Civil War Experiences, 1862-1865

Tags: United States - History - Civil War, 1861-1865 - Personal narratives; United States - History - Civil War, 1861-1865 - Regimental histories; Illinois - History - Civil War, 1861-1865 - Regimental histories; Robbins, Edward Mott; United States. Army. Illinois Infantry Regiment, 78th (1862-1865)

Enlisted in Capt. John Allen's company June 7th, 1862. Went on board the steamer "Jennie Whipple" at Dallas City, Sunday morning, June 15th, and with company went down the Mississippi to Quincy, Ill., place of rendezvous. On the way an incident occurred which I cannot pass without mention. When we passed Alexandria, Mo., the river shore was lined with people and to our ears came the shout, "Hurrah for Jeff Davis!" and to add to the insult they waved the black flag in our faces, (which interpreted meant no quarter to Yankees). Passing on down the river the next town was Canton, where the same greeting was given us, all of which made us very indignant to think so near home we should be insulted in such a manner. I have never had a very favorable opinion of those two towns since, and while I hope there is more loyalty and patriotism now than then, I feel that their forefathers put a blot on their little cities that will never be erased.