Major General George B. McClellan to Major General Henry W. Halleck, March 3, 1862

WASHINGTON, March 3, 1862.

Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK,

Saint Louis:

MY DEAR HALLECK: Yours of the 24th* arrived while I was up the river. I went there to superintend the passage of the river and decide as to the ulterior movements of the troops. The passage was a very difficult one, but the Engineer troops under Duane did wonders. I found it impossible to supply a large body of troops without first establishing depots on the Virginia side, which we are rapidly doing. So I contented myself for the present with occupying Charlestown, &c., in order to cover the reopening of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. I have also occupied Martinsburg, and will to-morrow throw out a strong force to Bunker Hill. We are thus in position to attack Winchester as soon as our supplies are collected.

I hope to open the Potomac this week, provided the weather permits. It will require a movement of the whole army in order to keep Manassas off my back. I cannot count upon any effective co-operation on the part of the Navy. As soon as I have cleared the Potomac I shall bring here the water transportation now ready (at least it will be in four or five days), and then move by detachments of about 55,000 men for the region of sandy roads and short land transportation. When you have asked for 50,000 men from here, my dear fellow, you have made one of two mistakes – either you have much overrated my force or you have thought that I intended to remain inactive here.

I expect to fight a desperate battle somewhere near Richmond, the most desperate of the war, for I am well assured that the Army of Manassas remains intact, and that it is composed of the best armed and best disciplined that the rebels have, with the prestige of Bull Run in their favor. I have or expect to have one great advantage over you, as the result of my long and tedious labors – troops that will be demoralized neither by success nor disaster. I feel that I can count upon this army of mine, and shall gladly venture my life in the scale.

If you had been as long in command you would have had as good or perhaps a better army than this, of which I feel very proud, but that has been your bad luck and my good fortune. You have done all that could have been done with the means at your disposal. The fate of war is yet to decide whether I shall prove as skillful as you have been. I am sure that I have your good wishes and prayers.

I hardly know what to say as to your proposition about new grades. Why change the European order in the military hierarchy, and make a general junior to a lieutenant-general? I see no especial reason for it.

I had determined to bide my time, content with my present rank for the present, and hoping that Congress would give another grade after marked success. I have ever felt that higher grades than that of major-general are necessary in so large an army as that we now have, but I have felt great delicacy in alluding to it. But very few weeks will elapse before the questio vexata will be decided. Suppose we let it wait until then and then say what we think. I am willing, however, to defer to your judgment in the matter, and will do all I can to carry out the plan. I don't think I can do anything now. I have but few friends in Congress. The Abolitionists are doing their best to displace me, and I shall be content if I can keep my head above water until I am ready to strike the final blow. You have no idea of the undying hate with which they pursue me, but I take no notice of them, and try to keep Warren Hastings' motto in mind, Mens aqua in arduis. I sometimes become quite angry, but generally contrive to keep my temper. Do write me fully your views as to future movements in the West. I think the first thing to be done is to separate Johnston from Memphis by seizing Decatur. Buell must then force Chattanooga, and you can then, with perfect safety, operate on Memphis, &c., and open your communications with the combined expedition, which ought to gain New Orleans within three weeks from this date. Butler will have about 16,000 men. The naval fleet is tremendous in power. Nothing new from Sherman; he and Du Pont are not on good terms; they neutralize each other. Burnside is doing well.

Very sincerely, your friend,

GEO. B. McCLELLAN.

__________

* Not found.

SOURCES: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 11, Part 3 (Serial No. 14), p. 7-8

16th Iowa Infantry Correspondence

CAMP NEAR PITTSBURG, Tenn.,

May 4, 1862.

EDITOR GAZETTE. – I have been intending to write to you for some time, but our frequent moving, sickness, &c., have prevented.  Even now there is no certainty that a letter commenced will be finished at one writing or in the same camp, even if it take[s] only an hour to write it.  Our marching orders are sudden, and the brief interval is a busy time of preparation.  At all times we have to be prepared for a battle, and generally with rations cooked ahead.  The battle will be daily or hourly expected until it happens, unless we should get news of Beauregard’s retreat, something we do not expect.

A little over a week ago we were in camp thirteen miles from our present location.  An order to move received after dinner, a dismally rainy afternoon, took us four miles away through mud and mire to supper.  We left a beautiful camp, but located in one even more lovely, we occupy the left, the 15th next, 13th next and the 11th on the right, Col. Crocker of the 13th commanding the brigade – (these are the regular positions of the regiments of the brigade in camp.)  Had a brigade inspection, by Inspector Gen. Judah, and our regiment was probably more complimented than any other.

On the 29th our brigade was ordered to march with all the ammunition we could carry, and two day’s rations.  We started in the afternoon, with the prospect of a fight ahead, Lieut. Col. Sanders in command of the 16th, Col. Chambers being absent for some days, with the intention of staying perhaps a month, on business connected with his old government duties.  We marched eight or nine miles and after dark we halted in the woods, where we slept on the ground without covering, in the old style.  In the morning we marched about a mile farther, halted, and soon about faced and marched back to our own camp.  Gen. Wallace’s cavalry attacked Purdy, and we were sent out to support him, and make a reconnoissance.  But he took the place without our aid, and destroyed a long railroad bridge and another property used by the rebels – a serious disaster to our butternut breeched friends.

April 30th, we had our regular inspection and muster for May.  The “pay” has not yet turned up, however.

May 1st, We again struck our tents, and made another move of four miles towards the advance, and in such a lovely place we felt an inward conviction it could not long be enjoyed by us.  Here we received notice that our Division (6th) had a new commander, Gen. McKean being transferred to the first division, and Gen. T. W. Sherman (Port Royal and “Sherman’s Battery” Sherman) commanding our division.  He is reported a splendid officer.

My 3d, yesterday we again moved our camp, taking a five mile step in the advance.  This time the 16th landed with its tents in the middle of a wheat field, far different from the rare forest beauties of our other camps.  The wheat is about a foot high and moderately thick.  The planter is doubtless with the rebel army.  At all events as there are tents scattered all over the immense field, the crop will be effectually blasted.  This country is sparsely settled, and but little cultivated.  It is a beautiful region, but soil generally poor – yet good enough to produce will under free culture.  Whether our camp is in Tennessee or Mississippi, I do not know.  It is certainly very near the line, and about seven miles from Corinth.

Yesterday afternoon there was heavy artillery firing several miles off, and for an hour or two we expected to be called to march and mingle in the strife.  The roar of guns finally died away, and the cause remains yet unexplained to us.  At night we were ordered to provide four days rations, and may any hour be ordered to march leaving our tents behind.

Yesterday, our regimental commander commenced “stripping” us for a fight or quicker marching.  Each company left behind two or three of its five Sibley tents, one of the two officers’ tents, and all the “property” that could be spared, the hospital and extra commissary stores, bed ticks, extra blankets and sick.  Although we have not so large a sick list as a week ago (about one hundred off duty now) yet the sick have been a great incumbrance, and their frequent removals over these very rough roads have been anything but beneficial.  Every regiment has a train of convalescents straggling in its rear when changing camps, with the bed confined to follow in ambulances and wagons.  Yesterday our sick were sent to the river hospital, excepting those likely to be ready for duty in a few days.  This will greatly relieve us, and be better for them.  Several of our officers are sick, and this morning Capt. Smith, of Co. A, will be sent to the hospital, where he out to have been days ago.  He is the “noblest Roman of all,” did his whole duty in the battle, and has been the most eager for another fight.  The prevailing sickness is diarrhea, and it seems uncommonly difficult to control.  Mere astringent medicines will not do it in most cases, but the cause has to be struck at.  The 15th has about two hundred on its sick list, and ever regiment has a pretty large list.  There are however, but few deaths.  Several have died in our regiment, and among them is the old drummer, Mr. Russell, of Boone county.  He was 78 years old, and was a drummer in the war of 1812.  He had not been well since we left Camp McClellan, and here he got the diarrhea which in a few days carried him off.

A letter in the Lyons Mirror has created great indignation among our men and officers, from Clinton Co. especially.  Speaking of the battle the writer (suspected to be an officer most ridiculously bepuffed in the letter) says the 15th did not leave the field until the 77th Ohio and the 16th Iowa had retired.  Now the fact is, the 16th did not leave till that identical 15th flag sent home to the State Historical Society with several holes in it, had gone from the field, and the most of the 15th with it.  This flag had been stuck up on a stump in the battle, and was a pretty mark to shoot at, and without endangering the color sergeant or guard.  I was in another part of the field, but these are told me as facts by a number of reliable officers and men who witnessed what they state.  Our color sergeant was killed while gallantly bearing his banner, and six of the eight color guard wounded.  The 15th did not occupy the position at all stated by this Lyons Mirror correspondent, who was either not in the battle or too badly scared to notice the position of things.  Both regiments did well, and neither should, in doing justice to itself, do injustice to the other.  Both have been outrageously slandered, without cause, and both are eager for another fight to properly annihilate these slanders by deeds instead of words.

Our old friend Wilkie, the war correspondent of the N. Y. Times, is in our camp nearly every day, and is actively at work getting items in this great field of military operations.

J. B.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 15, 1862, p. 2

Both the Generals Sherman are . . .

. . . in Halleck’s army near Corinth; the one, W. T. Sherman (Kentucky,) now promoted to be Major General, and the other, Thomas W. Sherman (Port Royal,) who is still a brigadier.  Their being so near together will lead to much confusion in the battle accounts.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Wednesday Morning, May 7, 1862, p. 2

From Washington

NEW YORK, Feb. 3.

The Tribune’s special stated that letters continue to be received from eminent bankers, favoring the “legal tender bill.”  There is no reason to believe that Gen. Butler was assured before he left Washington that he should have a Major General’s commission as well as the title.  He will land several brigades at a point on the Southern coast not now occupied by Union soldiers.  The capture will be more important than any yet made.

Secretary Stanton insisted that Butler should have what he wanted, although McClellan disapproved of it.

Fort Pulaski is now thoroughly invested.  Gen. Sherman has daily repots of all that is done there, and will take the place when he chooses to attack.

Time’s Dispatch

A movement is making here by members of Congress from the West and Northwest, headed by Frank Blair and Mr. Arnold to have Gen. Sigel made a Major General, and it will probably be successful.

Herald’s Dispatch

The select committee on the defence and fortifications of the great lakes and rivers are prepared to make a report.  They will recommend the erection of such fortifications at Mackinaw as will make it the Gibraltar, as it is nearly the key of our Northwestern frontier.  Their report will provide also for the establishment of a naval depot and National armory upon Lake Michigan, probably at or near Chicago, and that preparations to be immediately made for the accumulation of the necessary arms and munitions to arm the whole of the American vessels engaged in the commerce of the northern lakes.

It is estimated that there are in this trade 1,200 American vessels to 300 British and 15,000 American sailors to 3,000 British.  It is represented by the committee that the majority of the population of the loyal States is west of the Alleghany mountains; that the line of lake coast exceeds the whole length of our Atlantic coast, and that our commerce on the lakes is greater than our whole foreign trade.  To complete the defences and render communications with all parts of the Northwest secure form interruption by a foreign foe, it will also be recommended that a military railroad shall be immediately constructed from the mouth of the Menomonie River or Badenouquet, on Lake Michigan, to Marquette, on Lake Superior, and that a ship canal shall be built from Chicago to the Mississippi River.  It is said that these recommendations have the approval of Gen. McClellan.  The report will probably be made on Tuesday.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 2

It is known that a number of Southern secessionists are in Canada, whose business is to collect money from sympathizing friends, and to forward and received dispatches from Europe, and place them in such secret channels that they may reach their ultimate destination.  It is not likely that such proceedings will be much longer continued.

Lieut. Col. Sir P. Windham, late commanding 2d brigade of the Italian army, has been appointed Colonel of the Michigan regiment of Lancers.

WASHINGTON, Feb. 3

So vast an army has been martialed in this District, that no proper arrangements have been made for even a decent interment of those who die in our hospitals. – This matter is under consideration, and will receive the immediate attention of Congress.

The result of the examination recently instituted by telegraph interests shows that the number of messages transmitted over the lines during the past year was 2,800,000, yielding a total revenue of $15,220,000.  Should Congress in the next tax bill impose 3 cents on each message, a little over $84,000 would be realized from that source, or 5½ per cent. on the aggregate amount of business.

The following communication has been received at the Navy Department from Capt. John Marston, dated U. S. steamer Roanoke, Hampton Roads, Feb. 1st:

“I have the honor to report to you the arrival, during the past night of the bark Gemsbock, from Beaufort, N. C.  Capt. Coventry informs me that on Tuesday, 28th, he heard heavy firing in the rear of Beaufort, but he has no conjecture from when it proceeded.

“Capt. Coventry also reports that on Thursday, 30th Jan., at 9 o’clock in the morning, while off Roanoke Inlet, he heard heavy firing in the direction of Roanoke Island, which leaves no doubt in my mind that flag officer Goldsborough is at work.”

Representatives of the telegraphic interests now here, have suggested to the committee of ways and means their readiness to pay a tax on their messages and thus contribute to the support of the government.

The chairman of the ways and means committee, Mr. Stevens, will endeavor to bring the House to a vote on the Treasury bill on Thursday.

Representative Hooper’s speech to-day, was listened to with marked attention, it being considered a clear exposition of the views of the Treasury Department on the financial question.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport Iowa, Tuesday Morning, February 4, 1862, p. 1

From Washington

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25. – Brigadier General T. W. Sherman in a communication to the National Intelligencer, deems it due to the interests of the public service, to publicly proclaim the utter falsity of the statement made in several journals of the country, repeatedly brought to his notice, that a projected plan for the continuance of the expedition was abandoned, in consequence of a disagreement or misunderstanding between Com. Dupont and himself.

He says the most friendly and cordial feelings and entire harmony of action have always existed between them.

To-day being devoted by the Secretary of War for business with members of Congress a very large number of them are availing themselves of this arrangement.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 4

The Port Royal correspondent of the . . .

. . . Tribune states that General Sherman has surrendered a slave to a South Carolinian named Tidings, professing to be loyal by order of Col. Scott, assistant secretary of war.  Gen. Sherman seems to have had no agency in the matter, and simply obeyed express instructions from the war department.  That such a thing should have occurred under Secretary Cameron’s administration is most extraordinary.  The war department has no more legal power to assume the functions of a U. S. commissioner in such a case than an army officer or any private citizen.  No proof beyond the claimant’s assertion seems to have been required to prove his ownership of the negro.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 3

A correspondent of the New York Times . . .

. . . has been sent home from Port Royal for having insinuated in one of his letters that Gen. Sherman prefers inaction, by saying that in the matter of the late attack on the mainland, he was “induced to move.”

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 3

The Merrimac afloat at last -- Savannah to be attacked

FORT MONORE, Jan. 28. – The only incident of news yesterday, was the arrival of the boat containing fifteen contrabands from Norfolk.  They report that the Merrimac was floated out of the Dry Dock On Saturday, and was to make her trial trip on Sunday.  She mounted 10 inch rifle cannons, and the people were jubilant in the belief that she could sink the whole fleet in Hampton Roads.

Letters from Port Royal indicate an early attack on Savannah by General Sherman and Com. Dupont.

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

Genuineness of the Union Sentiment in Eastern Florida

A correspondent of the N. Y. Times gives an interesting account of the Union meeting at Jacksonville, Fla., the spirited resolutions of which we have already published.  The writer says:

About an hundred men were present, said to be nearly all the men left in the town.  The first words spoken were by Mr. Frazer:  “Fellow citizens, we are met here as loyal citizens of the United States of America.  I take it that no one is here who is not prepared to acknowledge his allegiance to the Union.”  He spoke earnestly, but only a few words.  Mr. C. L. Robinson was called to the Chair, and his speech was also short, but full of meaning.  These men felt that they were taking their lives in their hands, in thus openly avowing Union sentiments for the first time in Florida for more than a year.  But there was no mincing matters.  The whole tone of the meeting was determined, but not enthusiastic.  The matter was too serious, but the unanimity was unmistakable.  The resolutions and protest, which I append were endorsed in the heartiest manner, and the meeting adjourned, to resume its movements in two or three days.

On the same day Gen. Sherman issued this proclamation to the people of East Florida. – There was no sort of collusion, there was no attempt made to influence these people.  Gen. Sherman declined to be present at the meeting; he did not know what would be said or done beforehand; he did not issue his proclamation until the resolutions were sent to him and after the meeting he made certain of the willingness of the people to stand firm in their allegiance.  It was not attempted to induce the Floridians to return to the Union; the movement originated in themselves and forced a response from the commanding General. – After he gave orders which will secure their safety, and probably lead to a spread of the sentiment so eagerly avowed.  The citizens manifested the greatest satisfaction; invited the National officers to their houses and tables, introduced them to their families; the women and children turned out in the streets at evening parade, and every person who met a Union officer accosted him cordially.  They seemed never tired of the endeavor to convince the Nationals that their loyalty was real.  They insisted that the Union sentiment is shared by thousands of others; that many of the rebel troops are ready to desert; and indeed on one day that I was in Jacksonville half a score came in from a neighboring camp, and took the oath of allegiance.  The triangle formed by Fernandina, Baldwin and Jacksonville, is said to be especially full of loyal people.  The whole population is represented to be suffering, and at least half of it anxious to be relieved from the results of the rebellion.

At St. Augustine nearly the entire population remained in their homes and the Mayor of the place raised the American flag once more.  National troops are stationed there, so that in the southernmost State of the entire Union the loyal sentiment is found to exist in all its purity and fervor.  It is even said that a company of troops could be readily raised in Jacksonville to fight for the Stripes and Stars.

– 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 Pensacola

Evacuation of Forts McRae and Barrancas – The People of Florida Coming to their Senses – A Loyal State Government to be Organized.

NEW YORK, March 30. – The Steamer Empire City, from Port Royal, has arrived.  The following is from the New South newspaper of the 22d:

Gen. Sherman visited Jacksonville on the 19th and was waited on by a committee of citizens, who represented that all in town were Unionists.  The rebels, when they left, threatened to hang all who remained.

Guerrilla bands were destroying the property of all suspected Unionists, by the orders of the rebel General Trapier.

The sentiment of eastern Florida is declared to by loyal.  Rebel deserters are numerous. – Many ware willing to take up arms against the rebel tyranny.  Our troops were treated hospitably.

The gunboat Ottowa [sic] has been 120 miles up St. Johns river, beyond Jacksonville, meeting with no opposition.  White flags were displayed and the inhabitants claimed protection.

The steamer St. Mary and the yacht America were found sunk, but we are raising them.

Pensacola has been evacuated, including Forts Barrancas and McRae.  The troops raised in Florida were ordered off by refused to go.

Gen. Sherman issued a proclamation to the people of East Florida, saying he came to protect loyal citizens and enable them to resuscitate a State government.  The sole desire of the Government is to maintain the integrity of the Constitution and laws, and reclaim the revolted States to their allegiance.

At a meeting of loyal citizens of Jacksonville, on the 20th, it was declared that no State has the constitutional right to separate from the United States, and that the act of secession by Florida is void and in conflict with the Constitution, never having been submitted to the people for ratification, and they protested against all acts of the Convention depriving them of their rights as citizens of the United States; the despotism which denied them freedom of speech and the press, and forced contributions of money, labor and enlistments.  They recommended a convention to be called forthwith, to organize a State government, and the United States government be requested to keep a sufficient military force to keep order and protect persons and property.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 5, 1862, p. 4

Rebel News via Norfolk

BALTIMORE, April 2. – The following intelligence is from the special correspondent at Fort Monroe, of the Baltimore American:

The number of rebels in Fort Pulaski, as reported by deserters is five hundred.

Two German regiments at Fort Pulaski, had revolted and were in custody.

Gen. Sherman’s mortars and siege guns were so stationed that the guns of the Fort cold not reach them.

The rebels have withdrawn all their troops from the coast and abandoned their earth works, previously removing their cannon to Savannah.

The city of Savannah, however, is understood to be very strongly fortified, and all the approaches to it.  The force there is variously estimated, by refugees, at from twenty to fifty thousand men, probably 20,000, is more nearly correct.

A great despondency existed among the people and troops at Charleston.  The fall of Newbern created the greatest consternation.  The fire-eaters ridiculed the North Carolina troops, charging them with cowardice.

The shop keepers and bankers in Charleston had refused to receive North Carolina money, and there being two North Carolina regiments there at the time, a revolt was the consequence, and the shops were broken open, and the troops helped themselves.  These regiments refused to serve any longer, and were allowed to return home.

No information of the abandonment of Pensacola by the rebels has yet been received, but it was generally believed that our troops had crossed over from Santa Rosa Island and occupied the place.

The latest advices received from Norfolk by the underground railroad leaves no room to doubt that the Merrimac was thoroughly repaired and in commission and ready for another expedition against the wooden walls of the federal navy and river transports lying in the Roads. – The delay of the Merrimac in towing out is believed to be that she is waiting for ammunition for the heavy guns that have been placed on board her, and also for some infernal machines being constructed by bombasto Mallory.

The rebel steamers Jamestown and Yorktown were also getting strengthened and more thoroughly clad with iron to accompany the Merrimac.  There is also a rumor that two other steamers are being clad with iron at Richmond to join in the expedition.

As to the loss of life on the Merrimac in her conflict with the Monitor, we have now what is claimed to be positive information.  One of the recently arrived contrabands states that he was a nurse in the general hospital in Norfolk, and that before his departure he helped to shroud 32 of the crew of the Merrimac, and that both commander Buchanan and Lieut. Meyer are dead.  There are still a number of the wounded surviving.

The contraband also states that the last two shots of the Monitor were represented to be the only ones that seriously injured the Merrimac; those were thrown under her hold at the moment she attempted to run the Monitor down.

The military stationed at Norfolk from the Gulf States have been very severe on the Virginians.  Since their defeat at Roanoke Island even the Richmond Blues, the very pink of chivalry, have fallen in public estimation too.  All award bravery to Jennings Wise, but his father has so fallen in public estimation that he is proclaimed in Norfolk as a coward and poltroon.  In his escape from Nags Head he rode thirty miles on horse back, notwithstanding he had previously reported himself too ill to remain at Roanoke Island, at the head of his command.  Wise and Floyd now rank as the fleet footed.  My informant says that Wise would be hooted if he were to appear in the streets of Norfolk or Richmond.  He has retired to his farm in Princess Ann county.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 5, 1862, p. 3

Specials to the New York Papers

(Tribune’s Dispatch.)

NEW YORK, March 15. – The President nominated yesterday for Brigadier General, John Craig, also Robert C. Buchanan to be Inspector General.

The War Department has authorized Gen. Halleck to [supersede] Major General Grant unless he should ask to be relieved, on account of bad conduct at Fort Donelson and elsewhere.

Secretary Fox, who is in Washington, reports the Merrimac badly injured in the two days fight.  She had a hole bored in her hull by the Monitor.  She was leaking very badly when she put back.  The Cumberland’s broadside in the first fight injured her so badly that she could not attack the Monitor or Roanoke, all though they were both aground.  He thinks that the Monitor, now that she is afloat, can handle the Merrimac.  She is slow and unwieldy.  He considers it utterly impossible for the Merrimac to go to sea, as she would immediately founder in an ordinary gale.

The Merrimac’s shot was bunked away by a ball from an 11-inch on the Minnesota.

Capt. [Buchanan] was wounded by a shot from a rifle-man on board the Cumberland, the ball going through his thigh.

Mr. Fox says the crew of the Minnesota as well as that of the Monitor, which to see the Merrimac come out again, but it is not likely that they will be gratified.

Commodore Stevens of the steam battery has obtained permission from the Secretary of War to make use of the 15 inch gun at Fortress Monroe, to be placed upon his steam propeller Nangantuck, to be used in the defence of New York harbor, and to attack the Merrimac, in the event of her appearance.

The Herald’s Washington dispatch says Gen. McClellan reviewed a division of the army in the vicinity of Manassas this p. m., and as he reviewed the lines he was greeted by the most vociferous cheers and enthusiasm.

A man this evening from a village on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, 37 miles from Goodysville came into the camp of the Ira Harris cavalry. – He states that there were forty thousand rebels troops in town when he left and that they continued to come in and hurried on under in impression that the Union army was in pursuit of them.  Gen. Johnson and other rebel officers were dining when he left.

He states that the road from Rappahannock to Manassas is strewed with muskets, knapsacks, haversacks, blankets, and provisions flung away in the retreat and that numbers of soldiers lay fainting and exhausted by the roadside.

The Times’ Washington dispatch says the steamer Achilles, while passing the rebel batteries at Acquia Creek last night, was fired at six times, indicating that there are some rebels yet lounging on the Potomac.  None of the shots took effect.

Gen. Hooker was of opinion at nine o’clock, to-day, that the rebels had not abandoned Fredericksburgh.

(Herald’s Special.)

WASHINGTON, March 17. – The relatives of Capt. Franklin Buchanan, who commanded the rebel iron clad steamer Merrimac at the late fight, have written to his relatives in this city from Baltimore, that he is dead, and his body is to be brought to the old homestead on the Eastern shore of Maryland for interment.

A movement is on foot relative to the impeachment of all those judges who have in any form, shape, or manner aided in the interests of secession.  A member of Congress has now in his desk a resolution, which he will offer at the first opportune moment to instruct the Committee on the Judiciary to inquire into this matter of general impeachment, and report at an early date by bill or otherwise.

(Tribune correspondence.)

Delegates from a great number of business interests are here, suggesting a modification of the tax bill in [its favor].  Changes have already been made in committee in making the tax specific instead of ad valorem.  To newspapers,  making the advertisement tax three instead of five per cent, and on net receipts instead of gross.  Tobacconists, reducing it on leaf and stem, and raising it on the manufactured.  The tax proposed on umbrellas and parasols a change from specific to five per cent. ad valorem.  Omnibuses, entire freedom from the tax on passengers.  It was shown that it would be fatal to them in competition with the horse railroads.  The tax has also been stricken off from the manufactures of flour.  This was done by a delegation of the Rochester millers, who showed that it would be fatal to their business.  All along the line afflicted by the reciprocity treaty, the tax would enable the Canadian millers to undersell us in our own markets.

Nomination of Daniel E. Sickles and Haller Gunn of New Hampshire were made.

Gen. Lockwood’s nomination is suspended.

The limits of the Department to which Gen. Hunter has been appointed, has again been incorrectly stated.  It [may] not be improper to say that it comprises the States of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.  Gen. Sherman will be retained in the Department under Gen. Hunter.  Also. Capt. W. [H. Peck] of the 11th Infantry, formerly of Chicago, Illinois.

To-day Senator Sumner will introduce a bill repealing an act originally passed in 1812, providing that [henceforth] no person by reason of color shall be disqualified from employment in carrying the mails.

Hon. Richard Fanchette, of the 18th N. Y. district, has obtained the signatures of about 150 Senators and Representatives to a memorial to Congress, asking that better rations be served out to the army.

(Special to Post.)

WASHINGTON, March 28 – the Naval committee formally voted in favor of the appropriation sufficient to complete the Stevens’ battery and fifteen million dollars for the construction of iron clad steamers.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 22, 1862, p. 4

The Situation Near Savannah – Arrangement Of The Forces – From Whom Brunswick Was Taken

The long talked of expedition against Savannah still “hangs fire,” but I will venture to assure the impatient portion of the community that the “blow will be struck” when – everything is ready, and not before.  Meanwhile Pulaski is “cut off” – isolated – “left out in the cold,” and will doubtless soon fall.  Reconnoissances are made daily, and the intricate windings of creeks, cuts and straits that fringe the islands on each side of Savannah, are fast being sought out.  Gen. Wright with his brigade, consisting of the 4th New Hampshire, 7th Connecticut, 9th Maine, and 97th Pennsylvania regiments are still in the neighborhood of Tybee, having returned from an expedition to Brunswick, Ga.

Quite an amusing story is told in connection with the affair at Brunswick.  It seems that the gunboats, after reconnoitering a while in front of the rebel fortifications, got into “posish,” and were about to “let slip the dogs,” when they discovered a boat push off from the shore at the fort, and make directly for the gunboat, upon nearing which it was found to contain a couple of “contrabands,” who commenced yelling “Hold on, Massa Yankee, don’t fire, der sogers all gone Serwerner,”  “dase leff me all alone.”  And sure enough they had gone, and the anticipated sport was “nipped.”

Gen. Viele is in command of a force on Dawfuskie Island, and is erecting fortifications there.  The forces on Hilton Head Island, consisting of the Massachusetts cavalry, 3d Rhode Island artillery, 2nd New Hampshire, 8th Maine, 6th Connecticut, 28th Massachusetts, and 45th Pennsylvania regiments are under command of Col. E. Q. Fellows of the 3d New Hampshire regiment.  Col. Fellows seems to have won the entire confidence of Gen. Sherman, who has seen fit to assign him to this responsible situation. – By the way, Col. F. is currently talked of as the next Brigadier from New Hampshire.  He is a soldier, and he is capable.

The steamship Mississippi, having on board Gen. Butler and Staff, the 31st Massachusetts regiment and part of the 13th Maine, Col. Neal Dow, put into this port and hauled up at Seabrook for repairs, having run aground on “Frying Pan” Shoals, off Cape Fear.  The damage was quite severe, a hole being stove in her bottom, causing a leak which had it not been an iron boat with several compartments, must have sunk her with all on board.  She will be speedily repaired and on her way to Ship Island.  Gen. Butler and Staff attended a grand review at Beaufort yesterday by invitation of Gen. Sherman.

The 3d New Hampshire regiment has been selected by Gen. Sherman to do some important service.  They are to embark to-day, under command of Lieut. Col. John H. Jackson, who “saw service” in the Mexican war, and will doubtless render a good account of himself and the regiment on this expedition.

The contrabands are getting organized into “gangs,” in view of the opening of the “spring’s work,” and under the direction of government agents will soon commence cultivating cotton, corn, sweet potatoes, &c. – Port Royal Cor. Of Boston Journal, 7th.

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

Divisions of the Army of the Potomac

WASHINGTON, March 8. – The President’s war order No. 2, has ordered the army of the Potomac to be divided into Corps D’arme, commanded as follows:

1st Corps consisting of the four divisions commanded by McDowell.

2d. Of three divisions commanded by Gen. Sherman.

3d. Of three divisions commanded by Gen. Heintzelman.

4th. Of three divisions commanded by Brig. Gen. Keys.

5th. Banks and Shields’ divisions.  The latter  and Sanders’ to be commanded by Gen. Banks.

Capt Bell, of the 3d Pennsylvania Cavalry has been promoted to Major of the 3d Illinois Cavalry, in Halleck’s department.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 15, 1862, p. 4

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

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

Southern News

BALTIMORE, April 2.

The following intelligence is from the special correspondent at Fort Monroe of the Baltimore American: The number of rebels in Fort Pulaski, as reported by deserters, is 500.  Two German companies there had revolted and were in irons.  Sherman’s mortars and siege guns were so stationed that the guns of the fort could not reach them.  The rebels have withdrawn all their troops from the coast, and abandoned their earth works, previously removing all their cannon to Savannah.  The city of Savannah, however is understood to be very strongly fortified, and all the approaches to it.  The forces there is variously estimated by refugees at 20,000 to 50,000; probably 20,000 is more nearly correct.

Great despondency existed among the troops and people at Charleston, the fall of Newberne created the greatest consternation.  The fire-eaters ridiculed the North Carolina troops, charging them with cowardice.  The shopkeepers and bankers in Charleston had also refused to receive North Carolina money, and there being two N. C. regiments there at the time, a revolt was the consequence, and the shops were broken open and the troops helped themselves.

Three regiments refused to serve any longer, and were allowed to return home.

No direct information of the abandonment of Pensacola by the rebels has yet been received; but it was generally believed that our troops had crossed over from Santa Rosa Island and approached the place.

The latest advices received from Norfolk by the underground RR., leave no room to doubt that the Merrimac was thoroughly repaired, and in commission and ready for another expedition against the wooden walls of the Federal navy and river transports lying in the roads.

The delay of the Merrimac in coming out is belived to be that she is waiting for ammunition for the heavy guns that have been placed on board of her, and also for some infernal machies that are being constructed by Bobbust and Mallory.

The rebel steamers Jamestown and Yorktown were also getting strengthened and more thoroughly clad with iron, to accompany the Merrimac.

There is also a rumor that two other steamers are being clad with iron at Richmond, to join in the expedition.

As to the loss of life on the Merrimac, in her conflict with the Monitor, we have now what is claimed to be positive information.

One of the recently arrived contrabands states that he was a nurse in the general hospital at Norfolk and that until the time of his departure he had helped to shroud 32 of the crew of the Merrimac, and that both commander Buchanan and Lt. Mayer were dead.  There were still a number of wounded surviving.  The contraband also states that two shots of the Monitor were represented to be the only ones that seriously injured the Merrimac.  Shots were thrown under her shield at the moment she attempted to run the Monitor down.

The military from the Gulf States, stationed at Norfolk, have been very severe on the chivalry ever since their defeat at Roanoke Island.  Even the Richmond Blues, the very pinks of chivalry, have fallen in public estimation.  All award bravery to O. Jennings Wise, but his father has so fallen in the public estimation, that he is proclaimed, in Norfolk, a coward and poltroon.  In his escape from Nags Head, he rode thirty miles on horse back, notwithstanding he had previously reported himself too ill to remain at Roanoke Island, at the head of his command.  Wise and Floyd now rank as fleet-footed.  My informant says that Wise would be hooted, if he were to appear in the streets of Norfolk or Richmond.  He has retired to his farm in Princess Ann county.

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

From Port Royal and Florida

NEW YORK, March 30.

The steamer Empire City, from Port Royal, has arrived.  The following is from the New South newspaper of the 22d:

Gen. Sherman visited Jacksonville on the 19^th, and was waited on by a committee of citizens, who represented that all in town were Unionists.  The rebels, when they left, threatened to hang all who remained.

The sentiment of eastern Florida is declared to be loyal.  Rebel deserters are numerous.  Many are willing to take up arms against the rebel tyranny.  Our troops were treated hospitably.

The gunboat Ottawa has been 120 miles up St. John’s river, beyond Jacksonville, meeting with no opposition.  White flags were displayed and the inhabitants claimed protection.

Pensacola has been evacuated, including Forts Barrancas and McRea.  The troops raised in Florida were ordered off, but refused to go.

Gen. Sherman issued a proclamation to the people of East Florida, saying he came to protect loyal citizens and enable them to resuscitate a State Government.

At a meeting of loyal citizens of Jacksonville, on the 20^th, it was declared that no State has the constitutional right to separated from the United States, and that the act of secession by Florida is void and in conflict with the Constitution, never having been submitted to the people for ratification.

They recommended a convention to be called forthwith, to organize a State Government, and the United States Government be requested to keep a sufficient military force to keep order and protect persons and property.

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

LOUISVILLE, April 26 [1862]

Gen. T. W. Sherman arrived here to-day.

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