DIY History | Transcribe | Civil War Diaries and Letters | George C. Burmeister diary, 1863

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1863-05-23 -- 1863-05-24

Saturday 23.  Last night we moved to a new position one nearer the enemy; we threw up breastworks, and built a road for artillery, I saw some of the rebel sharpshooters, on their works, the rascals shoot at us and try to hit us, but we are protected by our works and have so far escaped unharmed.  Our generals have taken a close look at the rebel works and say it is not possible to take them with storming, without losing a great many men, and have decided to besiege them by regular approaches, to take the pick and the spade.  It is reported that the people of Vicksburg live underground in the streets.  We lost a number of heroic lives yesterday in those desperate but useless assaults.  I deem it great folly to lead men up to be slaughtered thus without any chance of victory.  

Sunday 24.  This sacred day is not known in the calendar of Mars, for the firing is quite brisk this morning on both sides.  We are bringing our heavy siege guns into position, look out rebs.  I was glad to hear from my dear Carrie, a letter from her.  God bless her.  The first letter that I have had for some time.  What an effect good letters from home produce in soldiers.

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Saturday 23. Last night we moved to a new position one nearer the enemy; we threw up breastworks, and built a road for artillery, I saw some of the rebel sharpshooters, on their works, the rascals shoot at us and try to hit us, but we are protected by our works and have so far escaped unharmed. Our generals have taken a close look at the rebel works and say it is not possible to take them with storming, without losing a great many men, and have decided to besiege them by regular approaches, to take the pick and the spade. It is reported that the people of Vicksburg live underground in the streets. We lost a number of heroic lives yesterday in those desperate but useless assaults. I deem it great folly to lead men up to be slaughtered thus without any chance of victory. Sunday 24. This sacred day is not known in the calendar of Mars, for the firing is quite brisk this morning on both sides. We are bringing our heavy siege guns into position, look out rebs. I was glad to hear from my dear Carrie, a letter from her. God bless her. The first letter that I have had for some time. What an effect good letters from home produce in soldiers.