Austin, John E. (fl. 1863) to H. H. Bun
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00027 Author/Creator: Austin, John E. (fl. 1863) Place Written: Tullahoma, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 11 January 1863 Pagination: 2 p. ; 26.5 x 21.5 cm. Order a Copy
Major Austin, Commander of Austin's Battalion Sharp Shooters (Confederate), discusses the Battle of Stones River, or Murfreesboro, with Bun, an acting assistant adjutant general. Mentions fighting with Breckinridge's Division (led by General John Cabell Breckinridge). Refers to receiving orders from General Daniel Weisiger Adams. Relates details of the battle, including flanking the enemy, based on the orders of Colonel Randall Lee Gibson, Colonel of the 13th Louisiana Volunteers. After forming position, he "opened fire upon the enemy who was about 40 paces of us- this staggered him a little and drew his fire upon my command which was fortunate as it protected the retreat of a considerable portion of the Brigade...I fell back with but little confusion in the Artillery which had been brought up to support the attack." Writes that for relief, his command was placed together with the 32nd Alabama, after serving as sharpshooters for the entire day of 2 January 1863. Mentions Colonel Miller and General Stuart (possibly Alexander Peter Stewart). In a post script, states that acting adjutant A. O'Duhigg, and Lieutenants Martin, Lowd, Macarty, and Garrett, acting assistant surgeon Charles H. Keller, and acting surgeon major Matthew Murphy conducted themselves bravely.
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