WEDNESDAY 29
It has been a fine, cool, and airy day. Took a longer walk than I have for some time. Got a “pass” from Genl Mansfield and about 12 o’clock started with Mr Vansantvoord for Virginia over the Long Bridge. Visited the encampments of some 6000 men and their entrenchments. Was at “Arlington House,” “the Head Quarters” of Genl Sanford. Most delightful place, within fine view of the City. The NY 8th Regt are there. The 25th (Including the Albany Burgeses Corps[?]) are about one mile below or south, 3 miles from the River. Went to the 69th, Col Corcoran, opposite Georgetown. Extensive and strong “works” going up there. Crossed the Aqueduct (canal) to Georgetown, got Home about 6 o’c. Walked about 8 miles.
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The three diary manuscript volumes, Washington during the Civil War: The Diary of Horatio Nelson Taft, 1861-1865, are available online at The Library of Congress.
