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Thursday, July 29, 2021

William Preston Smith to L. M. Cole, October 18, 1859—12 a.m.

Harper's Ferry, October 18, 1859,
12 midnight.
To L. M. Cole:

Arrived at Sandy Hook before 11, and car with Col. Lee arrived soon after. Have given telegraph up to reporters, who are in force strong as military. Express east and west will pass bridge at about 2 o'clock. The battle this afternoon, of near one hour's duration, was fought mainly by our tonnage men, from Martinsburg, under Capt. Alburtis, of the late Mexican war. Evan Dorsey, conductor, is killed, conductors Brown and Wollett, are wounded, latter seriously. Squire Beckham our agent was killed instantly on platform near hotel. No damage whatever done our track or bridge. Mr. Hoblitzell goes to Baltimore, on express, and will give you ample particulars.

W. P. SMITH.

SOURCE: B. H. Richardson, Annapolis, Maryland, Publisher, Correspondence Relating to the Insurrection at Harper's Ferry, 17th October, 1859, p. 17

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