Chapter I: Preface

The history of the Eighty-sixth Illinois was written in part while the regiment was yet in the service, merely for the gratification of a personal desire; but since its muster out, the author has been frequently urged by many of his friends to have it published, that they might share what he alone enjoyed. He complied with an earnest request from Colonel Fahnestock to meet himself, General Magee, Major Thomas, Dr. Guth, Captain Zinser and others at Peoria, to have the manuscript examined before publication. It was met by their hearty approval, and an eager desire on their part to have it published; at the same time giving the assurance that they would lend their whole influence in getting it before the public. For these reasons the author has been induced to present this little volume to his comrades and friends, in the hope that it will receive their hearty welcome.

The history of the Eighty-sixth is also the history of the 85th, 125th and 110th Illinois, together with the 52nd Ohio and 22nd Indiana, all of the same brigade. Particular mention has been made of these regiments, for they were to the Eighty-sixth a band of faithful brothers.

The author acknowledges himself indebted to Colonel Fahnestock, Major Thomas, Captain Major, and Acting Adjutant Loveland, for the kind assistance and encouragement they have given him in preparing this history for publication, and to them he attributes the merit of this work, if it possesses merit.

THE AUTHOR.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

ORGANIZATION AND MARCH TO NASHVILLE--ABOUT NASHVILLE 9-18

CHAPTER II.

MARCH TO CHATTANOOGA--THE BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA 19-28

CHAPTER III.

MISSION RIDGE AND KNOXVILLE 29-36

CHAPTER IV.

ABOUT CHATTANOOGA 37-46

CHAPTER V.

CAMPAIGN AGAINST ATLANTA 47-71

CHAPTER VI.

TO THE REAR 72-78

CHAPTER VII.

RAID TO THE SEA 79-91

CHAPTER VIII.

RAID THROUGH SOUTH CAROLINA--BATTLES OF AVERYSBORO
AND BENTONVILLE 92-108

CHAPTER IX.

CAPTURE OF JOHNSTON'S ARMY 109-114

CHAPTER X.

HOMEWARD BOUND 115-125

REGIMENTAL ROSTER 126-128

CAPTAIN BURKHALTER'S ADVENTURE 129-130

SOLDIERS' LETTERS 131-132

BATTLE 133-134

FARMING IN THE SOUTH 135-137

REBEL LETTER 138-139

HISTORY.