The Civil War Day By Day Sesquicentennial Thread

[farmersdaughter]

Battle of Corricks Ford
July 13, 1861

The Battle of Corrick's Ford took place on July 13, 1861, on the Cheat River in western Virginia (now the state of West Virginia) as part of the Operations in Western Virginia Campaign during the American Civil War. By later standards the battle was a minor skirmish. Often considered a final part of the Battle of Rich Mountain, it was the end of a series of battles between the forces of Union Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan and Confederate Brig. Gen. Robert S. Garnett.

McCellan had defeated part of Garnett's force on July 11, 1861, at the Battle of Rich Mountain. On hearing of the defeat, Garnett fell back toward Virginia with approximately 4,500 men around midnight that night. He began to march towards Beverly, but received false information that McClellan's men occupied the town. The Confederates backtracked, abandoned the Staunton and Parkersburg Turnpike at Leadsville, and crossed Cheat Mountain into the Cheat River Valley. Union Brig. Gen. Thomas A. Morris pursued them with his Indiana brigade.

Around noon on July 13, Morris overtook Garnett's rear guard at Corrick's Ford on the Cheat River, and attacked the retreating Confederates. Garnett personally directed the rear guard of the Confederate skirmishers in order to delay the Union attack. He soon withdrew to another ford a mile or two farther away. The running skirmish resumed and as Garnett again prepared to retreat, a Union volley killed him instantly. The Confederates fled, abandoning their dead commander, one cannon, and nearly 40 wagons. A friend in the Union Army recovered Garnett's body after the battle. He was the first general officer killed in the Civil War.

Control of western Virginia was now firmly in Union hands and it stayed that way for the rest of the war. The campaign propelled Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan to command of the Army of the Potomac.
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[PandamoniumReigns]

FD - I feel the need to always tell you "thanks" for keeping this thread alive. I could prob research this stuff myself on the 'webz but its becoming a morning routine for me to come in and read this thread.

Thanks FD! If there was a way to repay your diligence, just let me know! (not being perverted when i say that either!)

 

[farmersdaughter]

FD - I feel the need to always tell you "thanks" for keeping this thread alive. I could prob research this stuff myself on the 'webz but its becoming a morning routine for me to come in and read this thread.

Thanks FD! If there was a way to repay your diligence, just let me know! (not being perverted when i say that either!)

Thanks PR, its a habit now to come fix the next post, hope yall enjoy it as much as I do
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[farmersdaughter]

Sunday, July 14, 1861

?It has been another victorious week for the Union forces. The Union armies of western Virginia have won a decisive victory, the largest and most momentous yet achieved in the war. This victory has now given the Union a strong military advantage to add to its edge in resources and munitions and has already made General McClellan and Brigadier General Rosecrans into true war heroes who deserve to be celebrated across the country.

The battles at Rich Mountain and Laurel Hill in western Virginia are a direct result of the bravery and tactical mastery of General McClellan. A sizable Confederate force under the Confederate Colonel Pegram encamped near Rich Mountain was taken by surprise by a flanking attack led by Colonel Rosecrans. The attack divided the Confederate troops and cut off their escape routes to the nearby town of Beverly. Caught by surprise and divided, Pegram was forced to surrender due to heavy losses and the cutoff of all avenues of retreat. Hundreds of Confederate soldiers are now in Union custody.

One decisive victory was not enough for the General McClellan, however. He ordered General Morris to travel east toward Laurel Hill, where a group of thousands of Confederate forces under the command of General Garnett were encamped. After a brief engagement, Garnett and his forces were forced to retreat into the Cheat River Valley, hotly pursued by Morris and his men, with little hope of retreating towards the central Confederate force in Virginia. Recent reports suggest that Morris and Garnett engaged in battle again yesterday, and although the outcome is not yet finally decided, it seems likely that Morris’ forces will prevail against the smaller Confederate contingent, which has been thrown into disarray by the hasty retreat.

With these successes, the Union position in western Virginia now appears secure. Already in a stronghold of Union sentiment in an otherwise secessionist state, Unionists throughout western Virginia will no doubt feel more comfortable voicing their political opinions. Although the region is not a major population center, its strategic importance should not be overlooked. The railroad lines which cross through it are a vital conduit between Washington and Border States such as Kentucky and Missouri, as well as Ohio. These vital supply routes now lie firmly in Union hands, so the Confederacy can no longer threaten to cut off the flow of commerce and supplies between the east and the west. In addition, control of western Virginia puts the Union in a good position to pressure the main Confederate force in central Virginia, which may find itself boxed in the the advance of Union forces. Although the coastal campaign near Yorkville and Newport News has yet to put significant pressure on Richmond from the East, the advancing forces from western Virginia combined with the main army near Alexandria are slowly drawing a net around the Confederate troops, threatening to pin them against the coast or force them to retreat out of the state.

These advances, however, stand in stark contrast to the lack of any Union advance against the Confederate armies in central Virginia. Although Union leadership has promised an attack on Richmond for months now, a peculiar stalemate seems to have set in between the Union army at Fairfax and the Confederate troops at Manassas Junction. While the western Virginia campaign has given the Union a considerably stronger position for any future fighting in the area, commanders must be careful not to give the Confederates enough time to establish a commanding defensive presence in their camp at Manassas. A firm and decisive strike may send their army into disarray and possibly reclaim the state for the Union and thus should not be put off any longer than necessary

—Advices were received at New York, that the privateer Sumter arrived at Cienfuegos, Cuba, on the 6th of July, carrying in as prizes the brigs Cuba, Machias, Naiad, Albert Adams, Ben Dunning, and the barks West Wind, and Louisa Kilham. She also fell in with the ship Golden Rocket off the Isle of Pines, which was set fire to and burned, after taking off the officers and crew.

Captain Semmes., of the Sumter, sent an officer ashore with a letter to the Governor of the town, who telegraphed to the Captain General at Havana for instructions. The steamer left the next day, having received a supply of coal and water. All the prizes were taken a short distance from the shore.—Philaphia Press, July 15.

—The rebel forces under General Robert S. Garnett, formerly a Major in the United States Army, while retreating from Laurel Hill, Va., to St. George, were overtaken to-day by Gen. Morris, with the Fourteenth Ohio and the Seventh and Ninth Indiana Regiments. When within eight miles of St. George, at a place called Carrick’s Ford, the rebels made a stand, a brisk fight ensued, and they were completely routed and scattered by the troops of General Morris. While General Garnett was attempting to rally his men he was struck through the spine by a rifle ball, and fell dead on the road. The rebels fled up the Horseshoe Valley, Gen. Hill following in hot pursuit. Forty loads of provisions, all their horses, wagons, and guns fell into the hands of the victors.— (Doc. 88.)

—The Third Wisconsin Regiment, commanded by Colonel Hamilton, arrived at Buffalo this afternoon, and, after taking refreshments proceeded to Elmira, where they received arms.— N. Y. World, July 15.

—A report of the results of three reconnoissances made on the Fairfax road, on the Richmond road, and on the Mount Vernon road, all starting from Alexandria, Va., was today made to Col. Miles, commanding the 5th Division of Troops, Department of Northeastern Virginia, by Col. Thomas A. Davies, commanding the 2d Brigade, of the 5th Division. The reconnoissances were all successful
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[farmersdaughter]

Monday, July 15, 1861

Fresh from his overwhelming victory at Rich Mountain, General McClellan continues to vigorously pursue Confederate troops heading toward Cheat Mountain Pass. A dispatch from McClellan’s camp is confident the soldiers will move rapidly towards the rebels and boasts that although secessionists have destroyed the bridges at Huttonsville and, presumably, Cheat Mountain, “this would not delay the advance one hour.” The previously reported number of Confederate dead and captured has not been contradicted: 150 dead and nearly 600 captured, with the latter group reportedly “extremely penitent, they say, and determined never again to take up arms against the General Government.” With the most recent additions, McClellan now holds 900 to 1,000 Southern prisoners.

Twelve Union soldiers were bested and captured by Confederate troops after straying too far from the secure surroundings of their camp at Newport News. Several companies were dispatched in attempts to retrieve them but their success or failure is not yet known. Additionally, in Alexandria, a skirmish between Federal and Confederate troops ended in the capture of three scouts from Alabama.

The Sanitary Committee in Washington has adopted several measures aimed at improving the living conditions in military camps, as well as compensation and medical care for soldiers.

In Baltimore, John Merryman was released from Fort McHenry on $40,000 bail yesterday. The controversy surrounding his arrest by Union troops and his petition for a writ of habeas corpus has made his case quite well known, and the public, as well as many officials in the Administration and military, will undoubtedly be closely following the next chapter of the saga. Merryman will face treason charges in court in November.

Governor John Letcher is asking every able-bodied man in Virginia to protect “all that is dear to freemen,” and join the state militia. In a proclamation released to the public, he urges Virginians

to drive from our land an insolent foe, who is threatening us with subjugation and overthrow. Confident that every true Virginian possesses the nerve and the soul to give his hand and his heart to prevent this fell purpose—the Militia is called to arms. This call will not be unheeded

—General Patterson’s division, in its advance upon Winchester, Va., had a very brilliant skirmish to-day with the rebels near Bunker Hill, about nine miles from Martinsburg. The Rhode Island battery and the Twenty-first and Twenty-third Pennsylvania Regiments headed the advancing column, supported by the Second United Cavalry, under Colonel Thomas. When near Bunker Hill the rebel cavalry, 600 strong, under Colonel Stuart, charged the United States infantry, not perceiving the battery behind them. The infantry at once opened their lines, and the Rhode Island artillery poured in a discharge of grape and shell that sent the rebel cavalry reeling back. The United States cavalry then charged and pursued them for two miles, until they were entirely routed.—(Doc. 92.)

—Brig.-Gen. Hurlbut issued a proclamation to the citizens of Northeastern Missouri, denouncing the false and designing men who are seeking to overthrow the Government. He warns them that the time for tolerating treason has passed, and that the man or body of men who venture to stand in defiance of the supreme authority of the Union, peril their lives in the attempt. He says the character of the resistance which has been made, is in strict conformity with the source from which it originated. Cowardly assassins watch for opportunities to murder, and become heroes among their associated band by slaughtering, by stealth, those whom openly they dare not meet. This system, hitherto unknown to civilized warfare, is the natural fruit which treason bears. The process of the criminal courts as administered in disaffected districts will not cure this system of assassination, but the stern and imperative demand of a military necessity, and the duty of self-protection, will furnish a sharp and decisive remedy in the justice of a court-martial—(Doc. 93.)

—A Peace Meeting was held at Nyack, Rockland Co., N. Y. Addresses were delivered, and resolutions were adopted, deprecating the present war.
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[farmersdaughter]

Tuesday, July 16, 1861

?General McClellan’s pursuit of retreating secessionists in western Virginia was a success, with Federal forces defeating Confederate troops in a quick and decisive confrontation at Carrick’s Ford.* Despite suffering a loss of 13 and forty wounded, Union troops killed fifty, including Confederate General Robert Garnett, and captured many more. General Hill will continue to pursue what remains of the Confederates in western Virginia.

Congress continues to work tirelessly to pass legislation on issues relating to war funds, military size, and the seizure of secessionist property. Business is moving so quickly that experts predict that the special session of Congress will likely be able to adjourn by Friday.

Once predicted to be the location for the next large-scale conflict, the situation at Fort Pickens, the Federal installation in Florida, is calm. According to a recent dispatch, the Fort was recently supplied with large armory and “the idea of a fight had been about given up” by the soldiers stationed there.

In a statement to the pro-secessionist citizenry of Missouri, Thomas Reynolds, the fugitive Lieutenant Governor, tells supporters to avoid rash action but urges them to be ready to take up arms when ex-Governor Jackson calls. He writes:

I rejoice to learn from various sources that even amid the present gloom you remain confident of final success. We are draining to the very dregs the bitter cup of Federal usurpation; but the medicine was needed to cure the diseases of our body politic. The military advantages lately obtained by our oppressors are not surprising, for your perilous uprising at the call of our Governor was made without that previous concert with your natural allies which was almost indispensable for success. But the fortune of war is prone to change; be ready to take advantage of it

July 16.—The Union troops in Missouri had a fight with the rebels to-day, at a point called Millsville, on the North Missouri Railroad. The Union troops, consisting of eight hundred men, were fired into at that point, as they came up in a train of cars, and an engagement at once ensued. The number of the rebels is not known, but seven of their number were killed and several taken prisoners.—N. Y. Herald, July 18.

—The Third Massachusetts Regiment sails from Fortress Monroe for Boston this evening in the steamer Cambridge. They were reviewed by General Butler to-day.—The Sixth Massachusetts Regiment follows to-morrow.—Col. Max Leber’s and Col. Baker’s Regiments were to occupy Hampton, but the plan has been somewhat changed.—Brigadier-General Pierce returns with the Massachusetts Regiments.—Col. Duryea will be acting Brigadier General in Hampton.—Several companies went out from Newport News last night to surprise, if possible, a body of light horse, which have for some time hovered in the vicinity.—National Intelligencer, July 18.

—In the House of Representatives at Washington, the Committee on Commerce, in response to a resolution directing inquiry as to what measures are necessary to suppress privateering, and render the blockade of the rebel ports more effectual, reported a bill authorizing the Secretary of the Navy to hire, purchase, or contract for such vessels as may be necessary for a temporary increase of the navy, the vessels to be furnished with such ordnance, stores, and munitions of war as will enable them to render the most efficient service. According to the orders issued to their respective commands, the temporary appointments made of acting lieutenants, acting paymasters, acting surgeons, masters and masters’ mates, and the rates of pay for these officers heretofore designed, are, by this bill, legalized and approved.

For the purpose of carrying this act into effect to suppress piracy and render the blockade more effectual, three millions of dollars are appropriated. The bill was referred to the Committee on Naval Affairs.—A bill, authorizing the President to call out the militia to suppress rebellion, was passed unanimously.—The bill, authorizing the President to accept the services of five hundred thousand volunteers, was also passed.—The Senate’s amendments to the Loan bill were all concurred in.—A joint resolution, conveying the thanks of Congress to Major General George B. McClellan and the officers and soldiers under his command, for the recent brilliant victories over the rebels in Western Virginia, was unanimously adopted.

—Lieut. W. H. Free, of the Seventh Ohio Regiment, from a company enlisted in Perry County, Ohio, arrived at Columbus in that State with four Secessionists. Free, with twenty-five men, was conducting a transportation train from Ravenswood, Virginia, to Parkersburg. On Sunday last, he stopped at a farm-house to bait the horses. He immediately found that the women of the house sympathized with Secession. The farmer was absent. Thinking he might learn some facts of importance, ho assured the women that he was an officer from Wise’s brigade. At first they distrusted him, but at length gave him their confidence, and treated him very kindly. He learned that the farmer would be at home at night. About ten o’clock he came. Free soon gained his confidence, and was told that a meeting had been arranged at a neighboring house for the purpose of planning an attack upon Union men. Free pretending to need a guide to show him the way to Wise’s camp, the farmer, named Fred. Kizer, sent for some of his neighbors. Three of them came, one of whom was recommended as a guide. Free became satisfied from their conversation that they intended harm to Coleman and Smith, Union men, who had been influential, and at a concerted signal called his men around him, and declared himself an officer of the United States army. Instantly Kizer and his rebel friends were seized. The Lieutenant immediately ordered a march, and the next morning delivered his prisoners to Captain Stinchcomb, at Parkersburg, who sent him with three guards to Columbus. The names of the prisoners are Frederick Kizer, David H. Young, John W. Wigal, and John H. Lockwood.—Cincinnati Gazette, July 17.

*

—In the Senate of the United States, John 0. Breckenridge, of Kentucky, in an elaborate speech, opposed the resolution approving the acts of the President in suppressing the Southern rebellion. He rehearsed the old arguments against the right of the Government to put down rebellion, and in the course of his remarks, took occasion to deny positively that he had ever telegraphed to Jeff. Davis that President Lincoln’s Congress would not be allowed to meet in Washington on the 4th of July, or that Kentucky would furnish 7,000 armed men for the rebel army.—(Doc. 94.)

—It is doubtful, says the National Intelligencer of this date, whether, since the days of Peter the Hermit, the world has seen such an uprising, at the bidding of a sentiment, as this country has exhibited in the last ninety days. Perhaps the magnitude of the effort is best appreciated by observing what has been done by single States of the Confederacy. And to illustrate this, we need not even adduce the exertions of sovereignties dating back to Revolutionary days, as New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. Younger members of the Confederacy, States that half a century since had no existence, contribute singly no inconsiderable army to the assembling forces of the Union. Let us instance one of these, which recent events in Western Virginia have brought favorably and prominently forward—Indiana, forty-five years ago a frontier Territory, where the red man still contended with the white pioneer. Indiana has equipped, and is equipping for the General Government, a force such as has decided ere now the fate of a nation—twenty-three regiments, a volunteer army of more than twenty thousand infantry and twelve hundred cavalry; and these she has not only uniformed and accoutred, but partially armed with the improved rifle of the day, meanwhile at her own expense.

This is no isolated example. Others have done as well. If the power of a sentiment is to be estimated by the deeds it prompts, how strong must be the love of the Union in the hearts of its citizens!

—The Federal army in Virginia to-day took up the line of march for Fairfax and Manassas. The force standing to-day is fully 60,000 strong, the number reaching by actual count about 68,000. These are about 3,000 regular infantry, cavalry, and artillery, and 50,000 volunteers. The two Rhode Island, the 71st New York, and the 2d New Hampshire, comprising Colonel Burnside’s brigade, left Washington at 4 o’clock this afternoon, and struck the road for Fairfax Court House. The 27th New York went over at 6 o’clock, and also took the Fairfax route. As soon as these regiments came together and passed the encampment, the soldiers cheered lustily and shouted congratulations to each other that they were fairly on the road to the rebel capital. The Dekalb Regiment passed over the bridge and went into Camp Runyon.—(
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[farmersdaughter]

Wednesday, July 17, 1861

Once again it is our sad duty to report more deaths as a result of careless use of side arms. In an effort to gain better control over this continuing issue, the city of Richmond has issued an order. No more than four men from any one company will be allowed to absent themselves at any give time. Also, men will now have to report to the guard on leaving and returning to ensure they are only carrying proper side-arms.

We also have more news on a related issue; six men were arrested for using the street as a lodging place after over imbibing alcohol on Monday night. They were brought before the Mayor yesterday and he ruled that they be discharged from the jail. Each was given the order to return to his encampment immediately.

Western Virginia continues to hold special focus in this struggle. Three days ago a battle was waged at Carrick’s Ford. The events immediately surrounding it began the night of the 11th when the Secessionist army at Laurel Hill, under Brigadier General Garnett’s command, evacuated its camp due to intelligence that General McClellan’s troop were approaching. These actions were discovered the following morning and pursuit was ordered immediately.

During their retreat, Garnett’s men met up with other Secessionists. With these reinforcements, the turned back towards Laurel Hill, marching despite the constant rain and taking only a four hour break in the night. At the same time, Union troops, composed of the Fourteenth Ohio, and Seventh and Ninth Indiana Regiments, also advanced. The opposing sides met at Cheat River. Here the Secessionists were forced to retreat, but Garnett attempted to rally his men again a quarter mile away. The Brigadier General was killed in the following interaction with the Seventh Indiana.

It has been reported that the final death tallies for this battle are; for the Confederates, twenty-six men dead, many more wounded; for the Unionists, two dead and two mortally wounded. We are unable to verify the accuracy of these numbers. Garnett’s body is en route to his family in Richmond.

Free negroes are being drafted into aiding the defense of the Confederacy. It is required that they be entitled to the same compensation, rations, quarters and medical attendance as other laborers of similar character. They also, according to the Convention in Richmond, can not be detained for longer than thirty days without their consent. However, this is not a voluntary endeavor. Any who fail to answer this draft will be subject to penalties provided by law. Also the Convention has stated, “Such free negroes shall, whilst engaged in the public service as aforesaid, be subject to the rules and articles of war.”

A suspicious schooner has been stopped at the Narrows. On Monday, the Corwin observed the schooner moving towards the sea. The Corwin shot across the other ship’s bows and brought her to. There was no name on the stern and it was ordered back to New York City to be overhauled. There is no information as of yet regarding what the unidentified schooner had on board or where it was destined

—The advance column of the National army occupied Fairfax Court House, Va., at eleven o’clock to-day, meeting with no opposition from the Confederates either on the march or in taking possession of the place. Trees had been felled across the road and preparations made at one point for a battery, but there were no guns or troops on the route. The Confederates were drawn up beyond the town and a battle was expected, but as the National forces pressed on they retreated. The cavalry followed them some miles toward Centreville, but the heat of the weather and the previous long march prevented the infantry following. The abandonment of the village by the Confederates was so sudden that they left behind them some portions of their provisions, intrenching tools, and camp furniture. The army advances in three columns, one on the Fairfax road, and the others to the north and south of the road. The advance will be continued to Centreville, eight miles beyond Fairfax, where the Confederates will probably make a stand if they design attempting to hold Manassas Junction. The only casualties reported by Gen McDowell are an officer and three men slightly wounded.—(Doc. 98.)

—The Sixth Regiment of Maine volunteers, commanded by Colonel Abner Knowles, left Portland for the seat of war. The regiment, which has been recruited mainly from the counties of Washington and Penobscot, consists mostly of stout, hardy lumbermen, already inured to hard work and apparently ready for more. Many of the privates measure six feet four. They are uniformed in a similar manner to the other Maine regiments. Each man has an extra fatigue uniform, consisting of gray pants and shirt, presented to them by various sewing societies. Surgeon-General Garcelon, of Maine, accompanies the regiment to Washington.—Boston Post, July 18.

—The following order relative to contraband negroes was issued from the army head-quarters in Washington:

Head-quarters Department of Washington,

Washington, D. C., July 17, 1861

General Orders No. 33.

Fugitive slaves will, under no pretest whatever, be permitted to reside, or in any way be harbored in the quarters and camps of the troops serving in this department. Neither will such slaves be allowed to accompany troops on the march. Commanders of troops will be held responsible for a strict observance of the order.

By command of Brigadier-General Mansfield.

Theodore Talbot,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

—General Patterson’s entire command moved from Bunker Hill, Va., at an early hour this morning, but instead of moving directly towards Winchester it took the road for Charlestown, distant from Bunker Hill about eight miles, and laying at right angles with the Winchester road. The reason of this unexpected move is as follows: Winchester is defended on the north side by a strong breastwork, in the form of the letter V, having the town behind the angle. It cannot be attacked from that side without exposing the soldiers to a heavy and most destructive cross-fire. The side west of the town is defended by a palisade; but the east aide is only covered by a veil. On the east side there is also an eminence which commands the town. This eminence has been left unoccupied.—Baltimore American, July 18.

—The Twelfth Ohio Regiment, two companies of the Twenty-first Ohio and a battery of light artillery, attacked the rebels at a place called Scarytown, on the Kanawha River, Va., and were repulsed with a loss of thirty killed and wounded.—
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[farmersdaughter]

An interesting related side note

July 17, 1861



With the onset of the Civil War, the government--desperate for money to finance the war--passed the Act of July 17, 1861, permitting the Treasury Department to print and circulate paper money. The first paper money issued by the government were "demand notes" commonly referred to as "greenbacks." In 1862, Congress retired the demand notes and began issuing United States notes, also called legal tender notes.



?

Under Congressional Acts of 1878 and 1886, five different issues of "silver certificates" were produced, ranging from $1 to $1,000 dollar notes. The Treasury exchanged silver certificates for silver dollars because the size and weight of the silver coins made them unpopular. The last series of silver certificates was issued in 1923. However, the last series of modern silver certificates produced were the series 1957B/1935H $1 notes, series 1953C $5 notes, and 1953B $10 notes.

During the period from 1863 to 1929, the Government again permitted thousands of banks to issue their own notes under the National Banks Acts of 1863 and 1864. These were called "national bank notes," but unlike the earlier "state bank notes," they were produced on paper authorized by the U.S. government and carried the same basic design.
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[farmersdaughter]

Thursday, July 18, 1861

Kentucky remains torn by its neutrality. At a Masonic temple on July 13, the Honorable Joseph Holt, a Kentuckian, spoke in support of the proposition that*it was the duty of Kentucky not to exercise neutralit, but to support the Federal government. Of his fellow statesmen’s desire not to fight, he said:

But your brethren can fight you, and with a good will, too. Wickedly and wantonly have they commenced this war against you and your institutions, and ferociously are they prosecuting it. They take no account of the fact that the massacre with which they hope their swords will are long be clogged, must be the massacre of their brethren. However much we may bow our heads at the confession, it is nevertheless true that every free people that have existed have been obliged, at one period or other of their history, to light for their liberties against traitors within their own bosoms, and that people who have not the greatness of soul thus to fight, cannot long continue to be free, nor do they deserve to be so.

General Patterson’s division, with the exception of the First Pennsylvania Regiment, advanced to Bunker Hill on Monday. For the most part their journey was uneventful. However, just below Bunker Hill, Colonel Stewart, with 600 secessionist troops attempted an attack on the Twenty-first Pennsylvania Regiment. Stewart failed to notice the Rhode Island Battery, which opened fire on the Confederates. The charge was broken and the Second United States Calvary pursued them two miles in retreat, capturing one private and one captain. Both prisoners have been sent to Martinsburgh. As of July 15, the whole secessionist force had fallen back on Winchester. There are some rumors that General Johnson has masked batteries between Bunker Hill and Winchester, but there is much doubt surrounding this. Regardless, few expect the lull in battles to last long.

The passengers of the train going through Millville, Missouri, got more than they paid for on July 16. Eight hundred Union troops came up ahead of them, where the track was torn up. Secessionists fired into the National and an engagement ensued that resulted in the deaths of seven secessionists and the capture of seven more. The fighting was ongoing as the passenger train passed by. The Nationals suffered three deaths, seven wounded and the seizure of thirty horses.

J. Arlington Bennett, believed to be a Union man, has made a*wager that has been getting attention since it was published in the New York Herald. He bet $100,000 worth of stock that the “North cannot by force, under its present civilian Generals, compel the Slave States to remain in the Union.” Bennett has offered no further public remarks on his unorthodox bet

—This morning a general order was issued at Fairfax Court House, Va., by General McDowell, deprecating the disorderly conduct of the troops under his command in destroying the property of the inhabitants of the town, and appointing a police force from each regiment to secure the preservation of such property. It was read to every regiment in the army of the Potomac.—(Doc. 100.)

—A large and enthusiastic Union meeting composed of the citizens of Broome and Chenango counties, New York, was held to-day. Addresses were made by Daniel 8. Dickinson and George Baillet, and resolutions approving the acts of the Federal Government in the present crisis, were unanimously adopted.— (Doc. 101.)

—The Tammany Regiment or Jackson Guard, N. Y. S. V., under the command of Colonel Wm. D. Kennedy, left its encampment at Great Neck, Long Island, for the scene of the war.— N. Y. World, July 19.

—In the House of Representatives, Washington, the Committee to whom was referred the resolution to inquire whether or not the Hon. Henry May, of Maryland, was in criminal intercourse with those in armed rebellion against the Government, submitted a report that there was no evidence of Mr. May’s guilt in that particular, the resolution having been based on mere newspaper statements. The report also exculpated the President and General Scott from all suspicion of a correspondence with though rebels through Mr. May’s agency. Upon the adoption of this report, Mr. May addressed the House upon the subject of the inquiry, warmly denouncing it as an unparalleled outrage upon his constituents, whose rights as freemen, he said, had been previously stricken down and trampled in the dust by the Administration, through its military power. His remarks were interrupted by Mr. Stevens, of Pennsylvania, who interposed a point of order, which, being sustained by the House, Mr. May declined to avail himself of the permission to proceed in order, announcing his purpose to vindicate himself on a future occasion. He presented the memorial of the Police Commissioners of Baltimore. Ex-Governor Thomas, of Maryland, replied to Mr. May in a vigorous speech, in which he maintained that the recent election demonstrated conclusively the fact that a vast majority of the people of Maryland entirely approved the military measures of the Administration, and of the present attitude of the State.

In the United States Senate the bill for the better organization of the military establishment being under consideration, Mr. Powell moved an amendment declaring that no part of the Army or Navy should be used for the subjugation of any sovereign State, or in any way to interfere with African slavery. A sharp debate followed on the purposes of the war. Mr. Sherman, Republican, said the war was not one of subjugation, but merely intended to maintain the integrity of the Union, and moved as a substitute for Mr. Powell’s amendment a resolution declaring that “the military be employed to preserve the Union and protect the public property.”

—The Philadelphia Press of to-day contains an interesting account of affairs in Richmond, Va. It will be seen that the steel-clad steamer Yorktown is about to attempt to force her way through our fleet, and that infernal machines are being prepared to injure our vessels and forts. A very decided reaction in public sentiment among the working classes has recently occurred, and, like many of the troops, they are heartily sick of the Secession movement, and anxious for the re-establishment of the National authority over the whole country. The slaves are well apprised of the movements of our army, and many of them earnestly desire its success. Several regiments have recently been sent from “West Tennessee into the eastern part of that State to overawe the Union men there. The effects of the blockade are seriously felt, but some important articles are still obtained from the North.—(Doc. 102.)

—This afternoon Major Van Horn’s command of United States Reserve Home Guards of Kansas City, Mo., numbering about 170 men, was attacked by 600 rebels under Capt. Duncan, thirteen miles north of Harrisonville. The fight lasted four hours, during which time a continued firing was kept up on both sides. At twenty minutes past six o’clock the rebels withdrew, leaving the United States troops victorious. The loss of the rebels was fourteen killed, including two officers, and several wounded; while that of the United States forces was only one killed. At 12 o’clock the United States troops continued their march, crossing Grand River, but they were compelled to leave three of their baggage wagons on the bank of the river in consequence of high water. Major Van Horn left Kansas City on the 17th for the purpose of reinforcing Maj. Dean, now holding West Point, Missouri, with a small force, he having routed 1,000 rebels at that place. Major Van Horn’s command was attacked while at dinner. They planted their flag-staff at 2 o’clock, never giving way an inch nor removing the flag till after the rebels withdrew. The rebels endeavored to flank them on the left with a company of cavalry, but were completely routed by a detailed force under Captain Butler.—N. Y. World, July 23.

—The Federal army left Fairfax Court House, Va., this morning and took up its line of march in the direction of Centreville. General McDowell, in a despatch to head-quarters at Washington, gives the position of the several divisions of his army to-day.—(Doc. 103.)

—An engagement took place at Blackburn’s Ford, four miles south of Centreville, Va., this afternoon. General Tyler’s division encamped last night a few miles east of Centreville, and this morning proceeded toward that point. Centreville was passed in safety, and the troops turned from Little River turnpike road to the Manassas road. On the road information was received that a masked battery was on the left of the road ahead, and Colonel Richardson, in command of the Fourth Brigade, was ordered to reconnoitre, while the remainder of the division remained in the vicinity of Centreville.

Col. Richardson proceeded with three companies of the Massachusetts First Regiment, being the Chelsea company, the Fusileers, and the National Guards. They passed across an open ravine and again entered the road, which was densely surrounded by woods, when they were received by a raking fire from the left, killing a number of the advance.

They gallantly sustained their position and covered the retreat of a brass cannon of Sherman’s battery, the horses having been completely disabled by the fire, until relieved by the Michigan Second, and the New York Twelfth Regiments, when they fell back.

The Federal forces then took a position on the top of a hill. Two rifle cannons were planted in front, supported by Captain Brockett’s Company B, Second Cavalry, with a line of infantry composed of the Second Regiment of Michigan, and the Twelfth Regiment of New York in the rear. A steady fire was kept up on both sides in this position.

The rebels had two batteries of eight pieces in a position commanding the road. They used their guns well, except that they fired sometimes too high,—but they were gallantly forced by the national troops. “They did not reply to our regular fire for half an hour,” says a correspondent, “during which time they were receiving large reinforcements. In the mean time Col. Richardson’s brigade reconnoitered the woods. While we were again thus advancing we were met with a raking fire. Our guns were again put in position, and we poured grape and canister among the enemy till the supply was exhausted.”

At half-past four o’clock, General Tyler ordered his troops to retire, it being necessary to relieve Captain Brackett’s cavalry, which had alone the most effective service. The day was exceedingly hot, and the horses thirsted for water, which could only be obtained at Centreville.—
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The Battle of Blackburn's Ford
July 18, 1861

The Battle of Blackburn's Ford took place on July 18, 1861, in Prince William County and Fairfax County, Virginia, as part of the Manassas Campaign of the American Civil War.

Background

On July 16, 1861, the untried Union army under Brig. Gen. Irvin McDowell, 35,000 strong, marched out of the Washington, D.C., defenses to give battle to the Confederate army, which was concentrated around the vital railroad junction at Manassas. Moving slowly, they reached Fairfax Court House on July 17 and began to look for a fording point across Bull Run Creek so that they could flank the Confederate Army. The Confederates, about 22,000 men under the command of Brig. Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard, anticipated McDowell's move and guarded seven fords across Bull Run.

?

Situation July 18.

?*Confederate

*

?*Union

*

Battle

On July 18, McDowell ordered Brig. Gen. Daniel Tyler to locate the Confederate left flank. He was to advance to Centreville, reconnoiter just beyond it, and report back. When Tyler found that Centreville was unoccupied by Confederate troops, he marched southeast to Mitchell's Ford and Blackburn's Ford, arriving at the latter about 11 a.m. Looking south across the stream, Tyler believed that the road to Manassas Junction was clear, but he failed to see the Confederate brigade of Brig. Gen. James Longstreet concealed in the woods behind the ford. He ordered two howitzers under Capt. Romeyn B. Ayres to bombard the Confederates he could see, guns of the Alexandria Artillery and the Washington Artillery, but the fire had no visible effect. He ordered Col. Israel B. Richardson and part of his brigade forward.

Richardson's advance met initial resistance from the 1st, 11th, and 17th Virginia Infantry regiments of Longstreet's brigade. Tyler ordered Ayres to move his guns closer to the action, accompanied by cavalry, and he sent the rest of Richardson's brigade toward the ford. Richardson's assault fell apart as the 12th New York Infantry began to retreat under heavy fire, causing a wave of panic to spread through the Union line.

Col. Jubal A. Early arrived with his Confederate brigade after marching 2 miles north from Beauregard's headquarters at Wilmer McLean's house. The availability of this additional firepower completed the Confederate victory, and a reinforced Washington Artillery kept the Union troops under fire as they retreated.

Aftermath

The failed reconnaissance-in-force at Blackburn's Ford led McDowell to decide against a frontal assault along Bull Run. He decided to attempt to cross the stream beyond the Confederate left flank, the maneuver he employed at the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21.
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Friday, July 19, 1861

On July 17, we first told you the story of the remains of General Garnett, which are enclosed in a metallic case. Those remains have now passed through Harrisburgh and are approaching Baltimore. Once there, they will be taken to Fort Monroe and conveyed under a flag of truce to Richmond. Upon arrival there, they will be given over to the protection of his family.

Though Garnett’s body was transported as far as Grafton by train, it seems unlikely that it will be able to go by rail the whole way to Richmond, given all the recent developments. There is an increasing amount of destruction surrounding rails and railroad bridges. Only a week ago, the bridges on the George’s Creek Railroad were utterly destroyed. This comes on the heels of the devastation of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad bridges. It would appear this trend is spreading. We may soon be cautioning people away from rail travel all together.

Garnett’s death has had a large impact on the troops which served under him. All of those troops have been completely routed by General Morris’ column. Their camp equipment was captured and there are reports of fifty prisoners being killed. The Confederates have been forced to scatter in the mountains. Some are insisting that, due to these circumstances, their surrender is imminent. We shall keep you abreast of any updates regarding these troops.

In other news, United States Marshal Murray has begun receiving all manner of threatening letters. These hostile missives are in response to his unrelenting attitude towards slave-traders. The following is one of the anonymous letters:

If you do not let up on certain men you have under arrest, on charge of slaving, you will cease your duties as United States Marshal very sudden on some fine night. You are no smarter than other men who have been Marshals before, and you must not think so neither. Dr. Burdell was done for, so was Walton, so can a Marshal be done for just as easy. So beware! you put on too big airs with your power, but D—–b can take power away. The men you’re persecuting have rich and powerful friends, who will use desperate cure for desperate cases — so beware.

We shall keep an eye out for any more news on Murray to see how he fairs under these pressures.

It is our sad duty to report that there has been yet another accidental shooting by a soldier. This past Sunday evening at the camp near Princess Anne Rend, Norfolk County, a pistol in the hands of one of the men stationed there discharged, shooting a little girl. While thankfully the wound is only in the foot and there is no fear that the girl will die, this accident clearly highlights a need for soldiers to be more vigilant in the handling of their weapons.

—Last night a party consisting of Capt. Holliday, Capt. Edward W. Jenkins, Lieut. Johnson and private Small, of the Naval Brigade, Maj. T. Edward Rawlings, of the Kentucky Light Cavalry, and R. W. Shurtliff, left Hampton, Va., without permission, on a scout. —They were poorly armed, and but one of them mounted. At 4½ o’clock this morning the party were surprised in the woods, a short distance beyond New Market bridge, by twenty dismounted horsemen, who fired upon them. Rawlings was instantly killed by a bullet through his head. Lieutenant Johnson and Mr. Shurtliff were also seen to fall, and have been carried off prisoners. The rest of the party escaped.—Baltimore American, July 20.

—By an order from the War Department at Washington, it was forbidden to muster any soldier into the service who is unable to speak the English language. By the same order, Brevet Second-Lieutenants Clarence Derrick, James P. Parker, and Frank A. Reynolds, (having tendered their resignations in face of the enemy) were dismissed from the service of the United States.—(Doc. 105.)

—To-day the Virginia Legislature, in session at Wheeling, adopted the following resolutions:

Resolved, That the Governor be and is hereby requested to apply to the President of the United States for authority to contract with come individual or individuals, on behalf of the General Government, for necessary clothing for each of the volunteers of Northwestern Virginia as have been, or may be, mustered into the service of the United States for three years.

Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing resolution be forwarded to our Senators and Representatives in Congress, with a request that they unite with the Governor in his efforts to obtain the authority indicated in the foregoing.

—The Third Regiment of Massachusetts Militia arrived at Boston this morning from Fortress Monroe, and encamped at Long Island. —N. Y. Evening Post, July 19.

—The general order of the War Department at Washington, transfering General N. P. Banks to the command of the National forces on the upper Potomac, was issued to-day.—(Doc. 106.)

—General Cadwallader of the Pennsylvania Volunteers, was honorably discharged from the service of the United States.—General Order, War Department, No. 46.

—Brigadier-general John Pope, commanding the National troops in Northern Missouri, issued a proclamation to the people of that district, warning all persons taken in arms against the Federal authority, who attempt to commit depredations, or who molest peaceful citizens, that they will be dealt with, “without awaiting civil process.”—(Doc. 107.)

—In general orders of this date, Maj.-Gen. McClellan expresses his satisfaction with and confidence in the soldiers of his command, “the Army of the West;” and recapitulates their recent exploits.—(Doc. 108.)

—All of the vessels previously reported as prizes to the privateer Sumter, and by her sent into a Cuban port, were liberated by the Captain-General of Cuba.—N. Y. Express,
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[farmersdaughter]

Saturday, July 20, 1861

?Union troops plan to attack Manassas tomorrow, according to reports from the frontlines. Forces are now encamped just outside of Fairfax and Centreville, Virginia, about three miles North of Manassas, where all columns have gathered in preparation of tomorrow’s attack. The day was spent planning the attack and gathering reconnaissance information – troops were given the day to rest and prepare before marching on the Confederates.

Thursday’s Battle at Blackburn’s Ford near Manassas, called “the first engagement in eastern Virginia of any importance” by the New York Times, appears to have resulted in a slight victory for the Confederates, although not a decisive one. A sizable group of men, apart from General McDowell’s main force, were traveling on the road a few miles south of Centreville, when they came under fire from hidden positions along the road. A moderately-sized engagement followed, and the Federal forces were forced to retreat, although losses on both sides appear to be relatively minor. This defeat has doubtless played into General McDowell’s decision to hold his troops in Fairfax for a day before advancing upon Manassas.

Reports from last week’s battles at Rich Mountain and Corrick’s Ford continue to pour in, painting a more accurate picture of the events which transpired. The Confederate encampments were considerably better defended than initially realized, requiring a long uphill march through wooded, rocky territory to effect a surprise attack upon a well-guarded fortification high on the Mountain. It was only the element of surprise that allowed Rosecrans’s men to storm the fort that led to the Union rout. Due to their lack of preparation for such an attack, the capture of the upper fortification threw the Confederate troops into disarray, forcing them to flee and surrender after just a few hours of fighting.

Confederate General Robert Garnett was killed in last week’s battle at Corrick’s Ford in western Virginia. Although rumors of his death had been circulating for days, the recent discovery of his body by the Union army was the first confirmation. The Union rout of the Confederates in western Virginia now appears to be even greater than initially believed, having claimed the life of a key Confederate commander in the region. Garnett was 41-years-old at the time of his death.

A number of Congressmen are absent from the capital and have crossed the river to Virginia, where they are observing the troops stationed there in preparation for the attack upon the Confederates near Manassas. They will likely return soon, however, as a journey to the frontlines would be too long and too dangerous. Their presence should be expected at the capital early next week.

Sorely-needed supplies arrived today at Newport News, where forces led by Major Butler have been encamped for months. The men have been badly wanting for supplies, and have had relatively little success with their advances northward towards Yorktown, further up the peninsula. With luck, the arrival of new supplies will improve their fortune, potentially allowing them to put pressure on Richmond from the East. Confederate encampments along the peninsula have been reinforced, however, and their fortifications and batteries appear ready to withstand a potential attack from the South

—This day the rebel Congress met at Richmond, Va., and received the message of Jefferson Davis, in which he congratulated the Congress upon the accession to the Southern Confederacy since his last message of the States of North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Arkansas.—(Doc. 109)

—A Correspondent with the army under General Patterson, at Charlestown, Va., writes under this date as follows: In consequence of complaints from numerous commanders that their men were without shoes, clothing, and other necessaries, and could not be now supplied, as the time for which they had been sworn in was nearly expired, General Patterson visited the different brigades, and plead earnestly with the men to stand by him, for the love of their country and the honor of our flag, for a few days longer, but failed to gain support —The good behavior of the soldiers is having an excellent effect upon the townspeople. Many of the families were prepared to leave on the arrival of the army, but are now going to remain, feeling that their property and persons are secure.—Three members of the New York Ninth Regiment yesterday arrested Lieut. Harlett, of the rebel cavalry force, -while secreted in a house here. This officer is said to have commanded the troops that fired from Harper’s Ferry upon Colonel Stone’s brigade when passing opposite that point,—The jail where John Brown was imprisoned, and the scene of his execution, are constantly visited by our volunteers. Captain McMullen’s Rangers have found numerous secreted arms.—A mail bag belonging to our army, and filled with matter, has been found here. Indications show it to have been stolen, while on the way to Martinsburg, a week since.—Major Ledlie, of the New York Nineteenth Regiment, this morning at 1 o’clock, was fired on, when making the guard rounds, by a rebel named Welch. The latter was arrested, and his arms taken from him. Welch says, in excuse, that he did not see Ledlie, but hearing a noise thought foxes were robbing his roosts.—The Indiana Eleventh Regiment, Col. Wallace, marched to head-quarters to-day, and informed General Patterson of their willingness to serve ten days extra.—
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?
"We Shall Meet Again": The First Battle of Manassas (Bull Run), July 18-21, 1861
The First Battle of Manassas claimed the lives of approximately 878 soldiers and wounded another 2,489. With a battlefield stretching nearly five miles, 15,000 Union and 14,000 Confederate soldiers clashed for four fateful days, many of them young and terrified and receiving their first taste of a long and bitter war

First Manassas
First Bull Run
Civil War Virginia

American Civil War
July 21, 1861

This was the first major land battle of the Union and Confederate armies in Virginia.*

First Manassas Campaign Map

On July 16, 1862, the untried Union army under Brigadier General Irvin McDowell marched from Washington against the Confederate army, which was drawn up behind Bull Run beyond Centreville.

On the 21st, McDowell crossed at Sudley Ford and attacked the Confederate left flank on Matthews Hill. Fighting raged throughout the day as Confederate forces were driven back to Henry Hill.* Late in the afternoon, Confederate reinforcements (one brigade arriving by rail from the Shenandoah Valley) extended and broke the Union right flank.

The Federal retreat rapidly deteriorated into a rout. Although victorious, Confederate forces were too disorganized to pursue. Confederate General Bee and Colonel Bartow were killed. Thomas J. Jackson earned the nom de guerre "Stonewall."

By July 22, the shattered Union army reached the safety of Washington.

This battle convinced the Lincoln administration that the war would be a long and costly affair.

McDowell was relieved of command of the Union army and replaced by Major General George B. McClellan, who set about reorganizing and training the troops.

Result(s): Confederate victory

Location: Fairfax County and Prince William County

Campaign: Manassas Campaign (July 1861) previous battle in campaig*** Campaigns

Date(s): July 21, 1861

Principal Commanders: Brigadier General Irvin McDowell [US]; Brigadier General Joseph E. Johnston and Brigadier General P.G.T. Beauregard [CS]

Forces Engaged: 60,680 total (US 28,450; CS 32,230)

Estimated Casualties: 4,700 total (US 2,950; CS 1,750

The First Battle of Bull Run, also known as the First Battle of Manassas (the name used by Confederate forces), was fought on July 21, 1861, in Prince William County, Virginia, near the City of Manassas. It was the first major land battle of the American Civil War.

Just months after the start of the war at Fort Sumter, the Northern public clamored for a march against the Confederate capital of Richmond, Virginia, which could bring an early end to the war. Yielding to this political pressure, unseasoned Union Army troops under Brig. Gen. Irvin McDowell advanced across Bull Run against the equally unseasoned Confederate Army under Brig. Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard near Manassas Junction. McDowell's ambitious plan for a surprise flank attack against the Confederate left was not well executed by his inexperienced officers and men, but the Confederates, who had been planning to attack the Union left flank, found themselves at an initial disadvantage.

Confederate reinforcements under the command of Brig. Gen. Joseph E. Johnston arrived from the Shenandoah Valley by railroad and the course of the battle changed. A brigade of Virginians under a relatively unknown colonel from the Virginia Military Institute, Thomas J. Jackson, stood their ground and Jackson received his famous nickname, "Stonewall Jackson". The Confederates launched a strong counterattack and as the Union troops began withdrawing under pressure, many panicked and it turned into a rout as they frantically ran in the direction of nearby Washington, D.C. Both sides were sobered by the violence and casualties of the battle, and they realized that the war would potentially be much longer and bloodier than they had originally anticipated.

Background

?

Northern Virginia Theater in July 1861

?*Confederate

*

?*Union

*

Brig. Gen. Irvin McDowell was appointed by President Abraham Lincoln to command the Army of Northeastern Virginia. Once in this capacity, McDowell was harassed by impatient politicians and citizens in Washington, who wished to see a quick battlefield victory over the Confederate Army in northern Virginia. McDowell, however, was concerned about the untried nature of his army. He was reassured by President Lincoln, "You are green, it is true, but they are green also; you are all green alike."[3] Against his better judgment, McDowell commenced campaigning. On July 16, 1861, the general departed Washington with the largest field army yet gathered on the North American continent, about 35,000 men (28,452 effectives).[1] McDowell's plan was to move westward in three columns, make a diversionary attack on the Confederate line at Bull Run with two columns, while the third column moved around the Confederates' right flank to the south, cutting the railroad to Richmond and threatening the rear of the rebel army. He assumed that the Confederates would be forced to abandon Manassas Junction and fall back to the Rappahannock River, the next defensible line in Virginia, which would relieve some of the pressure on the U.S. capital.[4]

The Confederate Army of the Potomac (21,883 effectives)[5] under Beauregard was encamped near Manassas Junction, approximately 25 miles (40*km) from the United States capital. McDowell planned to attack this numerically inferior enemy army. Union Maj. Gen. Robert Patterson's 18,000 men engaged Johnston's force (the Army of the Shenandoah at 8,884 effectives, augmented by Maj. Gen. Theophilus H. Holmes's brigade of 1,465[5]) in the Shenandoah Valley, preventing them from reinforcing Beauregard.

?

Situation July 18.

After two days of marching slowly in the sweltering heat, the Union army was allowed to rest in Centreville. McDowell reduced the size of his army to approximately 30,000 by dispatching Brig. Gen. Theodore Runyon with 5,000 troops to protect the army's rear. In the meantime, McDowell searched for a way to outflank Beauregard, who had drawn up his lines along Bull Run. On July 18, the Union commander sent a division under Brig. Gen. Daniel Tyler to pass on the Confederate right (southeast) flank. Tyler was drawn into a skirmish at Blackburn's Ford over Bull Run and made no headway.

Becoming more frustrated, McDowell resolved to attack the Confederate left (northwest) flank instead. He planned to attack with Brig. Gen. Daniel Tyler's division at the Stone Bridge on the Warrenton Turnpike and send the divisions of Brig. Gens. David Hunter and Samuel P. Heintzelman over Sudley Springs Ford. From here, these divisions could march into the Confederate rear. The brigade of Col. Israel B. Richardson (Tyler's Division) would harass the enemy at Blackburn's Ford, preventing them from thwarting the main attack. Patterson would tie down Johnston in the Shenandoah Valley so that reinforcements could not reach the area. Although McDowell had arrived at a theoretically sound plan, it had a number of flaws: it was one that required synchronized execution of troop movements and attacks, skills that had not been developed in the nascent army; it relied on actions by Patterson that he had already failed to take; finally, McDowell had delayed long enough that Johnston's Valley force was able to board trains at Piedmont Station and rush to Manassas Junction to reinforce Beauregard's men.[6]

On July 19–20, significant reinforcements bolstered the Confederate lines behind Bull Run. Johnston arrived with all of his army, except for the troops of Brig. Gen. Kirby Smith, who were still in transit. Most of the new arrivals were posted in the vicinity of Blackburn's Ford and Beauregard's plan was to attack from there to the north toward Centreville. Johnston, the senior officer, approved the plan. If both of the armies had been able to execute their plans simultaneously, it would have resulted in a mutual counterclockwise movement as they attacked each other's left flank.[7]

McDowell was getting contradictory information from his intelligence agents, so he called for the balloon Enterprise, which was being demonstrated by Prof. Thaddeus S. C. Lowe in Washington, to perform aerial reconnaissance.

Battle

?

Situation morning, July 21

On the morning of July 21, McDowell sent the divisions of Hunter and Heintzelman (about 12,000 men) from Centreville at 2:30 a.m., marching southwest on the Warrenton Turnpike and then turning northwest toward Sudley Springs. Tyler's division (about 8,000) marched directly toward the Stone Bridge. The inexperienced units immediately developed logistical problems. Tyler's division blocked the advance of the main flanking column on the turnpike. The latter units found the approach roads to Sudley Springs were inadequate, little more than a cart path in some places, and did not begin fording Bull Run until 9:30 a.m. Tyler's men reached the Stone Bridge around 6 a.m.[8]

At 5:15 a.m., Richardson's brigade fired a few artillery rounds across Mitchell's Ford on the Confederate right, some of which hit Beauregard's headquarters in the Wilmer McLean house as he was eating breakfast, alerting him to the fact that his offensive battle plan had been preempted. Nevertheless, he ordered demonstration attacks north toward the Union left at Centreville. Bungled orders and poor communications prevented their execution. Although he intended for Brig. Gen. Richard S. Ewell to lead the attack, Ewell, at Union Mills Ford, was simply ordered to "hold ... in readiness to advance at a moment's notice." Brig. Gen. D.R. Jones was supposed to attack in support of Ewell, but found himself moving forward alone. Holmes was also supposed to support, but received no orders at all.[9]

?

Federal cavalry at Sudley Spring Ford

All that stood in the path of the 20,000 Union soldiers converging on the Confederate left flank were Col. Nathan "Shanks" Evans and his reduced brigade of 1,100 men.[10] Evans had moved some of his men to intercept the direct threat from Tyler at the bridge, but he began to suspect that the weak attacks from the Union brigade of Brig. Gen. Robert C. Schenck were merely feints. He was informed of the main Union flanking movement through Sudley Springs by Captain Edward Porter Alexander, Beauregard's signal officer, observing from 8 miles (13*km) southwest on Signal Hill. In the first use of wig-wag semaphore signaling in combat, Alexander sent the message "Look out for your left, your position is turned."[11] Shanks hastily led 900 of his men from their position fronting the Stone Bridge to a new location on the slopes of Matthews Hill, a low rise to the northwest of his previous position.[10]

Evans soon received reinforcement from two other brigades under Brig. Gen. Barnard Bee and Col. Francis S. Bartow, bringing the force on the flank to 2,800 men.[10] They successfully slowed Hunter's lead brigade (Brig. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside) in its attempts to ford Bull Run and advance across Young's Branch, at the northern end of Henry House Hill. One of Tyler's brigade commanders, Col. William T. Sherman, crossed at an unguarded ford and struck the right flank of the Confederate defenders. This surprise attack, coupled with pressure from Burnside and Maj. George Sykes, collapsed the Confederate line shortly after 11:30 a.m., sending them in a disorderly retreat to Henry House Hill.[12]

As they retreated from their Matthews Hill position, the remainder of Evans's, Bee's, and Bartow's commands received some cover from Capt. John D. Imboden and his battery of four 6-pounder guns, who held off the Union advance while the Confederates attempted to regroup on Henry House Hill. They were met by generals Johnston and Beauregard, who had just arrived from Johnston's headquarters at the M. Lewis Farm, "Portici".[13] Fortunately for the Confederates, McDowell did not press his advantage and attempt to seize the strategic ground immediately, choosing to bombard the hill with the batteries of Capts. James B. Ricketts (Battery I, 1st U.S. Artillery) and Charles Griffin (Battery D, 5th U.S.) from Dogan's Ridge.[14]

?

Attacks on Henry House Hill, noon–2 p.m.

?

Union retreat, after 4 p.m.

Brig. Gen Thomas J. Jackson's Virginia brigade came up in support of the disorganized Confederates around noon, accompanied by Col. Wade Hampton and his Hampton's Legion, and Col. J.E.B. Stuart's cavalry. Jackson posted his five regiments on the reverse slope of the hill, where they were shielded from direct fire, and was able to assemble 13 guns for the defensive line, which he posted on the crest of the hill; as the guns fired, their recoil moved them down the reverse slope, where they could be safely reloaded.[15] Meanwhile, McDowell ordered the batteries of Ricketts and Griffin to move from Dogan's Ridge to the hill for close infantry support. Their 11 guns engaged in a fierce artillery duel across 300 yards (270*m) against Jackson's 13. Unlike many engagements in the Civil War, here the Confederate artillery had an advantage. The Union pieces were now within range of the Confederate smoothbores and the predominantly rifled pieces on the Union side were not effective weapons at such close ranges, with many shots fired over the head of their targets.[16]

?

Ruins of Judith Henry's house, "Spring Hill", after the battle

One of the casualties of the artillery fire was Judith Carter Henry, an 85-year-old widow and invalid, who was unable to leave her bedroom in the Henry House. As Ricketts began receiving rifle fire, he concluded that it was coming from the Henry House and turned his guns on the building. A shell that crashed through the bedroom wall tore off one of the widow's feet and inflicted multiple injuries, from which she died later that day.[17]

"The Enemy are driving us," Bee exclaimed to Jackson. Jackson, a former U.S. Army officer and professor at the Virginia Military Institute, is said to have replied, "Then, Sir, we will give them the bayonet."[18] Bee exhorted his own troops to re-form by shouting, "There is Jackson standing like a stone wall. Let us determine to die here, and we will conquer. Rally behind the Virginians."[19] There is some controversy over Bee's statement and intent, which could not be clarified because he was mortally wounded almost immediately after speaking and none of his subordinate officers wrote reports of the battle. Major Burnett Rhett, chief of staff to General Johnston, claimed that Bee was angry at Jackson's failure to come immediately to the relief of Bee's and Bartow's brigades while they were under heavy pressure. Those who subscribe to this opinion believe that Bee's statement was meant to be pejorative: "Look at Jackson standing there like a stone wall!"[20]

Artillery commander Griffin decided to move two of his guns to the southern end of his line, hoping to provide enfilade fire against the Confederates. At approximately 3 p.m., these guns were overrun by the 33rd Virginia, whose men were outfitted in blue uniforms, causing Griffin's commander, Maj. William F. Barry, to mistake them for Union troops and to order Griffin not to fire on them. Close range volleys from the 33rd Virginia and Stuart's cavalry attack against the flank of the 11th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment (Ellsworth's Fire Zouaves), which was supporting the battery, killed many of the gunners and scattered the infantry. Capitalizing on this success, Jackson ordered two regiments to charge Ricketts's guns and they were captured as well. As additional Federal infantry engaged, the guns changed hands several times.[21]

?

Capture of Ricketts' Battery, painting by Sidney E. King, National Park Service.

The capture of the Union guns turned the tide of battle. Although McDowell had brought 15 regiments into the fight on the hill, outnumbering the Confederates two to one, no more than two were ever engaged simultaneously. Jackson continued to press his attacks, telling soldiers of the 4th Virginia Infantry, "Reserve your fire until they come within 50 yards! Then fire and give them the bayonet! And when you charge, yell like furies!" For the first time, Union troops heard the disturbing sound of the Rebel yell. At about 4 p.m., the last Union troops were pushed off Henry House Hill by a charge of two regiments from Col. Philip St. George Cocke's brigade.[22]

To the west, Chinn Ridge had been occupied by Col. Oliver O. Howard's brigade from Heintzelman's division. Also at 4 p.m., two Confederate brigades that had just arrived from the Shenandoah Valley—Col. Jubal A. Early's and Brig. Gen. Kirby Smith's (commanded by Col. Arnold Elzey after Smith was wounded)—crushed Howard's brigade. Beauregard ordered his entire line forward. McDowell's force crumbled and began to retreat.[23]

The retreat was relatively orderly up to the Bull Run crossings, but it was poorly managed by the Union officers. A Union wagon was overturned by artillery fire on a bridge spanning Cub Run Creek and incited panic in McDowell's force. As the soldiers streamed uncontrollably toward Centreville, discarding their arms and equipment, McDowell ordered Col. Dixon S. Miles's division to act as a rear guard, but it was impossible to rally the army short of Washington. In the disorder that followed, hundreds of Union troops were taken prisoner. The wealthy elite of nearby Washington, including congressmen and their families, expecting an easy Union victory, had come to picnic and watch the battle. When the Union army was driven back in a running disorder, the roads back to Washington were blocked by panicked civilians attempting to flee in their carriages.[24]

Since their combined army had been left highly disorganized as well, Beauregard and Johnston did not fully press their advantage, despite urging from Confederate President Jefferson Davis, who had arrived on the battlefield to see the Union soldiers retreating. An attempt by Johnston to intercept the Union troops from his right flank, using the brigades of Brig. Gens. Milledge L. Bonham and James Longstreet, was a failure. The two commanders squabbled with each other and when Bonham's men received some artillery fire from the Union rear guard, and found that Richardson's brigade blocked the road to Centreville, he called off the pursuit.[25]

Aftermath

Bull Run was the largest and bloodiest battle in American history up to that point. Union casualties were 460 killed, 1,124 wounded, and 1,312 missing or captured; Confederate casualties were 387 killed, 1,582 wounded, and 13 missing.[29] Among the latter was Col. Francis S. Bartow, who was the first Confederate brigade commander to be killed in the Civil War. General Bee was mortally wounded and died the following day.[30]

Today will be known as BLACK MONDAY. We are utterly and disgracefully routed, beaten, whipped by secessionists.

Union diarist George Templeton Strong[26]

If the war had turned out to be of short duration, Bull Run would have been a disaster for the Union. But if, as now seemed more plausible, a long and nasty war was inevitable, that battle had a curiously salutary effect for the Union side. It provided a wake-up call for those optimists—like Seward or even Lincoln—who had hoped for or counted on a quick result.

Union forces and civilians alike feared that Confederate forces would advance on Washington, D.C., with very little standing in their way. On July 24, Prof. Thaddeus S. C. Lowe ascended in the balloon Enterprise to observe the Confederates moving in and about Manassas Junction and Fairfax. He saw no evidence of massing Rebel forces, but was forced to land in Confederate territory. It was overnight before he was rescued and could report to headquarters. He reported that his observations "restored confidence" to the Union commanders.[31]

David Detzer, Donnybrook[27]

Bull Run was a turning point in the American Civil War ... in the sense that the battle struck with impelling force upon public opinion at home and abroad, upon Congress, and upon the Commander-in-chief. It framed new patterns of thought and led to far-reaching changes in the conduct of the war. The failure at Bull Run inspired a second Northern rising. Volunteering accelerated, 90-day men reenlisted, states rushed fresh regiments forward in plenitude. ... As they realized victory would not come readily, a new mood fastened upon Northerners. An iron resolve entered the Northern soul ...

The Northern public was shocked at the unexpected defeat of their army when an easy victory had been widely anticipated. Both sides quickly came to realize the war would be longer and more brutal than they had imagined. On July 22 President Lincoln signed a bill that provided for the enlistment of another 500,000 men for up to three years of service.[32]

The reaction in the Confederacy was more muted. There was little public celebration as the Southerners realized that despite their victory, the greater battles that would inevitably come would mean greater losses for their side as well.[33]

James A. Rawley, Turning Points of the Civil War[28]

Beauregard was considered the hero of the battle and was promoted that day by President Davis to full general in the Confederate Army.[34] Stonewall Jackson, arguably the most important tactical contributor to the victory, received no special recognition, but would later achieve glory for his 1862 Valley Campaign. Irvin McDowell bore the brunt of the blame for the Union defeat and was soon replaced by Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan, who was named general-in-chief of all the Union armies. McDowell was also present to bear significant blame for the defeat of Maj. Gen. John Pope's Army of Virginia by Gen. Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia thirteen months later, at the Second Battle of Bull Run. Patterson was also removed from command.[35]

The name of the battle has caused controversy since 1861. The Union Army frequently named battles after significant rivers and creeks that played a role in the fighting; the Confederates generally used the names of nearby towns or farms. The U.S. National Park Service uses the Confederate name for its national battlefield park, but the Union name (Bull Run) also has widespread currency in popular literature.[36]

Battlefield confusion between the battle flags, especially the similarity of the Confederacy's "Stars and Bars" and the Union's "Stars and Stripes" when fluttering, led to the adoption of the Confederate Battle Flag, which eventually became the most popular symbol of the Confederacy and the South in general
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[farmersdaughter]

Sunday, July 21, 1861

The steady drumbeat of war has been increasing in intensity over the past week, and it finally appears that a decisive battle between the Union and Confederacy is imminent. Such a battle has been anticipated since the attack on Fort Sumter in early April but has been slow in coming. The past few months have been characterized by the gathering of troops and supplies near the front lines, and all either side has dared is the occasional skirmish or reconnaissance mission. While this slow start has frustrated partisans on both sides, it may have been necessary—raising troops, training them, transporting them to the front and providing them with sufficient provisions for battle has been a long and arduous process, and has been the central focus of the Army and the War Department over the past three months.

Now, however, the forces in eastern Virginia that have been slowly inching towards each other for the past few weeks are finally ready to engage. In anticipation of the first meeting of the Confederate Congress at its new capital in Richmond—which met yesterday for the first time—the Union army began its march south earlier this week and is now approaching the Confederate encampment near Manassas. This strategically important railroad junction has been the site of a massive buildup of Confederate troops over the past month and will likely be the site of today’s confrontation. The Confederates, for their part, have been digging in and preparing defenses around the town and now appear to be very well entrenched, as demonstrated by the Confederate victory at the battle of Corrick’s Ford this past Thursday. Both sides, however, seem more than ready for battle. All that remains now is to see who emerges victorious. The stakes are extremely high; a victory by either side will clear a direct path to the opposing capital and an opportunity to bring the war to a quick and decisive end. The eyes of a nation—and indeed, the world—are fixed on a small town in northern Virginia, where the fate of the American experiment may well be decided.

Compared to the excitement in Manassas, affairs elsewhere in the nation cannot help but seem pale in comparison. And indeed, as if in recognition of the momentousness of the occasion, it has been a slow week across the country. Although the pursuit of Governor Jackson continues in Missouri, there has been little progress of note. And following the successful campaign in western Virginia earlier this month, there have been relatively few new developments in the area: The Confederate forces have been allowed to retreat, effectively ceding the region to Union control. Even in Washington, the excitement surrounding the eastern Virginia campaign has monopolized the attention of the President, his cabinet, and the Congress—just as it has the Confederate Congress in Richmond. All political life has been put on hold in anticipation of today’s likely battle, and the new shape the country will take once the actions of a few thousand men in eastern Virginia decide the issue
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[farmersdaughter]

Monday, July 22, 1861

Victory in Manassas! Although the final battle reports have yet to come in, nearly all accounts indicate a Union victory in yesterday’s battle between the Federal army and the forces of Virginia near Bull Run. This battle, by far the largest and most important yet fought in this war, was fought bravely by men on both sides. Although it has not been the resounding, absolute victory hoped for by many Northern leaders, it will surely prove to be a pivotal moment in the Union march towards Richmond.

The battle began early in the morning as a Union force led by Brigadier General Irvin McDowell took command of artillery stationed near Bull Run, forcing the Confederate forces to retreat towards their main encampment at Manassas. Union troops pursued them to the junction, where they fought the remainder of the battle. Details of the battle are difficult to come by and unreliable, but it appears as though a group McDowell’s forces moved to the southwest during the night to effect an attack upon the Confederate left flank, while artillery and other forces moved south towards Stone Bridge for a direct attack on Manassas from the north. Although the fighting was fierce and the casualties appear to be many on both sides, the attack allowed Union forces to partially encircle the Confederate forces, forcing them to slowly retreat to their encampment at Manassas. By late afternoon, the fighting had ceased due to a speedy retreat by Southern troops.

In spite of this apparent victory, it appears as though the significant Union losses and fatigue from the lengthy battle has prevented McDowell from pursuing General Beauregard’s retreating troops. Although this may prolong the eastern Virginia campaign, it should also provide ample opportunity for the Union forces to regroup and develop a strategy for the upcoming assault on the Confederate capital in Richmond.

The Northern press and public has received news of the Union victory enthusiastically. They are full of praise for the bold and courageous conduct of our nation’s fighting men and for the ingenuity of McDowell, whose strategy and military knowledge played an invaluable role in yesterday’s victory. News has also no doubt reached the President, and although we have not yet heard word of his and his cabinet’s reaction, they will surely be pleased by the result. The battle is also sure to be the subject of great discussion in Congress, as many Congressmen were personally present in the vicinity of Manassas to observe the battle and survey the condition of the troops.

Although the battle at Manassas occupied the bulk of the nation’s attention, it was not the only important occurrence within the state of Virginia this weekend. Only a few miles south in Richmond, the Confederate Congress convened for the first time at their new capital. Although their meeting was shortened due to the battle taking place just to the north, there was sufficient time for a speech by President Jefferson Davis, who firmly denounced the warlike actions of the North and pledged to resist them by raising thousands of additional troops to defend the Southern lands threatened by Northern subjugation. Amid his criticism of the Union, Davis reasserted the independence of the Southern Confederacy and its citizens and noted that by its recent actions, the Union has done so as well:

These enormous preparations in men and money, for the conduct of a war on a scale more gigantic than any which the new would has ever witnessed, is a distinct avowal, in the eyes of civilized man, that the United States are engaged in a conflict with a great and powerful nation; they are at last compelled to abandon the presence of being engaged in dispersing rioters and suppressing insurrections, and are driven to the acknowledgment that the ancient Union has been dissolved. They recognize the separate existence of these Confederate States by the interdiction, embargo, and blockade of all commerce between them and the United States, not only by sea, but by land; not only in ships, but in rail-cars; not only with those who bear arms, but with the entire population of the Confederate States. Finally, they have repudiated the foolish consent that the inhabitants of this Confederacy are still citizens of the United States; for they are waging an indiscriminate war upon them all, with a savage ferocity unknown to modern civilization.
—The Confederate States Congress appointed a day of thanksgiving for the victory at Manassas, and “deeply deplored the necessity which has washed the soil of our country with the blood of so many of her sons.”—(Doc. 113.)

—General Sweeney’s command dispersed a band of one hundred and fifty rebels stationed at Forsythe, Mo., and took possession of the town. Five of the rebels were killed and several wounded. Three of the Federal troops were slightly wounded, but none killed. The first and second stories of the court-house were filled with blankets, provisions, camp equipage, etc., which, together with two tons of lead found in a well, and other articles secreted in different parts of the town, in all valued between eighteen and twenty thousand dollars, fell into the hands of General Sweeney.—N. Y. Times, July 80.—(Doc. 133.)

—Quartermaster-Sergeant Whitney of the Vermont Regiment, was shot this morning by the rebels at Newport News, only a short distance from the camp, while searching for a strayed bullock. The body was pierced with half a dozen bullets.—An infernal machine, intended to blow up some of the ships of war in Hampton Roads, washed ashore this morning within a few rods of Floyd’s house in Virginia. It is of an ingenious construction, and is the second attempt of the kind.—The Roanoke arrived at Fortress Monroe this morning. She has been as far south as St. Augustine, Fla. During her cruise she burnt a rebel privateer whose crew escaped to the shore.— Boston Transcript, July 23.

—The correspondence between the Chief of the Cherokee Nation and various rebel authorities and citizens of Arkansas, was published today. It exhibits the attitude that tribe intends to assume in reference to the present war.— (Doc. 114.)

—Colonel William D. Kennedy, commander of the Jackson Guard, Tammany Regiment N. Y. S. V., died at Washington of congestion of the brain.—Boston Post, July 23.

—At Louisville, Ky., John W. Tompkins, formerly Clerk of the Board of Aldermen, recently a violent secessionist and recruiting officer of the Southern Confederacy, was shot dead this afternoon by Henry Green, city watchman. Tompkins was hallooing for Jeff. Davis, and was requested to desist by Green, when he drew a knife on Green, but was retreating when Green shot him. Tompkins had been endeavoring to send contraband articles southward by the Louisville and Nashville Railroad during the past week, and has been the main cause of the midnight disturbances at the depot of that road. —Louisville Courier, July 23.

?—Major-General McClellan has been summoned by the Government from Western Virginia to repair to Washington and take command of the Army of the Potomac. General Rosecrans takes his place in command of the Army of Western Virginia. The Corps d’ Armee at Washington is to be instantly re-organized and increased by the addition of 100,000 men. The necessary orders have already been given. —Offers of regiments already raised are being made and accepted with such rapidity as to ensure that this will be accomplished within a few days. Large reinforcements from various directions are already on their way to Washington, orders having been telegraphed for them yesterday while the battle was in progress. The Government entertains no apprehensions whatever for the safety of the Capital. Preparations not only for defensive but also for the speedy renewal of offensive operations are going on vigorously. General McDowell has returned to his head-quarters at Arlington Heights. The regiments composing his army are resuming their positions. Most of them have already done so.—Baltimore American,
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[farmersdaughter]

July 23, 1861

—All classes of citizens of Virginia are called upon to contribute their quota of forage for Beauregard’s army, and with those who are forgetful of their obligations, the general says that “constraint must be employed.”— (Doc. 115.)

—The Missouri State Convention, in session at Jefferson City, passed a resolution this morning, by a vote of 65 to 21, declaring the office of President, held by Gen. Sterling Price at the last session of the Convention, as vacant. Gen. Robert Wilson, the former Vice-President, was unanimously elected President. He is a Union man.—A motion was made to declare the office of doorkeeper vacant, as the present incumbent was elected as a Union man, but has since been editing a secession paper.—Uriel Wright made a violent disunion speech, denouncing the Administration as revolutionary, desperate, and usurping unwarrantable powers, and denouncing the Union leaders at St. Louis and the State. The matter was referred to a committee of three. —A committee of seven—one from each Congressional district—was elected, whose duty it is to report to the Convention what action they deem it advisable to take in the present disturbed condition of the State. The following gentlemen were elected, all being Union men, from the seven Congressional districts : Messrs. Broadhead, Henderson, W. P. Hall, W. Douglas, Hendricks, and Bogy.—Philadelphia Press, May 21.

—Lieutenant-governor Arnold of Rhode Island issued a proclamation, paying a tribute to the dead soldiers of that State and calling for the enlistment of more men.—A large and spirited meeting was held this morning in Market Square, Providence, to express the determination of Rhode Island, to redouble its exertions in support of the Government. Mayor Knight presided, and eloquent speeches were made by Hon. L. A. Jenckes, Rev. Dr. Sears, Hon. C. A. Updyke, Bishop Clark, Rev. Dr. Caswell, Bishop McFarland, A. Payne, Governor Hoppin, Hon. Thos. Davis, P. A. Sennott, Dr. Wayland, ex-Mayor Rodman, Rev. Dr. Hall, Rev. Mr. Keyers, and Governor Arnold. -{Doe. 11C.)

—Tns Third and Fourth Regiments of Massachusetts Volunteers, who have been on duty at Fortress Monroe, Va., returned to Boston.— N. Y. Times, July 24.

—Major General McClellan, under instructions from the War Department at Washington, this morning left Beverly, Va., to assume the command of the Federal forces on the Potomac in Virginia, his departure was announced in the following order:—

__________

Headquarters Department of the Ohio
and Western Virginia,
Beverly, July 22, 1861

In compliance with instructions which have been received from the War Department, the undersigned hereby relinquishes the command of the army of occupation of Western Virginia and the Department of Ohio. The same devolves upon Brigadier-General Rosecrans, United States Army.

Geo. B. McClellan, Major-General.

(illegible) Williams, Major and Act. Asst. Adjutant-General.

—Cincinnati Gazette, July 25.

__________

—Caleb Lyon of Lyonsdale, presented to Mrs. Lincoln at Washington, a finely-wrought silk flag captured by the Zouaves from a Louisiana Regiment. The flag was 6 or 7 feet long, ln the union was an embroidered cotton bale, with the name of the regiment—”Tensas Rifles.” —Louisville Journal, July 26.

—General Banks requested the Massachusetts Sixth Regiment, at the Relay House, whoso time had expired, to remain in the service ten days longer, and the regiment, as one man, cheerfully acceded to his request. Among the first to go to the defence of their country’s honor, the gallant Sixth will be the last to leave the post of danger or of duty while their country needs their aid. All honor to them!—National Intelligencer, July 20.

—The First Regiment of the Excelsior Brigade, N. Y. S. V., under the command of Col. Daniel E. Sickles, left Staten Island, N. Y., for the seat of war.—N. Y. Times, July 23.

—The Twelfth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers under the command of Colonel Fletcher Webster, left Boston to-night for the seat of war. The streets along their line of march were densely thronged. It was the occasion of the greatest demonstration since the reception of Daniel Webster, in 1832.—Boston Transcript, July 24.

—The Twenty-Third Regiment of Pennsylvania State Militia returned to Philadelphia from the seat of war, their term of enlistment having expired on the 21st. The regiment is composed entirely of citizens of Philadelphia.— Philadelphia Press, July 24.

—Doctor Belt of Prince Georges County, Maryland, was arrested at Washington, D. C, on a charge of uttering treasonable language against the Government, he would have been hung by the mob, but for the active interference of army cavalry officers, a squad of whom assisted in taking him to jail. Henry Banon, and J. D. Catlin of Georgetown, were also arrested and jailed on a charge of conspiring against the Government.—National Intelligencer, July 24.

—Much severity is displayed against General Patterson, for not continuing the pursuit of the rebel General Johnston, and preventing his junction with General Beauregard at Manassas. General Patterson, in a letter from Harper’s Ferry, says :—”General Johnston retreated to Winchester, whore he had thrown up extensive intrenchments and had a large number of heavy guns. I could have turned his position and attacked him in the rear, but he had received largo reinforcements from Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, a total force of over thirty-five thousand Confederate troops, and five thousand Virginia Militia. My force is less than twenty thousand, nineteen regiments, whose term of service was up or will be within a week. All refused to stay one hour over their time, but four, viz.: two Indiana Regiments, Frank Jarrett’s, (the Eleventh Pennsylvania,) and Owen’s, (the Twenty-Fourth Pennsylvania.) Five regiments have gone home. Two more go to-day, and three more to-morrow. To avoid being cut off with the remainder, I fell back and occupied this place.
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[farmersdaughter]

July 24, 1861

—The Richmond (Va.) Whig of today contains the following:—” The Devoted Band.”—The shortest path to peace is that which carries havoc and desolation to our invaders. It is believed that there are five or ten thousand men in the South ready and willing to share the fate of Curtius and devote themselves to the salvation of their country. It is proposed that all who are willing to make this sacrifice, shall arm themselves with a sword, two five shooters, and a carbine each, and meet on horseback at some place to be designated, convenient for the great work in hand. Fire and sword must be carried to the houses of those who are visiting those blessings upon their neighbors. Philadelphia, and even New York, is not beyond the reach of a long and brave arm. The moral people of these cities cannot be better taught the virtues of invasion than by the blazing light of their own dwellings.

None need apply for admission to “the Devoted Band ” but those who are prepared to take their life in their hand, and who would indulge not the least expectation of ever returning. They dedicate their lives to the destruction of their enemies!

A. S. B. D. B., Richmond.

All southern papers are requested to give this notice a few insertions.

—The Seventh Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanded by Colonel E. B. Harvey, arrived at Washington, D. C. The Regiment numbers 1,046 young and intelligent members.—Philadelphia Press, July 25.

—An expedition of 300 men under Lieut. Crosby, U. S. A., left Fortress Monroe to reconnoitre in Back River, Va., where it burned nine sloops and schooners, and made prize one schooner laden with bacon and corn.—N. Y. Times, July 27.

—This day the loyal citizens of Baltimore, Md., presented an American flag to the Massachusetts Eighth Regiment. The flag, which is of the richest banner silk, was presented in an eloquent and apropriate speech by Perley Lovejoy, Esq., which was responded to by Colonel Hinks, who alluded to the many kind friends the regiment had made in the city of Baltimore.—Baltimore American, July 25.

—Heavy offers of men were made to the Government by telegraph from all parts of the North. From Illinois, 17, and from Indiana, 10 regiments were offered. By noon of this day 80,000 men had been accepted.—An order was issued by General Mansfield directing all straggling soldiers to join their respective regiments without delay, and warning that all stragglers found in the streets six hours after the promulgation of the order, would be deemed guilty of disobedience of orders, and would be arrested. —N. Y. Herald, July 25.

—The Third Regiment of Vermont Volunteers, commanded by Colonel W. N. Smith, left St. Johnsbury, Vt., for the seat of war.—N. Y. Commercial, July 25.

—John Bradley, a young man studying for the ministry, son of a wealthy citizen, and Columbus Bradley were arrested this evening, at Alexandria, Va., by the Provost Marshal, as spies taking information to Manassas.—Louisville Journal, July 26.

—First Lieutenant Luigi Vizia, an Italian officer of the engineer department who has been many years in the military service, and who served with credit in the glorious campaign of Italian liberation of Italy, arrived at New York, to offer his services to the American Government. On his way to America he fell in with an agent of the rebel Government who attempted to persuade him to take service under that Government, and offered to pay his passage.— N. Y. Evening Post, July 26.

—The ladies of Harper’s Ferry, Va., presented a Union flag to the Second Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers to-day, with appropriate ceremonies.—Boston Advertiser,
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[farmersdaughter]

July 25 1861

—In the Missouri State Convention, in session at Jefferson City, this morning, Mr. Broadhead, from the Committee of seven, presented the report of the Committee. The report alludes at length to the present unparalleled condition of things, the reckless course of the recent Government, and flight of the Governor and other State officers from the Capital. It declares the offices of Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, and Secretary of State vacant, and provides that their vacancies shall be filled by the Convention, the officers so appointed to hold their positions till August, 1862, at which time it provides for a special election by the people. It repeals the ninth section of the sixth article of the Constitution, and provides that the Supreme Court of the State shall consist of seven members; and that four members, in addition to the three now comprising the Court, shall be appointed by the Governor chosen by this Convention to hold office till 1862, when the people will decide whether the change shall be permanent. It abolishes the State Legislature, and ordains that in case before the 1st of August, 1862, the Governor chosen by this Convention shall consider that the public exigencies demand, he shall order a special election for members of the State Legislature. It recommends the passage of an ordinance repealing the following bills, passed by the Legislature, in secret session, in May last: The military fund bill, the bill to suspend the distribution of the school fund, and the bill for cultivating friendly relations with the Indian tribes. It repeals the bill authorizing the appointment of one Major of the Missouri Militia, and revives the militia law of 1859.

A resolution was also passed that a Committee of seven be appointed by the President to prepare an address to the people of the State of Missouri.—Missouri Republican, July 26.

—A meeting of the Charleston Presbytery was held at Columbia, S. C., at which a preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted, dissolving the ecclesiastical relations existing between that Presbytery and the Presbyterian Church of the United States, and declaring the necessity of an independent organization of churches in the South.—(Doc. 118.)

—Is general orders of this date, General Rosecrans assumed command of the “Army of Occupation of Western Virginia,” lately commanded by General McClellan.—(Doc. 119.)

—General Cox occupied Charleston on the Kanawha, the rebels retreating and burning the bridges. A rebel steamer was abandoned and burned. It is supposed the rebels will be met by Colonel Rosecrans’ column, sent out some days ago to intercept their retreat.—N. Y. Times, July 21.—(Doc. 119½.)

—In the Senate of the United States, Andrew Johnson, of Tennessee, moved a resolution, stating that the present civil war was forced on the country by disunionists in the Southern States, who are now in rebellion against the Constitutional Government; that in this emergency Congress, banishing all passion and resentment, will only recollect its duty to the whole country, and that the war was not waged with any spirit of oppression or subjugation, or any purpose of overthrowing the institutions of the States, but to maintain and defend the supremacy of the Constitution and laws, and as soon as this is accomplished, the war ought to cease.

Mr. Polk, of Missouri, moved to amend the resolution so as to read “that the present civil war has been forced on the country by the disunionists in the Northern and Southern States,” and to strike out what is said about being in arms against the Government. The amendment was disagreed to by yeas four, nays thirty-three.

Mr. Breckinridge, of Kentucky, and others spoke on the resolution, which was finally carried by yeas thirty, nays five.—(Doc. 120.)

—A General order was issued from the War Department at Washington, defining the extent of the new command of General McClellan.— (Doc. 121.)

—A Letter from Pensacola, Florida, gives what purports to be a digest of Admiral Milne’s Report to the British Government upon the United States blockade of rebel ports.—(Doc. 122.)

—General McClellan passed through Philadelphia, on his way to Washington, to take command of the Army of the Potomac. In answer to the calls of the people, he made the following short but pertinent speech : “My friends and old townsmen, I thank you for your reception, and might reply, if this were not a time for action, and not for speech. Your applause, as I take it, is intended for my brave soldiers in Western Virginia. I am going to fulfil new duties, and I trust that your kindness will give me courage and strength. Good-bye.” —Philadelphia Press, July 26.

—The Seventeenth Regiment of Pennsylvania Militia, Colonel Francis E. Patterson, commanding, returned to Philadelphia, from the seat of war at Harper’s Ferry, Va.—Philadelphia Inquirer, July 26.

—Several of the Potomac fleet arrived at Washington to-day. Among them is the Resolute, which has been absent several days on an expedition across Chesapeake bay, and until her appearance to-day, it was thought she had been captured by the rebels. Important discoveries were made by Lieutenant Budd during her cruise. It was ascertained that the rebels are organizing large forces on the eastern shores of Virginia, and that a large amount of provisions and army stores are carried there across the bay into the Rappahannock and York rivers, and thence transported by way of Fredericksburg, and by the Richmond & York River Railroad to the rebel army on the Potomac. These supplies are introduced into Accomac Co. by two routes. They are brought from New York, around Piney Island, into Chingoteague inlet on the Atlantic side, and from Baltimore into the Pokomoke river on the Chesapeake side, and the whole of the lower part of Somerset Co., Maryland. The rebels are said to be actually swarming there. A stage line is running from Princess Anne through Newtown, across the line to Horntown, Virginia, by which the recruits for the rebel forces pass into Virginia. They and the supplies from New York and Baltimore are transported at night by small vessels, across the bay, into the Rappahannock and York rivers, the blockade of which for some unaccountable reason has been abandoned. The vessels carrying these supplies leave ports as coasters for Maryland, and manage to land their cargoes just below the Maryland line.

The rebels have erected batteries on either side of Onancock, between that and Pontegan on one side, and between Onancock and Chesconnessy on the other. A rebel picket guard is maintained at the mouth of the Onancock creek. Opposite to the month of this creek on the Chesapeake bay is Tangier Island, upon which there are about 800 Union men, comprising the whole adult male population, with one exception. At Watt’s Island, where there is a light house, the people are also Union. These people are in continual fear and in danger from the rebels on the eastern shore of Virginia.

The Resolute brought up three prizes—the schooners Artist and McCabe, and the sloop Chesapeake, which had been engaged in the transportation of men and supplies to the eastern shore of Virginia. The Artist is a neat first-class sailing craft, and it is believed that she was about to be converted into a rebel privateer.—N. Y. Times, July 20.

—The Sixth Indiana Regiment of State Militia, under the command of Colonel Crittenden, returned to Indianapolis from the seat of war. The troops were welcomed home in short and patriotic speeches by Governor Morton and Mayor Coburn.—Louisville Journal, July 26.

—Governor Morgan of New York issued a proclamation, in accordance with the request of President Lincoln, calling for twenty-five thousand men to serve for three years or during the war.—(Doc. 123.)

—Private G. W. Fox, a member of the Twenty-fourth Regiment of New York, was shot by the rebels, while performing picket duty near Ball’s Cross Roads, Va. He died soon after.—N. Y. Evening Post, July 26.

—General McClellan arrived at Washington, from Western Virginia.—Philip Kearney of Newark, N. J., was appointed Brigadier-General in the Federal army.—General Fremont arrived at St. Louis, Mo., this morning, and made his head-quarters at the residence of the late Colonel Brant.—The Fourteenth Regiment of Ohio State Militia returned to Toledo from Western Virginia, their term of enlistment having expired.—The Tenth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers, under the command of Colonel Henry I. Briggs, embarked from Boston for Washington.—N. T. Times, July 26.

—General Banks arrived at Harper’s Ferry and assumed command of the army lately under Gen. Patterson, who left the same day.—(Doc. 124.)

—Kentuckians who have escaped from Pensacola and arrived at Louisville, Ky., say there are only about 6,000 Confederate troops at Fort Pickens, and that they are miserably fed and clothed, and have received no pay since March. Large numbers had died of typhoid fever. There have been many deserters, and almost the entire force are disgusted, and would return home if they could get away.—Louisville Journal, July 26.

—The rebels are putting the city of Memphis, Tenn., in a state of complete defence. The Appeal published in that city says:—The city proper is about to be put in trim for welcoming uninvited visitors to stay “till Gabriel blows his horn.” The bluff is to be protected by breastworks of cotton. Yesterday the bluff between Court and Adams streets was lined with bales. Each of the streets of the city, with the exception of Madison and Jefferson, is to be thus barricaded. The superintendence of the construction of these defences has been intrusted by Gen. Pillow to Messrs. E. M. Apperson and John Martin, esqs. With breastworks on the bluff and breastworks in the streets, Memphis will be in war trim.—N. Y. World, July 27.

—Captain Robert Garland and First Lieutenant Edward J. Brooks, Seventh Infantry, having given evidence of disloyalty, were dropped from the rolls of the Federal army. First Lieutenant James Leshler, Tenth Infantry, having overstayed his leave of absence, and failed to report to the Commanding Officer of the Department of the West, was dropped from the rolls of the army.—Army General Orders No. 47.

—Robert Toombs of Georgia tendered to the President his resignation of the Secretaryship of State of the Southern Confederacy, and it was accepted. The President nominated to Congress R. M. T. Hunter, of Virginia, for this office, and that body confirmed the nomination. Thus that distinguished post has lost the services of one of the ablest men in the Confederacy, only to be filled by another occupant equally as able in intellect and statesmanship. Mr. Toombs was of a temper to prefer the active duties of a soldier, in such a crisis as the present, to the monotony of an office, which, for the present, is little more than nominal; and we are glad to learn that the President has acknowledged his distinguished claims upon the confidence of the country by nominating him as a Brigadier-General in the Confederate army. Virginia’s position in the Confederacy has been acknowledged by assigning to one of her statesmen the highest post in the Confederate Cabinet Mr. Hunter is so well known to the country that it would be supererogatory to dwell upon the qualities of mind and character which fit him so eminently for the post to which he has been called. It would be difficult to define an instance in which the trite phrase of speech so justly applies—”The right man in the right place.”—Richmond Dispatch, July 26.

—A Convention of the principal banking corporations in the seceded States was held at Richmond. During the session C. G. Memminger briefly addressed the Convention, expressing his gratification, and that of the Confederate Government, at the liberal manner in which the Banks responded to the call of the Government, and offered several valuable suggestions for the consideration of the Convention. A report was adopted recommending that one hundred millions of dollars in Confederate notes should be put in circulation by the Government; that the people and banks should take them as if specie, and that the interest on larger bills should he at the rate of 7 3-10 per cent, per annum. Notes of the denomination of $5, $10, $20, in the opinion of the Committee, ought not to bear any interest; these would more appropriately perform the functions of a currency; and they are of opinion that the larger notes, such as $50 and $100, would be largely taken up by a patriotic class of citizens, who are not in the practice of making such investments. These notes would pass into their hands in the course of business, and they would very soon discover the advantage as well as the merit of thus contributing their aid in support of the Government of their choice and of their affections.— (Doc. 125.)

—The Charleston Mercury of to-day states that Washington has slipped through the fingers of the rebels merely for want of an adequate number of troops. It says:

“So weak have we been on the Potomac that until recently it was deemed almost criminal to tell the truth to the people of the South, because the knowledge of the truth transmitted to the North might have exposed our forces to annihilation from the overwhelming force about Washington.”

It anticipates another battle immediately, of greater magnitude, and calls upon the rebel States to gird up their loins for the renewal of the conflict.

—The Legislature of Mississippi assembled at Jacksonville, and received the message of Governor Pettus, who congratulated their body on the “prosperous and successful revolution, inaugurated last Fall,” and assured them success in the future.—
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[farmersdaughter]

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Crittenden-Johnson Resolution

The Crittenden-Johnson Resolution (also called the Crittenden Resolution) was passed by the United States Congress on July 25, 1861 after the start of the American Civil War, which began on April 12, 1861.

It should not be confused with the "Crittenden Compromise," a series of unsuccessful proposals debated after slave states began seceding from the Union in an attempt to prevent the South from leaving the Union.

Historical Context

During the war, President Abraham Lincoln was concerned that the slave states of Missouri, Kentucky, and Maryland in the crucial upper south might leave the Union to join the Confederate States of America. If Maryland were lost, Washington, D.C. would be entirely surrounded by Confederate territory. Both Missouri and Kentucky were slave states of questionable loyalty to the Union that bordered on important Union territory; Lincoln was born in Kentucky and losing his birth state would be seen as a political failure. Also, the Ohio River marks the northern border of Kentucky and this strategically important waterway was the economic lifeline of Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana; each of these states had to ship goods down this river down to the Mississippi River. Delaware (the other slave state that remained in the Union) had so few slaves that its loyalty would not be questioned.

Meaning and Context

Specifically, the resolution stated that the war was being waged for the reunion of the states, and not to abolish the south's "peculiar institution" of slavery. The resolution required the Union Government to take no actions against institution of slavery. It was named for Representative John J. Crittenden of Kentucky and Senator Andrew Johnson of Tennessee (who was later to become President).

The war was fought not for "overthrowing or interfering with the rights or established institutions of those States," but to "defend and maintain the supremacy of the Constitution and to preserve the Union." The war would end when the seceding states returned to the Union with slavery being intact.

Two congressmen voted against the measure. Thaddeus Stevens secured its repeal in December 1861.

The Corwin Amendment (CONG. GLOBE, 36th Cong. 2d Sess. 1364 (1861)), however, which attempted to constitutionalize slavery, was adopted by the necessary two-thirds in both Houses and actually submitted to the states for ratification. It was ratified by three states before the war pre-empted the debate.
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[farmersdaughter]

July 26, 1861

—The Eighth and Seventy-first Regiments N. Y. S. M., returned to New York this afternoon, and met with an enthusiastic reception. Broadway was thronged, and vociferous cheers greeted them at every crossing.—N. Y. Times, July 27.

—In the Mississippi Legislature Mr. Harrison presented a series of resolutions, expressing the gratitude of the Senate of that State in the late brilliant achievement by the Confederate arms on the battle-field at Bull Run, which being amended by Mr. Drane, were adopted.— (Doc. 126.)

—A fight occurred at Lane’s Prairie, fifteen miles from Rolla, Mo., between a party of sixty-five rebels, and fifteen Home Guards from Rolla. The Guards were surrounded, but they made a determined stand, and after a few volleys dispersed the rebels, killing their first lieutenant and mortally wounding three others. One lieutenant and two privates on the National side were slightly wounded.—N. Y. Times, July 30.

—The Fourth Regiment of New Jersey Militia, and the First Regiment of Rhode Island, left Washington on their return from service.— Phila. Press, July 27.

—Since the disaster to the national arms on Sunday last at Bull Run, the State of Pennsylvania has thrown forward, to meet the requirements of the National Government, ten full regiments of infantry. On Sunday night, July 21st, the Governor was urgently requested to push on his forces, and his response within the ensuing four days was a magnificent army of nearly 11,000 picked men, thoroughly uniformed and furnished, and having most of them been regularly drilled in camps of instruction for two months.

Great pains have been bestowed by the State authorities upon this fine army. It has been organized under the supervision of George A. McCall, long an officer in the regular army, through all the grades of which he has passed with distinction to the rank he now holds in it of Brigadier-general. The State has also an artillery regiment and a regiment of twelve hundred cavalry nearly ready for service, both of which have been accepted by the Secretary of War. To the foresight and wise energy of Governor Curtin is chiefly owing the ability of the State to contribute so promptly and efficiently to the national safety in the present emergency.—Philadelphia Pres, July 27.

—To-day, in Virginia, Col. McLeod Murphy captured three rebels in uniform, while out scouting on his own account. He saw three of them getting water, while their arms were leaning against a tree but a few feet off. Col. Murphy rode up, and, without firing his revolver, collared the crowd and brought them into camp.—N. Y. World, July 27.

—The Second Regiment of Georgia volunteers from Savannah, passed through Charleston, S. C., on their way to Virginia.—Charleston Mercury, July 27.

—Brevet Second Lieut. Clarence Derrick, of the Engineer Corps, Brevet Second Lieut. Jas. P. Parker, Fourth Infantry, and Brevet Second Lieut. Frank A. Reynolds, having resigned just after graduating from West Point a few weeks since, were dismissed from the service of the United States.—Philadelphia Inquirer, July 27.

James H. Otey, Bishop of Tennessee, issued a pastoral letter to the clergy of the Protestant Episcopal Church in his diocese, promulgating a prayer and service to be used on the Sunday preceding the day of thanksgiving fixed by the “Confederate Congress,” and suggesting to the clergy that in the prayer for the President of the United States, and in the prayer for Congress also, the words “United States” be omitted, and the words “Confederate States” be substituted in both places.—(Doc. 127.)

—A Correspondent at Fortress Monroe, Va., in a letter of this date, says: It became apparent, early last evening, that the rebels meditated an attack on Hampton. Gen. Butler determined to abandon the town in case of a formidable advance, and at seven o’clock the order was given for families and goods to be removed. Within one hour, orders were also issued to burn the town rather than have it fall into the hands of the enemy. The General well understands that the possession of Hampton by the rebels will be of no particular importance.

A stampede of the colored population took place all night, and to-day the road has been lined with refugees to the fortress, and army wagons, and carts bringing in goods from Hampton. The road has presented a most remarkable appearance; nearly 1,000 contraband men, women, and children must have come in during the last twenty-four hours.—N. Y. Times
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[farmersdaughter]

July 27 1861

—Major-General Robert Patterson of the Pennsylvania Volunteers, was honorably discharged from the service of the United States.—(Doc. 106.)

—The Odd Fellows’ Hall, jail, and four other buildings in Hampton, Va., were burned by the national troops in apprehension of an immediate attack by the secessionists.—N. Y. Times, July 30.

—In Confederate Congress, at Richmond, Va., documents were read which show the cause of the late flag of truce from the Confederate lines to Washington. One of these was a letter from Davis to President Lincoln, with the threat of retaliation if the privateersmen taken from the Savannah should be hanged.—(Doc. 128.)

—The Sixty-ninth Regiment N. Y. 8. M., arrived in New York from the seat of war.— N. Y. Express, July 27.

—Senator Johnson, of Tennessee, spoke in the Senate in favor of the joint resolution to approve the acts of the President.—
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[farmersdaughter]

July 28, 1861

—At Savannah, Ga., the funeral obsequies of Gen. Francis S. Bartow, who was killed at the battle of Bull Run, were celebrated to-day in most imposing style. There was an immense military and civic procession, comprising all the companies in the city, with detachments from the several garrisons of the neighboring forts and batteries. The cortége started from Christ Church, where an eloquent funeral sermon was preached by Bishop Elliott. The entire population of the city was present, and manifested the deepest sorrow. The bells were tolled and minute guns were fired during the march of the column. A salute of three rounds was fired by the infantry and artillery over the grave.—Charleston Mercury, July 29.

—Last night the steamer W. I. Maclay, Capt. Conway, bound from Cincinnati for St. Louis, M . was fired into at Cape Girardeau. The Maclay had landed at Cape Girardeau to discharge freight and passengers, and had no trouble whatever with any person or persons at that place. It was late at night, and very few people were seen. The officers discovered a number of tents, presenting the appearance of a camp, above the town. Soon after the boat had left the wharf to continue her trip to St. Louis, between two and three hundred shots were fired at her from shore. The shots took effect in the texas, pilot-house, and hurricane roof, some of them entering a lot of empty barrels on the roof. Two or three shots passed through the bulkheading of the texas, and one of them took effect in the head of the cook, who was asleep in his berth. It struck him on the left temple and passed around the skull, making a severe flesh wound. Another passed through the leg of a cabin boy, in the same apartment. No other damage was done to either the crew or passengers. Among the latter were about fifty soldiers, belonging to one of the Illinois regiments at Cairo, on their way home.—St. Louis Republican, July 30.

—The privateer Gordon, of Charleston, S. C., captured and carried into Hatteras Inlet the brig McGillery, of Bangor, Me., and the schooner Protector, from Cuba for Philadelphia. The privateer Mariner also captured a schooner, and the York captured the brig D. S. Martin, of Boston, Mass., with a cargo of machinery.—N. O. Delta, Aug. 1.

—A Detachment of two companies of Col. Mulligan’s regiment and three companies of the Home Guards sent to Hickory Hill, near Mount Pleasant, in Cole County, Mo., were fired on from an ambush near that place, but no one was hit. Col. Mulligan’s men captured twenty-eight rebels, among them two captains of Jackson’s forces; also, forty horses and two teams. —National Intelligencer, July 31.

—A Flag of truce came into Newport News, Va., this morning, with a proposition giving the national troops twenty-four hours to leave, and announcing that in case the place was not vacated they would force them out. The gunboat Dale, of twenty guns, at once went up from Old Point. The Albatross and Penguin were also stationed there, while the Minnesota and seven gunboats at Old Point are ready to assist should Newport News really be attacked. —Baltimore American, July 29.

—Thanksgiving Day was celebrated in the “Confederate” States, “for the success of our arms and the deliverance of our homes from the menacing hordes that have hung upon our borders like wolves upon the outskirts of the forest. We are pleased to be able to state that the day was generally observed in Memphis in accordance with the spirit of the resolution, and we believe that every pulpit echoed the thankfulness that fills the public heart”—Memphis (Tenn.) Appeal, July 30.
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[farmersdaughter]

July 29 1861

—An engagement took place at Aquia Creek, Va., to-day. Four vessels of the Potomac flotilla opened the attack by firing shot and shell at a new battery which had been erected by the rebels. Several of the shells fell and exploded into a camp of rebels near the battery. The rebels returned the fire with considerable vigor from rifled cannon, but caused little damage, as their range was too high. The engagement lasted three hours, during which time the flotilla was struck but by one shot, which, however, inflicted no personal injury.— N. Y, Commercial Advertiser, July 31.

—Captain Wm. P. Allen, of the Eleventh Massachusetts Regiment, E. P. Doherty, of the New York Seventy-first, and Orlando Waldorf, Second Wisconsin, arrived in Washington city, having escaped from Sudley Church, Va., where they were detained as prisoners. The sentinel fell asleep, and they leaped from a window and escaped to the woods. They reached the Potomac, which they forded, fourteen miles above Washington.—N. Y. World, July 30.

—The Memphis Appeal, in urging planters to keep their cotton at home, says: “Should the usual quantity be brought to Memphis—say 400,000 bales—and be stored in our warehouses this fall, the temptation for the enemy to essay its capture would be extremely great, particularly as cotton will be very scarce at the North next winter. It would be tantamount, indeed, to offering $20,000,000 for invasion of the Mississippi Valley, and for a successful invasion against Memphis.”—N. Y. World, July 31.

—The House of Representatives, at Washington, refused to entertain a motion of Mr. Cox (Ohio) to appoint a Committee of Conference to report on amendments to the Constitution of the United States, with a view to the reconstruction of the Union.—(Doc. 130.)

—The first regiment of the Polish Brigade, under Col. Sulakowski, left New Orleans to-day for Virginia. The second regiment of the brigade is rapidly filling up, and will be in Virginia long before Lincoln, Scott & Co. make their second attempt to dine in Richmond, where Gen. Tochman now is drawing up his share of the bill of fare which the Polish Brigade intend serving up.—N. O. Crescent, July 29.

—A large meeting was held at the Merchants Exchange, in New Orleans, to make arrangements for the relief of the soldiers wounded at Manassas. Gen. W. A. Elmore presided, and Rev. Dr. Palmer spoke. Among other things he said that he did not believe this would be a protracted war. Protracted wars did not prevail among the great civilized nations of the earth, but only among barbarians. Such a war would bankrupt any nation in one year. Even England, in the war of the Crimea, found herself pressed and worried to the extreme in furnishing her army with supplies. For what duration of time could the North hope to sustain 400,000 men? As to the issue, the enemy might as well throw their millions into the rivers as to expect to subjugate us. Our cotton gave us immense power. The millions of Europe depended on it for their bread. As for the blockade, we laughed it to scorn. This war must soon terminate, or the civilized nations of Europe must become engaged in it; and he predicted our independence would be acknowledged before the first day of next year. But we would carry on this war until that end was accomplished. He alluded to a meeting at the New York Tabernacle, at which it was declared that the war should not end until Slavery was driven from our soil! But he felt it must continue until every nation on earth should recognize our independence and our institutions. He spoke of the imbecility, usurpation, and tyranny of Lincoln—unparalleled since the days of Charles I. He would have said that the North was almost unanimously against us, if he had not heard Vallandigham’s voice. (Tremendous cheering.) But he felt there were many brave men at the North, who strongly sympathized with our cause. He felt the certain success of our cause, because right and truth were on our side. Not till the crush of worlds would our country be subjugated.

A series of resolutions were adopted, of which the following is the first:

1. That we recognize in these victories on the side of liberty, against tyranny and oppression, the hand of the same just and righteous God who guided the armies of the country when lead by Washington in defence of its liberty ; that our hearts are filled with gratitude to the most high and mighty Ruler of the Universe for that signal interposition on our behalf, manifested in the strength and courage given to our soldiers and the terror which seized upon our enemies..—N. Y. Times, August 6.

—Brigadier General Cox in a message to Governor Pierpont dated this day at Gauley, Va., says: “The Kanawha Valley is now free from the rebel troops. Most of the forces raised by Wise in this valley left him between Charleston and this place. I had sent them assurances that if they laid down their arms they might go quietly to their homes, and many have done so, asserting that they were cheated into the rebel service. I regret to have to say that Wise in his retreat has burned a number of valuable bridges, and carried off most of the wagons and teams belonging to the people of the valley. All parties denounce him for his vandalism. I congratulate you on the success of this expedition.”—Baltimore American,
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[IPorange]

Boy, the Southerners were some arrogant bastards.

 

[farmersdaughter]

July 30 1861


July 30.—Senator Trumbull of Ohio spoke in the Senate of the United States on the Bill to suppress insurrection, and favored the approval of what had been done by the President before Congress assembled as done by the legal representative of the nation in the nation’s defence. Senator Carlile spoke against the 8th section of the bill which empowers military commanders to discharge from custody prisoners who take the oath of allegiance.—(Doc. 131.)

—The Thirteenth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers, under the command of Colonel Samuel H. Leonard, passed through New York, on their route for Harper’s Ferry, Va. The regiment numbers one thousand and eleven men, and is armed with the Enfield rifle. While on their march through the city, the troops sung several martial airs, the stanza of one of them commencing:

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We’ll hang Jeff. Davis on a Palmetto tree,
Glory hallelujah! Glory hallelujah!

And the Union then will be great and free,
Glory hallelujah! Glory hallelujah!

—New York World, July 31.

—General B. F. Butler wrote another interesting letter to the Secretary of War on the subject of the “contraband.”—(Doc. 132.)

—The Fifth Regiment of Connecticut Volunteers passed though New York en route for Washington, by the way of Harrisburg, Pa. It is commanded by Colonel O. S. Terry, of Norwalk, and is splendidly equipped.

—The Thirteenth Regiment of Brooklyn, N. Y. S. M., returned from Annapolis, Md., its term of service having expired on the 23d instant. —N. Y. World, July 31.

—Fredericka W. Lander was this morning appointed a brigadier-general by the President of the United States. He has command of the Rhode Island and part of the Massachusetts regiments. This appointment was made at the earnest recommendations of Gen. McClellan, Gov. Sprague of Rhode Island, and Senator Carlile of Virginia.

—Six Government clerks in the departments at Washington, resigned to-day, owing to the passage of the Virginia ordinance, providing that any citizen of that Commonwealth holding any office under the Government of the United States after to-morrow shall be forever banished from that State, and is declared an alien and enemy; and further, any citizen who may hereafter undertake to represent the State in the Congress of the United States, in addition to the penalties above presented, shall be deemed guilty of treason and his property confiscated, to the use of the State.—(Doc. 135.)

—The Fifth Regiment of Massachusetts Militia returned to Boston from the seat of war, its time of service having expired. Delegations of military, firemen, and civic authorities from adjoining towns, which had furnished companies to the gallant 5th, were waiting during the forenoon for their arrival, and Boston poured out its thousands to greet and welcome them home. After partaking of a bountiful collation on the Common, prepared by the City Government, the regiment was mustered out of service, and the companies soon after started, under an escort of their towns-people, for their homes. Three contrabands came with the regiment; two men and a woman.

At Bull Run the regiment lost 25 killed, 26 wounded, and 5 missing. The national flag borne by this regiment bears marks of hard usage. The eagle is missing from the staff, and there are three holes in the flag, two made by bullets, and one by a fragment of a shell. This flag, at the beginning of the fight, was borne by the color-bearer, Lawrence, who was shot dead, receiving two musket balls in his breast. The bearer of the Massachusetts flag, G. W. Wallace, of the Haverhill company, was at his side, and seizing the national flag as it fell from Lawrence’s hand, he for a time bore both, but at length the last-named was taken by the Sergeant-Major of the regiment, and was retained by him. The story that it was left on the field at any time is false.—N. Y. Tribune, July 31.

—To-day an order was issued by Gen. McClellan prohibiting officers or soldiers from leaving their camps or quarters except upon important public or private business, and then not without written permission from the commander of the brigade of which they may be a part.—(Doc. 136.)

—In the United States Senate the resolution legalizing certain acts of the President being under consideration, Mr. Pearce, of Maryland, spoke in opposition thereto.—The bill to suppress insurrection and sedition was taken up, and after some discussion was postponed.— Baltimore American, July 31.

—Five companies of the First Regiment of Nebraska Volunteers, Col. Shager commanding, left Omaha, on the steamer West Wind this morning, for St. Joseph, Mo. They took two pieces of cannon with them.—N. Y. Tribune, August 1.

—The following order was made by the Post-Office Department for the execution of the law respecting soldiers’ letters:

“Postmasters at or near any camp or point occupied by the United States forces will mail without prepayment of postage any letter written by a soldier in the service of the United States and certified to be such by the Major or Acting Major of the regiment to which the writer is attached. The envelope should have plainly stamped or written on its face the certificate ‘Soldier’s letter,’ signed in writing by the Major or Acting Major of the regiment, describing his regiment by its number and its State. The postage due on such letters will be collected at the office of delivery. Commissioned officers will prepay their postage as heretofore.

John A. Kasson,

“First Assistant Postmaster-General.
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