157 years ago, a Hoosier from Monroe County wrote about fighting for the Union in the Civil War in a diary he kept almost daily. Peter Thomas Matthews was 20 years old when he enlisted in the army and served as a drummer in the 19th Indiana Regimental Band.
Follow along as we publish his diary entries in real-time on the day they were written.
Read the first entry here. Learn more about Matthews and read all former and future entries here.
Editor's note: We have left Matthews' words as he recorded them, which means spelling and punctuation may not conform to modern standards.
March 11, 1862
Agreably surprised to find that we did not march in the night Slept soundly and well in a sink hole with Earl—very much refreshed, sore and stiff though. A bright pleasant day Stayed here all day Centerville and Mannassus evacuated The Col and several officers of the Regt Genls McClellan & McDonnell were all at the foremention places It seems that we cant yet get in a fight—There was Brigade Parade this eve—the first I ever saw the 2 nd wis Band Played we Played at the Col in the eve
Check back for the next entry on March 12.
Diary entries provided by the Monroe County History Center.
