Provost Office, Department of the Cumberland, at Nashville, Tennessee

The provost-marshals in a department had (or assumed) powers depending in extent somewhat upon the character of the commander. Their position required sound judgment and great discretion. Some of the officers appointed, both civilian and soldier, displayed unusual tact and decision, while others were rash, obstinate, and arbitrary. In a general way the duties of a provost-marshal were similar to those of the chief of police for a certain district, town, or camp. He saw that order was preserved, and arrested all offenders against military discipline under his authority, and was responsible for their safe-keeping. All prisoners taken in a battle were turned over to the provost-marshal and by him later transferred to special guards, who delivered them at prisons farther North.