Expedition to Purdy

General Buell's protestations not withstanding, the combined push continues at a snail's pace toward Corinth. Buell's army, including the 17th Kentucky, is busy repairing roads and bridges at a pace that would make any chain-gang overseer wince. However, Halleck's wisdom in concentrating his strength on the flanks and leaving Buell with only three divisions in the center becomes readily apparent on this day in 1862. 

Nelson later summarized his activity in his final report, "On May 2 the division moved from the field of Shiloh and encamped near the forks of the road east of Monterey; employed cutting roads and corduroying. This, with the picket duty, came heavy on the troops, owing to the bad weather."*

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
In Field, Shiloh, May 2, 1862.
General JOHN A. McCLERNAND,
Commanding Reserve Army Corps:

 A note just received from General Halleck says that the enemy are moving toward Purdy, to operate on our flank. Have all the approaches by way of Owl Creek well watched, and tomorrow early, or to-night if practicable, a strong reconnoitering party toward Purdy. Cavalry alone will answer for this reconnaissance. I will direct General Wallace to use extra vigilance on the two roads leading from here.

U. S. GRANT,
Major-General.*


After sending McClernand's cavalry on their reconnaissance mission, Grant directs Lew Wallace's division to be prepared to take on the rebel adventurers and send his cavalry as well to the town of Purdy, which lies to the north and west of Shiloh.


HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE TENNESSEE,
In Field, Shiloh, May 2, 1862.
Major General LEW. WALLACE,
Commanding Third Division:

It being reported that the enemy are moving a strong force from Corinth toward Purdy, with a view of operating on our flank, you will cause extra vigilance in that direction and increase the guards. I have informed General McClernand that this order would be sent direct, to save time. Send out all your cavalry toward Purdy, to reconnoiter the country in that direction.

U. S. GRANT,
Major-General.*


*Thanks to My Favorite Link, Ohio State's eHistory for today's selections from the ORE