The Battle at Corinth

The contemplated battle at Corinth received importance from the fact, that it is generally believed it will be the last general engagement of the war.  Upon its issue hinges the fate of the Southern Confederacy.  The rebels will fight desperately, and only yield when thoroughly whipped – provided they fight at all.

Although a battle is hourly expected it may be weeks before it occurs.  If Gen. Halleck concludes to lay siege to the place, and take the enemy by strategy, as Com. Foote did at Island No. 10 and Gen. McClellan tried to do at Yorktown, weeks may elapse before the final charge, a la Donelson, is made.  We doubt very much, however, if this ever come to pass.  Beauregard, if we mistake not the man, is differently constituted from Lee, Johnson or Magruder, and knowing that he will be defeated, would rather yield at the head of his army acting on the offensive, than ‘die in the last ditch’ in a retreat.  This rebellion has been so demoralizing in its who scope, that we should not be surprised, nevertheless, if the feeling spread from men to officers, and, impressed with the futility of further contending, all united in a grand foot-race.

Time will only determine these things.  In the meanwhile we can but speculate on the result, provided there is no battle, and prognosticate if there be; always believing that, in either case the Federal army will take no step backward, but march on to the tune of the “star-spangled banner,” until that ensign of our liberties waves over ever rood of land embraced within the national domain.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, May 17, 1862, p. 2

The Evacuation of Yorktown

PHILADELPHIA, May 5.

The Inquirer has a special dispatch from Fort Monroe, giving the following particulars in regard to the evacuation of Yorktown:

ONE MILE BEYOND YORKTOWN,

Sunday, May 4 – 10 A. M.

All day yesterday the rebels kept up a hot fire on Gen. Porter’s division.  No one was hurt.  Our Parrott gun at Farnholt Court House occasionally answered them last evening, and up to midnight heavy firing was kept up.  About that time there fire slackened considerably, and at 2 o’clock stopped altogether.  We fired one or two more batteries at them, but got no answer.

About 3 o’clock this morning a building at Yorktown was fired, and Prof. Lowe and Gen. Heintzleman went up in a balloon and found it was the storehouse at Yorktown wharf.  At daylight they reported the forts empty.  At 7 o’clock we occupied Yorktown without a gun being fired.

Of the guns of the enemy, nearly all remaining were spiked and dismounted.  By the side of the river battery were large piles of ammunition, powder, balls, shells, &c.  Eighty guns were in Yorktown, which is surrounded by a semi-circle.  The earthworks were all constructed to cover one another in every position, but they must have eventually yielded could he have got around them.

The gun we dismounted the other day killed and wounded four rebels.

The fort had been occupied by the 1st battalion New Orleans artillery, the 8th and 30th Alabama regiments, the 10th and 18th Louisiana, and 13th and 15th Georgia regiments.  These troops were ordered to report at Howard’s Grove, and left the fort at midnight.  A rear guard was left who waited for the appearance of day, and then retired in greatest haste.

Two deserters who left their regiment in Williamsburg at Daylight, say the whole rebel army was in a panic.  Prof. Lowe’s balloon reconnoissance discovered their rear guard at 9 a. m., to be four miles out.  Gen. McClellan immediately ordered out the artillery and cavalry and is pushing after them at full speed.

All our gunboats came up at 9 o’clock and landed some marines at Gloucester, who raised the United States flag amid the cheering that could be heard across the river.  The boats all then left and are now running up York river, shelling the banks on both sides.

A number of mines had been prepared for our troops by placing Prussian shells under ground in the roadways and entrances to the fort.

No whites were to be found, and only a few negro women and babies.  The town was squalid and filthy.  A few days of warm weather would have brought on a pestilence.  An abundance of bread, flour and a large quantity of meat, salt and fish was left.  All the tents were left, but no horses or wagons.

Reports concur that the rebels consist of a mob of about 100,000 men, ill fed, dirty and disheartened.

The road from Yorktown to Hampton, on which we encamped, was guarded by Fort Magruder, mounting a large number of guns, part of which were taken away and part spiked.  Some of their works were well built and well laid out, while others were wretched contrivances.  The work upon them was finished on Friday night, and the slaves sent to the rear under guard.  The rebels have nothing behind in which they can make a stand.  Last night their camp fires all along were the same as usual.  The dense woods along the peninsula enable them to leave without being seen by the balloon.

The large guns of the rebels were mostly Columbiads, taken from the Norfolk navy yard.  Some of them have been recently mounted.

The fortifications, although of the roughest character, where very formidable, being surrounded by deep gorges almost impossible to pass.

Times’ Dispatch

The retreat of the rebels appears to have been precipitate.  The commenced dismounting and carrying their guns back to Williamsburg four days ago.  Wagons have been engaged in transporting their ammunition, provisions, and camp equipage for over a week.  Their sick and wounded, numbering over 2,500, were sent to Richmond ten days ago.

The rebel soldiers and negroes were at work on their entrenchments until 2 o’clk. this morning, when their rear guard ordered the work to cease and take up the march to Williamsburg.

Ten thousand of the rebels were sent from Winne’s Mill to reinforce an army sent from Richmond to oppose McDowell’s advance last Thursday week.

A great battle is expected at Williamsburg, as the rebel troops particularly those under Magruder, have mutinied on several occasions within two weeks.  6,000 of his men threatened to lay down their arms unless they received food and clothing.

Three rebel lieutenants, 2 sergeants, and 20 men were captured on the other side of Yorktown, and brought in.  Since the 3d, over 70 deserters have come in, who report their army as thoroughly disheartened and demoralized.

The honor of first entering the enemy’s works belongs to the 73d regiment, of N. Y.  The Texas Rangers left as our forces were advancing.  A large force of the enemy are reported captured four miles behind Yorktown.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC,

May 4 – 7 P. M.

Hon. E. M. STANTON:

Our cavalry and horse artillery came up with the enemy’s rear guard in their entrenchment about two miles this side of Williamsburg.  A brisk fight ensued, just as my aid left Smith’s division of infantry arrived on the ground, and it is presumed carried his works, though I have not yet heard.  The enemy’s rear is strong, but I have force enough up there to ensure all purposes.  All along the lines their works prove to have been most formidable, and I am now fully satisfied of the correctness of the course I have pursued.  The success is brilliant, and you may rest assured that its effects will be of the greatest importance.  There shall be no delay in following up the rebels.  The rebels have been guilty of the most murderous and barbarous conduct in placing torpedoes within the abandoned works near wells and springs, and near flog staffs, magazines, telegraph offices, in carpet bags, barrels of flour, &c.  Fortunately we have not lost many men in this manner – some four or five killed and perhaps a dozen wounded.  I shall make the prisoners remove them at their own peril.

(Signed,)

GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Maj. Gen.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, May 6, 1862, p. 1

Interesting News from Richmond

WASHINGTON, May 5.

The following statement, dated yesterday on the Rappahannock, has reached Washington:

A colored many came in to-day from the other side of the river, and represented himself as Jeff. Davis’ coachman.  From an examination of him this is probably true.  He reports scraps of conversation, overheard whilst driving Mr. and Mrs. Davis in the carriage, and between Mr. Davis and those who came to see him.  Mr. Davis and Gen. J. E. Johnson [sic] had a heated discussion about the latter’s retreat from Manassas:– Davis disapproved of it and ordered Johnson to make a stand at Gordonsville, Johnson declined to do this, and offered to resign, but he was indisposed to go to Yorktown.  Mrs. Davis said she thought it was very bad in Johnson to be unwilling to help General Magruder.

The coachman overheard a conversation between Johnson and Mrs. Davis, the former saying if he had not left Manassas McClellan would have come out against him, and cut him all to pieces.  Mrs. Davis read an article in the Examiner to her husband, stating that it was part of the Yankees’ plans that Gens. Banks and McDowell were to form a junction in Louisa or Caroline county, and move down on Richmond.  Davis remarked that he thought that was so, but his generals would take care of them.

The coachman represent that Mrs. Davis said that the Confederacy was about played out and that if N. O. was really taken, she had no longer any interest in the matter, as all she had was there; if that was a great pity that they had ever attempted to hold Virginia and other non-cotton growing States; and that she said to Mrs. Dr. Gwinn, daughter of Col. Jas. Taylor, U. S. commissary of subsistence, who was very anxious to get to Washington, where she has one of her children, not to give herself any trouble, but only to stay where she was and when the Yankees came to Richmond she should go.

The coachman says that Mr. and Mrs. Davis have all their books, clothing and pictures packed, ready to move off.  That there is much outspoken Union feeling in Richmond; That having been a waiter in a hotel there, he knows all the Union men of the place, and that the Yankees are looked at with more pleasure by the whites than even the colored people.

Confederate money is not taken when it can be avoided.  Mrs. Davis herself was refused when she offered a ten dollar Confederate note.

Many of the Richmond people which the Union troop[s to come as they are half starved.  The bank and government property is all packed up for removal to Danville, near the N. C. line.  Gen. Johnson did not think they would succeed at Yorktown.  The coachman overheard the rebel officers say if they fail at Yorktown and New Orleans they would leave Virginia.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, May 6, 1862, p. 1

From Fort Monroe

FORT MONROE, May 2.

A refugee from Norfolk left last night in a row boat, and arrived here this A. M.

Com. Tatnall received sealed orders on Monday, and sailed, but opening them in Elizabeth river, he found he was ordered to run the blockade and proceed to York River.  He therefore returned to Norfolk and immediately resigned his commission together with his chief officers.

There was a general expectation in Norfolk that the Merrimac would come out at once.

There are 6,000 or 7,000 rebel troops under Hugher [sic], between Pig Point and Norfolk.  Three companies in Portsmouth rebelled a few days since.  It is also reported that part of Gen. Magruder’s forces had mutinied at Williamsburg.

A torpedo has been constructed at Norfolk, calculated to be managed under water by one man, and be propelled by him under the vessel to be destroyed.  It is said to be five or six feet long.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, May 5, 1862, p. 1

From Fortress Monroe

FORTRESS MONROE, April 5. – The Mobile Advertiser of the 4th has a special message from Memphis stating the Buell’s army reached Savannah, on the Tennessee river, and there had been brisk skirmishing, and great activity on both sides for the great struggle.

MOBILE, April 4. – Wednesday a Yankee force of 2,000 strong landed at Biloxi and cut the telegraph lines between Mobile and New Orleans.

There is authority from the War Department for saying that dispatches from Fortress Monroe, dated 3 P. M. Sunday had been received.

A reconnoissance had been made towards Yorktown.  The headquarters of our army are now about five miles from Yorktown.

There had been some cannonading, but with out injury on either side.

FORTRESS MONROE, April 5. – The latest intelligence received of the Virginia, otherwise Merrimac, is dated Norfolk, last night.  She was then coaling at the Navy Yard and was expected to come out to-day.  Capt. Pegram is still mentioned as likely to command her.

The Yorktown, Jamestown and Teazer and four other gunboats are at Norfolk.

A deserter who came in this morning reports the force on the Peninsula not so large as supposed.

Magruder’s headquarters are at Lee’s Mills.

Three tugs arrived from Newberne Thursday, bringing little news of interest.

Reports are current that Burnside has been ordered to evacuate Newberne within six days, and he replied that he would not.

The rebels at Goldsboro’, Raleigh and fort Macon still hold out.  Extensive preparations are being made for the reduction of the Fort. – A few shells had been already thrown at it.

FT. MONROE, April 7. – Nothing has been done in front, Yorktown except reconnoissance in that direction and some skirmishing.

A telegraph has been established at headquarters near Yorktown.

The Spaulding came in this morning from Shippings Point.  The rebel works abandoned there are quite formidable.  The rebels took off their guns.  Shippings Point is about eight miles from Yorktown, affording a fine base of operations.

A great crowd of Norfolk people assembled on the shore near Sewall’s Point on Sunday, including men, women and children, all eagerly engaged in watching the Yankees.

A Norfolk paper of this morning contains a dispatch from Mobile, dated the 6th inst., announcing the reception of news from Corinth that morning of a great battle – that the Confederates had taken Buell’s batteries, and a large number of prisoners.  It was expected that the whole Federal army would be swept away.  This is given as a specimen of the rebel mode of keeping up the spirits of the people, and the courage of the army.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 4

Special to New York Papers

(Times Special.)

WASHINGTON, April 8. – Gen. T. W. Sherman just relieved by Gen. Hunter, arrived here to-day from Port Royal and reported himself at the War Department.  He expresses the opinion that before this Fort Pulaski has been attacked and has no doubts of its final capture.

A General who arrived here from Port Royal yesterday says several contrabands who came within our lines a few days since and reported that they were direct from Charleston, and that the people of that city were fearing an attack from our forces, and complained bitterly that nearly all their troops were in Virginia, and in the west.

Maj. S. W. Crawford was nominated by the President to-day, to the Senate as Brigadier General of Volunteers.

The Times correspondent writes from Liverpool Point, April 8th, that several Virginians belonging to Falworth, Fredericksburg, and Stafford, have come over to Liverpool Point.  They say that the reconnoissance created the most intense excitement at Fredericksburg.  Every vehicle capable of transporting goods was bro’t into requisition; while whole families left for Richmond, leaving everything behind them.  Orders were given by Gen. Walker, commandant at Fredericksburg, for all his available force to leave immediately for Brookstown, along the line of the railroad, and repel the advance of the invaders.  They also report a battle having been fought between 500 Texas cavalry and Sickles’ entire forces, just before entering Stafford; they put down Sickles’ loss at 350 and their own as only 13.  The effective force of the rebels between Fredericksburg and Acquia Creek is less than four thousand; beyond Fredericksburg to Richmond, probably ten thousand including a few batteries of artillery.

There was no scarcity of provisions.

Confederate bonds can be bought for 5 cents on the dollar.  Shin plasters issued by banks and private parties are of more value, commanding a hundred dollars in specie for every thousand dollars.

It is said to be the intention of the Confederate Government to abandon Virginia unless the people of the State render more aid of men and money.

Gen Wigfall commands a brigade five miles from Fredericksburg.  He has had a serious misunderstanding with the General commanding Holla, and has accordingly forwarded to Richmond his resignation.

All men supposed to be for the Union are relieved of their property with impunity, and no redress can be had.  In consequence of this most Union men are very quiet.

During the embarking of our troops from Liverpool Point a large number of Maryland slave holders lined the shore on horseback, said to be looking for lost slaves.

No slaves from Maryland or Virginia were allowed to go on board our transports.  Some few negroes were taken as servants.  There were about 800 female slaves left at Liverpool Point and Mulatto Woman Creek without any protection.  Some of the slave owners threaten to make trouble.

(Special to World.)

WASHINGTON, April 9. – The World’s correspondence at Warrenton brings the following to-day:

The advance forces are now resting on the Rappahannock, our pickets extending to that stream.  The railroad is now in running order to Cedar Run, within two miles of Warrenton Junction and thirteen miles from the Rappahannock River.  It will take several days to complete the bridge over Cedar Run, as the recent storm has swollen all the streams very much. – Neither Bull nor Cedar Run can be forded at present, and no troops can move except by rail.

The cavalry pickets extend some distance south-east of Brentsville, and skirmishes with the rebel scouts are of daily occurrence.

As the army proceeds south the country begins to present fewer of the ravages of the enemy, though in no vicinity has there yet been discovered sufficient supplies to support either the men or horses for more than one day.

The reports of the enemy’s position are indefinite and uncertain.  Contrabands and refugees from Fauquier and Culpepper say that the rebel army have dwindled greatly in its proportions, and that it is retreating upon Richmond as fast as possible, leaving nothing but scouts and guerrillas in its rear to watch our movements.  It would seem from this that the rebels are not reinforcing Magruder, and intend to make a stand this side of Richmond.

(Tribune’s Dispatch.)

It is understood that the Department of the South, of which Gen. Hunter has been put in command, will be thoroughly re-organized.  Gen. Sherman will be followed North by his Brigadier Generals Wright and Viele; but it is unknown who will fill the place they vacate.

It is also believed that Gen. Hunter will rightfully treat South Carolina and Georgia as rebels, and not as sovereign States.

The Senate to-day ratified two treaties, the commercial treaty with the Ottoman Porte, and the Mexican extradition treaty, negotiated by Minister Corwin.

The former, which is extremely liberal in its provisions, provides for its continuance for 50 years.  One stipulation of the latter is to the effect that the frontier States, the respective parties shall deliver up persons for whose surrender application is made without delay and expense of an appeal to Washington or the City of Mexico, elicited much discussion, and finally passed by barely one more than the constitutional majority, 27 to 13.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

From Fortress Monroe

BALTIMORE, April 10. – The Old Point boat has arrived.  The news of the capture of Island No. 10 caused great rejoicing and enthusiasm. – The storm had somewhat abated toward evening.

Reports from the army represent our forces facing exposure undauntedly.  The enthusiasm and anxiety to meet the enemy was unabated and confidence in Gen. McClellan was undisturbed.  The time has not been lost, and the retreat of Magruder and is forces or their defeat is considered certain.

The present prospect of clearing up is looked for with anxiety at Old Point, in the belief that sunshine and the Merrimac come together.  All seem confident that she will be captured or sunk.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

From Gen. McClellan’s Army

WASHINGTON, April 8. – The following is a summary of intelligence received by the War Department up to 10 o’clock Monday night, of the operations at Yorktown and Fortress Monroe:

“Yesterday the enemy’s works were carefully examined by Gen. McClellan and found to be very strong and the approaches difficult.  The enemy was in force, and the water batteries at Yorktown and Gloucester were said to be much increased.

“There was sharp firing on the right, but no harm done.  Our forces were receiving supplies from Ship Point, repairing roads, and getting up long trains.  It seemed plain that mortars and siege guns must be used for assaulting.”

Another dispatch, received at 10:30 this morning, states that Yorktown will fall, but not without a siege of two or three days.  Some of the outer works have been taken.

A dispatch from Gen. Wool states that Magruder had 30,000 men at Yorktown.

On the afternoon of Sunday, Ship Point had been taken and our gunboats had shelled out the batteries.

There was considerable delay caused in crossing Deep Creek, at Warwick Court House, and resistance was made by the rebels, during which time several casualties occurred on our side.

All the fortified places of importance before Yorktown had been taken at every point.

A further account is contained in the following dispatch:

“Before YORKTOWN, Saturday evening.

“Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, Sec’y of War:

“That portion of the army of the Potomac recently concentrated at Old Point advanced yesterday morning in the direction of Yorktown, fourteen miles distant.  The right was assigned to Gen. Morrill’s Brigade of Gen. Porter’s Division, two companies of the Third Pennsylvania Cavalry and a portion of Berdan’s Sharpshooters acting as skirmishers.

“Nothing of interest took place until their arrival at Big Bethel, twelve miles distant, where they met the outer pickets of the rebels.  The troops were delayed here two hours, constructing a bridge which had been destroyed.

The rebels retreated before the advance of our skirmishers to Howard’s Creek, where they had some abandoned earth-works.  Shots were fired here by the rebels from two field pieces which were soon silenced by the 4th Rhode Island Battery, when the rebels beat a hasty retreat, taking their pieces with them.  The main body of the army rested here for the night, while Morrill’s Brigade advanced three miles to Cuckleville, six miles from Yorktown.  By 7 o’clock this (Saturday) morning, the column was again in motion, and by 10 o’clock was in front of the enemy’s works at Yorktown.

The first shot fired was by the rebels, the shell passing over the heads of Gen. Porter and Staff without exploding.  The batteries of Griffin and the Third and Fourth Rhode Island and 5th Massachusetts were placed in position, replying at every spot from which shot were sent by the rebels.

The position of the rebels is a strong one. – From present indications extend some two miles in length, and mount very heavy guns.  The ground in front of their guns is low and swampy.

– Published in the Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 12, 1862, p. 3

What four Deserters Say

BALTIMORE, March 24. – Four deserters arrived by the Old Point boat to-day, from the rebel army, all citizens of Eastern States who were made prisoners by the rebels last May, at Cedar Keys, Florida, where they had gone with the schooner Slug, to load with timber, which was confiscated.  The schooner was loaded with cotton, but she was subsequently burnt to escape a Federal cruiser.

The four men were obliged to enlist in the 2d Florida regiment, last January.  The regiment was ordered to Richmond, where they arrived the day after the battle of Bull Run.  They were finally sent to Yorktown.  They state that Mcgruder’s [sic] force around Yorktown is composed of about a dozen regiments, and that he has not over 4,000 effective fighting men.  But at Great Bethel and other points through the peninsula he has not less than fifteen thousand men. – There are some heavy guns near Yorktown.

During the last few weeks these forces have been engaged in building casemates, but not of a very formidable character.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 29, 1862, p. 4

A letter from Fortress Monroe states . . .

. . . that it is ascertained that the rebels intended to attack our camp at Newport News simultaneously with the assault of the Virginia on the fleet and were approaching under Magruder, some 10,000 strong, but the swollen creeks prevented their approach.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 22, 1862, p. 2

BALTIMORE, April 9 [1862].

A letter to the N. Y. Herald says the accounts of the progress of affairs at Yorktown which have reached this city through channels believed to be reliable, differ materially from the accounts furnished by the government.  It was known at Richmond when a portion of the Union army of the Potomac moved from Manassas to Washington.  It was known there when the corps de armie landed and were assembled at Fortress Monroe.  It was known there when Gen. McClellan and staff arrived at the Fort, and it was known there when the march on Yorktown commenced and the number of troops Gen. McClellan had wherewith to make the attack.  These facts convinced the Confederate government at Richmond that their hour was come unless they took instant measures to arrest the march of Gen. McClellan.  The fortifications of Yorktown were all that could be desired, both as to strength and armament, but Gen. Magruder had as yet only thirty-five thousand troops.  The withdrawal of such a large number of Union troops from Manassas rendered it necessary to keep the main body of the army of the Rappahannock along that stream, and from that army accordingly, Gen. Magruder has been largely reinforced.

Troops have been arriving at Yorktown and Gordonsville every day for the last week.

It is believed that Gen. Johnston and Jeff. Davis are both at Yorktown, and that Gen. Johnston is in command.  The number of rebel troops there cannot be less than 100,000.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 12, 1862, p. 1

From Fort Monroe

BALTIMORE, April 11.

The Old Point boat has arrived.  The following are the main points of a letter dated Fort Monroe, April 10^th:

The storm is over at last.  Nothing has been seen or heard of the Merrimac to-day, and in view of the reverses of the rebels, it is doubtful whether they will attempt offensive operations, even with their iron-plated monster.  Their desperate strait may induce attempts at something in this way.  If she ever does come, she will probably come to-morrow.

Parties who came in from the army report no special change in affairs.  Continual skirmishing is going on.  A brilliant affair occurred on Monday, in which Griffin’s battery participated with marked effect, killing and wounding 27 rebels.

The rebel position extends across the peninsula from Yorktown to Warwick near the James river, a short distance above Mulberry Point.  The conformation of the land and the taking in of a creek from the James river, shortens their line of defense and enables them to command with their fortifications all the roads up the peninsula.

Generals Lee and Johnston are both reported to be with the rebels, one commanding at Yorktown and the other at Warwick.  Magruder, holding subordinate command, is with the reserve at Williamsburg.

According to deserters, the rebel force numbers fifty thousand, of whom thirty thousand are reinforcements recently drawn from the line of the Rappahannock and about Norfolk.

Despite the weather and bad roads our generals are pushing forward preparations for the assault upon the enemy’s works, and not many days will elapse before Yorktown will be ours and Richmond threatened.  The glorious news from the West is acting as an excellent stimulant for our army, and greatly encourages the troops.

Birdan’s [sic] sharpshooters gave good accounts of themselves.  They hold an advanced position under the rebel batteries, from which they constantly harass the enemy.  A head above the parapet becomes an instant mark for half a dozen rifles, which at one thousand yards distance, rarely fail to hit their mark.  One sharpshooter belonging to the California regiment has almost wholly prevented the rebels from using a large gun, and hardy an attempt has been made for two days to fire it, without the rebels losing one or two men from his deadly aim.

It is stated one of our divisions has secured an important position, the holding of which will lead to the eventual forcing of the rebel line of defence.

Much important preliminary work has been performed by our troops, and with the return of good weather, active operations will not be postponed many days.  The task before McClellan in reducing fortified entrenchments is one for which he is held specially qualified.  The result is not doubted.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, April 12, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

WASHINGTON, April 9.

About two weeks ago Com. Foote, in telegraphing the Navy Department, said Gen. Pope intended to make a transverse movement which would astonish the secesh on Island No. 10.  Fulfillment of this prediction is already known to the country.

Times’ Dispatch.

WASHINGTON April 9.

Gen. T. W. Sherman, just relieved by Gen. Hunter, arrived here to-day from Port Royal, and reported himself to the War department.  He expresses the opinion that before this Fort Pulaski has been attacked, and has no doubt of its final capture.

A gentleman, who arrived here from Port Royal yesterday, says several contrabands, who came within our lines a few days since reported that they were direct from Charleston, and that the people of that city were dreading an attack from our forces, and complained bitterly that nearly all their troops are in Virginia and the West.

Maj. S. W. Crawford was nominated by the President to-day to the Senate as Brigadier General of volunteers.

The Times correspondent writes from Liverpool Point, April 8, that several Virginians belonging to Falmouth, Fredericksburg and Stafford have come over to Liverpool Point.  The say that the reconnoisance made to Stafford Court House created the most intense excitement at Fredericksburg. – Every vehicle capable for transporting goods was brought into requisition.  Whole families left fro Richmond, leaving everything behind them.

Orders were given by Gen. Walker, commandant at Fredericksburg, for all his available force to leave for Brooks’ Station immediately, to defend the line of RR. and repel the advance of the invaders.  It also has a report of a battle fought between 500 Texas cavalry and Sickles’ entire forces, just before entering Stafford.  They put down Sickles’ loss at 350, and their own as only 13.

The effective force of the rebels between Fredericksburg and Aquia Creek is less than 4,000; beyond Fredericksburg to Richmond, probably 10,000, including a few batteries of artillery.

There was no scarcity of provisions. – Confederate bonds can be bought for five cents on a dollar.  Shinplasters issued by banks and private parties are of more value commanding $100 in specie for ever $1,000.

It is said to be the intention of the Confederate government to abandon Virginia unless the people of the State render more aid of men and money.

Gen. Wigfall commands a brigade five miles from Fredericksburg.  He has had a serious misunderstanding with the general commanding, Holmes, and has accordingly forwarded to Richmond his resignation.

All men suspected to be for the Union are robbed of property with impunity, and no redress can be had.  In consequence of this most Union men are very quiet.

During the embarkation of our troops from Liverpool Point, a large number of Maryland slaveholders lined the shore on horseback, said to be looking for lost slaves.  No slaves from Maryland or Virginia were allowed to go aboard our transports.  Some free negroes were taken as servants.  There were about 800 fugitive slaves left at Liverpool Point and Mattawoman Creek, without any protection.  Slave owners threaten to make trouble.

WASHINGTON, April 9.

Mr. Johnson recommends the passage of Senator Morrill’s bill, and the adoption of the policy of placing in the hands of the President the necessary power to accept loans of money from the several States for the public defence, as therein proposed.

Among the modes of defense contemplated is the use of railway and floating ball-proof batteries, in addition to the ordinary system of fortification.  His report is the result of careful examination of the matters in question, including a long list of documents based on a thorough acquaintance with the physical geography and topographical features of the country.

Jas. S. Pike, minister to the Netherlands, in transmitting to the State Department a copy of the tariff and revenue system of that country, concludes his dispatch as follows:  It will be observed that there is no direct tax on personal property or on incomes, as such taxes are believed to stand in the way of industrial and commercial development, and to operate to expel capital.  The decisive successes of the Federal Government in Tennessee have produced their natural effect on this side of the water.  When Charleston and Savannah shall have fallen, and our gunboats traversed the Mississippi, all interest in the affairs of the Confederates will cease in Europe.

The Senate was several hours in executive session to-day.  It confirmed several military appointments of low grade and Saml. E. Brown, of Ohio, to be attorney of the territory of Colorado.

World’s Dispatch.

The World’s correspondent at Warrenton brings the following to-day:  The advanced forces are now resting on the Rappahannock, our pickets are extending to that stream.  The railroad is now in running order to Cedar Run, within two miles of Warrenton, thirteen miles from the Rappahannock.  It will take several days to complete the bridge over Cedar Run, inasmuch as the recent storm has swollen, all the streams very much.  Neither Bull nor Cedar Runs can be forded at present, and no troops can move except by railroad.

The cavalry pickets extend some distance southeast of Brentsville, and skirmishes with the rebel scouts are of daily occurrence.

As the army proceeds south the country presents fewer of the ravages of the enemy, though in no locality has there yet been covered sufficient supplies to support men or horses for more than one day.

The reports of the enemy’s position are indefinite and uncertain.

Contrabands and refugees from Fauquier and Culpepper say that the rebel army has dwindled greatly in its proportions, and that it is retreating upon Richmond as rapidly as possible, leaving nothing but scouts and guerillas in its rear to watch our movements.  It would seem from this that the rebels are not reinforcing Magruder and intend to make a stand this side of Richmond.

Tribune’s Dispatch.

It is understood the Department of the South, of which Gen. Hunter has been put in command, will be thoroughly reorganized.

Gen. Sherman will be followed North by his Brigadier Generals, Wright and Viele, but it is unknown who will fill the places they vacate.  It is also believed Gen. Hunter will rightfully treat South Carolina and Georgia as rebel and not as sovereign States.

The Senate to-day ratified two treaties; the commercial treaty with the Ottoman Ports, and the Mexican extradition treaty, negotiated by Minister Corwin – the former, which is extremely liberal in its provisions, provides for its continuance for fifty years.  One stipulation of the latter, to the effect that local authorities of the frontier States and respective parties, shall deliver up persons for whose surrender application is made without delay and expense of an appeal to Washington or the City of Mexico, elicited much discussion, and finally passed by barely one more than the constitutional majority – 27 to 13.

The latest news received from Cherry Stone, reports everything quiet in the vicinity of Fort Monroe.  A strong wind was blowing, and the sea running very high.

The Freeman’s Journal is, by order of the P. O. Department, readmitted to the mails, dating from this week.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, April 11, 1862, p. 1

From McClellan’s Division

BALTIMORE, April 10.

The Old Point boat has arrived.  The news of the capture of Island No. 10 caused great rejoicing and enthusiasm.  The storm had somewhat abated towards evening.

Reports from the army represent our forces facing exposure undauntedly, the enthusiasm and anxiety to meet the enemy was unabated, and confidence in Gen. McClellan was unbounded.  While the storm at this time was unfortunate the time has not been lost, and the retreat of Magruder and his forces is considered certain.  The prospect of clearing up is looked for with anxiety, in the hope that sunshine and the Merrimac will come together.  All seem confident that she will be captured or sunk.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, April 11, 1862, p. 1

From The Lower Potomac

McClellan’s Army Before Yorktown.

The Fight in Progress on Sunday last.

WASHINGTON, April 8.

The following is a summary of intelligence received by the War Department up to ten o’clock Monday night, of the operations at Yorktown and Fortress Monroe.

Yesterday the enemy’s works were carefully examined by Gen. McClellan, and found to be very strong and the approaches difficult. – The enemy was in force, and the water batteries at Yorktown and Gloucester were said to be much increased.

There was sharp firing on the right, but no harm done.  Our forces were receiving supplies from Ship Point, repairing roads and getting up long trains.  It seemed plain that mortars and siege guns must be used for assaulting.

Another dispatch, received at 10:30 this a. m., states that Yorktown will fall, but not without a siege of two or three days.  Some of the outer works have been taken.

A dispatch from Gen. Wool states that Magruder had 30,000 men at Yorktown.

On the afternoon of Sunday, ship Point had been taken and our gunboats had shelled out the batteries.

There was considerable delay cause in crossing the duck creek, at Warwick Court House, and resistance was made by the rebels during which time several casualties occurred on our side.

All the fortified places of importance before Yorktown had been taken at every point.

A fuller account is contained in the following dispatch:

“BEFORE YORKTOWN, Saturday Evening.

“Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Sec’y of War:

“That portion of the army of the Potomac recently concentrated at Old Point, advanced yesterday morning in the direction of Yorktown.  The right was assigned to Gen. Morrill’s brigade, of Gen. Porter’s Division, two companies of the 3d Penn. Cavalry, and a portion of Berdan’s sharpshooters acting as skirmishers.

“Nothing of interest took place until their arrival at Big Bethel, twelve miles distant, where they met the outer pickets of the rebels.  The troops were delayed here two hours constructing a bridge which had been destroyed.

“The Rebels retreated before the advance of our skirmishers to Howard’s Creek, where they had some abandoned earthworks.  Shots were fired here by the rebels from two field pieces, which were soon silenced by the 4^th Rhode Island Battery, when the rebels beat a hasty retreat, taking their pieces with them.  The main body of the army rested here for the night, while Morrill’s brigade advanced three miles to Cuckleville, six miles from Yorktown.  By seven o’clock this (Saturday) morning the column was again in motion, and by 10 o’clock was in front of the enemy’s works at Yorktown.

“The first shot fired was by the rebels, the shell passing over the heads of Gen. Potter and staff without exploding.  The batteries of Griffin, and the 3d and 4^th Rhode Island and 5^th Massachusetts were placed in position, replying to every spot from which shot were sent by the rebels.

“The cannonading continued with slight intermission until dark.  About four hundred shots were fired by both parties during the day.  The loss on our side was three killed, and some five wounded.

The position of the rebels is a strong one.  From present indications their fortifications extend some two miles in length and mount heavy guns.  The ground in front of their guns is low and swampy.”

WASHINGTON, April 8.

The Secretary of War has received a letter this afternoon from Gen. Wool, stating at 2. P. M. yesterday nothing was doing at Yorktown, except preparations for an attack.  The enemy’s force is reported at about thirty thousand.  At 2 P. M. yesterday, the Merrimac, Yorktown, Jamestown and four tugs were lying at Craney Island.

The cheering news concerning Island No. 10 fell on the public unexpectedly.

Wm. H. Polk of Tennessee, who has just arrived here, earnestly favors the passage of a confiscation bill by the Congress.  He expresses the opinion that such a measure would do more to make the rebel States loyal than any other than could be adopted.

FORTRESS MONROE, April 8.

Nothing has been done to-day in front of Yorktown except on the reconnaissance in that direction and some cannonading.  A telegraph wire is built to our headquarters near Yorktown.

The steamer Spaulding came in this morning from Ship Point.  The rebel works abandoned there are quite formidable.  The rebels took off their guns.  Ship Point is about eight miles from Yorktown, affording a fine base of operations.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, April 10, 1862, p. 1

Southern News

FORT MONROE, April 5.

Latest intelligence received of the Merrimac, is that she was at Norfolk last night.  She was then coaling at the navy yard, and was expected to come out to-day.  Capt. Pegram is mentioned as likely to command her.

The Yorktown, Jamestown, and Teaser, and four other gunboats are at Norfolk.

A deserter come in this morning, reports a force on the peninsula, but not so large as supposed.

Magruder’s headquarters are at Lee’s Mills near Williamsburg.

Three tugs arrived from Newbern Thursday bring little of interest.

A report is current that Burnside has been ordered to evacuate Newbern within six days, and that he replied that he would meet the rebels at Goldsboro and Raleigh.

Fort Macon still holds out.  Extensive preparations for its reduction are progressing.  A few shells have been already thrown into it.  Cannonading has been heard all day from the direction of Yorktown.  It is rumored the town has been burnt.  No official report received.  Rumor probably incorrect.

A flag of truce to-day brought the following released prisoners from Richmond: - Col. Buford, Lieut. Van Horn and Colonel Bliss, U. S. A., taken prisoners in Texas, and Col. Woodruff, 1^st Kentucky regiment, taken in Kentucky.

The Mobile Advertiser of April 4^th has a special message from Memphis, stating that Buell’s army reached Savannah on the Tennessee river, and there had been brisk skirmishing, and great activity on both sides for the great struggle.

MOBILE, April 4.

Wednesday a Yankee force, 2000 strong, landed at Biloxi and cut the telegraph liens between Mobile and New Orleans.

NEW YORK, April 7.

The steamer Atlantic arrived from Port Royal.  Among her passengers are Gen. Sherman and staff.

Advices from Jacksonville 1^st, states an attack was expected there from two Mississippi and one Florida guerilla regiments, a battery and troops of horse.

Gen. Wright is confident in sustaining himself.

The rebel yacht America, has been raised by our naval force, and with the steamer Daylight is a prize.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, April 8, 1862, p. 1

Statement of Four Deserters

BALTIMORE, March 24.

Four deserters arrived here by the old Point boat to-day, from the rebel army, all citizens of Eastern States, who were made prisoners last May, at Cedar Keys, Florida, where they had gone in the schooner Stag to load with timber, which was confiscated.  The schooner was loaded with cannon, but she subsequently made her escape from a Federal cruiser.  The four men were obliged to enlist in the 2d Florida regiment.  Last July the regiment went to Richmond where they arrived the day after the battle of Bull Run.  They were finally sent to Yorktown.  They state that Magruder’s force around Yorktown is composed of about a dozen regiments and that he has not over 6000 effective fighting men, but at Great Bethel and other points through the Peninsula, he has not less than 15,000.  Some heavy guns are mounted near Yorktown, there are also fortifications three miles below Wyoming Creek.

During the last few weeks the forces have been engaged in building casemates, but not of a very formidable character.

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

What the Memphis Papers Say of the Prospect – Savannah Not to be Surrendered

BEFORE CORINTH, May 16. – The Memphis Avalanche of the 18th contains the following:

FORT PILLOW, May 12. – We fought the enemy with four of our lightest boats on hour and a half.  We sunk one gunboat and two mortar boats.  Our loss was two killed and eight wounded and that of the enemy very heavy, as our sharpshooters latterly mowed them down.

We fought side by side with the enemy, and not one passed through our breastworks.  Our upper works are riddled, but we are ready to butt again.  We will be able to hold the river.

Speaking of the fall of Norfolk, the editor say[s], Worse than all, the Virginia, on which we so confidently relied, was burned at Craney Island on Saturday night.  Such is the tenor in the brief of the painful intelligence which flashed over the wires.

There were three cases of yellow fever at New Orleans at last accounts, two in the charity hospital and one in the French part of the city.

The Avalanche also says it has been formally decided that Savannah shall never be surrendered.

The Provost Marshal at Memphis has received instructions from the military authorities to require the banks at Memphis to take Confederate notes as currency and to arrest as disloyal all persons who refuse to receive them in ordinary business transactions.

The gunboats in the late attack on Commodore Foote were commanded by Montgomery assisted by Jeff Thompson.

At Memphis flour was quoted at $20@21, wheat @@2.25, bacon 30@32c for sides and hams, suger 6@7½c, molasses 25c, cotton and tobacco no sales, receipts or shipments, corn $1.40, oats $1.25.

The Avalanche says, “Not withstanding the Federal progress we feel an abiding confidence that Magruder will get to Richmond some time before McClellan.”

The Avalanche thinks that real estate is the best security, and urges money holders to make investments in realestate.  Arrangements have been effected by Generals Halleck and Beauregard to exchange the surgeons now prisoners.

One hundred and fourteen prisoners were sent in by Beauregard to-day under a flag of truce borne by Col. Pegram, of Western Virginia notoriety.

These prisoners have been confined at Columbus, Mississippi, some of them taken in Missouri last summer.

Before leaving Corinth one of their number was recognized by one of Price’s men as a member of the 25th Missouri, paroled at Lexington.  Beauregard ordered him to be heavily ironed.

Mortan and Adjutant General Noble arrived to-day.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 24, 1862, p. 4

Yorktown Evacuated

ALL THE GUNS, CAMP EQUIPAGE AND STORES TAKEN.

Gen. McClellan Pursues the Fugitives.

WASHINGTON, Sunday Noon, May 4. – The following report is just received from Fortress Monroe:

Yorktown was evacuated last night. We now occupy the enemy’s works. They left a large amount of camp equipage and guns which they could not destroy for fear of being seen.

Headquarters of the Army of the Potomac

May 4th 1862

TO HON. E. M. STANTON, Sec’y of War:

We have ramparts, guns, ammunition, camp equipage, &c. We hold the entire rebel works which our engineers report very strong. I have thrown all my cavalry and horse artillery in pursuit supported by infantry. I move Franklin’s Division and as much more as can be transported by water, to West Point to-day. No time shall be lost. The gunboats have gone up the York River.

Gloucester is also in our possession. I shall push the enemy to the wall.

(Signed.) G. B. McCLELLAN

Several deserters have come into our lines. – One states that the rebels evacuated owing to the near approach of our parallels – that they feared the success of our gunboats in York and James Rivers which would cut off their communications.

Gen. Johnson gave orders on Thursday to evacuate – to commence the following morning, which was done.

Magruder is said to have strenuously opposed the evacuation saying if they could not whip the Federals here they could not anywhere in Virginia.

Deserters agree that their troops were much demoralized and disheartened when orders to evacuate was [sic] given as all anticipated a fight there.

The rebels had 100,000 men on the Peninsula, also 400 pieces of field artillery.

Gen. Lee, rebel Commander in Chief arrived at Yorktown on Wednesday and examined McClellan’s works minutely after which it is suppose he recommended evacuation, deeming his works impregnable.

It is believed the rebels have fallen back on Chickahominy creek beyond Williamsburgh where it is expected they will make a stand.

Gen. Stoneman’s command, a large force of cavalry and artillery is pursuing the enemy and have probably come up with their rear guard if they remain near Williamsburg.

The gunboats have passed Yorktown and are now shelling the shores on their way up the river following them are a number of vessels loaded with troops to effect a landing.

An official report just received says the enemy left 71 guns in the works at Gloucester Point – guns and ordnance stores were also left.

Deserters just come in report that Jeff Davis came with Lee Wednesday and after consultation with prominent officers all agreed to evacuation except Magruder.

From the army correspondent of the Associated Press at Yorktown:

The enemy’s entire works were occupied at 5 p.m., which their rear deserted four hours before. Everything was found in utter confusion.

About fifty pieces of heavy artillery were spiked. Also found a large amount of medical stores, ammunition, camp equipage and private property. Officers say the rebels threw a large amount of ordnance stores into the river.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, May 10, 1862, p. 4

Latest from Gen. McClellan

THE REBEL REAR GUARD AGAIN OVERTAKEN AND DEFEATED.

They cross the Chickahominy and burn the Bridges.

BALTIMORE, May 8. – The following dated Yorktown, May 7, at 12 o’clock, is taken from the correspondence of the American of this city:

As I close my letter, the latest intelligence received from the field of battle is that General McClellan has come up with the enemy, about 8 miles beyond Williamsburgh, and after a pretty severe skirmish with his rear, had again put him to flight across the Chickahominy.

A large additional number of prisoners have been taken, including many deserters, who report that they have had nothing to eat but a few hard biscuit[s], for nearly 48 hours, and when brought in fell down in a fit of exhaustion.

Heavy cannonading could be heard by the boats coming down the river, at an early hour this morning. Nothing as to the result is yet ascertained.

There is no doubt but that the whole army of Lee, Johnson and Magruder, are in a state of utter disorganization, and under the rapid pursuit of General McClellan are fleeing with great precipitation, without the intention of making a stand any where, and unless they reach Richmond in boats, by way of James River, they will certainly be intercepted and captured by the forces landing and landed, at West Point. Not less than fifty steamers are engaged transporting the balance of the army to West Point. A large number of prisoners are arriving there, and others are constantly being brought in.

On Monday the enemy took about 80 of our men prisoners and captured one of the Pennsylvania batteries, having first killed all the horses, they having but a small support of infantry were overwhelmed by a superior force ,and compelled to abandon their guns, but before the close of the day, this battery with one of the enemy’s, was recaptured by Gen. McClellan, and the prisoners they had taken, were found in Williamsburgh next day, engaged in attending on the wounded the enemy had left behind. The retreat of the enemy was accompanied by too much confusion and haste to be troubled with prisoners.

LATEST. – I have just learned that the enemy have destroyed all the bridges across the Chickahominy, and that Gen. McClellan is resting his army on this side. It will be remembered that the Chickahominy runs parallel with the James river, into which it empties.

It is the general impression the Gen. McClellan has now got the enemy just where he wants them.

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