Captain Charles Fessenden Morse, November 30, 1862

November 30, 1862.

I have nothing very new or interesting to write to-day, except about an expedition we made into Virginia last week, which you may like to hear about.

Last Monday night, about nine o'clock, Captain Cogswell took seventy-five men of the regiment and marched quietly up the river about two miles. Captain Robeson and Lieutenant Grafton went with him; hardly any one else knew anything about the expedition. Captain C. had a guide who was thoroughly familiar with the country on the other side of the river. They crossed in three boats, having to make several trips, and proceeded at once to Shepherdstown and posted guards at the principal entrances to the town. Then with the main body, they surrounded two houses pointed out to them by the guide as the headquarters of the rebel scouts. At the door of one of these houses were five cavalry horses ready saddled and bridled; these were immediately taken; a party under Lieutenant Grafton then burst in the door and rushed into the lower rooms; four men were immediately secured; the fifth seized his arms and rushed out a side door. Captain Cogswell, on the outside, saw him and called out for him to surrender; this order was repeated several times, but no attention was paid to it. Captain C. then called to the men to fire on him; two shots were fired; the second hit him and he fell; almost before any one reached him, he was dead. He proved to be Captain Burke, a captain of scouts. He belonged to Stuart's command, and was on that General's staff; he was quite a famous character in this neighborhood, almost as much thought of by the people here as Ashby was by the inhabitants of Warrenton and the Shenandoah Valley.

After taking one more prisoner and a few arms, the party returned safely to this side of the river, arriving in camp between three and four o'clock, A. M. Tuesday noon, an order came for a similar party to go again to Shepherdstown for the purpose of paroling some rebel officers and men supposed to be secreted in the houses there, and to make a further search for papers and arms. This time, I had the good fortune to be detailed for the service, and had command of the infantry, the whole party consisting of seventy-five infantry and about twenty cavalry, Captain Cogswell commanding the whole expedition. We forded the Potomac just below our camp. The water was terribly cold, and between two and three feet deep; the bottom was rough and the stream fast. The river here is about three hundred yards wide; you may be sure there was very little fun fording it. We kept quietly along the Virginia side of the river for a mile, then made a quick turn up the bank and came suddenly on Shepherdstown; the cavalry dashed into the town first and gave chase to a few scouts that were there; but the latter escaped.

When we came up, the people, men, women and children, were all on the streets; they seemed to be in a state of great alarm. We made a rapid search through the principal houses and public buildings, finding quite a number of papers and taking and paroling three commissioned officers and twenty privates. Among the arms that were taken was one very good English double-barrelled gun, which I have kept and shall try to have some sport with, as quail are very numerous in this vicinity and I have made friends with the owner of a very nice setter.

We recrossed the river safely and the men were allowed a good strong whiskey ration to make up for their wetting. They enjoy these expeditions as much as anybody.

The people over there are in a great rage at the death of Burke and swear to be revenged on our regiment. The man who killed him belongs to my company; he is a new recruit, but a very smart one.

Thanksgiving passed off with us very pleasantly. My wine came all right and was very nice. We had a union dinner of all the officers of the regiment. The dinner was very good indeed, plenty of nice poultry, plum pudding, champagne, etc. We couldn't help remembering last year's dinner and the great change in officers since then, but there was very little sadness manifested and we had a very pleasant time. Charley Horton came up from Harper's Ferry and all General Gordon's staff were also with us. My company had a fine dinner I bought for them out of company fund; ten turkeys, six geese and twenty-four chickens and a barrel of cider; they had, besides, as much plum pudding as they could eat.

The chances for furlough have sunk to the lowest point; I don't think now there is hardly a chance for one. Captain Bangs is going to try the experiment of sending an application on to Burnside, but I don't believe it will be noticed. I am, of course, allowed the first chance, but I prefer to wait for about two weeks. General Gordon, you know, has been sent home quite sick; this hurts my chance considerably.

SOURCE: Charles Fessenden Morse, Letters Written During the Civil War, 1861-1865, p. 108-11

Major-General Thomas J. Jackson to Mary Anna Morrison Jackson, March 17, 1862

woodstock, March 17th, 1802.

The Federals have possession of Winchester. They advanced upon the town the Friday after you left, but Ashby, aided by a kind Providence, drove them back. I had the other troops under arms, and marched to meet the enemy, but they did not come nearer than about five miles of the town, and fell back to Bunker Hill. On last Tuesday they advanced again, and again our troops were under arms to meet them, but after coming within four miles of the town they halted for the night. I was in hopes that they would advance on me during the evening, as I felt that God would give us the victory; but as they halted for the night, and I knew they could have large reinforcements by morning, I determined to fall back, and sent my troops back the same night to their wagons in rear of Winchester, and the next morning moved still farther to the rear.

SOURCE: Mary Anna Jackson, Life and Letters of General Thomas J. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson), p. 243

Major-General Thomas J. Jackson to Mary Anna Morrison Jackson, March 10, 1862

Winchester, Virginia, March 10, 1862

My darling, you made a timely retreat from here, for on Friday the Yankees came within five miles of this place. Ashby skirmished for some time with them, and after they fell back he followed them until they halted near Bunker Hill, which is twelve miles from here, where they are at present. The troops are in excellent spirits. . . . How God does bless us wherever we are!¹   I am very thankful for the measure of health with which He blesses me. I do not remember having been in such good health for years. . . . My heart is just overflowing with love for my little darling wife.

_______________

¹ This was in reference to the kindness we had received in Winchester.

SOURCE: Mary Anna Jackson, Life and Letters of General Thomas J. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson), p. 242-3

From the Upper Potomac

SANDY HOOK, Md., Jan. 29. – This morning a squad of Ashby’s Rebel Cavalry made their appearances at Bolivar, accompanied by a section of artillery, which opened on Col. Geary’s regiment.  Our Parrott gun and Enfields soon silenced their battery and drove the Rebels back behind the hill.

Jackson’s main body is concentrating at Charleston.  Informants state that great consternation exists among the Rebels, in consequence of the circulation of reports among them that our whole division is about to cross over, and that Jackson has posted to Charleston to resist our progress.  It is thought here that Jackson will move down nearer to Harper’s Ferry to-night.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 2

Further Particulars of the Winchester Battle

WINCHESTER, March 25. – The details of last Sunday’s fight have been received.  There have been more deeds of heroic daring performed in this battle, than in any other in history.  Capt. Schrieber, Aid and Inspector General of Gen. Shields’ division, while riding to the crest of a hill to the left of stone ledge, with two Orderlies, was confronted by five rebel cavalry, who emptied their revolvers, killing to Orderlies.  Capt. Schrieber charged them, running one of them through to the hilt of his sword, and received a ball in his cap, but was unharmed.

Capt. Perkins, Chief of Gen. Banks’ staff, was mainly instrument in planning the attack and performed deeds of skill and valor.

The twelve rebel regiments engaged were all Virginians, which were 1st, 2nd, 4th, 13th, 23rd, 42nd and 22nd, and one Provisional and one Irish Regiment.  They had Ashby’s Cavlary, two eight gun batteries and one six gun battery.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

The Fighting Near Winchester

FULL PARTICULARS.

WINCHESTER, Va., March 25. – On Saturday at 2 o’clock p. m., the enemy showed themselves a mile and a half from Winchester.  The enemy consisted of 500 of Ashby’s cavalry and two guns.  They drove in our pickets and then skirmished with the Michigan cavalry and a portion of the Maryland 1st.

Gen. Shields brought up his artillery and fired several rounds of shot and shell, drove them back and took several prisoners.

Gen. Shields was wounded in the arm by the first fire of the enemy.

Jackson had been informed by the inhabitants that the town was destroyed by the union troops and he advanced to retake it.

Gen. Shields’ forces slept on their arms Saturday night.

On Sunday morning at sunrise, Jackson being reinforced, he attacked Gen. Shields near Kingston.

The enemy’s force consisted of 500 of Ashley’s cavalry, 5,000 infantry, nine pieces of artillery with a reserve of 18 pieces of artillery.

The fight was kept up till noon, when a charge made by the Ohio infantry, 1st Michigan and 1st Virginia Cavalry on their right, drove them back half a mile when the enemy got their guns in position again in a dense wood, flanked by infantry, they drove us back.  A short artillery engagement ensued.

At 10½ the enemy made a feint on our left, when Gen. Shields ordered Col. Tyler of the 7th Ohio, to turn their left flank, which was executed by our troops by with considerable loss, the enemy being protected by a stone bridge.

The 84th Pennsylvania and 13th Indiana charged their centre and the fight became general.  Col. Murry, of the 84 Pennsylvania was killed.

The enemy retired slowly, bringing their guns to bear at every opportunity.  Our men rushed forward with yells when a panic ensued among the enemy.  Our troops followed and drove them until dark, capturing three guns, three caissons, muskets, equipments, &c., innumerable.  Our troops bivouacked on the field.  Gen. William’s first brigade, Col. Donelly, of the 28th New York, commanding, reinforced Gen. Fields.

Gen. Banks, who was on his way to Washington on Sunday, returned and assumed command.

Gen. Shields’ Division pursued the enemy beyond Newton, shelling them the whole way.

Jackson’s men were perfectly demoralized beyond control.  They threw overboard the dead and wounded to lighten the wagons.

It is noticeable that nearly all the Confederate wounded were shot in the head and breasts, testifying to the superiority of our marksmen.

The loss on our side were chiefly Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana troops.

Those who conveyed the false intelligence to Gen. Jackson, causing this disaster to the rebels have a heavy weight of guilt to shoulder.  It was evidently known to many in the town that Jackson was approaching from the holiday attire and buoyancy of spirits among men and women here.  Gen. Shields’ command being screened from observation on the east side of the town led the informants to believe that all our troops were evacuating and that Jackson could enter unmolested.  Good Judges say the enemy’s loss is over 200 killed 500 wounded and 300 prisoners including an aid to Jackson.  Our loss is about 65 killed and 125 wounded.

On Sunday morning the rebels received reinforcements under Gen. Garnett, amounting to 500 men.  The Union forces did not exceed 1000 men, and with the exception of about 500 were of Gen. Shields’ division exclusively, commanded by acting Brig. Gen. Sullivan, opening a heavy fire of artillery, while the real attack was directed against our right, with the object of flanking it.  Gen. Kimble commanded on the right, where the heaviest fighting was done. – The enemy were strongly posted in woods and behind a stone wall, and the rebel artillery was posted on eminences on both sides of the left wing.  Our whole artillery force was engaged consisting of 24 parrot guns in all.  The combat raged furiously till 3 o’clock p. m., the fighting being done chiefly by the artillery and musketry at a range of not more than 300 or 400 yards, and often much less.

The rebel infantry opposite our right emerged from the woods and attempted to capture David’s Battery by a charge.  The first effort was nearly successful, but the heavy discharges of grape compelled to retire in confusion.  A second and third attempt likewise failed, and the enemy fell back with heavy loss behind the stone parapet.  Gen. Tyler now ordered his brigade to charge the enemies batteries on the left and a most deadly encounter followed.  Twice our men recoiled under the storm, but in the third effort they routed the rebels with tremendous slaughter.

Our loss in these struggles was heavy.  Out of 300 men in the 84th Pennsylvania 26 were killed and 83 wounded.  Many officers were killed and wounded.

The Fifth and Eighth Ohio shared the glory and the loss with the Eighty-forth Pennsylvania.  The enemy’s killed and wounded strewed the ground in profusion and their left wing was utterly broken and their centre wavering.  On their side the Fourth and Fifth Virginia Regiments suffered most.  The former was totally demolished.  Several attempts to rally the right wing failed, and to add to the confusion the Irish Battalion of 150 men, were brought forward, ordered to fire upon our troops refused and a rebel regiment immediately drove this gallant little band forward, but could not compel them to fire upon us.  Forty corpses of the hundred and fifty afterwards strewed the field.  Meanwhile the rebels gave way on their left and center with a loss of 70 killed and wounded and 236 taken prisoners.  Besides these about 1500 muskets were taken and many other valuable trophies.  Our loss does not exceed 100 killed.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 3

The Mob in Baltimore – Banks’ Retreat

BALTIMORE, May 25 – During the day 100 persons were knocked down in different parts of the city.  In one or two cases ropes were brought out and preparations for hanging parties to lamp posts were made.  Two men were stabbed but not dangerously.  Among those attacked was Robert McLane, late Minister to Mexico who was saved by the police.

Two members of Kenley’s regiment have arrived in the city.  They report they were attacked by a large cavalry force under Ashby and several regiments of infantry.

The fight commenced at 12 o’clock and continued till night when the infantry force succeeded in surrounding them.

The first fight and repulse took place east of the Shenandoah and finding the force too great he retreated to the west side destroying the principal bridge.  West of the river he made another stand and Knapp’s battery mowed the rebels down with shell and grape.  They fired in all nearly 200 rounds.  Col. Kenley received a musket shot in the neck, during the first attack but continued on horse back until the close of the day when he was placed in an ambulance fearfully exhausted.

The last fight took place about four miles this side of Front Royal his effort being to fall back in order expecting reinforcements momentarily from Gen. Banks.  A number of Knapp’s battery who escaped say the Maryland regiment fought bravely, and that Col. Kenley led them frequently to bayonet charges.  They also say that on the third approach of Ashby’s cavalry he displayed a white flag until within pistol range when Col. Kenley ordered firing to cease.  The white flag was then thrown down and the enemy rushed on our troops, cutting and slashing, refusing all quarter.

Lieut. Col. Dushane and Maj. Miller are both thought to be wounded and prisoners.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 31, 1862, p. 4

From Bank’s Division

Special to Herald.

NEW YORK, April 3.

It is rumored here to-day that the rebel Cabinet has decided to burn the city of Richmond on the approach of the Union Army.

Business was never so brisk on the line of the Orange and Alexandria RR.

Since the affair in the Sickles Brigade, where a master shot at his servant, Gen. Hooker has positively refused passes to go into the camps of his division to hunt contrabands.

Lieuts. J. P. Hall and W. McGunnegle have been ordered to report to flag officer Foote.

The number of sick soldiers in the government hospitals in the District, as the last weekly report, was 2,314.  Of these 536 are from N. Y. regiments.

Slight skirmishing continues to be the order of the day along our front, each army lying in sight of the other, and entertaining one another with occasional artillery practice and cavalry charges.

Yesterday Col. Geary captured a number of rebels after a spirited skirmish, in which several of the enemy were killed.

The completion of the RR. to within the immediate neighborhood of the advance, places many of our forces in a much more advantageous position, and will doubtless greatly accelerate the movements of our advancing army.

The rebel cavalry continues to make incursions through the country beyond Manassas junction.

WOODSTOCK, 2 P. M.

The rebels, when retreating yesterday attempted to burn a bridge over the creek near the narrow passage, but it was extinguished.

The magnificent RR. bridge, 100 feet high, over the same stream, was burned by Jackson when retreating from Gen. Shields.

A grey stallion, said to be Col. Ashby’s was shot yesterday near this town.  The ball must have wounded the rider in the left thigh.  The current report, however, that Ashby was wounded, is not credited at headquarters.

Some of Ashby’s scouts made their appearance this morning early on the high wooded ridge on the opposite side of Stony Creek, beyond Edinburg.  They were fired on by some of the 29^th Pa., when Ashby unmasked four guns and threw several shells into the camp.  He subsequently retreated under the fire of our guns.

During the day they frequently interfered with our bridge builders, by shelling them at long range.  The foot of the bridge, however, has been completed, and our skirmishers are now on the other side beyond the town.

Lieut. Daff and two privates of Ashby’s cavalry, were captured yesterday, while carrying dispatches, but refused to divulge the contents or tell who they were.

In a late intercepted letter from a rebel officer, the writer speaks significantly of the anticipated open rebellion in Maryland.  This is regarded as one of the means resorted to by secession leaders to dupe their followers.

Ashby’s artillery was reinforced to-day by two or more heavy guns, with which they practiced on us at long range.

Gen. Banks is here and Shields is at Strasburg.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, April 4, 1862, p. 1

From Winchester

WASHINGTON, March 27.

Gen. Shields telegraphs that our victory at Winchester has been more fatal to the rebels than at first supposed.  A Union prisoner who escaped from Mt. Jackson Prison, just arrived, saw eight wagons loaded with dead and wounded enter Mt. Jackson on Monday at 10 P. M., 44 miles from the battlefield, in 30 hours.  The rebels admitted that they had 11,000 in the field; also that they lost between 1,000 and 1,500 min killed and wounded.  We are finding their graves at some distance from each side of the road.  The blow has struck terror to the heart of the Shenandoah Valley.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF POTOMAS,

March 27.

To Brig. Gen. Shields:

The commanding General congratulates you and the troops under your command on the victory gained by your own energy and activity and their bravery on the 23d.  He is pained to learn that the wound you received in the skirmish the day previous, is more serious than first expected.  By command of Maj. Gen. Geo. B. McClellan.

(Signed,)

A. S. WILLIAMS, A. A. G.

Intelligence from Strasburg states that no movement has taken place in that vicinity.

Gen. Jackson, with the remnant of his army, is supposed to be near Woodstock.

WINCHESTER, March 28.

The latest intelligence we have from Strasburg is dated yesterday.  Ashby’s rebel forces with four guns appeared near Strasburg, and threw several shells into our camp, killing one of our men and wounding another.  His position was such as to prevent us from cutting him off.

Gen. Banks reconnoitered all the positions of the enemy for several miles around, and returned to camp after dark.

The rebel, Gen. Jackson is believed to be very quiet before Edinburg.  Most of the population of Strasburg have been Unionists through the war, and are so still.

The agent of the Manassas R. R. and station master, who have been hiding for weeks in the mountains to avoid Gen. Jackson’s forces have returned and given valuable information to Gen. Banks.  Many of the inhabitants have been residing for weeks in the mountains.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, March 29, 1862, p. 1

From Winchester

WINCHESTER, Va., March 25.

It is currently reported to-night that Gen. Banks has overtaken and destroyed 200 of Jackson’s wagons.

Latest from Strasburg says that Gens. Banks and Shields are there, and Jackson is in sight.  A battle is expected to-day, and preparations are being made to strengthen our forces.

On Saturday at 2 o’clock p.m. the enemy showed themselves, a mile and a half from Winchester.  The enemy consisted of 500 of Ashby’s cavalry, and two guns.  They drove in our pickets, and then skirmished with the Michigan cavalry and a portion of the Indiana 1^st.

Gen. Shields brought up his forces, and fired a few rounds of shell, driving them back, taking several prisoners.  General Shields was wounded in the army by the first fire of the enemy.

Jackson had been informed by the inhabitants that the town was deserted by the Union troops, and he advanced to retake it.

Gen. Shield’s forces slept on their arms Saturday night.  Sunday morning at sunrise, Jackson being reinforced attacked Gen. Shields near Kearnstown.

The enemy’s forces consisted of 500 of Ashby’s cavalry, 500 infantry, and 9 pieces of artillery, with a reserve of 18 pieces of artillery.  The fight was kept up till noon, when a charge was made by the Ohio infantry.  The 1^st Mich. And 1^st VA cavalry on their right, drove them back half a mile, when the enemy got their guns again in position in a dense wood, flanked by infantry, and drove us back.  A short artillery engagement ensued, when Gen. Shields ordered Col. Tyler to turn their flank which was executed by our troops but with considerable loss, the enemy being protected by the stone ledge.  The 84^th Penn. And the 13^th Ind. charged their centre, and the fight became general.

Col. Murray, of the 84^th Penna., was killed.  The enemy retired slowly, bringing their guns to bear at every opportunity.  Our men rushed forward with yells, when a panic ensued among the enemy.

Our troops followed and drove them till dark, capturing 3 guns, 3 caissons, muskets, equipments, &c., innumerable.  Our troops bivouacked on the field.

Gen. Williams’ 1^st Brigade, Col. Donelly of the 28^th N. Y., commanding, reinforced Gen. Shields.

Gen. Banks, who was on the way to Washington, Sunday returned and assumed command.  Meantime, Gen. Shields’ division pursued the enemy beyond Newton, shelling them the whole way.

Jackson’s men, were perfectly demoralized and beyond control.  They threw overboard the dead and wounded to lighten the wagons.

It is noticeable that nearly all the Confederates wounded were shot in the head or breast, testifying to the superiority of our marksmen.

The losses on our side were chiefly Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana troops.  These who conveyed the false intelligence to Gen. Jackson, causing this disaster to the rebels, have a heavy weight of guilt to shoulder.  It was evidently known to many in the town that Jackson was approaching, from the holiday attire and buoyancy of spirits among men and women here.  Gen. Shields’ command being secreted from observation, on the east side of the town, lead the informants to believe that all our troops were evacuating, and that Jackson could enter unmolested.  Good judges say that the enemy’s loss is over 200 killed and 500 wounded, and 300 prisoners, including an aid to Jackson.  Our loss is about 65 killed and 125 wounded.

On Sunday morning the rebels received reinforcements under Gen. Garrett, amounting to 500 men.  The Union forces did not exceed 1000 men, and with the exception of about 500 were of Gen. Shields’ division exclusively.  At half past one the enemy made a feint on our left, commanded by acting Brig. Gen. Sullivan, opening a heavy fire of artillery, while the real attack was directed against our right, with the object of flanking Gen. Kimball’s command on the right, where the heaviest fighting was done.  The enemy were strongly posted in the woods and behind a stone wall, and the rebel artillery was posted on an eminence on both sides of their left wing.

Our whole artillery force was engaged consisting of four batteries of 24 pieces in all.  The conflict raged furiously till 3 P. M. – The fighting being done chiefly by the artillery and musketry, at a range of not more than 300 or 400 yards, and often much less.

The rebel infantry opposite our right now engaged from the woods and attempted to capture Dowe’s battery by a charge.  The first effort was nearly successful, but the heavy discharge of grape compelled them to retire in confusion.  A second and weaker attempt likewise failed, and the enemy fell back with heavy loss, behind the stone parapet.

Gen. Taylor now ordered his brigade to charge the enemy’s batteries on the left, and a most deadly encounter followed, twice our men reeled under the storm, but in the third effort they routed the rebels with tremendous slaughter.

Our loss in these struggles was heavy. – Out of 300 men in the 84^th Penn., 26 were killed and 83 wounded.  Many officers were killed and wounded.  The 5^th and 8^th Ohio shared the glory and the losses with the 84^th Penn.

The enemy’s killed and wounded strewed the ground in profusion, and their left wing was totally broken, and their center wavering.  On their side the 4^th and 5^th Va. Regiments suffered most; the former was terribly decimated.

Attempts to rally the right wing failed, and to add to the confusion, the Irish battalion of 150 men, when brought forward and ordered to fire upon the Union troops refused, and a rebel regiment immediately drove this gallant little band forward, but could not compel them to fire upon us. – Forty corpses of the 150 afterwards strewed the field.

Meanwhile, the rebels gave way on the left and center, with a loss of 70 killed and wounded, and 236 prisoners.  Besides these, about 160 muskets were taken and many other valuable trophies.  Our loss does not exceed 100 killed and 300 wounded.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, March 27, 1862, p. 2

Further Particulars of the Battle Near Winchester

WASHINGTON, March 25.

Gen. Shields has received a dispatch from Maj. Gen. Banks, dated 5 miles beyond Strasburg.  The enemy are still in retreat and our forces in hot pursuit.  The loss of the rebels must have been enormous. – They have abandoned wagons along the road filled with dead and dying.  The houses on the route are found crowded with the wounded and dead.  The dwellings in the towns adjacent to the battle field of Sunday are also found filled with the wounded.

The inhabitants aided the rebels in carrying off their wounded during the day, and burying them as quick as dead.

Our artillery makes terrible havoc among the enemy in their flight, and the rout bids fair to be one of the most dreadful of the war.

The details of last Sunday’s flight have been received.  There have been performed more deeds of personal daring than in any battle in history.  Capt. Schrieber, aid and Inspector-Gen. of Gen. Shields’s division, while riding to Crest Hill, to the left of Stone Ledge, with two orderlies, was confronted by five rebel cavalry who emptied their revolvers, killing the two orderlies. – Capt. Schrieber charged them, running one of them through to the hilt of his sword and received a ball through his cap, but was unharmed.  Capt. Perkins, chief of Gen. Banks’ staff, was mainly instrumental in planning the attack and performed deeds of skill and valor.

The 12 rebel regiments engaged were all Virginians, which were the 1^st, 2d, 4^th, 13^th, 23d, 42d and 32d, and one provisional and one Irish regiment.  They had Ashby’s cavalry, 2 8-gun batteries and 1 six-gun battery, also one 4 gun battery, making 26 guns, among which were some captured at Bull Run.

Four color bearers of the 5^th Ohio regiment were severally killed, when Capt. Whitcomb seized the colors and was shot through the head.

A youthful rebel soldier received two wounds in his breast, and when he was approached by one of our officers inquired if the officer knew Gen. Banks; he recieved an affirmative reply.  He then said: tell him I want to take the oath of allegiance, for I have three brothers in the Federal service, and I want them to know that I die true to the Union.

The arm of Gen. Shields is badly shattered, and owning to an imperfect setting it must be reset to-morrow night.

All is quiet in the neighborhood of Strasburg.

It is reported that two sons of the late J. A. Washington were in Monday’s fight and that both were wounded and one of them taken prisoner.

The Baltimore and Ohio railroad have taken charge of Winchester and Potomac railroads.  Persons can purchase tickets of the Baltimore company.

We have buried all the rebel dead that have been brought to town.  Eighty-five were buried on the battle field, and 123 on the roadside between here and Strasburg.

A messenger from Strasburg states that Gen. Johnston was to have joined Jackson at Strasburg, but he subsequently sent him word that he could not until Monday night.

These combined forces were found to have numbered 25,000 or 30,000.  They were intending to keep Banks from moving to another point, but Jackson being impressed with the belief that our troops had nearly all left, hazarded his fatal advance alone.

WINCHESTER, March 25.

This evening our column is five miles beyond Strasburg, still in pursuit of the flying rebels.

All letters for officers and soldiers in Gen. Banks’ division should be directed to Winchester, till further notice.

WASHINGTON, March 25.

The following dispatch from Gen. Shields to Senator Rice, dated to-day at Winchester, was received in the Senate this afternoon:

On the morning of the 23d, my command, 7,000 or 8,000 strong, was attacked near this place by Jackson, with 9 regiments of infantry and an Irish battalion, about 1,500 cavalry, and 28 pieces of artillery.  After a severe fight the enemy was put in complete rout, leaving behind two pieces of cannon, four caissons and a large number of small arms, and about 600 prisoners.

Our loss is 150 killed and 300 wounded.  The enemy’s loss is 500 killed and 1,000 wounded.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, March 27, 1862, p. 1

From Winchester

This morning Ashley’s cavalry, having two guns, were driven three miles beyond Newton by a force of our artillery, infantry and cavalry.  Several shells were fired and no one killed.

Capt. Pendleton, Quartermaster of Ashley’s cavalry, was captured.

Yesterday the cars reached to within three miles of Harper’s Ferry.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 18, 1862, p. 2

From Virginia

CHARLESTON, Va., March 12.

The town of Berryville, Va. Was occupied by our troops yesterday, by Gen. Gorman, directing the advance.  The enemy had 500 cavalry there, on our arrival, but the signal ordered a charge of the New York cavalry upon them, supporting the onset with a sufficient force of artillery and infantry.  The enemy did now wait to fight, but ran helter skelter towards Winchester.

Twice last night were the pickets of Gen. Gorman’s brigade compelled to fall back by the charge of Ashby’s Cossacks.  This morning Gen. Gorman mad a reconnaissance in force to within two miles of Winchester, drawing the rebels into a trap.  They were again charged upon by our cavalry loosing four men.  Several prisoners have been taken from the enemy, while our total loss up to this time is one man and one horse.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, March 14, 1862, p. 2 

From Gen. Banks’ Division

WINCHESTER, Va., March 12.

Gen. Jackson’s forces left here last night by the Strasburg road.

The forces of Gens. Hamilton and Williams are just entering the town.

There was a strong fort one mile out which was evacuated by Gen. Jackson last night.

The regiments as they pass along are cheered and greeted from the houses by the citizens, and responded to by our officers and men.

The other column of Gen. Banks’ division, which will approach by the Berryville route, have not yet arrived.  Not a shot has been fired.

Yesterday the rebels arrested eighty of the most prominent Unionists and sent them to Richmond.

Coffee is from 75c to $1 per pound; sugar 25c to 37c; calicoes 50c.  Other articles are more abundant.

It is represented by the resident friends of the Union that two-thirds of the people of the town and county are loyal, but have been compelled to succumb to the secession pressure, so far as the expression of opinion is concerned.

There have been no Richmond papers received here for a week, and the citizens are entirely ignorant of the thrilling events which have transpired within that period.

SECOND DISPATCH.

Gen. Jackson’s force yesterday consisted of Loring’s brigade, and several field batteries, and 300 of Ashley’s [sic] cavalry – about 4,000 in all.  The commenced evacuating the place about sunset last night.  The cavalry were the last to leave.  The departed just before we entered the town.

It is represented that there is a large secession force at Strasburg, and that they intend to make a stand there, owing to the state of affairs at Manassas.  It is believed that Gen. Jackson will make his way up the Shenandoah valley to the Virginia Central Railroad, and thence to Richmond.

Prominent secessionists here say that the rebel forces will make a stand ad Gordonsville, and have fortified to a great extent.  Several prisoners and a small amount of ammunition were all the seizures we have made.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, March 14, 1862, p. 1

Cavalry Skirmish

NEW MARKET, VA., May 7. – Yesterday afternoon a detachment of the 9th New York Cavalry made a reconnoisance towards Harrisburg. When five miles this side they encountered upwards of 200 of Ashby’s cavalry. They charged upon them and pursued them within two miles of the town. Ten rebels were killed and six taken prisoners. Our loss was one killed and a battalion adjutant taken prisoner. The work on our side was done with the sabre, and was a very gallant affair.

An officer from Mt. Jackson this morning says the guard at the bridge near the town reports forty guerrilla cavalry attempted last night to burn the bridge but were repulsed.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 3

From Banks’s Division

CAMP NEAR SPARTA, Va., April 25.

Several deserters and refugees corroborate previous reports, that Jackson, after flying from our advancing column on Friday last, pushed forward to a point once mile north of Harrisonburg, where a turnpike branches to the left passing Magaughneystown, on the south fork of the Shenandoah, and running thence to Gordonsville. Jackson’s wagon train had been pushed towards Stanton, but hearing that the town was in possession of the Union troops he remanded it to Harrisonburg.

At an early hour Saturday morning Jackson, with his whole force and train, took the Gordonsville pike, and at latest accounts had reached Magaugheytown.

On Saturday night a squadron of the 1st Vt. Cavalry, while scouting on the Surrey road, beyond Massamittin Mountain, fell in with a body of the enemy’s cavalry. A skirmish ensued which resulted in the capture of seven of the enemy and eleven of their horses. None of our men were hurt, but a Lieutenant had his horse shot under him.

Jackson’s retreat from this valley had a beneficial effect on the volunteers and disaffected men from Rockingham and the surrounding counties. Large numbers of them are daily coming into our lines and delivering themselves up. It is stated that hundreds of the are now in the mountains hiding from Ashby’s scouts, awaiting an opportunity to escape and claim protection from Gen. Banks. One who came in yesterday reported that he found a barn some miles hence, where were concealed sixteen rebels and deserters, who will probably come into town to-day.

A portion of Ashby’s cavalry are scouting both sides of the mountains, near Harrisonburg.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, April 28, 1862, p. 1

New Market, Va., Occupied

MT. JACKSON, April 17.

Mt. Jackson was occupied by our troops this forenoon. The rebels burned the bridges at they retreated. The Vermont cavalry darted through the place to prevent the enemy from burning the bridge over the creek beyond town and captured several rebels in the act of burning it. One lieutenant among the number. Col. Ashby himself was nearly caught: he said he owed his escape to the fact that he wore Federal uniform. Our pursuing forces are in Newmarket to-night without opposition. Ashby and his men are outside the town. Jackson retreated towards Staunton.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, April 21, 1862, p. 1

From Banks Division

WASHINGTON, April 18.

The following has been received at the war department:

HEADQUARTERS OF THE DEP’T OF THE SHENANDOAH,
April 17th, 9 P. M.

To Hon. E. M. Stanton, Sec’y of War:

Our troops occupy New Market to-night. There has been some artillery skirmishing but no loss on our side. We have many prisoners.

Signed,
N. P. BANKS,
Major Gen. Commanding.


HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,
April 18.

In the engagement on Wednesday between the 3d Vermont and the enemy, 32 of our men were killed and 90 wounded – 10 probably fatal. The regiment behaved with great gallantry, driving a superior number of the enemy from their fortified position, but the rebels being reinforced they were obliged to retire.

Our artillery mowed the rebels down by acres.

Lieut. B. B. Wagner, topographical engineer lost an arm yesterday by a shell striking a table in front of him on which were his papers. His arm was amputated, but he will probably recover.

About 1 o’clock this morning the enemy in force attempted to cross down in front of our lines, with a view of capturing a battery of our reserve force. Our infantry opened fire on them, forcing them to retreat, leaving their dead and wounded on the field, which they succeeded in recovering by daylight. Both parties opened with artillery, which is continued to the present time. Nine of our men were killed.


SPARTA, Rockingham Co., Va.,
April 18.

Gen. Banks’ advance column arrived here this noon, driving the enemy from the hill with artillery and cavalry charges. 6,000 of Jackson’s troops passed through town a short distance beyond, last night.

It was currently reported that Jackson was to be largely reinforced between here and Stanton.

A body of our cavalry came upon two squadrons of Ashby’s cavalry drawn up in line of battle. The latter suddenly broke ranks and his artillery opened upon our advance. Our Cavalry in line of battle waited for artillery, which arrived and scattered the rebels. Last night Ashby encamped near New Market. During the night Gen. Banks occupied the town in force. At 8 this morning, Ashby being threatened by our artillery, set fire to his camp and retreated in great hasted leaving 30 butchered beeves on the ground, doing what he never did before, burning every large and small turnpike bridge south of New Market.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette. Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, April 21, 1862, p. 1

BY TELEGRAPH

Gen. Curtis has Returned to Missouri!

DEATH OF GOV. HARVEY, OF WISCONSIN

FORCES OCCUPY FREDERICKSBURG!

Beauregard Wants More Troops!

ST. LOUIS, April 19. Gen. Curtis has returned to Missouri and is now encamped at Forsyth, Taney county, 45 miles south of Springfield.

WASHINGTON, April 19. General McDowell’s division yesterday marched from Warrenton Junction upon Fredericksburg. March disputed by one regiment of Infantry, one of cavalry and one Battery of Artillery. They made distinct stands but were driven across the Rappahonnoc. Our loss 5 killed and 16 wounded. The rebels burned the Bridges at Fredericksburg. Our troops have not yet occupied the town. Small parties cross and recross the river to the outskirts of the town. We have been warned by loyal citizens not to venture too far except in force. Large bodies of rebels which occupied the place have gone to Yorktown.

NEW YORK, April 20. The steamer Philadelphia has arrived from Fort Pickens. Negroes constantly arriving from Pensacola. The rebels had not evacuated but were moving their guns away. Town under marshal law. Large fires are seen nightly, indicating that the rebels are destroying their property. Rebel commanders had issued proclamation that they would hang all idle people on the 3d of April.

NEW YORK, April 21. Steamer Troy from Newbern April 17th, and Hatteras 18th, arrived. A sortie was made on the 12th from Fort Macon, by a detachment of 150 rebels, and our pickets driven in. After a short engagement, the rebels were driven back to the Fort. Two of our wounded stated that the fire would be opened on Fort Macon on the 21st, with mortars and siege guns.

FORT MONROE, April 19. Thirty-nine wounded arrived from Yorktown to-day, making 90 wounded in the fight on the left flank on Wednesday. Whole number killed, 32.

Norfolk papers contain Magruder’s account of the fight, and say the Rebel loss was 25 killed and75 wounded.

Steamer Hoag from Newbern, arrived. Ft. Macon completely invested. It has been ascertained that the rebels supply of provisions is short. No attack will be made on the Fort, but we will try to starve them out. Slight expectations still prevail that the Rebels will attack Newbern. Fortifications are being built for protection.

MONTREAL, April 19. The ice in Richelieu river broke yesterday, doing great damage. Steamers lost estimated at $200,000.

HARTFORD, Conn., April 21. The river at this point has risen 28 feet above low water mark, rising one inch per hour.

CONCORD, N.H., April 21. The freshet is the highest known since 1851. At Brattleboro, Vt., the river is at 3 ½ feet higher than ever known before.

WASHINGTON, April 21. Gen. Shields has been nominated Major General.

Gen. McDowell’s headquarters will be immediately transferred to Fredericksburg.

CHICAGO, April 21. Gov. Harvey, of Wisconsin, was drowned at Savannah, Tennessee river, Saturday night. He was there looking after the welfare of wounded Wisconsin troops.

WASHINGTON, April 21. Our forces under Gen. Anjer still occupy Falmouth Heights opposite and commanding Fredericksburg.

On Friday a flag of truce crossed the Rappahannoc to communicate with the municipal authorities, all of whom remain in city. Council had called a meeting after the appearance of our troops and appointed a committee to confer with the Federal General relative to the occupation of Fredericksburg and protection of private property. Council at the same time adopted a resolution declaring that since the adoption of the ordinance of session the city had been unanimously in favor and was still firmly attached to the Confederacy, surrendering only upon condition of the protection of private property. Arrangements were perfected for a meeting of the committee with the commanding General on Saturday.

Much valuable information has been obtained from the loyal citizens of Fredericksburg, who have crossed to Falmouth. Most of them affirm that so soon as we take possession of the city and there is no fear of a return of the rebel soldiers, a majority of the remaining citizens will be found loyal.

There is a vast amount of grain and other forage stored in the vicinity of Fredericksburg, much of which belongs to Rebel army. The enemy, besides destroying the bridges burned three steamers and twenty schooners loaded with corn.

WASHINGTON, April 21. Gen Banks telegraphs the Department that a skirmish took place between his advance and a rebel force at the bridge across the south fork of the Shenandoah, the object of the rebels being to destroy two important bridges across the river. They did not succeed.

SPARTA, Va., April 20. Everything quiet in front of us.

Yesterday our cavalry made a reconnaissance and penetrated the valley several miles toward Harrisonburg. They report large quantities of forage and provisions there.

Deserters report Jackson’s force at McGaughlstown, east of Harrisonburg, still retreating. Ashby’s command still forms the rear guard. Signal officers report cavalry of the enemy in sight yesterday p.m. Deserters believe that Jackson means to cross Blue Ridge and reach Gordonsville; others that he intends to attack our left flank.

WASHINGTON, April 21. Gen. McDowell’s design of advance on Fredericksburg has been kept a secret, and was not know here until he had occupied the suburbs of the town. Our army are now in full occupation.

NEW YORK, April 21. The city of Apilachicola has been occupied successfully by our troops. Capture effected by two gunboats on the 2d, with little opposition. A few shells dispersed the rebels. – Remaining population found to be in a starving condition, the blockade having cut off supplies on the sea-board, and the resources inland not sufficient to maintain ordinary comforts of life.

NEW YORK, April 21. Herald published a telegram form Beauregard at Corinth to Adjutant Gen. Cooper at Richmond, which is said to have been intercepted by Gen. Mitchell after taking possession of Decatur, Ala., in which Beauregard says: “All present possible. Join us in a few days with fifteen thousand men. Can not we be reinforced from Pemberton’s army? If defeated here we lose the Mississippi Valley, and probably our cause; whereas we could even afford to lose for a while Charleston and Savannah, for the purpose of defeating Buell’s army, which would not only insure us the Valley of the Mississippi, but our independence.”

– Published in the Daily State Register, Des Moines, Iowa, Tuesday, April 22, 1862