Three hundred and fifty new men from West Virginia were
turned into this summer resort this morning. They brought good news as to
successful termination of the war, and they also caused war after coming among
us. As usual the raiders proceeded to rob them of their valuables and a fight
occurred in which hundreds were engaged. The cut throats came out ahead.
Complaints were made to Capt. Wirtz that this thing would be tolera[ted] no
longer, that these raiders must be put down or the men would rise in their
might and break away if assistance was not given with which to preserve order.
Wirtz flew around as if he had never thought of it before, issued an order to
the effect that no more food would be given us until the leaders were arrested
and taken outside for trial. The greatest possible excitement. Hundreds that
have before been neutral and non-commital are now joining a police force.
Captains are appointed to take charge of the squads which have been furnished
with clubs by Wirtz. As I write, this middle of the afternoon, the battle rages.
The police go right to raider headquarters knock right and left and make their
arrests. Sometimes the police are whipped and have to retreat, but they rally
their forces and again make a charge in which they are successful. Can lay in
our shade and see the trouble go on. Must be killing some by the shouting. The
raiders fight for their very life, and are only taken after being thoroughly
whipped. The stockade is loaded with guards who are fearful of a break. I wish
I could describe the scene to-day. A number killed. After each arrest a great
cheering takes place. Night. — Thirty
or forty have been taken outside of the worst characters in camp, and still the
good work goes on. No food to-day and don't want any. A big strapping fellow
called Limber Jim heads the police. Grand old Michael Hoare is at the front and
goes for a raider as quick as he would a rebel. Patrol the camp all the time
and gradually quieting down. The orderly prisoners are feeling jolly.
SOURCE: John L. Ransom, Andersonville Diary, p.
75-6
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