Sunday, 8th—We received orders to clean up for inspection and a detail of men was put to work cleaning up the parade ground. We have a fine drill ground out in a large field. But the camp being out in the open, the sun beats down pretty hot upon the tents.
Diary of Alexander G. Downing; Company E, Eleventh Iowa Infantry
Saturday, 7th—I stood out on picket all day. We were relieved from picket this evening about dark. We were posted in a heavy timber about two miles out, on one of the main roads leading to town. Water is very scarce and poor at that. We have to go a mile from camp for our drinking water, and to a branch the same distance to do our washing.
Friday, 6th—We struck our tents and at 7 a. m. started on our march. We marched through Corinth and went into camp again about a mile northwest of town, making camp number 9. The Eleventh Iowa went out on picket.
Thursday, 5th—We received marching orders with one day’s rations. It is reported that General Buell will move with the Army of the Ohio into central Tennessee. It is clear and hot today.
Wednesday, 4th—Nothing of importance. Some of the troops are returning to Pittsburg Landing, a part of them to go down the Tennessee river and then up the Cumberland to reinforce the army in eastern Tennessee, and the others are to join the forces going down the Mississippi.
Tuesday, 3d—The weather is very hot. We have no picket duty now, but get plenty of exercise by regular drills, having company drill twice a day. We also get exercise in keeping the camp clean; have to sweep it every morning.
Monday, 2d—I was one of a hundred men detailed to clean up our camp ground. Pope’s men who went in pursuit of the rebels are returning and going into camp in and around Corinth. I spent $1.00 for peaches and bread at the sutler’s tent.
Sunday, 1st—It rained all day. I took “French leave” this morning and went into Corinth. The town appears to be deserted and it is a dilapidated looking place, as so much of it has been destroyed. I found it to be a fine place, however, on high ground, and when rebuilt it will be beautiful. There are two railroads running through the town and there are good schools and a college. The country around is rich and the farms are well fenced.
Saturday, 31st—There was still some fighting today with the fleeing rebels, and we took some prisoners, but the main part of the army had too much of a start on us.
The Eleventh Iowa received four months’ pay today. I drew $53.00. We had to make settlement at this time for all clothing purchased.
Friday, 30th—Corinth was evacuated during the night. Upon leaving, the rebels burned the depot and several houses, besides a large amount of other property, and also blew up their powder magazine. They burned some cars loaded with their own supplies which they could not get away because they had no engineers. At daylight General Pope with his force entered Corinth and then went in hot pursuit of the rebels.
