Following the American Civil War Sesquicentennial with day by day writings of the time, currently 1863.

Post image for Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft.

Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft.

February 12, 2013

Diary of US patent clerk Horatio Nelson Taft.

Thursday Feb’y 12th 1863

No very strange event has happened today that I am aware of. Everything seems moveing along Smoothly here in the City. But there is a feeling of fear and distrust in reference to the threatening aspect of affairs in the North West. I am hopefull of the Armies in the field and of the Navy. I have confidence that we shall soon hear of important successes. What we want and what we must have is Victories. That will “squelch” out all this disloyal clamor at the North. I this evening joined the “Union Leage.” The object is to defend the Union, Govt, and free institutions of the Country, and to Thwart the plots and conspiracies of Traitors everywhere. Our Motto is in Substance “The Union, it Must and shall be preserved.” That was Jacksons sentiment and he is now one of the Titular Saints of all Loyal men. I was in the office as usual all day but do not labor very hard, have plenty of time to read the Papers and talk to my frequent visitors at my room. I make calls myself on my friends in different parts of the building, and sometimes leave and go away with a Soldier up to the pay office or the Medical Directors, or Hospitals. I must go over to the Parole Camp soon. I have a call from four different soldiers who have been prisoners in Richmond, and want assistance. I got back to my Room at 1/2 past 10. Got acquainted with a good many gentlemen, Robt Dale Owen among the number.

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