Olustee: "The 54th Mass. Vols. took a part in an engagement..."

Edward Needles Hallowell commanded the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment and led them at the Battle of Olustee. He reported about his experiences during the battle and the Regiment's performance to the Governor of Massachusetts, John A. Andrew. 

Jacksonville Fla. Feby 24 – 64

John A. Andrew Governor of Massachusetts 

Governor 
I have the honor to report that on the 20th of this month the 54th Mass. Vols. took a part in an engagement with the enemy, at a place about fifty miles west from this town. The men all behaved well and were the last to leave the field. Sergt. Stephen A. Swails particularly distinguished himself for coolness and bravery, he is a man in every way competent to do credit in a higher position, & I with pleasure reccomend him for a Seccond Lieutenancy in this Regt. His skin is rather darker than most officers, but I trust that will not stand as an objection to him. The Regt. went into the fight with two field & thirteen line officers, and fourteen hundred & ninety seven enlisted men. The balance of the Regt. having been detailed on other duty. Our loss was in officers, three wounded, Lt R H L Jewett, in the neck not very serious, Lt H.W. Littlefield in the hand, Lt E.G. Tomlinson in the foot, in enlisted men, killed 14. wounded about 76. Total about 93. 

Asst. Surgeon C.B. Bridgham has resigned because Surg. Gen. Dale refused to promote him, to fill vacancy caused by Surgeon LR Stones resignation. 

Very Respectfully 
E.N. Hallowell Col. 54th Mass. Vols. 

Source:

Hallowell, Edward Needles. "Letter, 24 February 1864," Commonwealth Museum, https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/commonwealth-museum/exhibits/online/thunder/54.htm.