More tidbits from:
THE CIVIL WAR IN CARTER AND SHANNON COUNTY MISSOURI, BY J.J. CHILTON, EUNICE PENNINGTON, DAVID LEWIS, ESAU HUETT & OTHERS.
Within this book are many stories and the majority are reprints of articles written for The Current Local Newspaper-Van Buren, Carter Co., Missouri, under the byline:
TRUE OZARK TALES FROM BYGONE DAYS By: John Jay Chilton
Only one more event marked the events of the first day. There was a small, red haired, freckle faced fiend that shot most of the prisoners, and said he liked to shoot prisoners down to see them kick. He got his later on, as we will relate farther on in the article. He got near the house and told of shooting James Edgar on Dry Valley as they came down. He said "Edgar would not face me and turned his side to me, and I shot a hole in him as big as my fist" He talked loud so we could all hear him and be terrified, of course.
*John J Chilton wrote this some 70 years after the events occurred. He dates this event as having occurred during the last week of March 1865. This is one of the few places that I have found that Mr. Chilton made a significant error. As we will see from the records James L. Edgar died in July of 1865.
THE CIVIL WAR IN CARTER AND SHANNON COUNTY MISSOURI, BY J.J. CHILTON, EUNICE PENNINGTON, DAVID LEWIS, ESAU HUETT & OTHERS.
Within this book are many stories and the majority are reprints of articles written for The Current Local Newspaper-Van Buren, Carter Co., Missouri, under the byline:
TRUE OZARK TALES FROM BYGONE DAYS By: John Jay Chilton
A short excerpt from:
RAIDER’S WERE NOTED FOR RUTHLESS KILLING
First Published 03-24-1932
Only one more event marked the events of the first day. There was a small, red haired, freckle faced fiend that shot most of the prisoners, and said he liked to shoot prisoners down to see them kick. He got his later on, as we will relate farther on in the article. He got near the house and told of shooting James Edgar on Dry Valley as they came down. He said "Edgar would not face me and turned his side to me, and I shot a hole in him as big as my fist" He talked loud so we could all hear him and be terrified, of course.
*John J Chilton wrote this some 70 years after the events occurred. He dates this event as having occurred during the last week of March 1865. This is one of the few places that I have found that Mr. Chilton made a significant error. As we will see from the records James L. Edgar died in July of 1865.
James L. Edgar was married to Mary G. Hanger. Peter Hanger’s sister. Edgar was 38-39 years old when the war began. And, it appears from the records, or lack thereof, that he, Edgar, did not intend to join in the fighting, even though he had at least two brothers and two brothers-in-law who had joined the Missouri State Guard at the very beginning of the conflict.
This story appears to be one where a man was “tarred with the same brush”. Because of his relatives actions and beliefs James L. Edgar was forced to enroll in the local militia as “Disloyal”. When in fact there is no evidence to support his being guilty of being a southern sympathizer.
Then, when he left home, due to threats against his life, and subsequently gets arrested, the union authorities hold him without charges, much less trial, in the military prisons of St. Louis and Alton, Illinois.
Capt. John Jamison and other members of the local Washington County militia petition the Provost Marshall to release James on oath and bond, but to no avail. Although the image is basically illegible enough can be read to know that the gist of the letter is in support of James Edgar. And, the signatures are legible.
*
West Plains, Howell County, Missouri, January 31, 1863
Title: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. ; Series 1 - Volume 22 (Part II)Page 87
HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF SOUTHEASTERN MISSOURI,
Camp at West Plains, January 31, 1863.
Maj. H. Z. CURTIS, Assistant Adjutant-General:
MAJOR: I have the honor to report the concentration of the troops composing the army at this point on yesterday. Warren’s troops, from Houston; my own, from Alton, flanking the supply trains, and the supply trains from Van Buren, via Thomasville, all reached here within a few hours of each other. I have sent up for shoes. The paper soles the contractors, now furnish render their frequent renewal a matter of vexation. I have sent wagons to Houston for the subsistence stores left there, and a train to Rolla. I have put the troops on half rations, filling up the balance with what can be gotten from the country, and very little it is. I have drained the country from Pilot Knob to this point of cattle and corn. An expedition sent by me into Arkansas, to the Stubbfield Settlement, down on Eleven Point River, failed to get many cattle. We cannot remain here long; we must keep moving for forage. My people are in good heart, and ready for your orders, but, I must confess, this problem of food, over such roads, has put some gray hairs in my head. Through a rich country it would be easy, in spite of the roads, to bring out results; but South Missouri! your army went through part of it, and it is worse now than then. I sent, by Colonel Boyd, a suggestion to the general that it would be well, while in the Rolla District, that I should have command of it. My trains could then run to Houston as a base, my supplies being directed from Rolla to that point. Refugees just in from Arkansas confirm the report brought in by Colonel Waring that Holmes has ordered all citizens who claim to live under Southern rule south of White River. I send Waring with a brigade of cavalry to Batesville, supported by a brigade of infantry and four guns as far as Salem, and maybe Evening Shade. I have confidence enough in his adroitness. He brings, beside the reconnaissance, all the horses and mules (which we need now very much) and cattle he finds upon the road.
I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
J.W. DAVIDSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding.
*Statement of James L. Edgar a prisoner at the Gratiot St. Prison, St. Louis, made the 11 day of Feb 1863.
My age is 40 Years.
I live in Washington County, Missouri.
I was born in same County.
I was captured in Howell County on or about the last day of January 1863.
(illegable) MO Cavalry
The cause of my arrest was a man of the name of Patterson and I had been to Texas County on business—I went to collect a note—While there I was captured by the Rebels with Col. Wood & detained about 3 weeks and got off by taking oath to Confederate States. I was visiting in Howell Co. when taken.
I never was in arms against the United States, and was a [rank]
In Company.
I was never sworn into the Rebel service about the
Day of (marked through) 186 by (also marked through)
In County, Missouri for
When captured, I was first taken to West Plains
There 2 or 3 days
Examined there by Pro. Mar. and was sent to
Prison about the (4) day of Feb.
I took the oath of allegiance to the United States, about the
Day of August 1862. When Joined Militia at Irondale, before the Capt. Of the Company.
Subscribed by the Prisoner, the day )
First named, in my presence. ) ????
P.T.Avery
Lt. (illegable)
What impression does prisoner make—not very good
Truthful or not truthful. Very doubtfull
Candid or not candid. (This has a line drawn through it.)
Mild.
Firm.
Severe or ill looking.
Vigorous.
Healthy.
Weak. (has a line drawn through it)
Sick ( “)
I recommend Trial by Military Comm.
A Citizen—enrolled disloyal and took oath—afterward went to Texas County—says he was taken prisoner and taken to Rebel camp and compelled to take oath of allegiance to Southern Confederacy----
Again in rebel camp When taken had horses and guns which he accounts for—finally and with much hesitation—Tried to hide from the troops
Says he is loyal
Examination of James L. Edgar
Washington, County
Missouri
Taken the 11 day of Feb 1863.
Confined at Gratiot Street Prison.
Taken by P.F. Levy?
Lt. (illegible) Iowa
My age is 40 Years.
I live in Washington County, Missouri.
I was born in same County.
I was captured in Howell County on or about the last day of January 1863.
(illegable) MO Cavalry
The cause of my arrest was a man of the name of Patterson and I had been to Texas County on business—I went to collect a note—While there I was captured by the Rebels with Col. Wood & detained about 3 weeks and got off by taking oath to Confederate States. I was visiting in Howell Co. when taken.
I never was in arms against the United States, and was a [rank]
In Company.
I was never sworn into the Rebel service about the
Day of (marked through) 186 by (also marked through)
In County, Missouri for
When captured, I was first taken to West Plains
There 2 or 3 days
Examined there by Pro. Mar. and was sent to
Prison about the (4) day of Feb.
I took the oath of allegiance to the United States, about the
Day of August 1862. When Joined Militia at Irondale, before the Capt. Of the Company.
Subscribed by the Prisoner, the day )
First named, in my presence. ) ????
P.T.Avery
Lt. (illegable)
What impression does prisoner make—not very good
Truthful or not truthful. Very doubtfull
Candid or not candid. (This has a line drawn through it.)
Mild.
Firm.
Severe or ill looking.
Vigorous.
Healthy.
Weak. (has a line drawn through it)
Sick ( “)
I recommend Trial by Military Comm.
A Citizen—enrolled disloyal and took oath—afterward went to Texas County—says he was taken prisoner and taken to Rebel camp and compelled to take oath of allegiance to Southern Confederacy----
Again in rebel camp When taken had horses and guns which he accounts for—finally and with much hesitation—Tried to hide from the troops
Says he is loyal
Examination of James L. Edgar
Washington, County
Missouri
Taken the 11 day of Feb 1863.
Confined at Gratiot Street Prison.
Taken by P.F. Levy?
Lt. (illegible) Iowa
*
The Prisoner makes additional statements as follows, in answer to questions:
2. What Commanders have you served under?
3. What battles or skirmishes have you been in?
4. Did you have arms, or were you out on picket, or what part did you take in the action? I had a gun and a pistol which I had got a couple of days before from a man—A deserter. I should judge from the Militia –He had on a soldiers jacket and shirt –in Texas County.
5. Have you ever furnished arms or ammunition, horse, provisions, or any kind of supplies to any rebels? State when, where, and how often.
Nothing—This deserter XX been nothing a half or ¾ of mile from Daniel Naves? Where we had been stopping—He seemed to be working with and had been stopping there but a short time.
6. Was there any rebel camp near you, that you did not give notice of to the U.S. troops? None near
7. Have you ever been with anyone taking or pressing horses, arms or other property? No
8. Are you enrolled in the E.M.M. –loyal or disloyal? I was enrolled ? Southern Sympathizers by influence of brothers in law.
9. Are you a southern sympathizer? I am not.
10. Do you sincerely desire to have the southern people put down in this war, and the authority of the U.S. government over them restored? I do—yet I don’t like to have the nigger freed here among us.
11. How many slaves have you? None
12. Have you a wife—how many children. Wife and 7 children oldest girls all helpless
13. What is your occupation? Farming
14. What relatives have you in the rebellion? 2 brothers and 1 or 2 brothers in law
15. Have you ever been in any Rebel camp? If so, whose –when—where—and how long? What did you do? Did you leave it, or were you captured in it?
Never except when I was taken prisoner---After being released by the rebels, came up to north part of Howell Co. to man named of Elijah Brooks, got some clean clothes & went to the Eleven Point river-near Houston- in order to see if I could persuade my brothers to leave the rebel army and come home –they are under Burbridge still not succeed in getting them to leave I was not there but a few hours. This was a month and half ago—I left home in August to collect a note for $134 & interest (ags’t) John Campbell He had gone south-Did not get the money Patterson went along with me from Howell Co. He is a deserter from Rebel Army – I fell in with him in Howell Co. When I saw the troops at the time I was taken I did not know them-I get off of my horse and run and tried to hide under some drift or brush—I rather thought they were Southern troops—I bought the horse I ride from a man by name of Margarte in Howell Co. about 2 miles from Brooks and paid $60.00—I also had at time I was captured a grey mare, a young horse— and three- one year old mules—which I bought off West Holt who lived in Wright County. He overtook us. He must have in edge of Texas County I had seen him once before in Howell Co. I think he was taking them South of the Rebel lines—I objected to buying at first though for fear of their being Jayhawked—I had only got them a short time before I was taken—some 5 or 6 miles back. I had not ?? him all for them I was to give him $300.00 and I had paid him only $70.00—I have not seen him since—I had ? still meet him at Brooks—Holt was alone when I met him—Patterson had been with me then nearly all week—All these horses and mules were taken as contraband by the troops who took me—I never had had but one other horse while down there—Holt turned back XX as he will L-look after his family.
James L. Edgar
3. What battles or skirmishes have you been in?
4. Did you have arms, or were you out on picket, or what part did you take in the action? I had a gun and a pistol which I had got a couple of days before from a man—A deserter. I should judge from the Militia –He had on a soldiers jacket and shirt –in Texas County.
5. Have you ever furnished arms or ammunition, horse, provisions, or any kind of supplies to any rebels? State when, where, and how often.
Nothing—This deserter XX been nothing a half or ¾ of mile from Daniel Naves? Where we had been stopping—He seemed to be working with and had been stopping there but a short time.
6. Was there any rebel camp near you, that you did not give notice of to the U.S. troops? None near
7. Have you ever been with anyone taking or pressing horses, arms or other property? No
8. Are you enrolled in the E.M.M. –loyal or disloyal? I was enrolled ? Southern Sympathizers by influence of brothers in law.
9. Are you a southern sympathizer? I am not.
10. Do you sincerely desire to have the southern people put down in this war, and the authority of the U.S. government over them restored? I do—yet I don’t like to have the nigger freed here among us.
11. How many slaves have you? None
12. Have you a wife—how many children. Wife and 7 children oldest girls all helpless
13. What is your occupation? Farming
14. What relatives have you in the rebellion? 2 brothers and 1 or 2 brothers in law
15. Have you ever been in any Rebel camp? If so, whose –when—where—and how long? What did you do? Did you leave it, or were you captured in it?
Never except when I was taken prisoner---After being released by the rebels, came up to north part of Howell Co. to man named of Elijah Brooks, got some clean clothes & went to the Eleven Point river-near Houston- in order to see if I could persuade my brothers to leave the rebel army and come home –they are under Burbridge still not succeed in getting them to leave I was not there but a few hours. This was a month and half ago—I left home in August to collect a note for $134 & interest (ags’t) John Campbell He had gone south-Did not get the money Patterson went along with me from Howell Co. He is a deserter from Rebel Army – I fell in with him in Howell Co. When I saw the troops at the time I was taken I did not know them-I get off of my horse and run and tried to hide under some drift or brush—I rather thought they were Southern troops—I bought the horse I ride from a man by name of Margarte in Howell Co. about 2 miles from Brooks and paid $60.00—I also had at time I was captured a grey mare, a young horse— and three- one year old mules—which I bought off West Holt who lived in Wright County. He overtook us. He must have in edge of Texas County I had seen him once before in Howell Co. I think he was taking them South of the Rebel lines—I objected to buying at first though for fear of their being Jayhawked—I had only got them a short time before I was taken—some 5 or 6 miles back. I had not ?? him all for them I was to give him $300.00 and I had paid him only $70.00—I have not seen him since—I had ? still meet him at Brooks—Holt was alone when I met him—Patterson had been with me then nearly all week—All these horses and mules were taken as contraband by the troops who took me—I never had had but one other horse while down there—Holt turned back XX as he will L-look after his family.
James L. Edgar
The note that is written diagonally across this document pertains to the Campbells. Edgar claimed to hold a note payable to him that he had bought at a discount and that he intended to collect. The following is the transcription of what was written about the Campbells:
"These Campbells are notorious rebels and bushwhackers and live in the vicinity of Licking, Texas Co. MO. About the time Edgar was there in Texas Co. they were amusing themselves by firing on my forage trains which I sent from Houston to clean them out." (signature illegible)
*
Irondale, Washington, MO, March 18, 1863
F.W. Poston, On behalf of Jas. L. Edgar at prisoner of the prison in St. Louis.
To the Provost Marshal
St. Louis, MO
Dear Sir,
Being the physician in attendance on the family of Mr. Jas. L. Edgar now a prisoner in some of the prisons of St. Louis and having just returned from visiting his family ……. Of members of which (including his wife who lies now exceedingly ill) have been very ill. I without their solicitation or knowledge have felt constrained from motives of humanity and send you a statement of the condition of his family and the causes which is generally (by those most familiar with him) suffered and have induced him to leave home. Edgar is a small farmer with eight children the eldest boy but six years old. So you may judge that unless charitable aid comes to their relief, they who have been wholly dependent upon his almost daily exertions, will surely come to want and suffering. These are now in a destitute condition without any near relatives said and in great need of the attentions of Edgar who has heretofore ……. and providing to his family.
From the representations of Lt Eaton, Capt. Jamison and a number of his nearest neighbors, men who have no sympathy whatever with the rebellion, but who had been actively loyal since the rebellion began, I am forced to believe that Edgar on leaving home for his uncles in Howell County had no intention whatsoever of taking up arms against the Government or of aiding or abetting rebels, but left simply because he feared a man who had threatened him d..ly to take his life.
This had caused Edgar a year ago to abandon his home and work in another Portion of the county to avoid contact with this desperado or outlaw. This is well understood by all his neighbors and there is not one, but what sincerely believes, that had it not been for the threats publicly made by this very bad man, Edgar would have been now at home attending to the wants and his suffering family. Those who knew him during his stay at his uncles in Howell County testify that he took no part in the war, but twice at the camp of the rebels and then to try and induce two younger brothers to return home with him. Edgar’s character among his neighbors is reputable and I sincerely believe from any formal acquaintance with him that if released from prison he will demean himself as a good loyal citizen.
Hoping on account of the disturbed condition of his family that you will give him an early hearing and if not guilty of crimes in….. with his release that you will speedily release him. I remain, yours truly, H.W. Postori
P.S.
In reference to my character for veracity and loyalty I refer you to Rev. Dr. Porter Milers Kirth and Woods (Booksellers) Col. ……. Bogy and James Harrison Esq. of the firm of Choteau, Harrison, and Bale all of St. Louis ) A.W. Poston
*
Irondale, Washington, MO, March 18, 1863
F.W. Poston, On behalf of Jas. L. Edgar at prisoner of the prison in St. Louis.
To the Provost Marshal
St. Louis, MO
Dear Sir,
Being the physician in attendance on the family of Mr. Jas. L. Edgar now a prisoner in some of the prisons of St. Louis and having just returned from visiting his family ……. Of members of which (including his wife who lies now exceedingly ill) have been very ill. I without their solicitation or knowledge have felt constrained from motives of humanity and send you a statement of the condition of his family and the causes which is generally (by those most familiar with him) suffered and have induced him to leave home. Edgar is a small farmer with eight children the eldest boy but six years old. So you may judge that unless charitable aid comes to their relief, they who have been wholly dependent upon his almost daily exertions, will surely come to want and suffering. These are now in a destitute condition without any near relatives said and in great need of the attentions of Edgar who has heretofore ……. and providing to his family.
From the representations of Lt Eaton, Capt. Jamison and a number of his nearest neighbors, men who have no sympathy whatever with the rebellion, but who had been actively loyal since the rebellion began, I am forced to believe that Edgar on leaving home for his uncles in Howell County had no intention whatsoever of taking up arms against the Government or of aiding or abetting rebels, but left simply because he feared a man who had threatened him d..ly to take his life.
This had caused Edgar a year ago to abandon his home and work in another Portion of the county to avoid contact with this desperado or outlaw. This is well understood by all his neighbors and there is not one, but what sincerely believes, that had it not been for the threats publicly made by this very bad man, Edgar would have been now at home attending to the wants and his suffering family. Those who knew him during his stay at his uncles in Howell County testify that he took no part in the war, but twice at the camp of the rebels and then to try and induce two younger brothers to return home with him. Edgar’s character among his neighbors is reputable and I sincerely believe from any formal acquaintance with him that if released from prison he will demean himself as a good loyal citizen.
Hoping on account of the disturbed condition of his family that you will give him an early hearing and if not guilty of crimes in….. with his release that you will speedily release him. I remain, yours truly, H.W. Postori
P.S.
In reference to my character for veracity and loyalty I refer you to Rev. Dr. Porter Milers Kirth and Woods (Booksellers) Col. ……. Bogy and James Harrison Esq. of the firm of Choteau, Harrison, and Bale all of St. Louis ) A.W. Poston
*
Name the date. March 20th 1863
*
Washington County, MO July 26/63
J.O. Broadhead
Provost Marshall Gen.
St Louis, MO
Sir:
James L. Edgar a citizen of this county about the first of February last was arrested in Howell County; and taken to St. Louis and confined in the Military Prison for sometime, and has since been sent to Alton where he is still detained. I would most respectively ask upon what charges Mr. Edgar is detained if any, and the evidence to sustain them and whither he has been arraigned and tried upon them & would further ask if Mr. Edgar’s case has not been investigated that it be so as soon as convenient. And, if no charges proven against him sufficient to justify his confinement that he be released, but if he is found guilty of any act justifying his imprisonment; then I have no desire to interfere in his behalf to screen his from the responsibility of his own acts.
Mr. Edgar I have known long and well and may say favorably and am satisfied that the beginning of causes which partially led to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment grew out of a personal matter having nothing to do with political questions of the (days).
Mr. Edgar has a large and helpless family who needs his care and attention.
(Signiture)
VOLUNTARY STATEMENT OF PRISONERS
TO THE
PROVOST MARSHAL GENERAL.
Name the date. March 20th 1863
- What is your age? Forty years since the third of Aug
- What county do you live in? Washington County MO
- When were you taken prisoner? About the last of January 1862
- Where were you taken? In Howell Co, MO
- By whom were you taken? By Davidson’s Command
- How long have you been in this prison? Since about the 8th February
- Have you ever been examined? Yes
- When and where were you examined? At your Provost office sometime about the twentieth of February
- Are you a man of family? Yes, a wife and seven little children
- Why were you taken prisoner? I was on my way home from Texas County and met with a scout of your men and they stately took me in.
- What terms do you ask to be released on? I am willing to take the Oath of Allegiance and give Bond and Enroll in the militia if necessary in my home county.
- What is your name? James L. Edgar
*
Washington County, MO July 26/63
J.O. Broadhead
Provost Marshall Gen.
St Louis, MO
Sir:
James L. Edgar a citizen of this county about the first of February last was arrested in Howell County; and taken to St. Louis and confined in the Military Prison for sometime, and has since been sent to Alton where he is still detained. I would most respectively ask upon what charges Mr. Edgar is detained if any, and the evidence to sustain them and whither he has been arraigned and tried upon them & would further ask if Mr. Edgar’s case has not been investigated that it be so as soon as convenient. And, if no charges proven against him sufficient to justify his confinement that he be released, but if he is found guilty of any act justifying his imprisonment; then I have no desire to interfere in his behalf to screen his from the responsibility of his own acts.
Mr. Edgar I have known long and well and may say favorably and am satisfied that the beginning of causes which partially led to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment grew out of a personal matter having nothing to do with political questions of the (days).
Mr. Edgar has a large and helpless family who needs his care and attention.
(Signiture)
*Hofferville, IL
August 22, ‘63
Edgar, J.L
Says her husband, J.L. Edgar is a prisoner in St. Louis
Can she see him? What are the charges against him.
Lt. D
What are the charges against the prisoner.
Violated his oath. Will be tried by M.C.(military commission)
*
Hopewell, MO
August 22nd, 1863
J.O. Braodhead
Provost Marshall Gen’l
St. Louis, MO
Dear Sir, I am the wife of J.L. Edgar who is now in the military prison in St. Louis, not having seen him for near twelve months, and being very anxious to do so; would respectfully ask the privilege of an interview with my husband, if my request can be complied with. I will come to St. Louis for that purpose; my husband has been in prison since January last and I have never yet learned the charges against him: I think it is not asking too much to be informed of the nature of his offense and allowed to procure and submit such evidence in his defense as I can. I suppose that he is brought to St. Louis for trial if so I would like to know when his trial will take place.
Respectfully yours,
Mary G. Edgar
*
State of Missouri
Washington County
August 22, ‘63
Edgar, J.L
Says her husband, J.L. Edgar is a prisoner in St. Louis
Can she see him? What are the charges against him.
Lt. D
What are the charges against the prisoner.
Violated his oath. Will be tried by M.C.(military commission)
*
Hopewell, MO
August 22nd, 1863
J.O. Braodhead
Provost Marshall Gen’l
St. Louis, MO
Dear Sir, I am the wife of J.L. Edgar who is now in the military prison in St. Louis, not having seen him for near twelve months, and being very anxious to do so; would respectfully ask the privilege of an interview with my husband, if my request can be complied with. I will come to St. Louis for that purpose; my husband has been in prison since January last and I have never yet learned the charges against him: I think it is not asking too much to be informed of the nature of his offense and allowed to procure and submit such evidence in his defense as I can. I suppose that he is brought to St. Louis for trial if so I would like to know when his trial will take place.
Respectfully yours,
Mary G. Edgar
*
State of Missouri
Washington County
I Moses Brooks clerk of the County Court in and for the county aforesaid hereby certify that I have carefully examined the files in my office and cannot find that James L Edgar of the county ever took and filed his oath off loyalty before me as proscribed by the Missouri State Constitution and to the best of my knowledge he never did file Such oath.
Witness my hand and seal of office at office in Potosi this 23rd day of September 1863 Moses Brooks Clerk
*
Statement of: James L Edgar a prisoner at the Gratiot St prison, St. Louis, made the 25th day of September, 1863
My age is Forty years.
I live in Washington County, Missouri.
I was born in Washington County Missouri.
I was captured in Howard County Missouri on or about the twenty seventh day of January 1863.
The cause of my capture was that I was returning home from Texas Co. I had stock with me and was armed.
I was( never have been) in arms against the United States………
When captured I was first taken to West Plains, MO. and remained there about 2 days and was examined there by U.S. A. P. M. and was sent to Gratiot St Prison about the Eighth day of February 1863.
I do not know that I ever took the oath of Allegiance to the United States……I did take an oath at Irondale before the Captain of the Company when I was enrolled, about August 1862.
(Signatures)
*
The prisoner make these additional statements as follows, in answer to questions:
1. How many times have you been in arms during the rebellion? Never, that is, I have never been in the service
2. What commanders have you served under? None
3. What battles or skirmishes have you been in? None
4. Did you have arms or were you out on picket, or what part you took in the action? No part
5. Have you ever furnished arms, or ammunition, horse, provisions, or any kind of supplies, to any rebels? State when, where and how often. Never
6. Was there any rebel camp near you, that you did not give notice of to the U.S. troops? None to my knowledge
7. Have you ever been with anyone taking or pressing horses, guns or other property? Never
8. Are you enrolled in the E.M.M, loyal or disloyal? I am, I am enrolled disloyal
9. Are you a southern sympathizer? I am
10. Do you sincerely desire to have the southern people put down in this war, and the authority of the US government restored over them? I do not
11. How many slaves have you? None
12. Have you a wife, how many children? A wife and 7 children
13. What is your occupation? Farmer
14. What relatives have you in the Rebellion? 2 brothers and 2 brothers-in-law
15. Have you ever been in a Rebel Camp? If so, whose, when, where and how long? What did you do? Did you leave it or were you captured in it?
I have never been in a Rebel Camp as a soldier. I left my home on August 10, 1862 to go to Texas County, to attend to some business. I had traded for a note amounting, with interest, to about $128. It was a joint note drawn by men named Campbell, I do not remember their given names. I did not know the men “Campbells”. I got their note very low and could afford to lose or risk something.
Before I left Washington County I was enrolled in the militia as Disloyal.
I did not go direct to Texas County. I went to see my brothers first. They were in Arkansas in Green’s camp as soldiers, I staid all night and part of the next day. Leaving the camp I started for Howell Co. and on my way was taken prisoner by Col. Wood’s men and taken to their camp in “Izard” Co Arkansas. I was detained there a prisoner about 3 weeks when I was released and went back to Howell Co. and “Knocked around” , I then went to Texas Co. I did not see the “Brothers Campbell”. I was told they had gone south & there was no chance to collect my money.
I then started home intending to stop at “Mr Brooks” in Howell Co. to get my clothing, and was captured on the road.
When captured I had 6 head of stock, 5 I had bought from a man named “Holt” I had also a gun and revolver for which I had traded.
When captured I was in the company with C V Patterson who had accompanied me to Texas Co. “Patterson” had been in the Rebel Army and I supposed he had deserted.
When I enrolled and oath was administered to me along with others of the militia.
I never did any Bushwhacking.
(Signatures)
*(Cover)
James L. Edgar
Washington Co MO
Sent South of the
US Lines Nov 22nd
Gratiot
James L. Edgar
Washington Co MO
Sent South of the
US Lines Nov 22nd
Gratiot
*
W. R. Patrick
Sept 26 1863
W. R. Patrick
Sept 26 1863
I think this man should be sent south. The evidence agst (against) him is indefinite and a trial by Mil Com. might result in his discharge. The evidence is however quite sufficient to prove him a most determined and persistent Rebel. He is one of the worst looking men I have ever seen. Sinister, treacherous, revengeful, and should not be turned loose on any loyal community. He has been under arrest since Jan’y last, and is not softened in the least.
S.S. BURDETT
Capt & Adjt. Pro Mar
*Irondale, Washington Co. MO
Sep 27, 1863
To Col Broadhead
Provost Marshall Gen MO
Sir:
Having learned through your correspondence with Mrs. Jas L. Edgar that the charges against her husband, Jas. L. Edgar, now confined in Gratiot Street prison is that of violation of the oath of allegiance to the U.S. government and having been officers of the E.M.M. since it’s first organization & being neighbors to the accused & cognizant of the requirements of the military authorities in this county we are quite satisfied that Mr. Edgars never took the oath of allegiance up to the time of his leaving this portion of the state, which was about the 1st of Sep 1862. We would further state that the cause of his leaving was a personal difficulty with one of his neighbors (a dangerous & bad man) who had threatened his life and laid in waiting near his premises to execute his threat.
We make the above statement in justice to Mr. Edgar and his family who much need his care & attention, being well assured that up to the time of his leaving this county he had been guilty of no crimes deserving of such punishment. We hope that his case will receive your immediate attention as we believe him to be unjustly imprisoned so far as our knowledge of his deportment is concerned.
John Jamison, Capt. Company D, 32nd E.M.M.
(Felix) Bannon, 1st lieut. Company D, 32nd E.M.M.
Sep 27, 1863
To Col Broadhead
Provost Marshall Gen MO
Sir:
Having learned through your correspondence with Mrs. Jas L. Edgar that the charges against her husband, Jas. L. Edgar, now confined in Gratiot Street prison is that of violation of the oath of allegiance to the U.S. government and having been officers of the E.M.M. since it’s first organization & being neighbors to the accused & cognizant of the requirements of the military authorities in this county we are quite satisfied that Mr. Edgars never took the oath of allegiance up to the time of his leaving this portion of the state, which was about the 1st of Sep 1862. We would further state that the cause of his leaving was a personal difficulty with one of his neighbors (a dangerous & bad man) who had threatened his life and laid in waiting near his premises to execute his threat.
We make the above statement in justice to Mr. Edgar and his family who much need his care & attention, being well assured that up to the time of his leaving this county he had been guilty of no crimes deserving of such punishment. We hope that his case will receive your immediate attention as we believe him to be unjustly imprisoned so far as our knowledge of his deportment is concerned.
John Jamison, Capt. Company D, 32nd E.M.M.
(Felix) Bannon, 1st lieut. Company D, 32nd E.M.M.
Jim
James L. Edgar
Washington Co MO
Sent South of the
US Lines Nov 22nd, 1863
**************************************
The death of John Highley and capture of others was reported in the St. Louis newspapers.
This account appeared in the St. Louis Union, April 11, 1864
An Expedition Into Illinois
A FIGHT WITH BUSHWACKERS
THEIR CHIEF KILLED
The following was received this morning at Headquarters
To General Ewing:
Captain Milks, 3d Cavalry, Missouri State Militia
Stationed at Farmington, Missouri has just returned from Prairie
Du Rocher, Ill., where he was sent with some members of the
Captain's E Company, after some bandits.
He reports a complete success, having had a fight with a
notorious gang of robbers, killed three and wounding several
among them the notorious bushwacker and guerilla chief,
John Highley, who had long been the terror of this part of
the State.
Captain Milks, 3d Cavalry, Missouri State Militia
Stationed at Farmington, Missouri has just returned from Prairie
Du Rocher, Ill., where he was sent with some members of the
Captain's E Company, after some bandits.
He reports a complete success, having had a fight with a
notorious gang of robbers, killed three and wounding several
among them the notorious bushwacker and guerilla chief,
John Highley, who had long been the terror of this part of
the State.
JOHN N. HERDER
*
St. Louis Union, 23 Sept. 1864, p. 2
*
St. Louis Union, 23 Sept. 1864, p. 2
BUSHWHACKERS IN WASHINGTON COUNTY—UNION MEN SPOTTED
Washington, County, September 20, 1864
To the Editor of the St. Louis Daily Union:
The guerrillas are still at work in Washington County. On last Thursday morning two of these armed villains attacked the house of Mr. Fred Will, whilst he was at breakfast with his family. One of them entered the house by the front door, and stepping, unperceived by the family, to the door of the dining room, asked Mr. Will to step into the hall. This done, he demanded Will's arms, stating that he was a United States detective, and that his captain was at the door waiting for him. Mrs. Will immediately ran into the hall and boldly told Mr. Detective that that game was played out; they succeeded in getting the villain out of the house, when his captain rose from behind a chicken coop with revolver in hand, evidently with the intention of shooting Mr. Will, so soon as they got him to the door, but they were foiled in their attempt at murder, and forthwith made a hasty retreat to their horses, which were tied in the brush, not more than one hundred and fifty yards from the house. They next visited the house of Thos. Blakewell, stole his rifle and put out. The neighborhood was soon aroused and gave chase to them, but owing to the dust in the roads and the woods being so very dry, they were unable to track them successfully. They next went to the house of Mr. Patterson and stole a rifle and revolver, and also some money and jewelry. When they decamped from Patterson's, they went to the house of Mr. M.A. Todd, late Sheriff of Washington county; they robbed him of a shot-gun, a revolver, money and jewelry. From Mr. Todd's they went to the farm of Mr. Nicholson and stole a fine horse belonging to George Towl, of Potosi. The troops in Potosi were soon out in pursuit of the thieves, and pressed them so hard that Mr. Towl's horse and one other were recovered from them; but the rascals made good their escape.
The country is full of bands of guerrillas. No Union man's life or property is safe, while rebels and rebel sympathizers feel perfectly safe and secure from any guerrilla depredation. They are fed and harbored by their friends, and get all the information they want from sneaking sympathisers who are permitted to live in our midst unmolested. Had Order No. 107 been faithfully carried out, and two full companies put into active service, I venture to say that guerrillas would be scarce.
On last Sunday morning a son of Rev. S. Brown found a dropped letter on the road, between Potosi and Hopewell, signed, O.A.K. It was evidently written by these desperadoes with a view to alarm Union men. The contents of the letter was a direct threat to have the lives of thirteen Union men in retaliation for their late chieftain, old John Hiley.
They commenced the work by the killing of Lieutenant H.C. Beckett; Captain Fred Will was to be the next victim, and there is no doubt but they intend to carry out their threat, unless they are speedily arrested in their career. The men whom they have selected as their victims are all unconditional Union men, now and forever. I give you a list of doomed: old John Evans, young John Evans, James Thompson, Elbert Thompson, F.R. Boyd, Captain W.H. Evans, Captain Fred Will, Lieut. John Hewey, old John Forshee, Marshall Ronjey, Captain A.R. Eaton, Captain John Jamison, Lieut. Wesley Yeargan. Lieut. H.C. Beckett, killed.
Signed, (signature)
*
Office Provost Marshall
Potosi, Oct 26, 1864
James W Conway and Andrew D Edgar
Being duly sworn deposeth and say his age 31 & 39 years live in Concord Township, Washington Co. Missouri. Says he knows James L. Edgar and his family are rebels. Said L. Edgar was with Price’s Army during the raid on Potosi the latter end of September 1864 And he, Edgar, threatened to kill both of us. And tried to force neighboring woman to tell him where we were. He hunted part of two days for us that he might take our lives. Said J L Edgar's wife, by name Mary Edgar, said publically that her husband was in the Rebel ranks and did not care who knew it.
*
Vol. 421 DMo. [Old Books 1059, 1060, 1066], NARA, courtesy John Bradbury
page 24 - bottom paragraph
30 June 65 H.P. Singer, commanding Washington Co. Militia, Potosi, to CO of post: "I got James Edgar who has been a bushwhacker and is well noted for killing good loyal people in this county, he was along when A. Brackett was taken from his home & shot and was engaged in having Lt. Col. Walker shot at the time of the raid, it was not long since when he with some others of the same stripe came up here to kill all those who reported on them, he was found in arms and when we came where he was he tried to escape but we was too fast for him. I think this man intended doing some more of his deeds & then leave again for what he has been doing ever since the war began, he has no paper except a discharge from Jeff Thompson. What shall I do with him. Please answer soon.
*
U. S. Military Telegraph.
July 1st 1865
By Telegraph from St. Louis MO 186
To Maj. Voneky?
Send James Edgar, the man who killed Col. Walker, to St. Louis under guard to report to the provost marshal general.
By Order of Brig.Genl. Beveridge
H. Hannahs
Maj and A.A. Gen’l
Vol. 421 DMo. [Old Books 1059, 1060, 1066],con’t
1 July 65 By order of Gen Beveridge, to Maj. Voneky: Send James Edgar under guard to StL
1 July 65 Maj Vanecky Pilot Knob, to Maj Hannahs AAAG, StL: prisoner James Edgar being transported Potosi to P. Knob made an attempt to escape and was shot by one of the 7th Kansas Cav.
Was James L. Edgar a guerrilla from the beginning of the conflict? I think he probably was. We don't know for sure where exactly he was captured this last time. But, from what John J. Chilton told us, it was on Dry Valley, Reynolds County, at the farm of Mr. Brooks. This would have been either the Jacob Brooks place or the James Brooks place. They were across the road from each other about a quarter mile apart. Jacob Brooks was a brother of the Mr. Elijah Brooks who lived in Texas County and where Edgar was said to have sought refuge. His uncle who lived in Howell County was George Washington Edgar, James was also a nephew of John Ewing Edgar, from whom the town of Edgar Springs was named.
Please comment if you have something to add or wish to ask a question.
Jim
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