Harvey W. Wiley

Full Citation: Harvey W. Wiley, "Corporal Harvey W. Wiley's Civil War Diary," ed. William L. Fox, Indiana Magazine of History 51, no. 2 (June 1955): 139-162.
Home: Jefferson County
Year: 1864
Regiment:137th Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Co. I
Abstract: Wiley (1844-1930) served in the 137th between May and September 1864, guarding a railroad depot in Tullahoma, Tenn. He never saw action, but his diary contains detailed descriptions of picket duty and camp life, including African American regiments.
Sample Text:
1. "I seen a new part of the 'Elephant' today viz. a squad of Negro soldiers drilling. They did a great deal better than many white troops I have seen with the same opportunities." (Tullahoma, Tenn., May 31, 1864, p. 142)
2. "Nearly all the guards along the road are Negroes. They are fine looking soldiers. They always turn out at a present arms when the train passes. Their accouterments and guns are as bright as they can be, and the broad smile that marks their countenances attest their like of the change from Chattels to U.S. soldiers." (Louisville, Ky., Sept. 17, 1864, p. 162)
LC Subject Headings:
1. United States. Army. Indiana Infantry Regiment, 137th (1864)