Numbers 113. Report of Capt Nelson Ames, Battery G, First New York Light Artillery, of operations August 12-28. 1
HDQRS. BATTERY G, FIRST NEW YORK ARTILLERY,
Camp Second Army Corps, Near Petersburg, Va., August 29, 1864.
I have the honor to make the following brief report of the operations of my battery from August 12 to 28:
On the 12th instant marched with the Artillery Brigade to near Jones’ Landing, on the James River; remained here the morning of the 14th, when I crossed the James River and received orders ro report to the commanding officer of the Second Division with my battery for duty.
Was director to park in the oak grove near the river and await orders. Remained here until 11.30 a. m. 16th, when I received orders from Lieutenant Bull to move to the front at once and report to Colonel McGilvery, chief of artillery, Tenth Army Corps. Was assigned a position on a small rise of ground to the left of the Charles City road and overlooking Deep Run, some 400 yards from the enemy’s works. I was directed by Colonel McGilvary to open on the enemy’s works with canister at 5 degrees elevation, but not being able to comprehend the benefit to be gained by firing canister at heavy earth-works, apparently with good effect. Was engaged at intervals until dark, when I withdrew and parked near the river. Remained here until the afternoon of the 20th, when I joined the reserve batteries on the south side the river. Marched with them to my old camp near Petersburg. August 21, marched with the corps to near the Jones house. Remained here until the 24th, when I took the position in the works where I am at present.
I have expended during the time specified 384 rounds of ammunition. I am happy to be able to report I have suffered no loss in either men, horses, or material.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
N. AMES,
Captain, First New York Artillery, Commanding Battery G.
Lieutenant U. D. EDDY,
Actg. Asst. Adjt. General, Artillery Brigade, Second Corps.
Source:
- The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Volume XLII, Part 1 (Serial Number 87), pages 418-419 ↩