From Norfolk and Vicinity

BALTIMORE, March 26.

A Fort Monroe correspondent, of a Baltimore paper, gives a report of two contrabands, relative to the condition of the Merrimac.  She returned to Norfolk with six feet of water in here.  Six steamers towed her up and it was feared at first she would go down before pumps could be rigged on board.  Her fires were extinguished shortly after hauling off from the Monitor. – These contrabands positively assert the death of Buchanan and that of the Lieut. In command on Sunday, and 7 seamen and a number of wounded.  They positively assert the death and burial of both.  Possibly Lieut. Miner, her second officer and not Jones, is meant.

The Monitor stands out in the Roads this side of Sewall’s Point, with steam up, and ready for action.  The greatest confidence is felt in the result.  She is in fine condition.

It is rumored that Yorktown, or a considerable portion of it, is burned.  A large fire was visible in that direction Sunday night.

A large fire was also seen to-day in the neighborhood of New Market Bridge, which appeared to be quite extensive.

The Cambridge reports the Nashville, loaded with a valuable cargo of cotton and naval stores, to have run the blockade last Wednesday night, which was dark, with her lights extinguished.  She was abreast of the Cambridge before she was discovered.

On Sunday the Chippewa, a faster steamer, arrived to take the place of the Cambridge.

Fort Macon and Beaufort are still in possession of the rebels.

On Sunday night the Sawyer gun at the Rip-Raps made some capital shots at Sewall’s Point.

On Tuesday morning one shell filled with the new rebel fire exploded in the midst of the rebel parade ground, and is believed to have done considerable damage.

The rebels fired at the Rip Raps, but the ball fell short about fifty yards.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, March 28, 1862, p. 1

Southern News

FORT MONROE, March 25.

The U. S. steamer Cambridge arrived here this morning, form the blockade of Beaufort, having left there on Sunday evening last.

The rebel steamer Nashville escaped from the harbor of Beaufort on Tuesday night, 18^th inst., having run the blockade.

The only U. S. vessels at the place were the steamer Cambridge and the bark Gemsbok.  The blockading vessels had news of the capture of Newbern, and were on the look out for the Nashville, but they were not numerous enough to prevent her escape.  The Gemsbok just saw the Nashville, and immediately telegraphed to the Cambridge that she was coming out.  The Cambridge followed the Nashville and fired a number of shots at her with the hope of getting her into a fight, but the superior speed of the Nashville soon put her at a safe distance.  Two of the shots from the Cambridge were supposed to have stuck the Nashville.

The bark Glenn, which has been blockaded in the harbor of Beaufort for some time, was set on fire by the rebels on Sunday, and was still burning when the Cambridge left.  The Glenn was supposed to be fitting out as a privateer.

The burning of this vessel was doubtless preparatory to an evacuation of the place.

Fort Macon had not been blown up by the rebels at the last accounts.

The bark Gembsok and the steamer State of Ga. were left at the station by the Cambridge.

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

The War News

Capture of Beaufort, N. C.

DESTRUCTION OF FT. MACON

A Union Regiment in Alabama

Rebel Barbarities at Bull Run.

BURNING OF THE STR. NAHSVILLE

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 25, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

WASHINGTON, March 24.

Col. Segur representative from the Accomac district, arrived here this evening, confirming the intelligence about the destruction of the Privateer Nashville, and Fort Macon, by the rebels.

Times’ Correspondence

The commission on State prisoners will to-morrow take up the case of the celebrated Mrs. Greenough [sic], who will probably be transferred from a State prison to a lunatic asylum.

Gen. Montgomery has been transferred from his post as military governor of Alexandria and placed in a like command at Annapolis.

Painful rumors have been afloat for two days affecting a prominent officer in the civil department of the government.  We are promised the denouncement this week.

It is not true that the steamer Vanderbilt has been purchased by the Government to be altered to an iron-clad vessel.  She is merely charted for a short time as transport.

The commanding officer at Fort Craig writes to the Government that he has not a doubt of being able to hold that post.

Tribune Correspondence.

It is rumored that Green Clay will be transferred from the Secretaryship of Legation at St. Petersburg to that at Turin, the present incumbent, Mr. Fry, having resigned on account of ill health.

Dr. John Evans, of Chicago, has been nominated and confirmed as Governor of Colorado Territory, vice Gov. Gilpin.

Stephen S. Harding, of Ind., was, on Friday, nominated Governor of Utah, vice Gov. Dawson, rejected.

Small squads of rebel horsemen are scouring the country within five miles of Manassas, impressing all the able bodied men left, robbing the former for the hundredth time, and destroying what they can’t carry away.

The Saturday’s work of the ways and means committee on demands of delegations for modifications of the tax bill, was to put a 3 per cent ad valorem charge upon paper of every description; to adopt the schedules on leather substantially as they were presented to the committee by Mr. Alley, a tanner and a member of the House; to fix the rate on hoop skirts, umbrellas, and parasols, at 5 per cent ad valorem; on ready made clothing, at 3 per cent ad valorem; to leave salt as is in the bill; and after long discussion, to let the tax as first reported on tobacco and all its manufacturers stand unaltered.  The tax on billiard tables was reduced half to ten dollars a year; on rock oil, petroleum and coal oils, the only change was of phraseology, so that gas, tar, and the products from redistillation shall not be changed; for brokers the committee took off the tenth of one per cent on their stock sales, thinking that through their use of powers of attorney, transferred stamps and other assessable incidents of the business, they would get taxed enough.  Flour was not disposed, the desire to tax it of course duly exists of; the only difficulty in fixing the rate has been presented by the Canadian reciprocity treaty.  The belief has at least obtained in committee that flour can be taxed by branding the barrels and taxing the sales without violating the stipulations of that treaty; the charge on the gross receipts of horse railroads was reduced one half; it was decided not to tax coal at all; because it enters into the business and domestic life of nearly the whole nation.

During the discussions on the bill the work on the tariff progresses.  Reference is continually had to it, when an article is tax for internal revenue; at the same time an equivalent customs entry is placed on the tax list.  This principle will be adhered to throughout.

Herald’s Dispatch.

The party which left here on Tuesday ot look for the remains. Of Col. Slocum, Major Ballou, and Capt. tower of the 2d Rhode Island regiment, killed at Bull Run, returned this morning bringing their remains.  The party was composed of Gov. Sprague, Col. Arnold, Mr. Walter Coleman, his secretary Tristram Burges, Lieut. Col. Sayles and Capt. Dennison and Surgeon Greely, of the R. I. Cavalry, accompanied by two of the R. I. volunteers, who had been twin prisoners at Bull Run, and had noted the place where the officers were buried.  The party arrived Friday at Sudley’s Church.

Col. Slocum and Maj. Ballou were buried in the yard of a building near by, which was used as a hospital on the day of the battle.  This building had been destroyed by the rebels, but the graves were found.  After they had commenced to dig a negro girl inquired if they were digging for the body of Col. Slocum, and stated that about six weeks after the battle some soldiers of a Georgia regiment had dug it up, cut off the head, and buried the body at the side of the run close by, and taken the coffin away to bury a dead negro.  Her story was corroborated by a white boy and a white man who lived in the same neighborhood.  On repairing to the spot indicated, there was found a pile of ashes and bones, which were pronounced by the surgeon to be human. – Col. Slocum had been buried in a box, and Maj. Ballou in a coffin.  Upon opening the graves the box was recognized by Mr. Richardson, who was present at the interment, and the remains in it were identified as Col. Slocum.  Upon opening the other grave it was found to be empty, showing that the body dug up and burned by the Georgia barbarians was that of Maj. Ballou, only those two having been buried in that yard.

Gen. Hitchcock is here, aiding the war department by his advice.

Senator Lane, of Ind., has received advices from Savannah, Tenn., of the formation of a Union regiment in Alabama.

The Republican asserts that the President has remove Gen. Denver from the command of the department of Kansas.

The entire national debt is now four hundred millions of dollars.

The Senate to-day confirmed about 400 army appointment, principally of minor ranks.  Among them in the Adjutant General’s office department is R. J. Wagoner, of Ky.; Assistant Ad.t. Gen., with rank of Captain.  The only two Brigadier Generals of volunteers confirmed are Wm. K. Strong and Col. Mahon M. Monson [sic], of Ind.

Postmaster General Blair to-day issued the following notice to the Postmasters of the U. S.:

“The Secretary of War now regulates the transmission of information by telegraph affecting the conduct of the war.  In order to prevent the communication of such information to the rebels, it is also thought necessary by the secretary to put restrictions on the publication of facts of this character, however derived, and the aid of this department is requested for this purpose.

“You will therefore notify publishers not to publish any fact which has been excluded from the telegraph and that a disregard of this order will subject the paper to be excluded from the mails.

Signed,

M. BLAIR, P. M. Gen.”

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 25, 1862, p. 1

Bloodless Capture of Beaufort, N. C.

FORT MONROE, March 23,

via BALTIMORE, March 24.

The steamer Chancellor, Livingston, arrived from Hatteras last night.

Immediately after the evacuation of Newberne an expedition to Beaufort was started by Gen. Burnside.  The place was, however evacuated before our troops approached.

Fort Macon was blown up by the rebels.

The steamer Nashville burnt on the day Gen. Burnside occupied Newberne.

1,600 troops were on the road between Goldsboro and Newberne.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 25, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

WASHINGTON, March 6.

The President’s message excited deep interest in the House to-day.  Evidently it was not generally anticipated.  A message of a similar character, transmitted to the Senate, was not read.

The President has Nominated Brig. Gen. Thomas as Major General.

Newspapers are especially excluded from the list of manufactures taxed in the tax bill.  It repeals so much of the last session’s bill as relates to incomes, but leaves the land tax unchanged.

Mr. Blair, from the military committee, has reported a bill authorizing the Secretary of War to allow loyal citizens their claims for damage to property heretofore and hereafter destroyed by order of army or navy officers of the United States, to prevent it from falling into the hands of the enemy.

A reconnoitering party of the 63d Penn., Gen. Heintzelman’s division, was ambushed yesterday morning beyond the Occoquan, two or three miles in advance of our pickets, and received the fire, as was reckoned, of 40 concealed rebels.  They instantly fled through the woods.  Capt. Chapman and Lieut. Lyle were killed, and two privates wounded, one mortally.

Commander J. T. Armstrong, of the Steamer State of Georgia, reports how the Nashville ran into Beaufort, N. C.  He saw her at daylight and gave chase, but she ran under the guns of Fort Macon and escaped.

The Lieutenant Colonel in command of the 40^th Pennsylvania regiment, who was ambushed yesterday, will probably be cashiered.  The enemy are supposed to be Texan Rangers.

Gen. Lander’s funeral was very imposing.  It was attended by infantry, cavalry, artillery, lancers, and civilians, and the procession was two miles long.

Lieut. Conway, of the bark Peerless, blockading at Bull’s Bay near Charleston, S. C., sunk three vessels loaded with rice, and burned one inside of the Shoals, the last under the nose of a rebel battery of three guns.  They were all bound to Charleston, and manned by foreigners and negroes, who were put ashore, the boats being unable to take them off.

One hundred and fifty rebel soldiers recently deserted from Savannah to General Sherman.  Their reason was they said that they were tired of fighting in this inhuman war.

Clark, of the Boston Courier, nominated as commissary of subsistence, was rejected by the Senate to-day.  A large number of minor civil and military nominations were confirmed.

It is estimated by the committee of ways and means, that the internal taxes, with the taxes on imports, will probably produce a revenue of $150,000,000, and the tax may be increased if necessary.  The propriety of levying a tax on cotton is under discussion.

The Kentucky and pro-slavery Congressmen regard the President’s message with suspicion.

The question of branch mints in Denver City and New York, has been referred, by the ways and means committee, to the Secretary of the Treasury for his opinion.

The proof sheets of the tax bill are ready, and will be in circulation to-morrow.

A sub-committee of ways and means will immediately take up the tariff bill.

It is thought that Gen. Fremont has damaged rather than helped his case by the publication of his defense.

Gen. Fremont was at the Capitol yesterday receiving the congratulations of his friends.

Montgomery Blair was there to-day, very nervous about his private letter among the Fremont documents criticizing Chase and Lincoln.

Senator Collamer, from the committee on Post office Post Roads has reported adversely to the House a bill establishing a postal money order system and authorizing the carriage of additional mail matter.

Alex. Cummings is out with a defense, in a letter to Congressman Wm. Kelly.  He denies that he had anything to do with the chartering of the Cataline, and avers that her freight, including all linen trousers and straw hats, was bona fide for the soldiers.  He claims that the hundred and forty thousand dollars spoken of in Washburne’s report, were retained under orders from the Navy Department, to meet requisitions of the War Department, and pleads illness as his excuse or delay in making his reply.

C B. Matteson is said to be a silent partner in the Pennyslvania Avenue scheme, driven through the House, but encountering a serious obstacle in the Senate, in the person of Mr. Grimes, chairman of the district committee, whom the speculators call impracticable.  Ten thousand dollars worth of stocks are said to have been promised one valuable lobby assistant, in case of success.

Tribune’s Dispatch.

WASHINGTON, March 6.

The following statement of the disposition and strength of rebel forces opposed to the Union army of the Potomac was perfectly accurate, for days ago.  Changes have probably occurred since, but the main facts must still correspond with the figures.  At Centreville, which is now the strong point of the rebels, there are 50,000 infantry, 11,000 cavalry and 120 pieces of cannon, light and heavy.  Behind the batteries along the Potomac there are from 12,000 to 15,000 men.  At Gum Spring, between Leesburg and Centerville, there are three regiments of infantry, with a squadron of cavalry.  At Leesburg there are three regiments of infantry, one battery and 460 cavalry.  At a point five miles south of Brentsville, that is to say some ten miles south of Manassas, there is one brigade of infantry of 35,000 men.  These reports do not include any part of Jackson’s army, forming the rebel left wing, against which Gen. Banks is operating.

At Manassas there is not a single full regiment, whole companies and regiments having gone home on furlough for ten, twenty and thirty days.  All of the troops from South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Louisiana have gone home within the past two or three weeks.  Very few of the men whose term of service has expired are re-enlisting.

Herald’s Dispatch.

The gunboats Satellite and Island Belle discovered on Wednesday a number of rebel cavalry near Aquia Creek, and fired a [bow] shot, when the rebels ran away and the steamers returned.

A brisk fire was opened this morning by the lower flotilla, causing great alarm among the rebels.  The long roll was beaten, commencing at Aquia Creek and extending along the river as far as Evansport.  The call of the roll extended throughout a greater number of camps than at any time before.

The camp fires, within a few days past, have materially increased, showing a considerable augmentation of the rebel forces in this vicinity.

The rebels opened fire upon the Hubbs Ferry battery this morning.  About 20 or 30 shots were fired, without doing any damage.

The steamer Yankee to-day went within a half mile of the Virginia shore, and shelled a new battery, in process of erection in the rear of the position of their old battery at Freestone Point.  The rebels were forced to evacuate.

Special to the World.

Mrs. Wm. Norris and Mrs. Rogers, occupying a high social position, ladies of Baltimore, were brought here to-day and placed in prison, on a charge of supplying the enemy with aid, and giving them important information.  Both have sons in the rebel army, and were prominently connected with an association in Baltimore for the manufacture of clothing for the rebel soldiers.

The city has been excited recently with rumors respecting the movements of the troops at Manassas.  It is said they have concentrated a much larger army at that point than has generally been supposed. – As it is impossible to save anything at the West, what troops were there have been hurried into Va.  It is even said Beauregard is back again at his old post.

WASHINGTON, March 6.

The President has nominated Col. Harvey Brown, of Fort Pickens, as Brig. Gen. by brevet.

Capts. Bell, McKean, Dupont, Goldsboro and Farragut, were today Confirmed by the Senate as flag officers of the Navy.

The following were confirmed surveyors of customs:

W. Thornburry, Paducah, Ky.; J. R. Meeker, Nesqually, Washington Territory.

The following were also confirmed:

C. W. Chatterton, Indian Agent, Cherokee agency; C. H. Hale, superintendent of Indian affairs, Washington Territory; Thos. Nelson recorder of land titles in Missouri; S. K. Janeson, receiver of public monies for Nebraska; H. Stout, attorney and G. L. Gibbs, Marshal of Utah; E. D. Shatterch, attorney for Oregon; W. Wasson, Marshal for Nevada.

In addition to the above, a large number of army nominations were confirmed, but none of field officers.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, March 8, 1862, p. 1

From the South

BALTIMORE, March 5.

A letter from Fort Monroe published in the American of this city, says that yesterday’s Richmond Dispatch announces that the steamer Nashville came direct from Southampton to the North Carolina coast, and approached the blockading vessel with the Union flag flying.  The Nashville went up directly under the guns of the blockading vessel, almost within hailing distance, and then passing her raised the rebel flag and moved directly towards Ft. Macon.  The blockading vessel immediately discovered the deception and started in pursuit of the Nashville, following her until within range of the guns of Ft. Macon.  Several shots were fired at the Nashville, but she reports that nobody was hurt. – She claims to have brought into Wilmington a valuable cargo of bank note and printing paper.

The Richmond Dispatch calls attention to mysterious writings on the wall, indicating that Union conspirators are at work. – Among these writings are the following: “Attention, Union Men!  Watch and Wait!  The Union forever!  The day is dawning the hour of deliverance approaches.”

It was those significant announcements that caused the arrest of John Minor Botts and twenty other suspected citizens of wealth, character and position, and the proclamation of martial law.

The Dispatch urges summary measures for checking the progress of treason, and advocates the arrest and execution of the conspirators.

It was thought that Cols. Corcoran and Wilcox will be now held as hostages for Gens. Buckner and Tilghman, but this was merely rumored.  Col. Corcoran, Col. Wilcox and other Federal prisoners have reached Richmond.

There was a great panic at Richmond caused by the recent defeats of the rebels.  The leading traitors exhibited the greatest trepidation.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, March 6, 1862, p. 1

The Bombardment of Ft. Macon

From a graphic description of the bombardment of Ft. Macon, which was battered down in ten hours, we cut the following short extract.  It is from the New York Tribune.

The scene at this time was very grand, and would have afforded the materials for a Vernet battle piece.  The squadron steaming slowly in their elliptical course, and firing by turns, the fort  pouring fire and smoke at two sides, our land batteries all engaged at once, the smoke puffs of the badly sent bombs showing clear and white against the blue sky, the flag of treason and rebellion flying over the green slopes of the work, and the bright sun above all shining on the picture.  The thunder of cannon now shook the ground beneath our feet, and the window panes rattled in the houses as if they would be shivered the next instant.  Women who had friends in the fort would stand on the Beaufort piazza, throng the windows and wave their handkerchiefs in joy so long as the fort was firing upon us without reply but when our attack was raging from land and sea, shell after shell bursting within the walls or on the ramparts, and one gun after another becoming silenced, they shrunk from view, and no doubt gave way to their grief in the privacy of their apartments.  As I walked that morning along the river front to the boat in which I was to cross to Morehead, and saw the tearful eyes and mournful faces of women, I could not help thinking of that April day a year ago when the terrible fire of thirteen rebel batteries was directed upon a few loyal men in Fort Sumter and I thanked God in my heart that day of retribution had come so speedily.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 17, 1862 p. 1

From Washington

WASHINGTON, April 24.

The bill reported from the committee on military affairs authorizes and requires the President to convene a board, to consist of two officers of the corps of engineers, one ordnance officer, one of artillery, two of the navy, and two members selected for their scientific and practical attainments, and an officer of the corps of engineers as secretary; whose duty it shall be to examine and consider our system of sea-coast and lake fortifications, with special reference to such changes as may be recommended by the commission, to be commenced and prosecuted without the previous assent of Congress.

The bill further provides that the amount appropriated at this session for fortifications shall be expended under the directions of the President upon such defensive works as shall be recommended by the commission, and authorizes the President to accept any sums of money advanced or loaned by the several States for the construction of defensive works in the protection of the State upon such terms as shall be agreed upon between the proper authorities.

The board is also required to examine and consider the propriety of constructing a navy yard and depot on the northern lakes, and a foundry for heavy ordnance; also an armory and arsenal of constructions west of the Alleghanies [sic]; and for additional arsenals of deposit and repair, and shall, subject to the approval of the President, locate the same at such points as shall from purely military considerations appear best for the defence of the country.

The bill also provides that there shall be added to the number of cadets, at both the military and naval academies, a number equal to the present number allowed by the existing laws in those schools, to be selected one from each Congressional district and territory by the academy board, from among the applicants best qualified; provided the number added shall have their [expense] paid by parents or guardians, who shall be required to deposit with the superintendent of the academy each year the amount of money estimated to meet the expense of that year. The cadets to be subject to all the rules and regulations established from time to time for the government of said academies.


Tribune’s Special

WASINGTON, April 23.

Horace Maynard, who returned form Tennessee and took his seat, declares himself in favor of a stringent confiscation act against the rebels. Several other Border State men will support one.

The Senate Committee on Territories has instructed its chairman to report a bill identical with that reported to the House by Mr. Ashley, organizing the Territory of Arizona. On section extends the Wilmot Proviso over every Territory now organized.

The following has been issued:

WAR DEPARTMENT,
ADJUTANT GENERAL’S OFFICE,
WASHINGTON, April 15.

General Order No. 40.

The Secretary of war has observed with some surprise that the commanders of one or two military departments, conceiving themselves empowered to do so, have undertaken to accept the resignation of and otherwise discharge from the service of the U. S., officers commissioned or appointed by the President in the volunteer staff of the army. All such discharges are irregular, and unless confirmed by the President, are void of effect. None but the President can discharge an officer appointed by himself, and as he has not delegated this power to any General, no General must attempt to exercise it. By order of the Secretary of War.

(Signed,) L. THOMAS, Adjt. Gen.


By general orders issued from the War Department, Adjutant General’s office, April 18th, by direction of the President, Brigade surgeon J. H. Thompson, U. S. volunteers, is dismissed from the service as an alarmist, on the recommendation of his commanding General., Maj. Gen. Burnside. On the recommendation of Brig. Gen. Sherman, commanding the second army corps, approved by Maj. Gen. McClellan, commanding the army of the Potomac, Major Van Steinhouse, Capt. Batlicher and Capt. Camp, 68th regiment New York volunteers, Lieut. Lombard, Battalion Adjutant of the 8th Illinois, and assistant Surgeon Williams, 1st New York artillery, are stricken form the rolls of the army, for being captured by the enemy while straggling without authority beyond the outposts of the army, March 29th, 1862.

The headquarters of Lieut. Col. Hoffman, 8th Infantry, Commissary General of Prisoners, is transferred from New York city to Detroit Michigan.

This morning the Senate military committee passed upon several nominations. Among those reported for confirmation were Gen. Shields, to be Major General, and Col. Crittenden, of Kentucky, to be Brigadier General.

Horatio King, Buchanan’s Postmaster General, was nominated to-day as a commissioner of the District emancipation act in place of ex-mayor Berrett.


Times’ Special.

WASHINGTON, April 23.

An officer of artillery, who arrived in town to-night, from near Warrenton Junction, reports the rebels in strong force on the south bank of the Rappahannock, in the direction of Gordonsville.

Gen. Estell is said to be at the crossing of the river where the railroad bridge was burned, with 500 men.

Gen. W. Smith is at Gordonsville, strongly entrenched, with 30,000 men, and Gen. Jackson crossing the river from the Shenandoah valley to unite 8,000 there to the force, making a total column of 46,000 men. If the figures are reliable, we are in sufficient force in fromt of Manassas to managed this rebel army.

I am assured by a gentleman of this city, whose position brings him in business contact with M. Mercier, that his mission had reference only to a large amount of valuable tobacco belonging to the French government. The property is known as the Belmont tobacco. While there, it is said that M. Mercier has undoubtedly examined somewhat into the condition of the bogus Confederacy, in order to report to the Emperor the true condition of things.

Capt. Cutting, of Gen. Burnside’s staff, arrived here to-day with dispatches to the government. He states that General Reno commanded the national forces at the late Reconnoisance to Elizabeth City.

Capt. Cutting gives the following particulars of the affair on the 17th inst:

Gen. Reno left Newbern and proceeded to Elizabeth City where a strong rebel force was reported to be entrenching themselves on Saturday. An advance was made upon the rebels. The enemy opened fire with artillery as soon as our troops made their appearance, and from all appearances supposed they had us in a trap of our own making. Our troops immediately formed and charged on the enemy, who ran at the first fire. We then immediately took possession of the town and after remaining a few hours returned to the main army.

Our force was about 2000 under General Reno, and three boat howitzers under Col. Howard. The force of the rebels consisted of a Georgia regiment of 1100 men, a portion of Wise’s Legion and batteries of artillery.

The enemy was totally routed, with a loss of about 60 men. Our loss is about 12 killed and 48 wounded.

Col. Hawkins, of the N. Y. Zuaves, received a slight flesh wound I the arm. – His adjutant was reported killed.

Information received from Union sources is; that guns of the national forces under Gen. Burnside, wee probably opened on Fort Macon, yesterday or to-day.

Gen. Park Commanded our forces.

At a Republican caucus held to-night at the Capitol, about fifty members were present. Mr. Colfax in the chair, and Mr. McPherson Secretary.

A general debate ensued on the confiscation bill, in which Messrs. Straus, Blair, Covode, Hickman, Allen and others participated. The discussion was somewhat of the character of that which has recently taken place in the House. The sense of the caucus seemed to be in favor of discriminating against the leading rebels, in the confiscation of all kinds of property. – It was unanimously agreed to refer all the bills pending in the House to a select committee of seven members, as moved to-day by Representative Olin.


Special Dispatch to the Herald.

A change in the Navy Department has been positively determined upon. The President is waiting only to fix upon the individual who is to fill the place of Secretary of the Navy. Gen. Banks, Judge Davis, of Ill., and Gov. Sprague, R. I., are each strongly urged for this distinction, but the selection has not yet been made.

WASHINGTON, April 24.

At noon to-day was commenced the announcement of the decisions on the proposals for conveying the mails on the Pacific coast, in the West, Northwest, &c. A large number of bidders were in attendance at the P. O. Department.

The proposals for the Pacific coast are very much higher than formerly and those for Kentucky and Missouri are considerably advanced, owing doubtless, to the military disturbances in those States; while in Indiana, Illinois and other States, the rates are lower.

In all, the number of routes is about 2,800, averaging ten bids for each. The sum total of the offers for the entire lettings is about equal to that of four years ago for similar service.


Special to Post.

The sensation story in the Philadelphia Enquirer of this A. M., to the effect that Secretary Welles is to be removed, is essentially untrue. This I learn on good authority. I also learn that Mr. Welles some time since tendered his resignation to the President, but it was not accepted. – Probably this circumstance has given rise to the rumor of an immediate change in the Cabinet. All the current reports of the removal of Mr. Welles are destitute of foundation.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, April 25, 1862, p. 2

Southern News

WILMINGTON, April 18.

Private letters, dated April 17th, say the enemy attacked Fort Macon last Saturday, and had been fighting two days. Col. White sent out part of his men on the beach and found 300 Yankees. They killed 15 of our men, and we then retreated to the Fort. Col. White fired canister at the enemy, killing great numbers.

The enemy have built a battery two miles from the Fort and planted mortars and large siege guns. Eleven large ships are outside. The enemy have sent to Newbern for gunboats to operate in the Sound. The enemy are committing every imaginable outrage in Catawexon and Slow counties. Fort Macon has not been taken.


AUGUSTA, April 18.

The Savannah Morning News, says that a skirmish took place at Whitmarsh Island, on Wednesday, between some companies of the 15th Georgia and a Michigan regiment in which the latter were repulsed.

An accident occurred on the Atlantic and West Point RR, at Greene, Tenn., by which about 200 confederate soldiers were killed and six slightly wounded.

The Richmond Enquirer, of Friday, says the rebel court of inquiry, which has been deliberating for some time past upon the advisability of releasing John M. Botts from imprisonment, adjourned Thursday. The result of their labors has not yet transpired.

A refugee from Richmond says there are batteries in four places on James river. None of which could withstand a heavy fire from [illegible] gunboats.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, April 23, 1862, p. 1

From Yorktown

FORT MONROE, April 19.

Thirty-nine wounded from Yorktown arrived to-day, making 90 wounded in the fight on the left flank on Wednesday. The whole number was 32 killed and 90 wounded.

In Norfolk papers, Magruder’s account gives 25 rebels killed, including Col. McKinney, and 75 wounded.

Cannonading is heard towards Yorktown, but it is an attempt of the enemy to disturb our working parties. With the exception of the affair at the rifle pits Thursday, they get the worst of the skirmishing. – Work progresses rapidly, and when the siege begins, it will be terrific.

The steamer Hoge has arrived from Newbern on the 18th. Ft. Macon is thoroughly cut off. It has been ascertained that the supply of provisions is short; that no attempt will be made on the fort, but starve them out.

Slight expectations still prevailed that the rebels might attack Newbern, and fortifications were being built for its protection.

Smoke and flames from the Norfolk fire are still visible.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, April 22, 1862, p.1

Specials to the New York Papers

(Tribune’s Dispatch.)

WASHINGTON, April 21. – The Norfolk Day-Book of Saturday Contains the following:

Knoxville, April 18. – Capt. A Shely, commanding 300 artillery, intercepted 1,075 Lincolnites starting for Kentucky, yesterday, near Jackboro’. They fought for two or three hours and succeeded in killing about [75] and taking 500 prisoners. Our loss – none were killed and only about twenty-five wounded.

No less than 5,500 Lincolnites have left East Tennessee for Kentucky, since the Governor’s proclamation calling on the military.


Wilmington, April 18 – Private letters dated April 17th, says the enemy attacked Fort Macon last Saturday and had been fighting two days. Col. White sent out a part of his men on the beach and found three hundred Yankees. They killed fifteen of our men, when we retired into the fort. Col. White fired canister at the enemy, killing large numbers of them.

The enemy have erected a battery two miles from the fort, on the beach, and planted mortars and large size guns. Eleven large ships are outside.

The enemy have sent to Newbern for gunboats to operate in the Sound. The enemy are committing every imaginable outrage in Onslow and Cataract counties.

Fort Macon has not yet been taken.


Augusta, Ga., April 18 – The Savannah Morning News says that a skirmish took place at Whitesburg yesterday, between some companies of the 15th Georgia and a Michigan battery, in which the latter were repulsed.

An accident occurred on the Atlantic and West Point railroad, at Greenland, by which about 200 confederate soldiers were killed and six slightly wounded.

The Richmond Inquirer of Friday says the Rebel Court of Inquiry which has been deliberating for some time past, upon the advisability of releasing John M. Botts from imprisonment, adjourned Thursday. The result of their labors have not yet transpired.


Goldsboro, April 15. – On Monday last below Pollocksville, near Evanston, a skirmish took place between a detachment of the 2d North Carolina cavalry regiment and the enemy’s pickets.

Lieut. Cololnel Robinson, who commanded is probably a prisoner. Capt Turner was hurt by a fall from his horse. Five privates were severely injured and five wounded from gun shots.


(World’s Dispatch)

Information has been received that Gen. Joe Johnson has about three thousand rebel troops at Gordonsville, and is ready to fall back on North Anna River, preparatory to a general retreat on Richmond.


(Herald’s Dispatch)

We learn from the Petersburgh Express that a requisition has been mad upon the slave owners of Prince George and Surry counties for one-half the negroes between the ages of 16 and 50 years, to [report] to Wilmington, where the rebel General McGruder’s [sic] reserves are posted to work on the fortifications which are designed to protect Yorktown in the rear.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 4

From Fort Pickens

NEW YORK, 20. – The Steamer Philadelphia has arrived from Fort Pickens.

Deserters were constantly arriving from Pensacola. The rebels had not evacuated but were moving guns away. The town was under martial law. Large [fires] are seen nightly, indicating that the rebels are destroying their property.

Minard Wood is the sutler who has escaped from the rebels, taking $10,000 in gold. He came passenger in the Philadelphia.

The rebel commander, Col. Jones, issued a proclamation that he would hang all idle people after the [3d] of April.

The steamer Troy, from Newbern, April 17, via Hatteras, April 18, has arrived here. Four companies of the Connecticut 8th had a skirmish on the 12th with 150 rebels who sortied from Fort Macon and drove in our pickets. After a sharp engagement the rebels were driven back to the Fort. During the engagement the Fort fired seventy shots at the forces engaged. Two of our men were wounded. We shall open on Fort Macon on the 21st with mortars and siege guns. Health of troops good.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 4

Siege at Yorktown

FORTRESS MONROE, April 19 – Thirty-nine wounded from Yorktown arrived to-day, making ninety wounded in the fight on the left flank Wednesday. The whole number was 32 killed and 90 wounded. In Norfolk Papers Magruder’s account gives 25 rebels killed, including Colonel McKinny, and 75 wounded.

Cannonading is heard towards Yorktown, but it is an attempt of the enemy to [disturb] our working parties.

With the exception of affairs at rifle pits Thursday they got the worst in skirmishing. – Operations are progressing rapidly, and when the siege guns opens the fire will be terrific.

The steamer Page arrived at Newbern on the 18th. Fort Macon is thoroughly cut off. It has been ascertained that the supply of provisions is short. No attempt will be made on the fort, but to starve them out. Slight apprehension still prevailed that the rebels might attack Newbern, and fortifications were being built for protection.

Smoke and flames from the Norfolk fire are still visible.

There was a flag of truce to-day, but the agent of the Associated Press was not allowed to see the papers.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 4

The Battle at Elizabeth City

WASHINGTON, April 23. – Capt. Cutting of Gen. Burnside’s staff, arrived here to-day with dispatches to the Government. He states that Gen. Reno commanded the National forces at the lat reconnaissance to Elizabeth City.

Capt. Cutting gives the following particulars of the affair:

On the 17th inst. Gen. Reno left Newbern and proceeded to Roanoke Island, from which place he took about 2,000 men and proceeded to Elizabeth City (which is situated on the Pasquotank river) where a strong rebel force was reported to be entrenching themselves. On Saturday an advance was made upon the rebels. The enemy opened fire with artillery as soon as our troops made their appearance, and from all appearances thought they had us in a trap of our own making. Our troops immediately formed and charged on the enemy, who ran at the first fire. We immediately took possession of the town, and after remaining a few hours, retired to the main army.

Our force was about 2,000 under Gen. Reno, and three boat howitzers under Col. Zoard. – The force of the rebels consisted of a Georgia regiment of 1100 men, a portion of Wise’s Legion, and batteries or artillery. The enemy was totally routed, with a loss of about 60 men. Our loss is about 12 killed and 48 wounded. – Col. Hawkins of the N. Y. Zouaves received a slight flesh wound in the arm. His adjutant was reported killed.

Information received from Union sources is that the guns of the national forces under Gen. Burnside were probably opened on Fort Macon yesterday or to-day.

Gen. Porter commands our forces.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 3

Col. Moses J. White of Mississippi . . .

. . . the commander of Ft. Macon, it is said, is a nephew of Jeff Davis. Captain Stephen D. Poole, who commands one of the companies within the fort, was editor of the Beaufort Journal, and it is said he was offered the collectorship of the place by President Lincoln, but having a higher ambition, he refused the office, and in his chagrin joined the secession cause. He had always professed through his paper to be a strong Union man.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 26, 1862, p. 2

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