Diary of Alexander G. Downing; Company E, Eleventh Iowa Infantry

Thursday, 27th—There are no hopes of leaving this place. We cleaned up for inspection and muster tomorrow. The five companies of the Eleventh which went to Fulton, Missouri, last December, are still at that place.

Wednesday, 26th—Nothing of importance. We are in a regular tented camp here, and it seems more like being in the army than it did at Lookout Station.

Tuesday, 25th—No news of any importance. There is some talk of our having to stay at this place all summer. We have company drill twice a day and with the other four companies of our regiment here now, have dress parade at 5 p. m.

Monday, 24th—Nothing of importance. Our company now has a company cook. He cooks the beans and salt beef for all, but each man draws his rations every five days, makes his own coffee and cooks his salt bacon to suit himself.

Sunday, 23d—We attended church today at the different churches in town, some of the boys going to the Catholic church. We had prayer meeting in camp in the evening.

Saturday, 22d—This is Washington’s birthday. We packed our knapsacks early this morning and left Lookout for California, arriving at 2 p. m. The roads were quite muddy. In camp again at California, Missouri. We pitched our tents on the commons south of town.

Friday, 21st—We are to bid goodby to Lookout Station tomorrow. Some of the good people living here are sorry to see us go. May they have success for their loyalty to the Union cause.

Thursday, 20th—No news of importance. Grant’s recent victories have made the Union sentiment stronger in this locality, which will be a big help to the few Union men left here.

Wednesday, 19th—News came that Roanoke Island has been taken by our men. It is reported that our company will leave for California, Missouri, in three or four days and all are rejoicing that our stay here is about over.