Cobb, Thomas (fl. 1864) to dear Friends
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC08683 Author/Creator: Cobb, Thomas (fl. 1864) Place Written: Atlanta, Georgia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 28 July 1864 Pagination: 3 p. ; 20.5 x 25.5 cm. Order a Copy
Cobb was a captain in the Union Army and participated in the Battle of Atlanta. Describes the military activities occurring from 22-28 July 1864. Writes that there is more and more fighting everyday but that his division has not yet been closely engaged. Informs that the Army of the Tennessee, the 15th, 16th, and 17th artillery, have done the most fighting and fought on 22 July. The Army of the Cumberland fought the battle of the 20th. Writes that Union General Oliver O. Howard has taken command from General James B. McPherson who was killed on 22 July. Believes that Confederate General John B. Hood intends to fight for Atlanta and that Confederate General Joseph Johnston (Johnson) was removed because he would not fight at the Chattahoochie River. Remarks, "In the late fight the rebs were drunk and rushed madly on only to be shot. This I think is why they suffered more than us." Believes that Union General William T. Sherman's next move will cause the Confederates to give up Atlanta as they are very close to the Confederate fortifications. Informs that they will be on their way home in four weeks.
Johnston was relieved by Hood during the Atlanta campaign on 17 July 1864.
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