Campaigns Of Wheeler

Source

On the evening of the 28th [August 28, 1864], Wheeler turned his course towards the Alabama and Tennessee Railroad. This he reached a short distance below Nashville, destroying it most effectually for many miles. Near Lynnville a considerable number of cars were captured, and stores were taken at various depots along the road. Near Franklin General Rousseau again attacked us, but was soon so routed that he made no attempt to follow us during that or the next day. Among the wounded of the enemy was the Federal Colonel Brownlow. It was here that we lost our gallant and beloved General Kelly, lieutenant Staples and other brave men.

"At Franklin, in a hot fight with the enemy, Major-General John H. Kelly was killed, one of the noblest and most dashing officers of either army. The writer must pause to mention, with affection, this splendid type of southern manhood. He was an orphan boy from Wilcox county, Alabama. In some way he received his appointment to West Point through a friend in California, and was credited to that State. Brave Kelly! In his death expired the last of his race ; but American manhood received a new luster in the heroism of this splendid young officer."