that river, but that a smaller lake, located a short
distance south of Itasca, was entitled to that distinction. After
investigating the matter recently, I have no doubt of the genuineness of
Captain Glazier's claim to be the person who first publicly established
the fact that the lake which now bears his name is the true source of the
Mississippi River."
From William A. Spencer, Clerk United States District Court, Saint
Paul:
"I have resided in Minnesota upwards of thirty years, and until
recently have always thought that Lake Itasca was the source of the
Mississippi; but after an examination of the claim of Captain Glazier to
be the discoverer of the true source, I am satisfied his claim is well
founded."
real source of the Mississippi."
From D. Sinclair, Winona:
"In the autumn of 1862 I spent several weeks in that portion of
Northern Minnesota, extending from Crow Wing to Leech Lake, and the
country about Red Lake, in company with Paul Beaulieu, the well-
known Indian guide and interpreter. During a conversation as to the
source of the Mississippi, Beaulieu informed me that Lake Itasca was
not the real source of that river, but that a smaller lake, located a short
distance south of Itasca, was entitled to that distinction. After
investigating the matter recently, I have no doubt of the genuineness of
Captain Glazier's claim to be the person who first publicly established
the fact that the lake which now bears his name is the true source of the
Mississippi River."
From William A. Spencer, Clerk United States District Court, Saint
Paul:
"I have resided in Minnesota upwards of thirty years, and until
recently have always thought that Lake Itasca was the source of the
Mississippi; but after an examination of the claim of Captain Glazier to
be the discoverer of the true source, I am satisfied his claim is well
founded."
Page 601
From O. C. Chase, Chairman County Commissioners, Otter-Tail
County:
"From information received, I am fully satisfied that Captain Glazier
was the first person to publicly announce the true source of the
Mississippi."
From John J. Ankeny, Postmaster, Minneapolis:
"From the best information I can obtain, I am persuaded that the
source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the published
accounts of exploration by Captain Willard Glazier in 1881. I think,
therefore, he is entitled to the credit of the discovery."
From P. P. Swenson, Sheriff, Hennepin County:
"After a residence of thirty-two years in the State of Minnesota, until
recently I have always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the
Mississippi River. I am now well informed of its true source being Lake
Glazier, having personally traversed that section of the State."
From Freeman E. Kreck, Postmaster, Aitkin:
"I have been a resident of Aitkin County since 1881; have been
County Auditor for past two years, and for a time proprietor and editor
of the Aitkin Age. Since Captain Glazier's explorations I do not hesitate
to say that I believe Lake Glazier to be the true primal reservoir of the
County:
"From information received, I am fully satisfied that Captain Glazier
was the first person to publicly announce the true source of the
Mississippi."
From John J. Ankeny, Postmaster, Minneapolis:
"From the best information I can obtain, I am persuaded that the
source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the published
accounts of exploration by Captain Willard Glazier in 1881. I think,
therefore, he is entitled to the credit of the discovery."
From P. P. Swenson, Sheriff, Hennepin County:
"After a residence of thirty-two years in the State of Minnesota, until
recently I have always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the
Mississippi River. I am now well informed of its true source being Lake
Glazier, having personally traversed that section of the State."
From Freeman E. Kreck, Postmaster, Aitkin:
"I have been a resident of Aitkin County since 1881; have been
County Auditor for past two years, and for a time proprietor and editor
of the Aitkin Age. Since Captain Glazier's explorations I do not hesitate
to say that I believe Lake Glazier to be the true primal reservoir of the
Page 602
Mississippi, and I think I voice the sentiment of the majority of the
residents of this section."
From A. Y. Merrill, County Attorney, Aitkin:
"I believe that the lake claimed to have been located by Captain
Glazier is the real source of the Mississippi River."
From J. W. Wakefield, Aitkin:
"Resident of Minnesota for thirty years. Personally acquainted with
Chenowagesic. Indian trader more than fifteen years. Thoroughly
familiar with the Chippewa language. I recognize Lake Glazier as the
true source of the Mississippi River."
From Lyman P. White, Ex-Mayor, Brainerd:
"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1870. Built the first house in
Brainerd. Have had charge of the town site for the Lake Superior and
Puget Sound Company for sixteen years. I met Captain Glazier on his
Mississippi trip, and fully endorse his claim to have discovered the true
source of the Mississippi."
From W. W. Hartley, Brainerd:
residents of this section."
From A. Y. Merrill, County Attorney, Aitkin:
"I believe that the lake claimed to have been located by Captain
Glazier is the real source of the Mississippi River."
From J. W. Wakefield, Aitkin:
"Resident of Minnesota for thirty years. Personally acquainted with
Chenowagesic. Indian trader more than fifteen years. Thoroughly
familiar with the Chippewa language. I recognize Lake Glazier as the
true source of the Mississippi River."
From Lyman P. White, Ex-Mayor, Brainerd:
"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1870. Built the first house in
Brainerd. Have had charge of the town site for the Lake Superior and
Puget Sound Company for sixteen years. I met Captain Glazier on his
Mississippi trip, and fully endorse his claim to have discovered the true
source of the Mississippi."
From W. W. Hartley, Brainerd:
Page 603
"Have been a resident of Brainerd for the past fifteen years. Editor
and publisher of the Tribune from 1875 to 1881, and postmaster from
1879 to 1886. Met Captain Glazier and his party here in 1881, both en
route to the source of the Mississippi River, and on their return voyage
by canoes to its mouth. Have no recollection of ever having heard any
other than Lake Itasca claimed to be the source of the Mississippi prior
to the Captain's expedition. Lake Glazier has since been accepted and
is believed to be its source."
From J. H. Koop, Postmaster, Brainerd:
"Have been a resident of this State for sixteen years. Met Captain
Glazier at the time he made his expedition of discovery to the source of
the Mississippi, and I recognize the lake bearing his name as its true
source."
From N. H. Ingersoll, Editor, Brainerd Dispatch:
"I fully endorse the statement that Captain Glazier was the first to
proclaim to the world the true source of the Mississippi."
From Rev. Fletcher J. Hawley, D. D., Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal
Church, Brainerd:
"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1880, and have not heard
any one question the truth of Captain Glazier's claim to have discovered
and publisher of the Tribune from 1875 to 1881, and postmaster from
1879 to 1886. Met Captain Glazier and his party here in 1881, both en
route to the source of the Mississippi River, and on their return voyage
by canoes to its mouth. Have no recollection of ever having heard any
other than Lake Itasca claimed to be the source of the Mississippi prior
to the Captain's expedition. Lake Glazier has since been accepted and
is believed to be its source."
From J. H. Koop, Postmaster, Brainerd:
"Have been a resident of this State for sixteen years. Met Captain
Glazier at the time he made his expedition of discovery to the source of
the Mississippi, and I recognize the lake bearing his name as its true
source."
From N. H. Ingersoll, Editor, Brainerd Dispatch:
"I fully endorse the statement that Captain Glazier was the first to
proclaim to the world the true source of the Mississippi."
From Rev. Fletcher J. Hawley, D. D., Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal
Church, Brainerd:
"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1880, and have not heard
any one question the truth of Captain Glazier's claim to have discovered
Page 604
the true source of the Mississippi to be in Lake Glazier."
From John F. Peterson, Register of Deeds, Minneapolis:
"I have resided in Minnesota for the past eighteen years, and fully
believe that Lake Glazier is the true source of the Mississippi."
From C. P. De Laithe, Superintendent of Schools, Aitkin County:
"I recognize Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi River.
Have resided in Aitkin for several years."
From J. H. Hallett, Brainerd:
"I recognize the lake discovered by Captain Glazier as the real source
of the Mississippi. Have been an Indian trader for the past fifteen
years."
From Hon. N. Richardson, Little Falls, Judge of Probate of Morrison
County:
"I have resided on the banks of the Mississippi for thirty-one years.
Met Captain Glazier at Little Falls with his exploring party, that visited
the headwaters of this river in the summer of 1881. From information
derived from sources that I consider reliable, I regard Lake Glazier as
From John F. Peterson, Register of Deeds, Minneapolis:
"I have resided in Minnesota for the past eighteen years, and fully
believe that Lake Glazier is the true source of the Mississippi."
From C. P. De Laithe, Superintendent of Schools, Aitkin County:
"I recognize Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi River.
Have resided in Aitkin for several years."
From J. H. Hallett, Brainerd:
"I recognize the lake discovered by Captain Glazier as the real source
of the Mississippi. Have been an Indian trader for the past fifteen
years."
From Hon. N. Richardson, Little Falls, Judge of Probate of Morrison
County:
"I have resided on the banks of the Mississippi for thirty-one years.
Met Captain Glazier at Little Falls with his exploring party, that visited
the headwaters of this river in the summer of 1881. From information
derived from sources that I consider reliable, I regard Lake Glazier as
Page 605
the true source of the Great River. Have been a member of the
Minnesota Legislature for three terms."
From O. L. Clyde, First Lieutenant, National Guard, Little Falls:
"I have been a resident of Northern Minnesota for twenty years, and
always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I
never heard any thing to the contrary until the year 1881, when Captain
Glazier explored the Upper Mississippi, and made his report of the
same. I now recognize Lake Glazier as the true source of the Great
River."
From Moses La Fond, Little Falls:
"Lake Glazier is now considered the true source of the Mississippi. I
am one of the old pioneers of this State, having resided in the northern
section for over thirty-two years, and was a member of the Legislature
in 1874."
From R. Cronk, of the Government Survey, Sauk Rapids:
"This is to certify that I was compass-man on the survey of township
143 north, range 36 west of the 5th principal meridian, which embraces
Itasca Lake, (the Indian name of which I understood to be Omushkos or
Elk Lake,) and hereby affirm that Lake Glazier is the only well-defined
Minnesota Legislature for three terms."
From O. L. Clyde, First Lieutenant, National Guard, Little Falls:
"I have been a resident of Northern Minnesota for twenty years, and
always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I
never heard any thing to the contrary until the year 1881, when Captain
Glazier explored the Upper Mississippi, and made his report of the
same. I now recognize Lake Glazier as the true source of the Great
River."
From Moses La Fond, Little Falls:
"Lake Glazier is now considered the true source of the Mississippi. I
am one of the old pioneers of this State, having resided in the northern
section for over thirty-two years, and was a member of the Legislature
in 1874."
From R. Cronk, of the Government Survey, Sauk Rapids:
"This is to certify that I was compass-man on the survey of township
143 north, range 36 west of the 5th principal meridian, which embraces
Itasca Lake, (the Indian name of which I understood to be Omushkos or
Elk Lake,) and hereby affirm that Lake Glazier is the only well-defined
Page 606
body of water emptying into Lake Itasca, and in my opinion is the true
source of the Mississippi."
From Hon. T. G. Healey, Ex-State Senator, Monticello:
"Have resided in Monticello since 1856. I regard Lake Glazier as the
true source of the Mississippi River, and it is now so regarded by the
people living in this section of Minnesota."
From William Tubbs, Postmaster and Ex-County Auditor, Monticello:
"Have resided in Minnesota twenty-nine years. Lake Glazier is
regarded by the people generally of this section as the true source of the
Mississippi."
From W. J. Brown, Principal of the High School, Monticello:
"I consider Lake Glazier to be the true source of the Mississippi, and
know of no other. I teach the same in the public schools of this place, as
also do my assistants."
From Commander A. H. Fitch, J. S. Cady Post, G. A. R., Department
Minnesota; Anoka:
source of the Mississippi."
From Hon. T. G. Healey, Ex-State Senator, Monticello:
"Have resided in Monticello since 1856. I regard Lake Glazier as the
true source of the Mississippi River, and it is now so regarded by the
people living in this section of Minnesota."
From William Tubbs, Postmaster and Ex-County Auditor, Monticello:
"Have resided in Minnesota twenty-nine years. Lake Glazier is
regarded by the people generally of this section as the true source of the
Mississippi."
From W. J. Brown, Principal of the High School, Monticello:
"I consider Lake Glazier to be the true source of the Mississippi, and
know of no other. I teach the same in the public schools of this place, as
also do my assistants."
From Commander A. H. Fitch, J. S. Cady Post, G. A. R., Department
Minnesota; Anoka:
Page 607
"I am fully convinced that the body of water, known as Lake Glazier
since 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and not Lake Itasca."
From J. M. Tucker, M. D., Hastings:
"I believe Captain Glazier's claim to being the discoverer of the real
source of the Mississippi is just, and have never heard it questioned. It
must stand as one of the facts of history."
From Daniel O'Brien, Police Justice, Hastings:
"I am satisfied that the lake to the south of Itasca, located by Glazier,
in 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and that Captain Glazier is
entitled to whatever credit there is in the discovery."
From J. R. Lambert, Ex-Mayor, Hastings:
"It has been a generally accepted fact that Lake Itasca was the source
of the Mississippi River, and like many others who have preceded me in
giving testimonials in favor of Captain Willard Glazier's claim as the
discoverer of a body of water now known quite generally as Lake
Glazier, and so represented in many of our standard geographical
works, I cheerfully admit that Captain Glazier is entitled to credit as the
discoverer."
since 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and not Lake Itasca."
From J. M. Tucker, M. D., Hastings:
"I believe Captain Glazier's claim to being the discoverer of the real
source of the Mississippi is just, and have never heard it questioned. It
must stand as one of the facts of history."
From Daniel O'Brien, Police Justice, Hastings:
"I am satisfied that the lake to the south of Itasca, located by Glazier,
in 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and that Captain Glazier is
entitled to whatever credit there is in the discovery."
From J. R. Lambert, Ex-Mayor, Hastings:
"It has been a generally accepted fact that Lake Itasca was the source
of the Mississippi River, and like many others who have preceded me in
giving testimonials in favor of Captain Willard Glazier's claim as the
discoverer of a body of water now known quite generally as Lake
Glazier, and so represented in many of our standard geographical
works, I cheerfully admit that Captain Glazier is entitled to credit as the
discoverer."
Page 608
From S. Westerson, Chairman, Board of County Commissioners,
Hastings:
"It seems to be clearly proven that there is a lake—now called Lake
Glazier—which is the true source of the Mississippi, discovered by
Captain Willard Glazier in the year 1881, and that said Captain Glazier
was the first man to make it public. The honor, therefore, in my
estimation, is due to him."
From B. B. Herbert, Editor, The Republican, Red Wing:
"After a careful examination of the claim made for and against the
reputed discovery of the head of the Mississippi, by Captain Willard
Glazier, I am convinced that he was the first to question the received
statement that Lake Itasca was its source; and first to connect the lake,
which some respectable geographers have called by his name, with the
Mississippi as its source. Having lived in Minnesota, on the banks of the
Mississippi, for nearly thirty years, had any other person claimed to
have discovered any other source than Lake Itasca, I should have been
informed thereof."
From W. W. DeKay, Red Wing:
"From such information as I have upon the subject, I regard the lake
located by Captain Glazier, to the south of Itasca, as the true source of
the Mississippi. I have resided in Minnesota for thirty-three years."
Hastings:
"It seems to be clearly proven that there is a lake—now called Lake
Glazier—which is the true source of the Mississippi, discovered by
Captain Willard Glazier in the year 1881, and that said Captain Glazier
was the first man to make it public. The honor, therefore, in my
estimation, is due to him."
From B. B. Herbert, Editor, The Republican, Red Wing:
"After a careful examination of the claim made for and against the
reputed discovery of the head of the Mississippi, by Captain Willard
Glazier, I am convinced that he was the first to question the received
statement that Lake Itasca was its source; and first to connect the lake,
which some respectable geographers have called by his name, with the
Mississippi as its source. Having lived in Minnesota, on the banks of the
Mississippi, for nearly thirty years, had any other person claimed to
have discovered any other source than Lake Itasca, I should have been
informed thereof."
From W. W. DeKay, Red Wing:
"From such information as I have upon the subject, I regard the lake
located by Captain Glazier, to the south of Itasca, as the true source of
the Mississippi. I have resided in Minnesota for thirty-three years."
Page 609
From William Moore, Superintendent of Schools, Lake City:
"Knowing the facts in regard to Captain Glazier's discovery of the
true source of the Mississippi, as brought out by public discussion, I am
convinced that he is justly entitled to be considered the discoverer of the
source of the Mississippi River."
From George C. Stout, Mayor, Lake City:
"I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the honor of
first discovery of the true source of the Mississippi River."
From D. O. Irwin, Postmaster, Lake City:
"I am convinced that the actual source of the Mississippi had not
been recognized before the published account of explorations by
Captain Glazier; and I regard Lake Glazier as the true source of the
Great River."
From H. L. Smith, Editor and Proprietor of the Graphic, Lake City:
"I am fully convinced that Lake Glazier is the real source of the
Father of Waters. Have resided in Minnesota seventeen years."
From F. J. Collins, Mayor of Wabasha:
"Knowing the facts in regard to Captain Glazier's discovery of the
true source of the Mississippi, as brought out by public discussion, I am
convinced that he is justly entitled to be considered the discoverer of the
source of the Mississippi River."
From George C. Stout, Mayor, Lake City:
"I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the honor of
first discovery of the true source of the Mississippi River."
From D. O. Irwin, Postmaster, Lake City:
"I am convinced that the actual source of the Mississippi had not
been recognized before the published account of explorations by
Captain Glazier; and I regard Lake Glazier as the true source of the
Great River."
From H. L. Smith, Editor and Proprietor of the Graphic, Lake City:
"I am fully convinced that Lake Glazier is the real source of the
Father of Waters. Have resided in Minnesota seventeen years."
From F. J. Collins, Mayor of Wabasha:
Page 610
"I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the credit of
having discovered the true source of the Mississippi River. I have
resided in Minnesota thirty-one years."
From Hon. James G. Lawrence, Ex-State Senator, Wabasha:
"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of
discovering the true source of the Mississippi, in a lake above Lake
Itasca, now named after him, Lake Glazier."
From D. L. Dawley, Principal of Schools, Wabasha:
"I believe Captain Glazier to be the real discoverer of the true source
of the Mississippi River."
From S. B. Sheardown, M. D., Winona:
"I believe that Captain Glazier is entitled to the credit of discovering
the real source of the Mississippi River. I have been a resident of
Minnesota over thirty-one years."
From Judge A. F. Storey, St. Vincent:
"I have no hesitancy in saying that there can be no question, but, that
Lake Glazier is the true and primal source of the Mississippi River."
having discovered the true source of the Mississippi River. I have
resided in Minnesota thirty-one years."
From Hon. James G. Lawrence, Ex-State Senator, Wabasha:
"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of
discovering the true source of the Mississippi, in a lake above Lake
Itasca, now named after him, Lake Glazier."
From D. L. Dawley, Principal of Schools, Wabasha:
"I believe Captain Glazier to be the real discoverer of the true source
of the Mississippi River."
From S. B. Sheardown, M. D., Winona:
"I believe that Captain Glazier is entitled to the credit of discovering
the real source of the Mississippi River. I have been a resident of
Minnesota over thirty-one years."
From Judge A. F. Storey, St. Vincent:
"I have no hesitancy in saying that there can be no question, but, that
Lake Glazier is the true and primal source of the Mississippi River."
Page 611
From James A. Thompson, Postmaster, Leech Lake (the nearest post-
office to the source of the Mississippi):
"I am of opinion that Lake Glazier is the source of the Mississippi. I
have talked on this subject with some of the Indians who accompanied
Captain Glazier on his exploring expedition in 1881, and they all say it
is the last lake; that they went all the way in their canoes, and could go
no further. It is the general belief here that LAKE GLAZIER is the true
source."
From Paul Beaulieu, United States Interpreter, White Earth Indian
Agency:
"I would respectfully state that according to the ideas of the people of
this section of country, for scores of years past, in alluding to Lake
Itasca, which is known only as Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of
this part of the country, was never by them considered as the head or
source of the Father of Running Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by
them named. I received a map showing the route of exploration of
Captain Willard Glazier, 1881, and being well acquainted with his chief
guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the section of country explored by
Captain Glazier his home for many years in the past, and who has
proved the truth of his often repeated assertion, when maps were shown
him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in time change the
feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world that Lake Itasca cannot
any longer maintain its claim as being the fountain head of Ke-chee-
see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be, by the
Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide,
office to the source of the Mississippi):
"I am of opinion that Lake Glazier is the source of the Mississippi. I
have talked on this subject with some of the Indians who accompanied
Captain Glazier on his exploring expedition in 1881, and they all say it
is the last lake; that they went all the way in their canoes, and could go
no further. It is the general belief here that LAKE GLAZIER is the true
source."
From Paul Beaulieu, United States Interpreter, White Earth Indian
Agency:
"I would respectfully state that according to the ideas of the people of
this section of country, for scores of years past, in alluding to Lake
Itasca, which is known only as Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of
this part of the country, was never by them considered as the head or
source of the Father of Running Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by
them named. I received a map showing the route of exploration of
Captain Willard Glazier, 1881, and being well acquainted with his chief
guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the section of country explored by
Captain Glazier his home for many years in the past, and who has
proved the truth of his often repeated assertion, when maps were shown
him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in time change the
feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world that Lake Itasca cannot
any longer maintain its claim as being the fountain head of Ke-chee-
see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be, by the
Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide,
Page 612
Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and it is
plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean, by us, the
Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) that
Lake Glazier is located at the right place, and is the last lake on the
longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi."
plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean, by us, the
Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) that
Lake Glazier is located at the right place, and is the last lake on the
longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi."
Page 613
V. RECOGNITION.
The discovery and final location of the source of the Great River of the
North American Continent by Captain Glazier has received general
recognition in this country and in Europe, and our aim to place before the
reader of this volume, material to assist him in forming his judgment on the
validity of the author's claim, would not be attained if we omitted to include
in these addenda the following evidence, the nature and weight of which we
think should carry conviction to the mind of every impartial critic.
A report of the discovery was duly sent to Hon. Charles P. Daly,
President of the American Geographical Society, New York, and by him
forwarded to the Editor of the New York Herald, and published by that
paper, accompanied by a map of the region explored, showing the true
source of the Mississippi.
A report was also sent to the Royal Geographical Society, London,
England, and the following courteous reply received:
"Royal Geographical Society,
"London, January 12, 1885.
"Captain Willard Glazier, New York, U. S. A.
"Dear Sir:—We owe you an apology for delaying so long
communicating with you on the subject of your interesting letter and its
accompanying map; a delay caused by the long summer vacation of our
council, which commenced a little before the arrival of your letter.
"I am happy to be able to send you a copy of the January number of
the Proceedings of our Society, containing your letter and map, and trust
The discovery and final location of the source of the Great River of the
North American Continent by Captain Glazier has received general
recognition in this country and in Europe, and our aim to place before the
reader of this volume, material to assist him in forming his judgment on the
validity of the author's claim, would not be attained if we omitted to include
in these addenda the following evidence, the nature and weight of which we
think should carry conviction to the mind of every impartial critic.
A report of the discovery was duly sent to Hon. Charles P. Daly,
President of the American Geographical Society, New York, and by him
forwarded to the Editor of the New York Herald, and published by that
paper, accompanied by a map of the region explored, showing the true
source of the Mississippi.
A report was also sent to the Royal Geographical Society, London,
England, and the following courteous reply received:
"Royal Geographical Society,
"London, January 12, 1885.
"Captain Willard Glazier, New York, U. S. A.
"Dear Sir:—We owe you an apology for delaying so long
communicating with you on the subject of your interesting letter and its
accompanying map; a delay caused by the long summer vacation of our
council, which commenced a little before the arrival of your letter.
"I am happy to be able to send you a copy of the January number of
the Proceedings of our Society, containing your letter and map, and trust
Page 614
you will find no error has crept in.
"Your discovery was considered a distinct addition to our knowledge
of the geography of the Mississippi basin, and well worthy of
publication by the Society, and I am directed to thank you for having
communicated this brief account of it to us.
"Your obedient servant,
"H. W. Bates,
"Assistant Secretary and Editor."
George W. Melville, the famed Arctic Explorer, writes:
"Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
"February 5, 1885.
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—Your very interesting paper and map of the discovery of
the source of the Mississippi came to hand this morning. Having but a
single number of your paper I can form but an inadequate idea of your
labor and patience, except by a look at your map, which is a very good
one, and shows an immense amount of labor; in fact I am astonished at
the amount of work done in so short a space of time as is shown on your
track chart.
"I am gratified at being made the recipient of your favor; and with
sentiments of the highest esteem and regard for a worthy brother in the
world of science,
"I am, dear sir, very respectfully,
"George W. Melville,
"Chief Engineer, U. S. Navy."
"Your discovery was considered a distinct addition to our knowledge
of the geography of the Mississippi basin, and well worthy of
publication by the Society, and I am directed to thank you for having
communicated this brief account of it to us.
"Your obedient servant,
"H. W. Bates,
"Assistant Secretary and Editor."
George W. Melville, the famed Arctic Explorer, writes:
"Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
"February 5, 1885.
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—Your very interesting paper and map of the discovery of
the source of the Mississippi came to hand this morning. Having but a
single number of your paper I can form but an inadequate idea of your
labor and patience, except by a look at your map, which is a very good
one, and shows an immense amount of labor; in fact I am astonished at
the amount of work done in so short a space of time as is shown on your
track chart.
"I am gratified at being made the recipient of your favor; and with
sentiments of the highest esteem and regard for a worthy brother in the
world of science,
"I am, dear sir, very respectfully,
"George W. Melville,
"Chief Engineer, U. S. Navy."
Page 615
Geographers and Educational Publishers.
Many of the geographers and educational publishers of the country have
not only made the necessary changes in their maps of Minnesota, but have
expressed their recognition and acceptance of the Glazier discovery in
letters addressed to friends of the Captain and others interested in arriving
at the truth of this important question. Among these may be mentioned:
Rand, McNally & Company, George F. Cram, and George H. Benedict &
Company, Chicago; Matthews, Northrup & Company, Buffalo; A. S. Barnes
& Company, New York and Chicago; University Publishing Company, New
York; Charles Lubrecht, New York; M. Dripps, New York; W. & A. K.
Johnston, Geographers to the Queen, Edinburgh, Scotland; MacMillan &
Company, London and New York; Nelson & Sons, New York and
Edinburgh, Scotland; Gaylord Watson, P. O'Shea and George H. Adams &
Company, New York; W. M. Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia; School
Supply Company, John A. Boyle, Boston; J. K. Gill & Company, Portland,
Oregon; John Lovell & Son, Montreal, Canada; Map and School Supply
Company, Toronto, Canada; F. A. Brockhaus, Leipsic; A. Hartleben, Wein,
Austria; and many others.
The following extracts are from Barnes' Complete Geography by the
eminent geographer, Professor James Monteith:
Page 4. "Record of Recent Discoveries and Events.
"The source of the Mississippi River is Lake Glazier, a small lake
from which water flows into Lake Itasca, which until recently was
thought to be its source."
Many of the geographers and educational publishers of the country have
not only made the necessary changes in their maps of Minnesota, but have
expressed their recognition and acceptance of the Glazier discovery in
letters addressed to friends of the Captain and others interested in arriving
at the truth of this important question. Among these may be mentioned:
Rand, McNally & Company, George F. Cram, and George H. Benedict &
Company, Chicago; Matthews, Northrup & Company, Buffalo; A. S. Barnes
& Company, New York and Chicago; University Publishing Company, New
York; Charles Lubrecht, New York; M. Dripps, New York; W. & A. K.
Johnston, Geographers to the Queen, Edinburgh, Scotland; MacMillan &
Company, London and New York; Nelson & Sons, New York and
Edinburgh, Scotland; Gaylord Watson, P. O'Shea and George H. Adams &
Company, New York; W. M. Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia; School
Supply Company, John A. Boyle, Boston; J. K. Gill & Company, Portland,
Oregon; John Lovell & Son, Montreal, Canada; Map and School Supply
Company, Toronto, Canada; F. A. Brockhaus, Leipsic; A. Hartleben, Wein,
Austria; and many others.
The following extracts are from Barnes' Complete Geography by the
eminent geographer, Professor James Monteith:
Page 4. "Record of Recent Discoveries and Events.
"The source of the Mississippi River is Lake Glazier, a small lake
from which water flows into Lake Itasca, which until recently was
thought to be its source."
Page 616
Page 73. "North Central States (Western Section).
"Recent surveys have shown that Lake Glazier is about seven feet
higher than Lake Itasca, into which the former discharges its water; and
it is now recognized as the source of the Mississippi River."
"Maury's Manual of Geography, University Publishing Company, New
York:
"Page 56. Minnesota is crossed by the ridge or 'Height of Land'
which separates the Valley of the Mississippi from the northern slope of
the Great Central Plain. On this elevation, 1,600 feet above the sea, both
the Mississippi and the Red River of the North take their rise, the one
flowing south and the other north. The crest of the 'Height of Land' is
crowned with lakes of clear water. Lake Glazier, one of these, is the
source of the Mississippi...."
From Herr F. A. Brockhaus, Geographer and Publisher of Leipsic,
Germany:
"I shall not fail to recognize and call public attention to your
important discovery of the True Head of your Great River."
From Professor J. W. Redway, of Philadelphia, a well-known
geographer and scientist:
"Philadelphia, September 9, 1887.
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"My Dear Sir:— ... You will have the satisfaction of knowing that by
your exertions and enterprise an error of more than fifty years standing
"Recent surveys have shown that Lake Glazier is about seven feet
higher than Lake Itasca, into which the former discharges its water; and
it is now recognized as the source of the Mississippi River."
"Maury's Manual of Geography, University Publishing Company, New
York:
"Page 56. Minnesota is crossed by the ridge or 'Height of Land'
which separates the Valley of the Mississippi from the northern slope of
the Great Central Plain. On this elevation, 1,600 feet above the sea, both
the Mississippi and the Red River of the North take their rise, the one
flowing south and the other north. The crest of the 'Height of Land' is
crowned with lakes of clear water. Lake Glazier, one of these, is the
source of the Mississippi...."
From Herr F. A. Brockhaus, Geographer and Publisher of Leipsic,
Germany:
"I shall not fail to recognize and call public attention to your
important discovery of the True Head of your Great River."
From Professor J. W. Redway, of Philadelphia, a well-known
geographer and scientist:
"Philadelphia, September 9, 1887.
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"My Dear Sir:— ... You will have the satisfaction of knowing that by
your exertions and enterprise an error of more than fifty years standing
Page 617
has been made apparent. The world owes you a debt for determining an
important question in geography.
"Sincerely yours,
"J. W. Redway."
From the Messrs. Harper & Brothers, New York:
"Recent exploration and survey establish the fact that Lake Glazier
has the best claim to the distinction of standing at the head of the Father
of Waters. School Geographies generally are being corrected to show
it."
From Rand, McNally & Company, Map-makers and Publishers,
Chicago:
"As to the source of the Mississippi, we gave it considerable attention
in preparing our new map of Minnesota, and finally fixed it as Lake
Glazier. This, we consider, has the best claim."
From George F. Cram, Map and Atlas Publisher, Chicago:
"I mail you to-day a copy of the corrected map of Minnesota,
showing Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi."
From Matthews, Northrup & Company, Art Printers, Buffalo, New York:
important question in geography.
"Sincerely yours,
"J. W. Redway."
From the Messrs. Harper & Brothers, New York:
"Recent exploration and survey establish the fact that Lake Glazier
has the best claim to the distinction of standing at the head of the Father
of Waters. School Geographies generally are being corrected to show
it."
From Rand, McNally & Company, Map-makers and Publishers,
Chicago:
"As to the source of the Mississippi, we gave it considerable attention
in preparing our new map of Minnesota, and finally fixed it as Lake
Glazier. This, we consider, has the best claim."
From George F. Cram, Map and Atlas Publisher, Chicago:
"I mail you to-day a copy of the corrected map of Minnesota,
showing Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi."
From Matthews, Northrup & Company, Art Printers, Buffalo, New York:
Page 618
"We regard Lake Glazier as the true source of the Mississippi, and
are so showing it on all maps, etc., issued by us."
From Messrs. Cowperthwait & Company, Philadelphia.
"We have added Lake Glazier to our School Maps as the source of
the Mississippi."
From E. A. Lawrence, University Publishing Company, New York:
"We think Lake Glazier is important enough to outrank Itasca as the
source of the Mississippi."
are so showing it on all maps, etc., issued by us."
From Messrs. Cowperthwait & Company, Philadelphia.
"We have added Lake Glazier to our School Maps as the source of
the Mississippi."
From E. A. Lawrence, University Publishing Company, New York:
"We think Lake Glazier is important enough to outrank Itasca as the
source of the Mississippi."
Page 619
From W. M. Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia:
"Lake Glazier appears on our large Atlas of the World, and on
Mitchell's Atlas, as the true source of the Mississippi."
From John Lovell & Son, Educational Publishers, Montreal:
"The collection of testimonials from leading citizens of Minnesota,
and others, tells convincingly in Captain Glazier's favor."
From MacMillan & Company, London and New York:
"Pray accept our very cordial thanks for your courtesy in sending us
the map of the true source of the Mississippi. We are forwarding it on to
our London house, who will gladly avail themselves of the information
it conveys."
From Gaylord Watson, Map and Chart Publisher, New York:
"I shall show Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi on my
maps."
From P. O'Shea, Catholic Publisher, New York:
"I have come to the conclusion that Lake Glazier is the true source
of the Mississippi, and intend to give it as the source in the new editions
"Lake Glazier appears on our large Atlas of the World, and on
Mitchell's Atlas, as the true source of the Mississippi."
From John Lovell & Son, Educational Publishers, Montreal:
"The collection of testimonials from leading citizens of Minnesota,
and others, tells convincingly in Captain Glazier's favor."
From MacMillan & Company, London and New York:
"Pray accept our very cordial thanks for your courtesy in sending us
the map of the true source of the Mississippi. We are forwarding it on to
our London house, who will gladly avail themselves of the information
it conveys."
From Gaylord Watson, Map and Chart Publisher, New York:
"I shall show Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi on my
maps."
From P. O'Shea, Catholic Publisher, New York:
"I have come to the conclusion that Lake Glazier is the true source
of the Mississippi, and intend to give it as the source in the new editions
Page 620
of my geographies."
From Geo. H. Adams & Son, Map Publishers, New York:
"We recognize Lake Glazier as the True Source of the Mississippi
River, and believe that Captain Glazier's claim to its discovery is now
admitted by all the leading Map Publishers of the country."
From the Map and School Supply Company, Toronto:
"We consider Lake Glazier the source of the Mississippi River, and
are having it appear on all our latest maps as such."
From Captain A. N. Husted, Professor of Mathematics, State Normal
School, Albany, New York:
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"My Dear Sir:—I have been much interested in your trip to the
beginning of the Father of Waters, and feel that you have contributed a
valuable item to the great volume of geographical knowledge."
From Colonel George Soulé, President of Soulé, College, New Orleans:
"I recognize the correctness of Captain Glazier's claim, and shall
teach that the source of the Mississippi is Lake Glazier."
From Geo. H. Adams & Son, Map Publishers, New York:
"We recognize Lake Glazier as the True Source of the Mississippi
River, and believe that Captain Glazier's claim to its discovery is now
admitted by all the leading Map Publishers of the country."
From the Map and School Supply Company, Toronto:
"We consider Lake Glazier the source of the Mississippi River, and
are having it appear on all our latest maps as such."
From Captain A. N. Husted, Professor of Mathematics, State Normal
School, Albany, New York:
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"My Dear Sir:—I have been much interested in your trip to the
beginning of the Father of Waters, and feel that you have contributed a
valuable item to the great volume of geographical knowledge."
From Colonel George Soulé, President of Soulé, College, New Orleans:
"I recognize the correctness of Captain Glazier's claim, and shall
teach that the source of the Mississippi is Lake Glazier."
Page 621
From Rev. L. Abernethy, A. M., D. D., President of Rutherford College,
North Carolina:
"I am satisfied that Lake Glazier is the true source of the Mississippi
and that Captain Glazier is entitled to the honor of its discovery."
From J. L. Smith, Map Publisher, Philadelphia:
"Having given considerable attention to the merits of the claim
presented by Captain Willard Glazier to have definitely located the
source of the Mississippi, I am of the opinion that the lake to the south
of Itasca should be recognized as the primal reservoir or true fountain-
head of that river, and that Captain Glazier is entitled to the credit of
having been the first to discover this fact and call public attention to it."
From G. H. Laughlin, A. M., Ph. D., President of Hiram College, Ohio:
"Captain Glazier has rendered an invaluable service to the science of
geography. I am glad that the school geographies are being corrected so
as to indicate Lake Glazier as the source of the Father of Waters."
From the firm of W. & A. K. Johnston, of Edinburgh, Scotland,
Geographers and Engravers to the Queen:
"You have the satisfaction of having done a great work in settling the
vexed question of the source of your mighty river. For this, all interested
North Carolina:
"I am satisfied that Lake Glazier is the true source of the Mississippi
and that Captain Glazier is entitled to the honor of its discovery."
From J. L. Smith, Map Publisher, Philadelphia:
"Having given considerable attention to the merits of the claim
presented by Captain Willard Glazier to have definitely located the
source of the Mississippi, I am of the opinion that the lake to the south
of Itasca should be recognized as the primal reservoir or true fountain-
head of that river, and that Captain Glazier is entitled to the credit of
having been the first to discover this fact and call public attention to it."
From G. H. Laughlin, A. M., Ph. D., President of Hiram College, Ohio:
"Captain Glazier has rendered an invaluable service to the science of
geography. I am glad that the school geographies are being corrected so
as to indicate Lake Glazier as the source of the Father of Waters."
From the firm of W. & A. K. Johnston, of Edinburgh, Scotland,
Geographers and Engravers to the Queen:
"You have the satisfaction of having done a great work in settling the
vexed question of the source of your mighty river. For this, all interested
Page 622
in geography are indebted to you."
From Charles Lubrecht, Map Publisher, New York:
"I shall show Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi River in
all future editions of my Maps."
From M. Dripps, Map Publisher, New York:
"I will avail myself of Captain Glazier's discovery by showing the
True Source of the Mississippi on future editions of my maps of the
United States."
From George H. Benedict & Co., Map, Wood and Photo-Engravers,
Chicago:
"Lake Glazier is now acknowledged to be the True Source of the
Mississippi, and in the course of time will appear as such on all maps."
From John S. Kendall, President of the National School Furnishing
Company of Chicago:
"Chicago, October 6, 1887.
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—Your book 'Down the Great River' has been received and
read with interest. I am glad to see the entire narrative in book form.
From Charles Lubrecht, Map Publisher, New York:
"I shall show Lake Glazier as the source of the Mississippi River in
all future editions of my Maps."
From M. Dripps, Map Publisher, New York:
"I will avail myself of Captain Glazier's discovery by showing the
True Source of the Mississippi on future editions of my maps of the
United States."
From George H. Benedict & Co., Map, Wood and Photo-Engravers,
Chicago:
"Lake Glazier is now acknowledged to be the True Source of the
Mississippi, and in the course of time will appear as such on all maps."
From John S. Kendall, President of the National School Furnishing
Company of Chicago:
"Chicago, October 6, 1887.
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—Your book 'Down the Great River' has been received and
read with interest. I am glad to see the entire narrative in book form.
Page 623
There is no doubt about your expedition having added largely to our
rather limited stock of information regarding the country around the
headwaters of the Great River. I deem it a graceful and fitting
compliment to give your name to the lake south of Itasca.
"Thanking you for the book, which I have placed in my library.
"Yours very respectfully,
"John S. Kendall."
From Frederick Warne & Company, Publishers, London:
"Pray accept our very cordial thanks. The alteration in the source of
your great river has been noted, and we shall gladly avail ourselves of
the information to make the correction in our atlases."
From Thos. Nelson & Sons, Edinburgh and New York:
"The correction as to the True Source of the Mississippi will be made
as opportunity occurs, when issuing new editions of our publications."
From Herr A. Hartleben, one of the leading Publishers of Germany:
"I congratulate Captain Glazier on his important discovery of the
source of the Mississippi River, and shall have great pleasure in
bringing the subject to the notice of our Geographical Society."
rather limited stock of information regarding the country around the
headwaters of the Great River. I deem it a graceful and fitting
compliment to give your name to the lake south of Itasca.
"Thanking you for the book, which I have placed in my library.
"Yours very respectfully,
"John S. Kendall."
From Frederick Warne & Company, Publishers, London:
"Pray accept our very cordial thanks. The alteration in the source of
your great river has been noted, and we shall gladly avail ourselves of
the information to make the correction in our atlases."
From Thos. Nelson & Sons, Edinburgh and New York:
"The correction as to the True Source of the Mississippi will be made
as opportunity occurs, when issuing new editions of our publications."
From Herr A. Hartleben, one of the leading Publishers of Germany:
"I congratulate Captain Glazier on his important discovery of the
source of the Mississippi River, and shall have great pleasure in
bringing the subject to the notice of our Geographical Society."
Page 624
From Appleton's Annual Encyclopedia—1885:
"Lake Itasca, which has been distinguished as the head of the
Mississippi for fifty years, must, it seems, yield that distinction to a
smaller lake about a mile and a half in length by a mile in width, lying
further south, discovered by Captain Willard Glazier in, 1881, and
named for him 'Lake Glazier.'"
From American Supplement to the Encyclopedia Britannica:
"The Mississippi has its source in Lake Glazier, south of Lake
Itasca, Minnesota, 47° 34' N. lat, 95° 2' W. long. The greatest width of
this lake is a mile and a half, and it is deeper than Itasca, with which it
is connected by a shallow stream about six feet wide."
"Lake Itasca, which has been distinguished as the head of the
Mississippi for fifty years, must, it seems, yield that distinction to a
smaller lake about a mile and a half in length by a mile in width, lying
further south, discovered by Captain Willard Glazier in, 1881, and
named for him 'Lake Glazier.'"
From American Supplement to the Encyclopedia Britannica:
"The Mississippi has its source in Lake Glazier, south of Lake
Itasca, Minnesota, 47° 34' N. lat, 95° 2' W. long. The greatest width of
this lake is a mile and a half, and it is deeper than Itasca, with which it
is connected by a shallow stream about six feet wide."
Page 625
VI. NOTICES OF THE PRESS.
The Press, as the most important indication and expression of public
opinion, has been almost unanimous, since 1881, in sustaining Captain
Glazier's claim, more especially the Press of Minnesota; while the majority
of the leading papers of the East have pronounced strongly in his favor. We
can insert here only a few notices, taken chiefly from the journals of the
Northwest.
Saint Paul Dispatch.
"Captain Glazier has just published the record of his experiences in
his undertaking to establish that the true source of the Mississippi is not
that which geographers have heretofore accepted as such, to wit: Lake
Itasca. It is indisputable that Captain Glazier did proceed to a higher
point than any reached by previous explorers, and that the body of water
located by him and now known as Lake Glazier, is a direct feeder of
the generally accredited head of the Mississippi. The Dispatch has
always claimed for the writer of this book the honor of being the
discoverer of the true source of our Great River. There certainly is a
great deal in his work to substantiate his claim, and to sustain the
attitude taken by the Dispatch.
" ... Captain Glazier set out to test the correctness of the generally
accepted theories of scholars as to the place of the rise of this Great
River; he made the test and found, as we believe, that those theories
The Press, as the most important indication and expression of public
opinion, has been almost unanimous, since 1881, in sustaining Captain
Glazier's claim, more especially the Press of Minnesota; while the majority
of the leading papers of the East have pronounced strongly in his favor. We
can insert here only a few notices, taken chiefly from the journals of the
Northwest.
Saint Paul Dispatch.
"Captain Glazier has just published the record of his experiences in
his undertaking to establish that the true source of the Mississippi is not
that which geographers have heretofore accepted as such, to wit: Lake
Itasca. It is indisputable that Captain Glazier did proceed to a higher
point than any reached by previous explorers, and that the body of water
located by him and now known as Lake Glazier, is a direct feeder of
the generally accredited head of the Mississippi. The Dispatch has
always claimed for the writer of this book the honor of being the
discoverer of the true source of our Great River. There certainly is a
great deal in his work to substantiate his claim, and to sustain the
attitude taken by the Dispatch.
" ... Captain Glazier set out to test the correctness of the generally
accepted theories of scholars as to the place of the rise of this Great
River; he made the test and found, as we believe, that those theories
Page 626
were not correct. He has given to the world the record of that work, and
has done much to perpetuate his own name thereby."
Minneapolis Spectator.
"'Down the Great River,' by Captain Willard Glazier, gives an
account of the discovery of the lake now generally asserted to be the
source of the Mississippi; also a description of a canoe voyage during
the summer of 1881, from the source to the mouth of the Father of
Waters. A journey of over three thousand miles by canoe, and on a
single stream, is in itself an arduous and remarkable undertaking, and
one seldom, if ever, paralleled. Captain Glazier presents not only
reasonable evidence to support his claim as the discoverer of the true
source of the Great River, but gives an entertaining and instructive
narrative of his researches and adventures, thus affording a graphic
history and description of the Mississippi."
Brainerd Dispatch.
"'Down the Great River,' by Captain Willard Glazier, is an account of
the author's voyage in 1881, from the source to the mouth of the
Mississippi River in a canoe. It is a very interesting and instructive
narrative from beginning to end; the descriptions of the scenery through
which the river passes being unusually fine. In this volume the Captain
presents his claim of having discovered beyond Lake Itasca another lake
which is connected with Itasca by a well-defined stream, and
consequently is the true source of the Mississippi."
has done much to perpetuate his own name thereby."
Minneapolis Spectator.
"'Down the Great River,' by Captain Willard Glazier, gives an
account of the discovery of the lake now generally asserted to be the
source of the Mississippi; also a description of a canoe voyage during
the summer of 1881, from the source to the mouth of the Father of
Waters. A journey of over three thousand miles by canoe, and on a
single stream, is in itself an arduous and remarkable undertaking, and
one seldom, if ever, paralleled. Captain Glazier presents not only
reasonable evidence to support his claim as the discoverer of the true
source of the Great River, but gives an entertaining and instructive
narrative of his researches and adventures, thus affording a graphic
history and description of the Mississippi."
Brainerd Dispatch.
"'Down the Great River,' by Captain Willard Glazier, is an account of
the author's voyage in 1881, from the source to the mouth of the
Mississippi River in a canoe. It is a very interesting and instructive
narrative from beginning to end; the descriptions of the scenery through
which the river passes being unusually fine. In this volume the Captain
presents his claim of having discovered beyond Lake Itasca another lake
which is connected with Itasca by a well-defined stream, and
consequently is the true source of the Mississippi."
Page 627
Northwestern Presbyterian, Minneapolis.
"All who live in the valley of America's greatest river will be
especially interested in knowing something of its source, its course, and
the cities that line its banks. Since De Soto first discovered the Father of
Waters in 1541, many eminent explorers have been associated with its
history. Marquette, Joliet, La Salle, Hennepin, La Hontan, Charlevoix,
Carver, Pike, Cass, and Beltrami preceded Schoolcraft. The last named
discovered a lake which he supposed to be the source, but the Indians
and the missionaries said there was a lake beyond. A learned few
believed them. It remained for some explorer to make further
investigation and publish the truth more widely to the world. This was
done by Captain Glazier in 1881, who visited the lake, explored its
shores and found it to be wider and deeper than Itasca."
Winona Republican.
"Captain Glazier, who has won fame as the discoverer of the true
source of the Mississippi, has recently published a good-sized volume
entitled 'Down the Great River.' ... Very few persons realize that a man
who passes from the source of the Mississippi to its mouth experiences
a greater variety in scene, in populations, and in climate, than would an
explorer going from the source to the mouth of any other river in the
world.... The narrative of Captain Glazier is interesting, because it gives
a panoramic view of the Mississippi from its source to its mouth,
describing the appearance of the river wherever tributaries enter, and
noting the character of the Indians, fur-traders, pioneers, frontiersmen,
"All who live in the valley of America's greatest river will be
especially interested in knowing something of its source, its course, and
the cities that line its banks. Since De Soto first discovered the Father of
Waters in 1541, many eminent explorers have been associated with its
history. Marquette, Joliet, La Salle, Hennepin, La Hontan, Charlevoix,
Carver, Pike, Cass, and Beltrami preceded Schoolcraft. The last named
discovered a lake which he supposed to be the source, but the Indians
and the missionaries said there was a lake beyond. A learned few
believed them. It remained for some explorer to make further
investigation and publish the truth more widely to the world. This was
done by Captain Glazier in 1881, who visited the lake, explored its
shores and found it to be wider and deeper than Itasca."
Winona Republican.
"Captain Glazier, who has won fame as the discoverer of the true
source of the Mississippi, has recently published a good-sized volume
entitled 'Down the Great River.' ... Very few persons realize that a man
who passes from the source of the Mississippi to its mouth experiences
a greater variety in scene, in populations, and in climate, than would an
explorer going from the source to the mouth of any other river in the
world.... The narrative of Captain Glazier is interesting, because it gives
a panoramic view of the Mississippi from its source to its mouth,
describing the appearance of the river wherever tributaries enter, and
noting the character of the Indians, fur-traders, pioneers, frontiersmen,
Page 628
and the agricultural and commercial communities along its course.
There is, too, a spice of personal adventure in such a journey, because
for the greater part of the trip the Captain was accompanied by only one
other person, and the novelty of riding in a canoe over every mile of one
of the greatest rivers in the world, in itself gives a peculiar character to
the record of the journey. The story is simply the narrative of life in a
canoe floating down the Mississippi, supplemented by such historical
recollections and reminiscences as have seemed appropriate to one who
is an enthusiast in the history of exploration...."
Minneapolis Star-News.
"On the 22d day of July, 1881, the traveler and author, Captain
Willard Glazier, discovered a silvery lake nestled among the pineries of
Northern Minnesota and situate about a mile and a half to the south of
Lake Itasca. He also discovered that a swift current flowed continuously
from his new-found wonder to what was supposed to be the source of
the Father of Waters. The lake is known to the Indians as Pokegama,
and when it was reached by the Glazier party they were much surprised
by Chenowagesic, an Indian chief, who had accompanied them as
guide, addressing Captain Glazier as follows:
"'My brother, I have come with you through many lakes and rivers to
the head of the Father of Waters. The shores of this lake are my hunting
ground. Here I have had my wigwam and planted corn for many years.
When I again roam through these forests, and look on this lake, source
of the Great River, I will look on you.'
There is, too, a spice of personal adventure in such a journey, because
for the greater part of the trip the Captain was accompanied by only one
other person, and the novelty of riding in a canoe over every mile of one
of the greatest rivers in the world, in itself gives a peculiar character to
the record of the journey. The story is simply the narrative of life in a
canoe floating down the Mississippi, supplemented by such historical
recollections and reminiscences as have seemed appropriate to one who
is an enthusiast in the history of exploration...."
Minneapolis Star-News.
"On the 22d day of July, 1881, the traveler and author, Captain
Willard Glazier, discovered a silvery lake nestled among the pineries of
Northern Minnesota and situate about a mile and a half to the south of
Lake Itasca. He also discovered that a swift current flowed continuously
from his new-found wonder to what was supposed to be the source of
the Father of Waters. The lake is known to the Indians as Pokegama,
and when it was reached by the Glazier party they were much surprised
by Chenowagesic, an Indian chief, who had accompanied them as
guide, addressing Captain Glazier as follows:
"'My brother, I have come with you through many lakes and rivers to
the head of the Father of Waters. The shores of this lake are my hunting
ground. Here I have had my wigwam and planted corn for many years.
When I again roam through these forests, and look on this lake, source
of the Great River, I will look on you.'
Page 629
"Captain Glazier was induced to explore the true source of the
Mississippi by Indian traditions which he had picked up while traveling
across the continent and which denied Schoolcraft's theory of Itasca....
Fortified with the idea that Schoolcraft was in error he set out to
discover the true source of the Father of Waters, and how he succeeded
forms the subject of the first five chapters of his very interesting book.
The remainder of the book, an interesting and instructive volume of
nearly five hundred pages, is devoted to a trip 'down the Great River' to
the Gulf of Mexico. To Captain Glazier is due all the honor and glory of
discovering to modern geographers the true source of our great river."
Detroit Commercial Advertiser.
"'Down the Great River' is Captain Willard Glazier's interesting
record of his expedition in 1881 in search of the source of the
Mississippi River. It is a very exciting narrative from beginning to end,
is profusely illustrated and will be especially interesting to students of
geography, as well as to all interested in matters of exploration and
discovery. Captain Glazier undoubtedly accomplished a great work. The
source of the Mississippi had ever been an unsettled question,
unsatisfactory attempts at discovery having been made and various ill-
founded claims put forward; but the subject for the last half century has
been constantly agitated. It remained for Captain Glazier to finish the
work begun by De Soto in 1541, and positively locate the true fountain-
head.... That the lake from which the Great River starts, known by the
Indians as Lake Pokegama, should be re-named Lake Glazier, seems an
appropriate honor for the resolute explorer...."
Mississippi by Indian traditions which he had picked up while traveling
across the continent and which denied Schoolcraft's theory of Itasca....
Fortified with the idea that Schoolcraft was in error he set out to
discover the true source of the Father of Waters, and how he succeeded
forms the subject of the first five chapters of his very interesting book.
The remainder of the book, an interesting and instructive volume of
nearly five hundred pages, is devoted to a trip 'down the Great River' to
the Gulf of Mexico. To Captain Glazier is due all the honor and glory of
discovering to modern geographers the true source of our great river."
Detroit Commercial Advertiser.
"'Down the Great River' is Captain Willard Glazier's interesting
record of his expedition in 1881 in search of the source of the
Mississippi River. It is a very exciting narrative from beginning to end,
is profusely illustrated and will be especially interesting to students of
geography, as well as to all interested in matters of exploration and
discovery. Captain Glazier undoubtedly accomplished a great work. The
source of the Mississippi had ever been an unsettled question,
unsatisfactory attempts at discovery having been made and various ill-
founded claims put forward; but the subject for the last half century has
been constantly agitated. It remained for Captain Glazier to finish the
work begun by De Soto in 1541, and positively locate the true fountain-
head.... That the lake from which the Great River starts, known by the
Indians as Lake Pokegama, should be re-named Lake Glazier, seems an
appropriate honor for the resolute explorer...."
Page 630
La Crosse Republican and Leader.
"'Down the Great River' is the title of a book just issued which
possesses many claims to popular favor. No one on the North American
continent will be at a loss to identify the river by its title; the Amazon
undoubtedly discharges a larger volume of water into the sea, and the
Volga is claimed to be longer. No river in the Old or New World is
surrounded by so many associations, or is so identified with the
memories of discoverers and adventurers, warrior-priests and saintly
soldiers, peaceful pioneers and devastating armies, as the Mississippi....
For half a century Lake Itasca has been accepted as the fountain-head of
the Great River, but Captain Glazier having had reasons for doubting
the correctness of that theory, undertook, in 1881, to verify or disprove
it, and the book treats of his adventures on that mission and his
subsequent voyage by canoe down its entire length from its source to its
mouth, a distance of three thousand one hundred and eighty-four
miles.... The voyage, embracing as it does over seventeen degrees of
latitude, furnishes material for the description of strongly contrasted
scenery and greatly diversified industries, and in depicting these the
Captain has the pen of a ready writer, simple and concise...."
Michigan Christian Advocate.
"'Down the Great River' is a book of great current interest. It is
packed full of things people ought to know. Not only is there a full and
well-written account of the finding of the true source of the Mississippi,
but a wonderful amount of fact and incident picked up along its shores
"'Down the Great River' is the title of a book just issued which
possesses many claims to popular favor. No one on the North American
continent will be at a loss to identify the river by its title; the Amazon
undoubtedly discharges a larger volume of water into the sea, and the
Volga is claimed to be longer. No river in the Old or New World is
surrounded by so many associations, or is so identified with the
memories of discoverers and adventurers, warrior-priests and saintly
soldiers, peaceful pioneers and devastating armies, as the Mississippi....
For half a century Lake Itasca has been accepted as the fountain-head of
the Great River, but Captain Glazier having had reasons for doubting
the correctness of that theory, undertook, in 1881, to verify or disprove
it, and the book treats of his adventures on that mission and his
subsequent voyage by canoe down its entire length from its source to its
mouth, a distance of three thousand one hundred and eighty-four
miles.... The voyage, embracing as it does over seventeen degrees of
latitude, furnishes material for the description of strongly contrasted
scenery and greatly diversified industries, and in depicting these the
Captain has the pen of a ready writer, simple and concise...."
Michigan Christian Advocate.
"'Down the Great River' is a book of great current interest. It is
packed full of things people ought to know. Not only is there a full and
well-written account of the finding of the true source of the Mississippi,
but a wonderful amount of fact and incident picked up along its shores
Page 631
from its headwaters clear down to New Orleans and the Gulf of
Mexico."
Detroit Tribune.
"This interesting work gives an account of the discovery of the true
source of the Mississippi River, by the author. From the first page to the
last the book teems with information and topographical and
geographical data to be found nowhere else. Captain Glazier carries his
readers along with him from the source of the mighty river down
through a stretch of over three thousand miles clear into the salt waters
of the Gulf of Mexico. The author made the trip in an open canoe, and
as he proceeds downwards discourses pleasantly upon the features of
the landscape, the characteristics of the people and the important towns
upon the banks of the Great River."
Grand Rapids (Michigan) Leader.
"Lake Itasca has been the accredited head of the Mississippi for fifty
years, and the author's desire to pursue further investigations into the
great north country was due to conflicting reports published by other
navigators and explorers of discoveries made in that region. He decided
to investigate the matter personally. The author describes in an
entertaining manner the incidents of each day as the journey proceeded
towards Lake Itasca. Here a careful survey of the lake was made for
feeders, several of which were found, and up the largest of which the
party forced their way through a strong barrier of rushes. After a short
Mexico."
Detroit Tribune.
"This interesting work gives an account of the discovery of the true
source of the Mississippi River, by the author. From the first page to the
last the book teems with information and topographical and
geographical data to be found nowhere else. Captain Glazier carries his
readers along with him from the source of the mighty river down
through a stretch of over three thousand miles clear into the salt waters
of the Gulf of Mexico. The author made the trip in an open canoe, and
as he proceeds downwards discourses pleasantly upon the features of
the landscape, the characteristics of the people and the important towns
upon the banks of the Great River."
Grand Rapids (Michigan) Leader.
"Lake Itasca has been the accredited head of the Mississippi for fifty
years, and the author's desire to pursue further investigations into the
great north country was due to conflicting reports published by other
navigators and explorers of discoveries made in that region. He decided
to investigate the matter personally. The author describes in an
entertaining manner the incidents of each day as the journey proceeded
towards Lake Itasca. Here a careful survey of the lake was made for
feeders, several of which were found, and up the largest of which the
party forced their way through a strong barrier of rushes. After a short
Page 632
passage a body of water was found Which the Indians called Lake
Pokegama, but which the Captain's companions named Glazier in
honor of the head of the expedition. They then floated down the river in
their canoes to the Gulf, and the events of each day form very
interesting and often thrilling chapters as they are described by the
author."
New Bedford Standard.
"In 1881 Captain Glazier made a canoe voyage of over three
thousand miles from the headwaters of the Mississippi to the Gulf of
Mexico, and this book gives an interesting account of the voyage,
together with a description of the cities and villages along the river
banks, not omitting important historical events or quaint bits of
legendary lore. While the book is of special value to the young student
of geography and history, it is none the less valuable to all who are
interested in geographical science, particularly in the question of the
source of the Mississippi River...."
Madisonensis, Madison University, New York.
"Captain Glazier has commanded the attention of educated men
generally by asserting and satisfactorily proving that he has at last
discovered what De Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Schoolcraft, and other
explorers, were unable to find—the true source of the Mississippi. The
journey of exploration is here minutely described, and the account is
enlivened with bright narratives of personal experiences. The author is
Pokegama, but which the Captain's companions named Glazier in
honor of the head of the expedition. They then floated down the river in
their canoes to the Gulf, and the events of each day form very
interesting and often thrilling chapters as they are described by the
author."
New Bedford Standard.
"In 1881 Captain Glazier made a canoe voyage of over three
thousand miles from the headwaters of the Mississippi to the Gulf of
Mexico, and this book gives an interesting account of the voyage,
together with a description of the cities and villages along the river
banks, not omitting important historical events or quaint bits of
legendary lore. While the book is of special value to the young student
of geography and history, it is none the less valuable to all who are
interested in geographical science, particularly in the question of the
source of the Mississippi River...."
Madisonensis, Madison University, New York.
"Captain Glazier has commanded the attention of educated men
generally by asserting and satisfactorily proving that he has at last
discovered what De Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Schoolcraft, and other
explorers, were unable to find—the true source of the Mississippi. The
journey of exploration is here minutely described, and the account is
enlivened with bright narratives of personal experiences. The author is
Page 633
an able writer, and a keen critical observer, and the information
collected, pertaining to the people and country along the course of the
Great River, from its headwaters to the Gulf of Mexico, is of value to
every student of our country's history. The book is more than a mere
description of an expedition—it is an epitomized collection of
historical, geographical and commercial matters interesting to all."
Hamilton, New York, Republican.
... "The important fact brought out is, that Lake Itasca, discovered by
Schoolcraft in 1832, and by him located as the fountain-head of the
river, has no just claim to that title. Glazier's expedition has brought
public notice to another lake at a remoter distance from the mouth than
Itasca, which is united to the latter by a constantly flowing stream.... It
now seems that the prominence Itasca has had so long must hereafter be
given to Lake Glazier."
Davenport Tribune.
"This work embraces an account of the discovery by the author of the
true source of the Mississippi. It is an interesting tale of how Captain
Glazier and his party pursued a voyage in canoes up the stream which
flowed into Itasca, and finally located the real source of the river in a
new lake, which was named by his companions Lake Glazier. The
work is a valuable one and highly instructive, and should be read by all
residents of the Mississippi Valley."
collected, pertaining to the people and country along the course of the
Great River, from its headwaters to the Gulf of Mexico, is of value to
every student of our country's history. The book is more than a mere
description of an expedition—it is an epitomized collection of
historical, geographical and commercial matters interesting to all."
Hamilton, New York, Republican.
... "The important fact brought out is, that Lake Itasca, discovered by
Schoolcraft in 1832, and by him located as the fountain-head of the
river, has no just claim to that title. Glazier's expedition has brought
public notice to another lake at a remoter distance from the mouth than
Itasca, which is united to the latter by a constantly flowing stream.... It
now seems that the prominence Itasca has had so long must hereafter be
given to Lake Glazier."
Davenport Tribune.
"This work embraces an account of the discovery by the author of the
true source of the Mississippi. It is an interesting tale of how Captain
Glazier and his party pursued a voyage in canoes up the stream which
flowed into Itasca, and finally located the real source of the river in a
new lake, which was named by his companions Lake Glazier. The
work is a valuable one and highly instructive, and should be read by all
residents of the Mississippi Valley."
Page 634
Daily Eagle, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
... "It seems most surprising that it should have been reserved for so
recent a date as 1881 to discover the true source of the greatest river of
our continent, especially within the borders of a territory that has been a
State for nearly forty years. But such is the fact, and to Captain Glazier
belongs the honor of the discovery among white men."
Telegram-Herald, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
... "Captain Glazier, in his search for the true source of the
Mississippi, has corrected a geographical error of half a century, and
located the fountain-head in a lake above and beyond Lake Itasca. He
discovered this lake on the twenty-second day of July, 1881,
Chenowagesic, a Chippewa brave, being his guide. The lake, out of
which flows the infant Mississippi, is about two miles in its greatest
diameter. Its Indian name is Pokegama, but Glazier's companions
insisted on naming it after their leader." ...
Akron Daily Beacon.
... "Until Captain Glazier traced back from Lake Itasca the perennial
stream that supplied it from a more distant lake, called by the Indians
Pokegama, and beyond which there is no further supply to the Father of
Waters, Itasca was considered its source.... July twelfth, 1881, Glazier
left Brainerd, Minnesota, on his mission, reaching Leech Lake July
... "It seems most surprising that it should have been reserved for so
recent a date as 1881 to discover the true source of the greatest river of
our continent, especially within the borders of a territory that has been a
State for nearly forty years. But such is the fact, and to Captain Glazier
belongs the honor of the discovery among white men."
Telegram-Herald, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
... "Captain Glazier, in his search for the true source of the
Mississippi, has corrected a geographical error of half a century, and
located the fountain-head in a lake above and beyond Lake Itasca. He
discovered this lake on the twenty-second day of July, 1881,
Chenowagesic, a Chippewa brave, being his guide. The lake, out of
which flows the infant Mississippi, is about two miles in its greatest
diameter. Its Indian name is Pokegama, but Glazier's companions
insisted on naming it after their leader." ...
Akron Daily Beacon.
... "Until Captain Glazier traced back from Lake Itasca the perennial
stream that supplied it from a more distant lake, called by the Indians
Pokegama, and beyond which there is no further supply to the Father of
Waters, Itasca was considered its source.... July twelfth, 1881, Glazier
left Brainerd, Minnesota, on his mission, reaching Leech Lake July
Page 635
seventeenth. Thence the expedition proceeded westward by little lakes
and streams and portages, until on the twenty-first they camped on
Schoolcraft Island, in Lake Itasca, and then paddling through this lake
away, as supposed, from the Mississippi, and by Eagle Creek, the next
day they found what is now, and will hereafter be known as, Lake
Glazier, the ultimate source of the mighty Mississippi." ...
Youngstown (Ohio) Telegram.
"A pamphlet, entitled the 'True Source of the Mississippi,' by Pearce
Giles, has reached us. It proves very clearly that not Lake Itasca but
Lake Glazier, a lake just to the south of it, is the true source of the
mighty central river. The best part of the discovery seems to be that
Captain Glazier so explored the country about this lake that there is no
possibility of another discovery of a connecting lake beyond it. One
likes to have such matters settled definitely."
National Republican, Washington, D. C.
... "The birthplace of the Father of Waters is not Lake Itasca, as
generally received, but Lake Glazier, in its vicinity, which, by a small
stream, flows into Itasca. Lake Glazier, so named from its discoverer,
Captain Willard Glazier, has three feeders, Eagle, Excelsior, and Deer
creeks. This latest geographical claim is supported by ample testimony
from highest and widespread authorities. The story of adventures during
the exploration which had so important a result, is extremely
interesting."
and streams and portages, until on the twenty-first they camped on
Schoolcraft Island, in Lake Itasca, and then paddling through this lake
away, as supposed, from the Mississippi, and by Eagle Creek, the next
day they found what is now, and will hereafter be known as, Lake
Glazier, the ultimate source of the mighty Mississippi." ...
Youngstown (Ohio) Telegram.
"A pamphlet, entitled the 'True Source of the Mississippi,' by Pearce
Giles, has reached us. It proves very clearly that not Lake Itasca but
Lake Glazier, a lake just to the south of it, is the true source of the
mighty central river. The best part of the discovery seems to be that
Captain Glazier so explored the country about this lake that there is no
possibility of another discovery of a connecting lake beyond it. One
likes to have such matters settled definitely."
National Republican, Washington, D. C.
... "The birthplace of the Father of Waters is not Lake Itasca, as
generally received, but Lake Glazier, in its vicinity, which, by a small
stream, flows into Itasca. Lake Glazier, so named from its discoverer,
Captain Willard Glazier, has three feeders, Eagle, Excelsior, and Deer
creeks. This latest geographical claim is supported by ample testimony
from highest and widespread authorities. The story of adventures during
the exploration which had so important a result, is extremely
interesting."
Page 636
Dubuque Trade Journal.
"On July twenty-second, 1881, Captain Willard Glazier dispelled the
geographical error of half a century which has placed Lake Itasca on the
maps as the source of the Mississippi. Strange as it may seem, there is
scarcely a wilder region on this continent than exists in Northern
Minnesota, and it has so remained in spite of the explorations of
Beltrami, Schoolcraft, and Nicollet, who, perhaps, ought to have been a
little more exhaustive in their efforts when on the same depended the
designation of the actual source of a great river. Nevertheless, at the
date above mentioned, Captain Glazier, at the head of a small but
indomitable band, emerged from Lake Itasca, and the birch-bark canoes
of the party were urged against a strong current and a bulwark of rushes,
through a stream seven feet wide and three deep, until the clear waters
of another lake came in view. The greatest diameter of this new body of
water is about two miles, its feeders are traceable to springs only, and
hence it is unquestionably the primal source whence the Father of
Waters starts on his long journey of 3,184 miles to the Gulf of Mexico."
...
Burlington Hawkeye.
"In the summer of 1881, Captain Willard Glazier, well known as a
popular writer, made a remarkable canoe voyage from the source of the
Mississippi down its entire length to the Gulf of Mexico. Prior to
starting on this unprecedented voyage, he organized and led an
expedition to the headwaters of the river in Northern Minnesota, with a
"On July twenty-second, 1881, Captain Willard Glazier dispelled the
geographical error of half a century which has placed Lake Itasca on the
maps as the source of the Mississippi. Strange as it may seem, there is
scarcely a wilder region on this continent than exists in Northern
Minnesota, and it has so remained in spite of the explorations of
Beltrami, Schoolcraft, and Nicollet, who, perhaps, ought to have been a
little more exhaustive in their efforts when on the same depended the
designation of the actual source of a great river. Nevertheless, at the
date above mentioned, Captain Glazier, at the head of a small but
indomitable band, emerged from Lake Itasca, and the birch-bark canoes
of the party were urged against a strong current and a bulwark of rushes,
through a stream seven feet wide and three deep, until the clear waters
of another lake came in view. The greatest diameter of this new body of
water is about two miles, its feeders are traceable to springs only, and
hence it is unquestionably the primal source whence the Father of
Waters starts on his long journey of 3,184 miles to the Gulf of Mexico."
...
Burlington Hawkeye.
"In the summer of 1881, Captain Willard Glazier, well known as a
popular writer, made a remarkable canoe voyage from the source of the
Mississippi down its entire length to the Gulf of Mexico. Prior to
starting on this unprecedented voyage, he organized and led an
expedition to the headwaters of the river in Northern Minnesota, with a
Page 637
view of setting at rest the vexed question as to the true source of the
mighty river. Captain Glazier and his party left Saint Paul, duly
equipped with canoes and commissariat, July Fourth, 1881, and arrived
at Lake Itasca July twenty-first. Thence, by the aid of his Indian guides,
he penetrated to another lake beyond Itasca, and connected therewith by
a stream which is a continuation of the Mississippi, and at that point is
simply a narrow creek. The lake thus entered by Captain Glazier he
claims to be the true source of the Father of Waters. Lake Glazier now
appears on the maps as the source of the Great River."
Saint Paul Times.
... "Captain Glazier's claims are supported emphatically by the
overwhelming testimony of thousands of the most distinguished and
competent authorities in the Northwest. Glazier undoubtedly expended
much time and treasure in investigating not only the source of the
Mississippi, but the geography and history of the entire river, from its
source to the Gulf.... The leading map publishers have endorsed his
claims, and do so in a way that leaves no doubt that they place implicit
confidence in him as a careful and trustworthy geographer and
historian. Rand, McNally & Co., and George F. Cram, of Chicago;
Matthews, Northrup & Co., of Buffalo; A. S. Barnes & Co., of New
York; University Publishing Company, of New York; W. & A. K.
Johnston, of Edinburgh, Scotland; MacMillan & Co., London and New
York; W. M. Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia, and many others of the
leading publishing houses, who have a heavy personal interest in
investigating the accuracy of everything they publish, acknowledge
Captain Glazier's claims by accepting his views, and reproducing them
mighty river. Captain Glazier and his party left Saint Paul, duly
equipped with canoes and commissariat, July Fourth, 1881, and arrived
at Lake Itasca July twenty-first. Thence, by the aid of his Indian guides,
he penetrated to another lake beyond Itasca, and connected therewith by
a stream which is a continuation of the Mississippi, and at that point is
simply a narrow creek. The lake thus entered by Captain Glazier he
claims to be the true source of the Father of Waters. Lake Glazier now
appears on the maps as the source of the Great River."
Saint Paul Times.
... "Captain Glazier's claims are supported emphatically by the
overwhelming testimony of thousands of the most distinguished and
competent authorities in the Northwest. Glazier undoubtedly expended
much time and treasure in investigating not only the source of the
Mississippi, but the geography and history of the entire river, from its
source to the Gulf.... The leading map publishers have endorsed his
claims, and do so in a way that leaves no doubt that they place implicit
confidence in him as a careful and trustworthy geographer and
historian. Rand, McNally & Co., and George F. Cram, of Chicago;
Matthews, Northrup & Co., of Buffalo; A. S. Barnes & Co., of New
York; University Publishing Company, of New York; W. & A. K.
Johnston, of Edinburgh, Scotland; MacMillan & Co., London and New
York; W. M. Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia, and many others of the
leading publishing houses, who have a heavy personal interest in
investigating the accuracy of everything they publish, acknowledge
Captain Glazier's claims by accepting his views, and reproducing them
Page 638
in their books and maps. The press, bar, pulpit, and legislature of the
State of Minnesota give unqualified assent through many of their
leading members, to the position of Captain Glazier."
Chicago Times.
"The most interesting portion of Captain Glazier's 'Down the Great
River' is the beginning, where the author gives the details of an
expedition made in 1881 by himself with five companions, when he
claims, with good grounds, to have fixed the actual, true source of the
Great River. His attention was called in 1876 to the fact that, though
everybody knows the mouth of the stream, there was then much
uncertainty about the source. In 1881 he found time to organize the
expedition named, and crossing the country to Itasca, embarked and
pushed through that lake up a stream flowing into it, and came upon
another considerable body of water fed by three streams originating in
springs at the foot of a curved range of hills some miles further on. This
lake he fixed upon as the true source, and since his published accounts
many geographers and map-workers have modified their works
according to his discoveries. He does not claim to be the actual
discoverer of the lake, as such, but only to have been the first to
discover and establish the fact that it is the highest link in a chain in
which Itasca is another; or, in other words, the true source of the river.
The Indian name of the lake is Pokegama, and this, the author says, he
would have retained, but was overruled by the other five, who insisted
on calling it Lake Glazier. For the particulars of the interesting story
the reader must be referred to the volume itself. Captain Glazier is an
old traveler and a practised writer. The manner of his journey down the
State of Minnesota give unqualified assent through many of their
leading members, to the position of Captain Glazier."
Chicago Times.
"The most interesting portion of Captain Glazier's 'Down the Great
River' is the beginning, where the author gives the details of an
expedition made in 1881 by himself with five companions, when he
claims, with good grounds, to have fixed the actual, true source of the
Great River. His attention was called in 1876 to the fact that, though
everybody knows the mouth of the stream, there was then much
uncertainty about the source. In 1881 he found time to organize the
expedition named, and crossing the country to Itasca, embarked and
pushed through that lake up a stream flowing into it, and came upon
another considerable body of water fed by three streams originating in
springs at the foot of a curved range of hills some miles further on. This
lake he fixed upon as the true source, and since his published accounts
many geographers and map-workers have modified their works
according to his discoveries. He does not claim to be the actual
discoverer of the lake, as such, but only to have been the first to
discover and establish the fact that it is the highest link in a chain in
which Itasca is another; or, in other words, the true source of the river.
The Indian name of the lake is Pokegama, and this, the author says, he
would have retained, but was overruled by the other five, who insisted
on calling it Lake Glazier. For the particulars of the interesting story
the reader must be referred to the volume itself. Captain Glazier is an
old traveler and a practised writer. The manner of his journey down the
Page 639
Mississippi enabled him to see well all there was to see, and he enables
his readers to see also."
Chicago Inter-Ocean.
"Readers of 'Soldiers of the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape,' and other writings of Captain Glazier will require no urging to
read the entertaining volume 'Down the Great River.' It is an account of
the discovery of the true source of the Mississippi River, with pictorial
and descriptive views of cities, towns and scenery gathered from a
canoe voyage from its head waters to the Gulf. For fifty years American
youth have been taught that 'the Mississippi rises in Lake Itasca,' until
Captain Glazier, in this memorable journey of one hundred and
seventeen days in his canoe, demonstrated the error and mapped the
facts so accurately as to settle the question for all time. Leading
geographers and educational publishers have already made changes in
their maps and given due credit to Captain Glazier and his new lake. To
say the Mississippi rises in Lake Glazier is only doing simple justice to
the intrepid explorer and hero of many battles. The book is charmingly
written, mainly in the form of a diary, and contains facts of great value,
so interwoven with incidents and fine descriptions and novel adventures
as to be as interesting as the best romance. One could scarcely find
better history or finer descriptions or be more fully impressed with the
breadth and length and grandeur of American possessions than by
journeying with Captain Glazier in his canoe down the grand river of
the continent. The volume is handsomely printed and bound and well
illustrated."
his readers to see also."
Chicago Inter-Ocean.
"Readers of 'Soldiers of the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen and
Escape,' and other writings of Captain Glazier will require no urging to
read the entertaining volume 'Down the Great River.' It is an account of
the discovery of the true source of the Mississippi River, with pictorial
and descriptive views of cities, towns and scenery gathered from a
canoe voyage from its head waters to the Gulf. For fifty years American
youth have been taught that 'the Mississippi rises in Lake Itasca,' until
Captain Glazier, in this memorable journey of one hundred and
seventeen days in his canoe, demonstrated the error and mapped the
facts so accurately as to settle the question for all time. Leading
geographers and educational publishers have already made changes in
their maps and given due credit to Captain Glazier and his new lake. To
say the Mississippi rises in Lake Glazier is only doing simple justice to
the intrepid explorer and hero of many battles. The book is charmingly
written, mainly in the form of a diary, and contains facts of great value,
so interwoven with incidents and fine descriptions and novel adventures
as to be as interesting as the best romance. One could scarcely find
better history or finer descriptions or be more fully impressed with the
breadth and length and grandeur of American possessions than by
journeying with Captain Glazier in his canoe down the grand river of
the continent. The volume is handsomely printed and bound and well
illustrated."
Page 640
Chicago Evening Journal.
"However the knowledge may affect the world at large that the source
of the mighty Mississippi is other than generations of geography
students have been taught that it was, there is little doubt left in the
reader's mind, after perusing Captain Willard Glazier's 'Down the Great
River,' that we have all been in the wrong about it, and that this most
peerless river was born, not in Itasca's sparkling springs, but in another
wider and deeper lake that lies still further south and bears the name of
its discoverer, the author of this interesting volume of exploration and
adventure. There is something charming in the simple thought of an
expedition such as the one undertaken by Captain Glazier. Imagine
long, silent days of absolutely unbroken communion with Nature!
Slipping along in a frail canoe, without the sound of an uncongenial
human speech, of clanging bells or grating wheels, through circling
hours of unbroken calm, with only the swish of bending reeds and
lapping waters to break the hush and remind one of a sentient world.
Perhaps the author and his Indian guides occasionally exchanged a
word, or the two white companions and himself indulged in a laugh that
started the rattling echoes of the hills, but there was no chatter, no
twaddle, no dissensions. The narrative reads like a story. Reading it, one
longs to start for Lake Glazier to-morrow, and thence descending, halt
not in his long course until his faithful canoe slips out into the waters of
the Southern Gulf, three thousand miles away. A man with a soul in him
would rather take such a trip with all its hardships and its perils than go
on a hundred cut-and-dried trips to Europe. The book is handsomely
bound and well illustrated."
"However the knowledge may affect the world at large that the source
of the mighty Mississippi is other than generations of geography
students have been taught that it was, there is little doubt left in the
reader's mind, after perusing Captain Willard Glazier's 'Down the Great
River,' that we have all been in the wrong about it, and that this most
peerless river was born, not in Itasca's sparkling springs, but in another
wider and deeper lake that lies still further south and bears the name of
its discoverer, the author of this interesting volume of exploration and
adventure. There is something charming in the simple thought of an
expedition such as the one undertaken by Captain Glazier. Imagine
long, silent days of absolutely unbroken communion with Nature!
Slipping along in a frail canoe, without the sound of an uncongenial
human speech, of clanging bells or grating wheels, through circling
hours of unbroken calm, with only the swish of bending reeds and
lapping waters to break the hush and remind one of a sentient world.
Perhaps the author and his Indian guides occasionally exchanged a
word, or the two white companions and himself indulged in a laugh that
started the rattling echoes of the hills, but there was no chatter, no
twaddle, no dissensions. The narrative reads like a story. Reading it, one
longs to start for Lake Glazier to-morrow, and thence descending, halt
not in his long course until his faithful canoe slips out into the waters of
the Southern Gulf, three thousand miles away. A man with a soul in him
would rather take such a trip with all its hardships and its perils than go
on a hundred cut-and-dried trips to Europe. The book is handsomely
bound and well illustrated."
Page 641
Chicago Herald.
"For half a century or more it has been understood that Lake Itasca
was the source of the Mississippi River, but Captain Willard Glazier has
exploded this theory by a canoe voyage undertaken in 1881. The results
of his investigations were given to geographers at the time and accepted
as satisfactory and complete. Maps were at once changed by the map
publishers, and Lake Glazier, a tributary of Lake Itasca, was set down
as the true source of the 'Father of Waters.' The story of Captain
Glazier's adventures is told by him in a book entitled 'Down the Great
River,' which is entertaining as well as being of importance as a
contribution to the geography and history of this country. Together with
two companions and several guides, Glazier first discovered that the
lake now bearing his name was the true source of the Great River, and
then journeyed by canoe from that point to the mouth of the Mississippi,
a distance of 3,184 miles. This trip occupied one hundred and seventeen
days and was attended with various haps and mishaps and numerous
adventures of an exciting character. It is not easy from a mere book
description to realize the extent and importance of such a trip as that
made by Captain Glazier. More than a hundred days of roughing it
along one of the greatest waterways in the world could not fail to be
productive of much that would interest even a casual reader, and as
Captain Glazier is an experienced traveller and a skilled writer, he has
made the most of his opportunities."
Springfield (Ohio) Times.
"For half a century or more it has been understood that Lake Itasca
was the source of the Mississippi River, but Captain Willard Glazier has
exploded this theory by a canoe voyage undertaken in 1881. The results
of his investigations were given to geographers at the time and accepted
as satisfactory and complete. Maps were at once changed by the map
publishers, and Lake Glazier, a tributary of Lake Itasca, was set down
as the true source of the 'Father of Waters.' The story of Captain
Glazier's adventures is told by him in a book entitled 'Down the Great
River,' which is entertaining as well as being of importance as a
contribution to the geography and history of this country. Together with
two companions and several guides, Glazier first discovered that the
lake now bearing his name was the true source of the Great River, and
then journeyed by canoe from that point to the mouth of the Mississippi,
a distance of 3,184 miles. This trip occupied one hundred and seventeen
days and was attended with various haps and mishaps and numerous
adventures of an exciting character. It is not easy from a mere book
description to realize the extent and importance of such a trip as that
made by Captain Glazier. More than a hundred days of roughing it
along one of the greatest waterways in the world could not fail to be
productive of much that would interest even a casual reader, and as
Captain Glazier is an experienced traveller and a skilled writer, he has
made the most of his opportunities."
Springfield (Ohio) Times.
Page 642
"The latest book from the pen of Willard Glazier, the well-known
soldier-author, is entitled 'Down the Great River.' It is a work of great
geographical and historical value, and settles beyond peradventure the
disputed question of the true source of the Mississippi. Aside from its
scientific value, the work is a charmingly entertaining narrative of the
thrilling adventures and amusing incidents of a canoe trip over the
whole length of the Mississippi from its source in the cold regions of
the North to where it rolls into the ocean over the burning sands of the
Gulf coast. It is highly instructive and interesting in its graphic
descriptions and character sketches, depicting the varied human nature,
local customs, and folk-lore that find habitation along the banks of the
Great River. The book is well worth the perusal of every one, and an
American library without it would be incomplete."
Ohio State Journal.
"It seems strange that for nearly fifty years up to 1881, no new thing
had been discovered concerning the great Mississippi, whose source in
the vast wilderness of the Northwest was supposed to be in Lake Itasca.
In that year, however, Captain Willard Glazier, an adventurous spirit,
determined to finally solve the mystery of the source of the 'Father of
Waters,' and also to navigate its entire length from source to sea.
Accordingly he traced with infinite hardship the narrowing stream
above Itasca until its true source was finally reached in what is now
known as Lake Glazier. Then, turning about, he floated down the
constantly growing stream until its mighty volume was emptied into the
Gulf of Mexico. Of this great trip, replete with adventure and abounding
soldier-author, is entitled 'Down the Great River.' It is a work of great
geographical and historical value, and settles beyond peradventure the
disputed question of the true source of the Mississippi. Aside from its
scientific value, the work is a charmingly entertaining narrative of the
thrilling adventures and amusing incidents of a canoe trip over the
whole length of the Mississippi from its source in the cold regions of
the North to where it rolls into the ocean over the burning sands of the
Gulf coast. It is highly instructive and interesting in its graphic
descriptions and character sketches, depicting the varied human nature,
local customs, and folk-lore that find habitation along the banks of the
Great River. The book is well worth the perusal of every one, and an
American library without it would be incomplete."
Ohio State Journal.
"It seems strange that for nearly fifty years up to 1881, no new thing
had been discovered concerning the great Mississippi, whose source in
the vast wilderness of the Northwest was supposed to be in Lake Itasca.
In that year, however, Captain Willard Glazier, an adventurous spirit,
determined to finally solve the mystery of the source of the 'Father of
Waters,' and also to navigate its entire length from source to sea.
Accordingly he traced with infinite hardship the narrowing stream
above Itasca until its true source was finally reached in what is now
known as Lake Glazier. Then, turning about, he floated down the
constantly growing stream until its mighty volume was emptied into the
Gulf of Mexico. Of this great trip, replete with adventure and abounding
Page 643
in incident, he has given a most graphic and interesting account under
the title of 'Down the Great River.'"
The Wheeling Intelligencer.
"Captain Glazier's name is familiar to the reading public of America
through his earlier works, 'Soldiers of the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen
and Escape,' 'Battles for the Union,' 'Heroes of Three Wars,'
'Peculiarities of American Cities,' and 'Ocean to Ocean on Horseback.'
His latest book, 'Down the Great River,' is his most important essay in
the field of literature, and is in several respects unique. It is a very
interesting account of a remarkable canoe voyage from the head waters
of the Mississippi to the Gulf; but its importance comes from the fact
that, until this voyage was made, the source of the Mississippi was
universally placed in Lake Itasca, whereas Glazier and his party
demonstrated that a higher basin, now put down in all the new maps and
geographies as Lake Glazier, is really the primary reservoir of the
Mississippi. It seems almost incredible, but is nevertheless true, that for
over forty years previous to 1881, when Captain Glazier made his
discovery, it was accepted as settled that Lake Itasca was the remotest
body of water from the mouth of the Mississippi. The falsity of this
theory, however, has been established and an important discovery given
to the geographical world. No discovery rivaling this in interest and
importance has been made on the American continent for half a
century."
the title of 'Down the Great River.'"
The Wheeling Intelligencer.
"Captain Glazier's name is familiar to the reading public of America
through his earlier works, 'Soldiers of the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen
and Escape,' 'Battles for the Union,' 'Heroes of Three Wars,'
'Peculiarities of American Cities,' and 'Ocean to Ocean on Horseback.'
His latest book, 'Down the Great River,' is his most important essay in
the field of literature, and is in several respects unique. It is a very
interesting account of a remarkable canoe voyage from the head waters
of the Mississippi to the Gulf; but its importance comes from the fact
that, until this voyage was made, the source of the Mississippi was
universally placed in Lake Itasca, whereas Glazier and his party
demonstrated that a higher basin, now put down in all the new maps and
geographies as Lake Glazier, is really the primary reservoir of the
Mississippi. It seems almost incredible, but is nevertheless true, that for
over forty years previous to 1881, when Captain Glazier made his
discovery, it was accepted as settled that Lake Itasca was the remotest
body of water from the mouth of the Mississippi. The falsity of this
theory, however, has been established and an important discovery given
to the geographical world. No discovery rivaling this in interest and
importance has been made on the American continent for half a
century."
Page 644
Philadelphia Public Ledger.
"By the discoveries of Captain Willard Glazier, made in 1881, Lake
Itasca is dislodged from its former eminence as the source of the
Mississippi, the real head-waters of that mighty stream being traced to
Lake Glazier, a distance of 3,184 miles from the Gulf of Mexico."
Brooklyn Eagle.
"Captain Glazier's very clear map of the Great River shows the True
Source to be south of Lake Itasca, accepted by Schoolcraft in 1832 as
the head-waters in disregard of the stream entering its southwestern
arm.... To Captain Glazier belongs the identification of the fountain-
head of the Mississippi."
Philadelphia Times.
"Captain Willard Glazier has lately discovered the True Source of the
Mississippi, which is not in Lake Itasca, but in another lake to the south
of it, and succeeds in proving his discovery to the satisfaction of the
most competent judges, to wit, the geographers and educational
publishers of the country. These accept the new source by placing it on
their maps and calling it after its discoverer, 'Lake Glazier.'"
New York Observer.
"By the discoveries of Captain Willard Glazier, made in 1881, Lake
Itasca is dislodged from its former eminence as the source of the
Mississippi, the real head-waters of that mighty stream being traced to
Lake Glazier, a distance of 3,184 miles from the Gulf of Mexico."
Brooklyn Eagle.
"Captain Glazier's very clear map of the Great River shows the True
Source to be south of Lake Itasca, accepted by Schoolcraft in 1832 as
the head-waters in disregard of the stream entering its southwestern
arm.... To Captain Glazier belongs the identification of the fountain-
head of the Mississippi."
Philadelphia Times.
"Captain Willard Glazier has lately discovered the True Source of the
Mississippi, which is not in Lake Itasca, but in another lake to the south
of it, and succeeds in proving his discovery to the satisfaction of the
most competent judges, to wit, the geographers and educational
publishers of the country. These accept the new source by placing it on
their maps and calling it after its discoverer, 'Lake Glazier.'"
New York Observer.
Page 645
"To Captain Glazier is undoubtedly due the honor of tracing the
Father of Waters, the great American river, up to its real source in the
network of lakes that occupies the central and northern portion of the
State of Minnesota."
Minneapolis Journal.
" ... That what is now known as Lake Glazier is the True Source of
the Mississippi River; and that to Captain Glazier is due the credit of
first placing the fact before the public by accurate chart and maps, is
unquestionably true."
Philadelphia North American.
"The True Source of the Mississippi is settled beyond controversy.
Glazier's name will hereafter be classed with those of De Soto, La Salle,
and Hennepin, whose names are forever associated with the Great River
which divides the United States."
Philadelphia Inquirer.
"Several years ago Captain Glazier, while meditating upon the
exploits of De Soto, Marquette, Father Hennepin and La Salle, the
heroic old explorers, who led the way to the Great River of North
America, regretted that, although its mouth was discovered by the
Chevalier La Salle nearly two hundred years ago, there was still much
Father of Waters, the great American river, up to its real source in the
network of lakes that occupies the central and northern portion of the
State of Minnesota."
Minneapolis Journal.
" ... That what is now known as Lake Glazier is the True Source of
the Mississippi River; and that to Captain Glazier is due the credit of
first placing the fact before the public by accurate chart and maps, is
unquestionably true."
Philadelphia North American.
"The True Source of the Mississippi is settled beyond controversy.
Glazier's name will hereafter be classed with those of De Soto, La Salle,
and Hennepin, whose names are forever associated with the Great River
which divides the United States."
Philadelphia Inquirer.
"Several years ago Captain Glazier, while meditating upon the
exploits of De Soto, Marquette, Father Hennepin and La Salle, the
heroic old explorers, who led the way to the Great River of North
America, regretted that, although its mouth was discovered by the
Chevalier La Salle nearly two hundred years ago, there was still much
Page 646
uncertainty as to its True Source.... The discovery and final location of
the source of the Mississippi has now received general recognition in
this country and Europe, and there certainly seems to be no doubt of the
validity of Captain Glazier's claim. His account of the discovery is very
entertaining reading."
the source of the Mississippi has now received general recognition in
this country and Europe, and there certainly seems to be no doubt of the
validity of Captain Glazier's claim. His account of the discovery is very
entertaining reading."
Page 647
CONCLUSION.
The reader who is interested in the question discussed in this Appendix
has, we venture to assert, found ample evidence to justify the author of
"Down the Great River" in his claim to have been the first to locate the
veritable source of the Mississippi. The testimony is of such a character that
it is impossible for an impartial critic to arrive at any other verdict than that
the fountain-head of the Father of Waters is not in Lake Itasca, but in the
lake to the south of it, now known as Lake Glazier. The declarations of the
Indians and pioneers in the vicinity of the source of this river are altogether
corroborative of Captain Glazier and his companions; the press of
Minnesota speaks with but one voice, while geographers and educational
publishers are almost unanimous in their recognition of the facts developed
by his expedition.
HUBBARD BROTHERS,
Publishers of "Down The Great River."
723 Chestnut Street,
Philadelphia, April 30, 1888.
The reader who is interested in the question discussed in this Appendix
has, we venture to assert, found ample evidence to justify the author of
"Down the Great River" in his claim to have been the first to locate the
veritable source of the Mississippi. The testimony is of such a character that
it is impossible for an impartial critic to arrive at any other verdict than that
the fountain-head of the Father of Waters is not in Lake Itasca, but in the
lake to the south of it, now known as Lake Glazier. The declarations of the
Indians and pioneers in the vicinity of the source of this river are altogether
corroborative of Captain Glazier and his companions; the press of
Minnesota speaks with but one voice, while geographers and educational
publishers are almost unanimous in their recognition of the facts developed
by his expedition.
HUBBARD BROTHERS,
Publishers of "Down The Great River."
723 Chestnut Street,
Philadelphia, April 30, 1888.
Page 648
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