TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 9 AUTHOR: United States. War Dept., John Sheldon Moody, Calvin Duvall Cowles, Frederick Caryton Ainsworth, Robert N. Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1883 Page A Production Note Cornell University Library produced this volume to preserve the informational content of the deteriorated original. The best available copy of the original has been used to create this digital copy. It was scanned bitonally at 600 dots per inch resolution and compressed prior to storage using ITU Group 4 compression. Conversion of this material to digital files was supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Digital file copyright by Cornell University Library 1995. This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century. Page B Title Page Page R001 THE WAR OF THE EBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL IIRECOIIRDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR, BY BYT. LIEUT. COL. ROBERT N. SCOTT, THIRD U. S. ARTILLERY, AND PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO ACT OF CONGRESS APPROVED JUNE 16, 1880. SERIES IVOLUME IX. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRIITTING OFFICE. 1883. Page R002 / CO~ ~ELL~~\ ~ TY~ ~ LIBRAR Page R003 PREFACE. By an act approved June 23, 1874, Congress made an appropriation to enable the Secretary of War to begin the publication of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, both of the Union and Confed- erate Armies, and directed him to have copied for the Public Printer all reports, letters, telegrams, and general orders not heretofore copied or printed, and properly arranged in chronological order. Appropriations for continuing such preparation have been made from time to time, and the act approved June 16, 1880, has provided for the printing and binding, under direction of the Secretary of War, of iO,000 copies of a compilation of the Official Records (Union and Con- federate) of the War of the Rebellion, so far as the same may be ready for publication, during the fiscal year; and that of said number, 7,000 copies shall be for the nse of the House of Representatives, 2,000 copies for the nse of the Senate, a 1,000 copies for the use of the Executive Departments. * This compilation will be the first genera] publication of the military records of the war, and will embrace all official documents that can be obtained by the compiler, and that appear to be of any historical value. *Volume I to V distributed under act approved June 16, 1880. The act approved August 7, 1882, provides that The volumes of the official records of the war of the rebellion shall be distributed as follows: One thousand copies to the executive departments, as now provided by law. One thousand copies for distribution by the Secretary of War among officers of the Army and contributors to the work. Eight thousand three hundred copies shall be sent by the Secretary of War to such libraries, organizations, and individuals as may be designated by the Senators, Representatives, and Delegates of the Forty- seventh Congress~ Each Senator shall designate not exceeding twenty-six, and cach Representative and Delegate not exceeding twenty-one of such addresses, and the volumes shall be sent thereto from time to time as they are published, until the pub. lication is completed. Senators, Representatives, and Delegates shall inform the Secretary of War in each case how many volumes of those heretofore published the y have forwarded to such addresses. The remaining copies of the eleven thousand to be published, and all sets that may not be ordered to be distributed as provided herein, shall be sold by the Secretary of War for cost of publication with ten per cent, added thereto, and the proceeds of such sale shall be covered into the Treasury. If two or more sets of said volumes are ordered to the same address the Secretary of War shall inform the Senators, Representatives or Delegates, who have designated the same, who thereupon may designate other libraries, organizations, or individuals. The Secretary of War shall report to the first session of the Forty-eighth Congress what volumes of the series heretofore published have not been furnished to such libraries, organizations, and individuals. He shall also inform distributees at whose instance the volumes are ~ II Page R004 Iv PREFACE. The publication will present the records in the following order of arrangement: The 1st Series will embrace the formal reports, both Union and Con- federate, of the first seizures of United States property in the Southern States, and of all military operations in the field, with the correspond- ence, orders, and returns relating specially thereto, and, as proposed, is to be accompanied by an Atlas. In this series the reports will be arranged according to the campaigns and several theaters of operations (in the chronological order of the events), and the Union reports of any event will, as a rule, be imme- diately followed by the Confederate accounts. The correspondence, & c., not embraced in the ~~reports~~ proper will follow (first Union and next Confederate) in chronological order. The 2d Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns, Union and Confederate, relating to prisoners of war, and (so far as the military authorities were concerned) to State or political prisoners. The 3d Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns of the Union authorities (embracing their correspondence with the Confederate officials) not relating specially to the subjects of the first and second series. It will set forth the annual and special reports of the Secretary of War, of the General-in Chief; and of the chiefs of the several staff corps and departments; the calls for troops, and the correspondence between the National and the several State authorities. The 4th Series will exhibit the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns of the Confederate authorities, similar to that indicated for the Union officials, as of the third series, but excluding the correspondence between the Union and Confederate authorities given in that series. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Major, Third Art., and Bvt. Lient. Gol. WAR DEPARTMENT, August 23, 1880. Approved: ALEX. RAMSEY, Secretary of War Table of Contents Page R005 CONTENTS. CHAPTER XIX. Page. Operations in Southeastern Virginia. January IlMarch 17, 1862 171 CHAPTER XX. Operations in North Carolina. January 11August 20, 1862 72480 CHAPTER XXI. Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. February 1September 20, 1862 481736 (v Special Index Page R006 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME I. CHAPTER I. Page. Operations in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. December 20, 1860April 14, 1861 1317 CHAPTER II. The secession of Georgia. January 326, 1861 318325 CHAPTER IlL The secession of Alabamaand Mississippi. January 420, 1861 326330 CHAPTER IV. Operations in Florida. January 6-August 31, 1861 331473 CHAPTER V. Page. The secession of North Carolina. Janu ary 9May 20, 1861 474488 CHAPTER VI. The secession of Louisiana. January 10 February 19, 1861 489501 CHAPTER VII. Operations in Texas and New Mexico. February 1June 11, 1861 502636 CHAPTER VIII. Operations in Arkansas, the Indian Terri- tory, and Missouri. February 7May 9, 1861 637691 VOLUME II. CHAPTER IX. Page. Operations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. April 16-July 31, 1861. 1-1012 VOLUME III. CHAPTER X. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. May 10November 19, 1861. 1749 VOLUME IV. CHAPTER XI. Page. CHAPTER XIII. Page. Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and Operations in North Carolina and South- Arizona. June11, 1861February 1,1862. 1174 eastern Virginia. August 1, 1861Jan- CHAPTER XII. nary 11, 1862 506-721 Operations in Kentucky and Tennessee. July 1November 19, 1861 175565 VOLUME V. CHAPTER XIV. Page. Operations in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and West Virginia. August 1, 1861March 17,1862. 11106 VOLUME VI. CHAPTER XV. Operations on the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia, and Middle and East Florida. Augnat 21, 1861April 11, 1862 Page. CHAPTER XVI. Page. Operations in West Florida, Southern Al- abama, Southern Mississippi, and Lou- 1415 j isiana. September 1,1861May 12,1862 - 436894 VOLUME VII. CHAPTER XVII. Page. Operations in Kentucky, Tennessee, N. Alabama, and S. W. Virginia. Nov. 19,1861Mar. 4,1862. 1-946 VOLUME VIII. CHAPTER XVIII. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. Nov. 19, 1861April 10, 1862. 1834 (VI Additions and Corrections Page A001 T H E WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL IRECOIIRDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS TO SERIES IVOLUME IX. (To be inserted in. the voinnie. For explanation. see General Index volume, Serial ~o. 130, page XXVIII.) PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF The Hon. ELIHU ROOT, Secretary of War, BY BRIG. GEN. FRED C. AINSWORTH, ~DHIEF OF THE RECORD AND PENSION OFFICE, WAR DEPARTMENT, AND MR. JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY. I?Ir. JOHN S. 1!IOODEY, Indexer. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1902 Page A002 ADDITIONS KN D CORRECTIONS. TEXT. Page 6. Erase foot-note and insert See Series I, Vol. 51, Par/ z, p. ~8. Page 15. Organization table, Roberts command, erase Moun/ed Rifles (2 corn- panies). Page 8~. Fosters report, second line, for observalions read opera/ions. Page ii 2. Second line, bottom, for [General Wise] read embarrassmen/s, and for mar/ted read marked. Page 214. Twenty-eighth line, top, insert t after Surg. J. H. Thompson and add foot-note, t Medals of Honor awarded /o Surg. I. H. Thompson, & ~ S. Volunleers, and Privale John D. Terry, Company F, Twenly- /hird iI/assachuse//s Infan/ry, for gallan/ry in ac/ion. Page 261. Ninth line, top, for Shoffner read Shaffner. Page 328. Twenty-seventh line, bottom, for Nesbe/s. read Nisbels. Page 349. Sanfords report, caption, for Twelf/h read Twen/y-seven/h. Page 431. First line, for D. K. Jones read D. R. Jones. Seventh line, top, for Magruders read MeGruders. Page 437. Erase foot-note No/found. See Davis /o Avery, p. 435, and insert See Series I, Vol. ~z, ParI 2, y5. 475. Page 447. Special Orders, No. 53, tenth line, for L. H. Rogers read S. H. Rogers. Page 460. Branchs Brigade, insert 13 rems before Nor//i Carolina Ba//ery. Page 469. Indorsement No. 2, second line, for necessary read unnecessary. Page 481. Insert March ~, 5862.Ac/ion a/ Gomanche Pass, N. Mex. Page 568. Erase foot-note and insert Omi//ed. Page 6oi. Foot-note, for inclosure G read inclosure No. z. Page 6i6. Erase foot-note and insert Omi//ed. Shows 4 hilled and z~ wounded. Page 684. Thirteenth line, top, for on read over. Page 731. General Orders, No. i, first line, erase Firs/. INDEX. Insert all words and figures in italics and strike out all in [brackets]. An asterisk (*) following a correction indicates that Additions and corrections to the text shoul4 be consulted. Albemarle, District of (C.). Extended to embrace Roanoke Island, N. C., 139. Orders, General, series 1862. No. I, 127. Orders, Special, series 1862. No. 2, 130~ No. 6, 131; No. Is, 144, No. 13, i~ No. i6, 136. Wise, H. A., assumes command, 127, 131, 139, 421. Appel ian [Appleman], Hiram. A rmijo [Armigo], Manuel. Armijo [Armigo], Rafael. Bain, G. M. [Mr.]. Batchelder, Joseph [James] C. Bell,J. [I.] Mcc. Boyd, Edward H. [Dr.]. Bradley, Luther J. [I,.]. Brookman, H. D., Bark. chadwick, Robert W. [Mr.]. Chaves [chavez], J. F. Clark, Fort, Tex. Affair near, A ug. Ia, 1862. See Nueces River, Tex. Clarke, R. R. [Dr.]. Clarke, William [Clark, Pilot].~ Clements, Nelson [Mr.]. Clever, fi17~erles P. [A. G. of N. Mex.]. Colyer, Vince 398, 403 [Mr., 398403]. Comanche Pass, N. Me Action at, March3, 1862, 481.* Conellard,Joshna [Captain]. Conklin, George F. tionnor [Conner], Patrick Edward. Courts of Inquiry. Valverde, N. Mex., Feb. 21, 1862, 504, 505. Cm [Crane], T. j. Crocker, P. [Captain]. Culpeper, Henry E. [Mr.]. Cunningham, William [Pilot]. Cust is, Peter Barton [Curtis, Dr.]. Daniels, C H. [Acting Master]. Face, W. W. [Acting Master]. Ferebee, Dennis D. [Colonel]. Fitz Simons [Fitzsimnsons], Charles. Forrest, Do glas F. [Joseph [?]]. French, W. H., 206 [French, Mr., 206]. Galveston, Sub-Military District of. Merged into Military Sub-Dist. of Houston, 117. Gowen [Gowan], George W. Gray, T. S. [Mr.]. H. D. Brookman, Bark, 351. Hobbs, George [Captain]. Hoffmenn [Hoffman], Gustav. Page A003 ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS. Hunter, William W. Jewell, James R. [Private]. Jones, D. 11. [K.]. Keffer, Franc/sJ. [Captain]. Killough, Ira [J.] G. Kimball, Edgar [Edward] A. King, John N. [A.]. K/I/ridge [Kittredge], W. A. Lindsay, Ed- ard C. [Mr.]. McGninnese [[McGinnis?]], Joseph H. Mack, Gar/vo [General]. Macon, Fort, N. C. Siege of, etc. Reports of Audrews, William S. [J.]. Macrae, Na/han/el C., 271, j~8. Magoffin, Samuel [Major]. Martin, James A. [Adam B.]. Moore, IVilI/am A. [Colonel]. Mustang, Sloop [Launch]. N/coil, .5ylves/er D. [Nichols, Captain], 99, 340. North Carolina. Affairs in, ge~i erally. Communications from S/amy [Stanley], Edward. Operations in. See also May 7S. Gatesville. Expedition to [from]. North Carolina Troops (C.). Artillery, HeavyConspanies: [Hardings, 549, 447, 460.] CavalryCbmpa i/es. Tackers (R. 5.), 173. CavalryRegiments: ist, j6. InfantryCbmpan/es: Beanfor/ Plaza Boys, 228. Hard/ugs, 219, 557 160. Ne/liercuils Cf. H.), 173. InfantryRegiments: [s9th, 252254.] Patton,J. [I.] A. Pesque/ra [Pesqnira], Ignacio. Pe/rcay [Pettway], 0. C. Phillips,Jefferson C. [J. C. [?]]. Phillips, Ph/lip, Mrs. Pollocksv/lle and Tren/on Cross-Roads, N. C. Sk irm/sli, May ss, zS6s, 72. Powhatan, 5/eamer [U. S. S.]. Private Property. Action touching, 710. Ragnel [Ragnet], Henry W. Re/ly [Riley], John. Respass,John R. [Respess, Mr.]. Reynolds, Franc/s [Frank]. Roanoke, C. 5. 5., 9, 15, 16, 19 151, 155, i~6. Roanoke, U. S. Frigate, [sip, 145, 146, 149, iii, 155, 1561. Rumley, James [Mr.]. Sherman, Will/am W. [Major]. Silk, Richard [R. XV.]. S/ag/elan, JV////am R., 120. Sketches. 0/1/c//s Farm, N. C Shirm/sh, April z~, i56s, 303. Smith, R. H. [Surgeon]. Stapleton, BoScH H. [Colonel]. Swilliug,Jack [ ]. Talbot, ill. [Judge]. Terrell [Terrill], A. XV. Terry, John B., Texas Troops (C.). Artillerv~~Batteries: Reids [Rileys]. Cavalrv~Battalions: [Bates, 723, 731.] CavalryCompanies: Roiin/rees, 731. CavalryRegiments: 7th, [~s6]. 11~fantrvl3attalions: Ba/es, 723, 731. InfantryCompanies: Boses [Boises]. [Durants.] [Rountrees.] MiscellaneousCompanies: I)uffs, 732 [71s]. Phillips, 509. Theoi/ora, C S. S. [rheodore, Steamer]. [Thomas, Green, ssi.] Tucker, J. (1. Upham, J. B. [Surgeon]. Valverde, N. Mex. Engagement at, Feb. 21, iS6s. Reports of Ragiie/ [Ragnet], Henry W. Veck, fVilliaai S. [Wagon-master]. Virginia Troops. ArtilleryBatteries: Bruces, 160, 163. McComas, 192. CavalryCompanies: Gillettes, 139. InfantryRegiments: 39tn, 138. IValker, L. P.,31. [Ward, Captain, 346.] War Department, 1.7. 5. Correspondence with 5/anly [Stanley], Edward. Williams, Hezekiah [ ]. Williams, F. G. Williams, William T., ~o [Williams, W. J., sio]. Wood, Alfred [Albert] M. Wood [Woods], William S. [H.]. Wright, George [ ]. Page A004 4 Page 1 CHAPTER XIX. OPERATIOINS IN SOUTHEASTERN ViRGINIA. January 11March 17, 1862. SUMMARY OY TIlE PRINCIP~L EVENTS. Jan. 11, 1~62.The Burnside Expedition sails from Hampton Roads for the North Carolina coast. Mar. 8-. 9, 1862.Naval engagement in Hampton Roads, Va., and destruction of the U. S. frigate Congress and sloop-Of-war Cumberland by the Confed- erate iron-clad Virginia (formerly the Merrimac). 17, 1862.Embarkation of the Army of the Potomac for the Peninsula com- menced at Alexandria. MARCH 89, 1862.Naval engagement in Hampton Roads, Va., and de- struction of the U. S. frigate Congress and sloop-of-war Cumberland by the Confederate iron-clad Virginia (formerly the Merrimac). REPORTS. No. 1.Extract from Annual Report, December 1, 1862, of the Secretary of the Navy. No. 2.Maj. Gen. John E. Wool, U. S. Army, commanding Department of Virginia. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Joseph K. F. Mansfield, U. S. Army, commanding brigade. No. 4.Col. David W. Wardrop, Ninety-ninth New York Infantry. {o. 5.Maj. Gen. Benjamin Huger, C. S. Army, commanding Department of Norfolk. No. 6.Confederate Secretnry of the Navy. No. 7.~Flag-Officer Franklin Buchanan, C. S. Navy. No. 8.Maj. Gen. John B. Magruder, C. S. Army, commanding Department of the Peninsula, of his co-operation with naval attack. No. 1. Extract from Annual Report of the Secretary of the Navy. IDECE JEER 1, 1862. * * * * * * * lilt was the intention and constant effort of the Department and con- tractors that the Monitor should be completed in the month of January, but there was delay in consequence of difficulties incident to an under- taking of such novelty and magnitude, and there were also some slight defects, which were, however, promptly remedied, and she left New York early in March, reaching Hampton Roads on the night of the 8th. I H HVOL I Page 2 2 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CIIAI. XIX. Heir arrival, though not as soon as anticipated, was most opportune and important. For some time the Department had heard with great solicitude of the progress which the insurgents had made in armoring and equipping the large war-steamer Merrimac, which had fallen into their hands when Norfolk was abandoned. On the afternoon of the 8th of March this formidable vessel, heavily armored and armed and fully prepared to operate both as a ram and a war steamer, came down the Elizabeth River, accompanied by several smaller steamers, two of them partially armored, to attack the vessels of the blockading squadron that were in and about Hampton Roads. When the Merrimac and her attendants made their appearance the Congress and the Cumberland, two sailing vessels, were anchored off Newport News, and the remain- ing vessels were in the vicinity of Fortress Monroe, some 6 mileS dis- tant. The Minnesota, the Roanoke, and the St. Lawrence got imme- diately under way and proceeded toward the scene of action. The Congress, being nearest to the Merrimac, was the first to receive her fire, which was promptly returned by a full broadside, the shots falling apparently harmlessly off from the armored side of the assail- ant. Passing by the Congress, the Merrimac dashed upon the Cum- berland, and was received by her with a heavy, well-directed, and vigorous fire, which, like that of the Congress, produced unfortunately but little effect. A contest so unequal could not be of long continuance, and it was closed when the Merrimac, availing herself of her power as a steam rain ran furiously against the Cumberland, laying open her wooden hull, and causing her almost immediately to sink. As her guns approached the waters edge her young commander, Lieutenant Mor- ris, and the gallant crew stood firm at their posts, delivered a l)arting fire, and the good ship went down heroically, with her colors flying. Having thus destroyed the Cumnberland, the Merrimac turned again upon the Congress, which had, iu the mean time, been engaged with the smaller rebel steamers, and after a heavy loss, in order to guard against such a fate as that which had befallen the Cumberland, had been run aground. The Merrimac now selected a raking position astern of the Congress, while one of the smaller steamers poured in a constant fire on her starboard quarter. Two other steamers of the enemy also approached from James River, firing upon the unfortunate frigate with precision and severe effect. The guns of the Congress were almost entirely disabled, and her gallant commanding officer, Lieut. Joseph B. Smith, had fallen at his post. Her decks were strewn with the dead and dying, the ship was on fire in several places, and not a gun could be brought to bear upon the assailants. In this state of things, and with no effectual relief at hand, the senior surviving officer, Lieu- tenant Pendergrast, felt it his duty to save further useless destruction of life by hauling down his colors. This was done about 4 oclock p. m. The Congress continued to burn till about 8 in ~he evening and then blew up. From the Congress the Merrhnac turned her attention to the remain- ing vessels of the squadron. The Roanoke had grounded on her way to the scene of the conflict; and although she succeeded in getting off, her condition was such, her propeller being useless, that she took no part in the action. The St. Lawrence also grounded near the Miii- nesota and had a short engagement with the Merrimac, but suffered no serious injury, and on getting afloat was ordered back to Fortress Monroe. The Minnesota, which had also got aground in the shallow waters of the channel, became the special object of attack, and the Merriinac Page 3 CHAP. XJX.1 NAVAL ENGAGEMENT IN HAMPTON ROADS, VA. 3 with the Yorktown and Jamestown, bore down upon her. The Merri- mac drew too much water to approach very near; her fire was not therefore particularly effective. The other steamers selected their po- sition, fired with much accuracy, and caused considerable damage to the Minnesota. She soon, however, succeeded in getting a gun to bear on the two smaller steamers and drove them awayone apparently in a crippled condition. Abont 7 p. m. the Merriinae also hauled off, and the three stood toward Norfolk. All efforts to get the Minnesota afloat during the night and into a safe position were totally unavailing. The morning was looked for with deep anxiety, as it would in all probability bring a renewed attack from the formidable assailant. At this critical and anxious moment the Monitor, one of the newly -finished armored vessels, came into Hampton Roads, from New York, under comm and of Lient. John L. Worden, and a little after midnight anchored alongside the Minnesota. At 6 oclock the next morning the Merrimac, as anticipated, again made her appearance, and opened her fire upon the Minnesota. Promptly obeying the signal to attack, the Monitor ran down past the Minnesota and laid herself close alongside the Merrimac, between that formidable vessel and the Minnesota. The fierce conflict between these two iron- dads lasted for several hours. it was in appearance an unequal con- flict, for the Merrimnac was a large and noble structure, and the Monitor was in comparison almost diminutive. But the Monitor was strong in her armor, in the ingenious novelty of her construction, in the large caliber of her two guns, and the valor and skill with which she was handled. After several hours fighting the Merrimac found herself overmatched, and, leaving the Monitor, sought to renew the attack on the Minnesota; but the Monitor again placed herself between the two vessels and reopened her fire upon her adversary. At noon the Mer- rimac, seriously damaged, abandoned the contest and, with her com- panions, retreated toward Norfolk. Thus terminated the most remarkable naval combat of modern times, perhaps of any age. The fiercest and most formidable naval assault upon the power of the Union which has ever been made by the insur- gents was heroically repelled, and a new era was opened in the history of maritime warfare. * * * * * * * No. 2. Report of Maj. Gen. John E. Wool, U. S. Army, commanding Depart- ment of Virginia. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Port Monroe, Va., March 9, 1862. GENERAL: Two hours after I sent m y hurried dispatch to the Secre- tary of War last evening the Monitor arrived, and saved the Minnesota and the St. Lawrence, which were both aground when she arrived. The Mj~rrimac, supported by the Yorktown and Jamestown, com- menced an attack on the Minnesota (still aground) early this morning, and after a contest of five hours was driven off in a sinking condition by the Monitor, aided by the Minnesota, and towed by the Jamestown and Yorktown toward Norfolk, for the purpose, no doubt, of getting her, if possible, in the dry-dock for repairs Page 4 4 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAL~. XIX. It i~ reported that Magruder is approaching Newport News with a large force of infantry. I have re-enforced that post with three regi- ments, a light battery of six pieces, and a company of dragoons. The command will consist altogether of over or about 8,000 men. My com- mand consists altogether of 10,000 effective men. The Cumberland was sunk, and we lost more than one-half of her crew. The Congress surrendered, but the crew was released and the officers taken as prisoners. The Minnesota has got off, but it is re- ported she is in a sinking condition. It is to be hoped that I will be largely re-enforced, including tw~ additional light batteries. The Monitor is far superior to the Merri- mac. The first has only two guns, while the Merrimac has eight. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding the Army, Washington, D. C. [Similar report to Secretary of War.] No. 3. Report of Brig. Gen. Joseph K. P. iliansfield, U. S. Army, commanding brigade. llnQns. FIRST BRIG., FIRST DIV., DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, Newport News, 17a., March 10, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that in the forenoon of Saturday, the 8th instant, the commanders of the Congress and Cumberland, at anchor in the stream, notified me that the iron-clad Merrimac steamer of the enemy was approaching from Norfolk to attack them, and I iminedi- ately telegraphed you to that effect. At about 2 oclock ~. in. she ap- proached very near these vessels slowly, engaged first the Congress. and passed on to the Cumberlaud and ran into her, and all within a mile of our batteries. I immediately ordered Lient. Col. G. Nauman, chief of artillery, to open our batteries of four columbaids and one 42- pounder James gun to fire on her. It was done with alacrity, and kept up continuously with spirit as long as she was in range, and although our shot often struck her, they made no impression on her at all. I also~ ordered three of our 8-inch siege howitzers frQm the land batteries hauled by hand and brought to bear on her from the bank of the river and two of Howards light battery rifled guns, but no visible serious. damage to her from our guns was done, such was the strength of her mail. As soon as the Cumberland was sunk three steamers, supposed to be the Yorktown, Jamestown, and a tug, came down the river from Day~~ Point under full head of steam. Our guns were then turned on them, but they kept at a distance and moved rapidly past, and received but little damage from us. During the sinking of the Cumberland the Congress slippc(1 her cable and hoisted sail and ran ashore just above Signal Point, where many of her men escaped to the shore, and was there followed by the Merrimac, and after two raking shots she hauled down her flag anI Page 5 ~DHAP. XIX.] NAVAL ENGAGEMENT IN HAMPTON ROADS, VA. 5 hoisted a white flag and ceased action. The enemy then sent two steamers with Confederate flags flying and made fast on either side of her, with a view to haul her off or bnrn her. As soon as I saw this I ordered Colonel Brown, of the Twentieth Indiana Ilegiment, then close at hand, to send two rifle companies (A and K) to the beach. The two rifled guns, under Captain Howard, and a rifled Dahlgren howitzer, manned by Master Stuyvesant and 14 sailors of the Cuinberland, went into action from a raking position on the beach, covered by sand banks and trees, against these steamers. We here had them at about 800 yards to advantage, and immediately they let go their hold on the Congress and moved out of range with much loss. They endeavored to approach her again with a steamer and row-boat, but were beaten off with loss, till linally the Merrimac, finding her prize retaken, approached and fired three shots into her and set her on fire. The remaining men escaped from the Congress over the bows of the ship to the shore, assisted by our boats, and the wounded were removed by dark. Thus closed the tragedy of the day.. The enemy retired at dark toward the opposite shore, and the Congress illuminated the heavens and varied the scene by the firing of her own guns and the flight of her balls through the air till about 2 ocLock in the morning, when her magazine exploded and a column of burning matter appeared high in the air, to be followed by the stillness of death. Through the whole 4ay our troops were under arms, and the officers and men engaged at the batteries and as riflemen on the beach performed their dnty well, and the enemy were beaten off wherever we could penetrate them. All was done that it was possible to do under the circumstances to save these ships from the enemy. Some officers and men from the Cumber- laud, as they escaped to the shore, came forward and volunteered their services at our guns and afforded aid. Toward the close of the day the enemy must have experienced considerable loss. There were none killed of my command, and but one man, private of the Seventh New York Volnuteers, severely wounded by a shell from the Merrimac, re- sulting in the loss of his leg. The loss on the part of our Navy must have been great by the burst- ing of shells and the drowning by the sinking of the Cumberland, although our best efforts were made to save them. Our ships were perfectly helpless against the Merrimac, as their broadsides produced no material effect on her. All of which is respectfully submitted. JOS. K. F. MANSFIELD, Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Brigadier-Ceneral, Commanding. Commanding Department of Virginia. No. 4. Report of Col. David IV. Wardrop, Ninety-ninth New York Im~fantry. llDQns. UNION COAsT GUARD, 99TH IIEGT., N. Y. V., Gamp Hamilton, Va., ]tfareh 20, 1862. SlR: I have this morning received the official report of Capt. Will- iam J. Melntire, commanding Company D, of this regiment, who hav Page 6 6 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [ChAr. XIX. been doing duty on board of the U. S. frigate Congress from January 13 until March 8, when they were attacked by the rebel iron-clad gun- boat Merrimac, or Virginia, and forced to surrender after the ship was ashore and helpless. Captain Mclntire reports 9 killed, 10 wounded, 7 nvissing.~ Respectfully, your obedient servant, D. W. WARI)ROP, Colonel, Commanding Ninety-ninth Pegim ent, N. P V. Lieutenant CHARLES LORCII, Post-A djutant, Camp Hamilton. No. 5. Report of Miaj. Gen. Benjamin Huger, C. S. Army, commanding Depart ment of Norfolk. HEADQUARTERS DEPART2 ENT OF NORFOLK, Norjollc, Va., March 10,, 1862. SIR: I telegraphed yesterday to the Secretary of War the fact of the naval engagement on the 8th and 9th instant. As the battle ~ as fought by the Navy, Flag-Officer Forrest will no doubt report to the Navy Department the result of the engagement. The batteries at Sewells Point opened fire on the steamers Min- nesota and IRoanoke, which attempted on the 8th to pass to Newport News to the assistance of the frigates attacked by the Virginia. The Minnesota ran aground before reaching there. The IRoanoke was struck several times, and for some cause turned around and went back to Old Point. The two sailing vessels (Cumberland and Congress) were destroyed the first sunk and the other burned by the Virginiaand on the 9th the Minnesota, still aground, would probably have been destroyed but for the iron-clad battery of the enemy called, 1 think, the Monitor. The Virginia and this battery were in actual contact, without inflicting serious injury on either. At 2 p. m. on yesterday, the 9th, all our vessels came up to the navy- yard for repairs. The Virginia, I understand, has gone into dock for repairs, which will be made at once. This action shows the power and endurance of iron-clad vessels; cannon-shot do not harm them, and they can pass batteries or destroy large ships. A vessel like the Vir- ginia or the Monitor, with her two guns, can pass any of our batteries with impunity. The only means of stopping them is by vessels of the same kind. The Virginia, being the most powerful, can stop the Moni- tor; but a more powerful one would run her down or ashore. As the enemy can build such boats faster than we, they could, when so pre- pared, overcome any place accessible by water. How these powerful machines are to be stopped is a problem I cannot solve. At present, in the Virginia,we have the advantage; but we cannot tell how long this may last. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major- General, Commanding. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. * Captain Mclntires report not found Page 7 C~r. XIX.] NAVAL ENGAG JiMENT IN hAMPTON ROADS, VA. 7 No. 6. Report of Confederate Secretary of the Navy. EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, April 10, 1862. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the Confederate States: I herewith transmit to Congress a communication from the Secretary of the Navy, covering a detailed report of Flag-Officer Buchanan of the brilliant triumph of his squadron over the vastly superior forces of the enemy in Hampton Roads, March 8 and 9 last. J I~FFEI1SON DAVIS. NAVY DEPARTMENT, Richmond, Va., April 7, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit herewith [a] copy of the detailed report [No. 7] of Flag-Officer Buchanan of the brilliant triumph of his squadron over the vastly superior forces of the enemy in Hampton Roads, oni\iarch8and9last, a brief report by Lieutenant Jones of the battle of the 8th having been previously made. The conduct of the officers and men of the squadron in this contest reflects unfading houor upon themselves and upon the Navy. The report will be read with deep interest, and it ~ details will not fail to arouse the ardor and nerve the arms of our gallant seamen. it will be remembered that the Virginia was a novelty in naval architeetni e, wholly unlike any ship that ever floated; that her heavi- est guns were equal novelties in ordnance; that her motive power and her obedience to her helm were untried, and her officers and crew strangers comparatively to the ship and to each other, and yet, nuder all these disadvantages, the dashing courage and consummate profes- sional ability of Flag-Officer Buchanan and his associates achieved the most remarkable victory which naval annals record. When the flag-officer was disabled the command of the Virginia devolved upon her executive and ordnance officer, Lient. Catesby Ap li. Jones, and the cool and masterly manner in which he fought the ship in her encounter with the iron-clad Monitor justified the high esti- mate which the country places upon his professional merit. To his experience, skill, and untiring industry as her ordnance and executive officer the terrible effect of her fire was greatly due. Her battery was determined in accordance with his suggestions, and in all investigations and tests which resulted in its thorough efficiency he was zealously engaged. The terms of commendation used by the flag-officer in characterizing the conduct of his officers and men meet the cordial indorsement of the Department, and the concurrent testimony of thousands who witnessed the engagement places his own conduct above all praise. With mnch respect, your obedient servant, S. R. MALLORY, Secretary of the Navy. To the PRESIDENT Page 8 8 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XIX. No. 7. Report of Flag-Officer Franklin Buchanan, C. S. Navy. NAVAL HOSPITAL, Norfolk, Va., ilfarch 27, 1862. SIR: Having been confined to my bed in this building since the 9th instant, in consequence of a wound received in the action of the pre- vious day, I have not had it in my power at an earlier date to prepare the official report, which I now have the honor to submit, of the pro- ceedings on the 8th and 9th instant of the James River squadron, under my command, composed of the following-named vessels: Steamer Virginia, flag-ship, ten guns; steamer Patrick Henry, Commander John B. Tucker, twelve guns; steamer Jamestown, Lieut. Commanding J. N. Barney, two guns; and gunboats Teazer, Lient. Commanding W. A. Webb; Beaufort, Lient. Commanding W. H. Parker; and Raleigh, Lieut. Commanding J. W. Alexander, each one gun. Total, twenty- seven guns. On the 8th instant, at 11 a. in., the Virginia left the navy-yard (Nor- folk), accompanied by the Raleigh and Beaufort, and proceeded to Newport News, to engage the enemys frigates Cumberland and Con- gress, gunboats, and shore batteries. When within less than a mile of the Cumberland the Virginia commenced the engagement with that ship with her bow gun, and the action soon became general, the Cum- berland, Congress, gunboats, and shore batteries concentrating upon us their heavy fire, which was returned with great spirit and deter- mination. The Virginia stood rapidly on toward the Cumberland, which ship I had determined to sink with our prow if pos~ible. In about fifteen minutes after the action commenced we ran into her oix her starboard bow. The crash below the, water was distinctly heard, and she commenced sinking, gallantly fighting her guns as long as they were above water. She weiit down with her colors flying. During this time the shore batteries, Congress, and gunboats kept up their heavy concentrated fire upon us, doing us some injury. Our guns, however, were not idle; their fire was very destructive to the shore batteries and vessels, and we were gallantly sustained by the rest of the squadron. Just after the Cumberland sunk that gallant officer Commander John B. Tucker was seen standing down James River under full steam, accompanied by the Jamestown and Teazer. They all came nobly into action and were soon exposed to the heavy tire of shore batteries. Their escape was miraculous, as they were under a galling fire of solid shot, shell, grape, and canister, a number of which passed through the vessels without doing any serious injury, except to the Patrick Henry, through whose boiler a shot passed, scalding to death four persons and wounding others. Lieutenant-Commanding Barney promptly obeyed a signal to tow her out of the action. As soon as damages were repaired the Patrick Henry returned to her station and continued to perform good service during the remainder of that day and the following. Having sunk the Cumberland, I turned our attention to the Congress. We were some time in getting our proper position in consequence of the shoalness of the water and the great difficulty of managing the ship when in or near the mud. To succeed in my object I was obliged to run the ship a short distance above the batteries on James Rive Page 9 CHAP. XIX.] NAVAL ENGAGEMENT IN HAMPTON ROADS, VA. 9 in order to wind her. During all the time her keel was in the mud; of course she moved but slowly. Thus we were subjected twice to the heavy guns of all the batteries in passing up and down the river., but it could not be avoided. We silenced several of the batteries and did nuch injury on shore. A large transport steamer alongside t~e wharf was blown up, one schooner sunk, and another captured and sent to Norfolk. The loss of life on shore we have no means of ascertaining. While the Virginia was thus engaged in getting her position for ~ittacking the Congress the prisoners state it was believed on board that ship that we had hauled off. The men left their guns and gave three cheers. They were soon sadly nndeceived, for a few minutes nfter we opened upon her again, she having run on shore in shoal water. The carnage, havoc, and dismay caused by our fire compelled them to haul down their colors and to hoist a white flag at their gaff and half. mast and another at the main. The crew instantly took to their boats an(l landed. Our fire immediately ceased, and a signal was made for the Beaufort to come within hail. I then & rdered Lieutenant-Command ing Parker to take possession of the Congress, secure the officers as prisoners, allow the crew to land, and burn the ship. He ran along- ide, received her flag and surrender from Commander William Smith and Lieutenant Pendergrast, with the side-arms of those officers. They delivered themselves as prisoners of war on board the Beaufort, and afterward were permitted at their own request to return to the Con. gress to assist in removing the wounded to the Beaufort. They never returned, and I submit to the decision of the Department whether they are not our prisoners. While the Beaufort and Raleigh were alongside the Congress, and the surrender of that vessel had been re- Ceived from the commander, she having two white flags flying, hoisted by our own people, a heavy fire was opened upon them from the shore and from the Congress, killing some valuable officers and men. Under this fire the steamers left the Congress, but as I was not informed that ammy injury had been sustained by those vessels at that time, Lienten- ant-Commanding Parker having faik~d to report to me, I took it for gramited that my order to him to burn her had been executed, and waited some muinutes to see the smoke ascending from her hatches. During this delay we were still subject to the heavy fire from the bat- teries, which was always I)romptly returned. The steam frigates Minnesota amid Loanoke and the sailing frigate St. Lawrence had previously been reported as comning from Old Point, but as I was determined that the Congress should not again fall into the hands of the enemy, I remarked to that gallant young officer Flag- Lieutenant Minor, That ship must be burned.~~ He promptly volun- teered to take a boat and burn her, and the Teazer, Lieutenant-Com- manding Webb, was ordered to cover the boat. Lieutenant Minor had scarcely reached within 50 yards of the Congress when a deadly fire was opened 111)011 him, wounding him severely and several of his men. On witnessing this vile treachery I instantly recalled the boat and or- dered the Congress destroyed by hot shot and incendiary shell. About this period I was disabled, and transferred the command of the ship to that gallant, intelligent officer Lieut. Catesby Jones, with orders to fight her as long as the men could stand to their guns. The ships fromn Old Point opened their fire upon us. The Minnesota grounded in the north channel, where, unfortunately, the shoalness of the channel prevented our near approach. We continued, however, to fire upon her until the pilots declar~d it was no longer safe to remain in that position, and we accordingly returned by the south channe Page 10 10 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. (the middle ground being necessarily between the Virginia and Min- nesota, and St. Lawrence and the iRoanoke having retreated under the guns of Old Point), and again had an opportunity of opening upon the Minnesota, receiving her heavy fire in return, and shortly afterward upon th~ St. Lawrence, from which vessel was received several broad- sides. It had by this time become dark and we soon after anchored off Sewells Point. The rest of the squadron followed our movements, with the exception of the Beaufort, Lieutenant-Commanding Parker, who proceeded to Norfolk with the wounded and prisoners as soon as he had left the Congress, without reporting to me. The Congress, having been set on fire by our hot shot and incendiary shell, continued to burn, her loaded guns being successively discharged as the flames reached them, until a few minutes past midnight, when her magazine exl)loded with a tremendous report. The facts above stated as having occurred after I had placed the ship in charge of Lieutenant Jones were reported to me by that officer. At an early hour next morning (the 9th), upon the urgent solicita- tions of the surgeons, Lieutenant Minor and myself were very reluct- antly taken on shore. The accommodations for the proper treatment of wounded persons on board the Virginia are exceedingly limited Lieutenant Minor and myself occupying the only space that could be used for that purpose, which was in my cabin. I therefore consented to our being landed on Sewells Point, thinking that the room on board vacated by us could be used for those who might be wounded in the renewal of the action. In the course of the day Lieutenant Minor and myself were sent in a steamer to the hospital at Norfolk. The following is an extract from the report of Lieutenant Jones of the proceedings of the Virginia on the 9th: At daylight on the 9th we saw tliat the Minnesota was still ashore, and that there was an iron battery near her. At 8 [oclock] we ran down to engage them (having previously sent the killed and wonnded out of the ship), firing at the Minnesota and occasionally at the iron battery. The pilots did not place us as near as they expected. The great length and dranght of the ship rendered it exceedin~ly difficult to work her. We ran ashore abont a mile from the frigate, and were backing fifteei~ minutes before we got off. We continued to fire at the Minnesota, and blew up a steamer alongside of her, and we also engaged the Monitor, and sonietiines at very close quar- ters. We once succeeded in running into her, and twice silenced her fire. The pilots declaring that we could get no nearer the Minnesota, and believing her to be entirely disabled, and the Monitor having run into shoal water, which prevented our doing her any further injury, we ceased firing at 12 [oclock] and proceeded to Norfolk. Our loss is 2 killed and 19 wounded. The stem is twisted and the ship leaks. We have lost the prow, starboard anchor, and all the boats. The armor is somewhat damaged; the steam-pipe and smoke-stack both riddled; the muzzles of two of the guns shot away. It was not easy to keep a flag flying. The flag-staffs were re- peatedly shot away. The colors were hoisted to the smoke-stack and several times cut down from it. The bearing of the men was all that could be desired;. the enthusiasm could scarcely be restrained. During the action they cheered again and again. Their coolness and skill were the more remarkable from the fact that the great majority of them were un- der fire for the first time. They were strangers to each other and to the officers, and had but a few days instruction in the management of the great guns. To the skill and example of the officers is this result in no small degree attributable. Having thus given a full report of the actions on the 8th and 9th, I feel it due to the gallant officers who so nobly sustained the honor of the flag and country on those days to express my appreciation of their conduct. To that brave and intelligent officer Lieut. Catesby Jones, the executive and ordnance officer of the Virginia, I am greatly indebted for the success achieved. His constant attention to his duties in the equipment of the ship; his intelligence in the instruction of ordnanc Page 11 ChAr. XIX.] NAVAL ENGAGEMENT IN HAMPTON ROADS, VA. 11 to tlie crew, as proved by the accuracy and effect of their lire, some of the guns having been personally directed by him; his tact and manage- ment in the government of raw recruits; his general knowledge of the executive duties of a man-of-war, together with his high-toned bearing, were all eminently conspicuous, and had their fruits in the admirable efficiency of the Virginia. If conduct such as his (and I do not know that I have used adequate language in describing it) entitles an officer to promotion, I see in the case of Lieutenant Jones one in all respects worthy of it. As flag-officer I am entitled to some one to perform the duties of flag-captain, and I should be proud to have Lieutenant Jones ordered to the Virginia as lieutenant-commandant~ if it be not the in- tention of the Department to bestow upon him a higher rank. Lieutenant Simms fully sustained his well-earned reputation. He fired the first gun, and when the command devolved npon Lieutenant Jones, in consequence of my disability, he was ordered to perform the duties of executive officer. Lieutenant Jones has expressed to me his satisfaction in having had the services of so experienced, energetic, and zealous an officer. Lieutenant Davidson fought his guns with great precision. The muzzle of one of them was soon shot away. He continued, however~ to fire it, though the wood work around the port became ignited at each discharge. His buoyant and cheerful bearing and voice were con- tagious and inspiring. Lieutenant Wood handled his pivot gun ~dmirably, and the executive officer testifies to his valuable suggestions during the action. His zeal and industry in drilling the crew contributed materially to our success Lieutenant Eggleston served his hot shot and shell with judgment and effect, and his bearing was deliberate, and exerted a happy influ- ence on his division. Lieutenant Butt fought his gun with activity and during the action was gay and smiling. The Marine Corps was well represented by Captain Thom whose tranquil mien gave evidence that the hottest fire was no noveltyto him. One of his guns was served effectively and creditably by a detachment of the United Artillery of Norfolk, under the command of Captain Kevill. The muzzle of their gun was struck by a shell from the enemy, which broke off a piece of the gun, but they continued to fire as if it was uninjured. Midshipmen Foute, Marmaduke, Littlepage, Craig, and Long ren- dered valuable services. Their conduct would have been creditable to older heads, and gave great promise of future usefulness. Midshipman Marmaduke, though receiving several painful wounds early in the action, manfully fought his gun until the close. He is now at the hos- pital. Paymaster Semple volunteered for any service, and was assigned to the command of the powder division, an important and complicated duty, which could not have been better performed. Surgeon Phillips and Assistant Surgeon Garnctt were prompt and attentive in the discharge of their duties. Their kind and considerate care of the ~wounded and the skill and ability~ displayed in the treat- ment won for them the esteem and gratitude of all who came undex their charge, and justly entitled them to the confidence of officers and crew. I beg leave to call the attention of the Department to the case of Dr. Garnett. He stands deservedly high in his profession, is at the head of the list of assistant surgeons, and there being a vacancy in con Page 12 42 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XLX. ~sequence of the recent death of Surgeon Blacknall, I should be much gratified if Dr. C-arnett could be promoted to it. The engines and machinery, upon which so much depended, per- formed much better than was expected. This is due to the intelligence, ~experience, and coolness of Acting Chief Engineer Ramsey. His efforts were ably seconded by his assistants, Tynan, Campbell; Herring, Jack, ;and White. As Mr. Ramsey is only acting chief engineer, I respect- fully recommend his promotion to the rank of chief; and would also ask that Second Assistant Engineer Campbell may be promoted to first assistant, he having performed the duties of that grade durin(r the ~engagement. The forward officersBoatswain Hasker, Gunner Oliver, and Car. penter Lindseydischarged well all the dnties required of them. The boatswain had charge of a gun and fought it well. The gunner was indefatigable in his efforts. His experience and exertions as a gunner have contributed very materially to the efficiency of the battery. Acting Master Parrish was assisted in piloting the ship by Pilots Wright, Williams, Clark, and Cunningham. They were necessarily much exposed. It is now due that I should mention my personal staff. To that gal- lant young officer Flag-Lieutenant Minor I am much indebted for his promptness in the execution of signals; for renewingthe flag-staffs when shot away, being thereby greatly exposed; for his watchfulness in keeping the Confederate fia~ up; his alacrity in conveying my orders to the different divisions, and for his general cool and gallant bearing. My aide, Acting Midshipman IRootes, of the Navy; Lieutenant For- rest, of the Army, who served as a volunteer aide, and my clerk, Mr. Arthur St. Clair, jr., are entitled to my thanks for the activity with which my orders were conveyed to the different parts of the ship. During the hottest of the fight they were always at their posts, giving nvidence of their coolness. Having referred to the good conduct of the officers in the flag-ship immediately under my notice, I come now to a no less pleasing task when I at4~empt to mark my approbation of the bearing of those serving in the other vessels of the squadron. Commander John It. Tucker, of the Patrick Henry, and Lieuts. Coin- inanding J. N. Barney, of the Jamestown, and W. A. Webb, of the Teazer, deserve great praise for their gallant conduct throughout the engagement. Their judgment in selecting their positions for attack- ing the enemy was good; their constant fire was destructive, and con- tributed mnch to the success of the day. The general order under which the squadron went into action required that, in the absence of all signals, each commanding officer was to exercise his own judgment and discretion in doing all the dama ~e he could to the enemy and to sink before surrendering. From the bearing of those officers on the 8th I am fully satisfied that that order would have been Carried out. Commander Tucker speaks highly of all under him, and desires par- ticularly to notice that Lieutenant-Colonel Cadwallader St. George Noland, commanding the post at Mulberry Island, on hearimi gofthe deficiency in the complement of the Patrick Henry, promptly offered the services of 10 of his men as volunteers for the occasion, one of whom, George E. Webb, of the Greenville Guards, Commammder Tucker regrets to say, was killed. Lieutenant-Commanding Barney reports every officer and man on board of the ship performed his whole duty, evincing a courage and. fearlessness worthy of the cause for which we are fighting Page 13 CHAP. XIX.] NAVAL ENGAGEMENT IN HAMPTON ROADS, VA. Lieutenant-Commanding Webb specially notices the coolness dis played by Acting Master Face and Third Assistant Engineer Quinn when facing the heavy fire of artillery and musketry from the shore~ while the Teazer was standing in to cover the boat in which, as pre- viously stated, Lieutenant Minor had gone to burn the Congress. Sev- eral of his men were badly wounded. The Raleigh, early in the action, had her gun-carriage disabled, which compelled her to withdraw. As soon as he had repaired damages as. well as he could Lieutenant-Commanding Alexander resumed his posi- tion in the line. He sustained himself gallantly during the remainder of the day and speaks highly of all under his command. That even- ing he was ordered to Norfblk for repairs. The Beaufort, Lieutenant-Commanding Parker, was in close contact with the enemy frequently during the day, and all on board behaved gallantly. Lieutenant-Commanding Parker expresses his warmest thanks to his officers all(l men for their coolness. Acting Midshipman Foreman, who accompanied him as volunteer aide; Midshipman Mal- lory and Newton; captains clerk Bain, and Mr. Gray, pilot, are all specially mentioned by him. On the 21st instant I forwarded to the Department correct lists of the casualties on board all the vessels of the squadron on the 8th; none,. it appears, occurred on the 9th. While in the act of closing this report I received the communication of the Department, dated 22d instant, relieving me temporarily of the command of the squadron for the naval defense of James River. I feel honored in being relieved by the gallant Flag-Officer Tatnall. I much regret that I am not now in a condition to resume my com- mand, but trust that I shall soon be restored to health, when I shall be~ ready for any duty that may be assigned me. Very respectfully, FRANKLIN BUCHANAN, Flag-Officer.. Hon. S. B. MALLORY, A~ecretary of the Navy. No. 8. Report of Maj. Gen. John B. Magruder, C. S. Army, commanding Depart-. ment of the Peninsula, of his co-operation with naval attack. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE PENINSULA Youngs Farm, Va., March 10, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, at 9 p. m. on the 8th instant, of your telegram announcing the glorious achievement of the Confederate States war-steamer Virginia, and to report that before daylight I had troops on the way to the immediate vicinity of Newport News, and proceeded in person to join them. On my arrival I found my advance guard, of one regiment of in- fantry, Colonel Cumnming, Tenth Georgia., and some 300 cavalry (of ours) drawn up in line of battle within 1 mile of Newport News and 600- yar(ls of the enemys pickets of infantry and cavalry. As I obtained from all quarters reliable information of the enemys. great strength, which was verified by our observation of the fort and Page 14 14 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [ChAr. XIX. vicinity, amounting to at least 12,000 infantry at Newport News alone, which at any moment could be increased to 18,000 from Fort Monroe, I saw that it was utterly impossible to do anything toward attacking the fort. My own troops, which are obliged to be divided to defend the two roads, Yorktown and Warwick., being when united only about 4,000 infantry, 450 cavalry, and a few pieces of light artillery, the larger number being too heavy to bring over the roads, which are re- cently worse than ever. Finding, as I anticipated, that the naval attack produced no effect upon the fort except to increase its garrison, I contented myself with ~cdupying the most advanced posts, Bethel and Youngs Mill, where the troops are now. I believe the enemys plan was to ascend James River by land and water, to attack and capture, if possible, Jamestown Island, which would cause the fall of Yorktown, and then to occupy Suffolk, James- town and West Point. and leaving Norfolk to fall with the fall of Rich- mond, if that could be accomplished, and to direct all his energies against the latter place. For the present his plans must be somewhat frustrated ;~but I consider that the Patrick Henry, Jamestown, and Teazer having gone to Norfolk, and the Virginia into the dock for re- pairs, affords the enemy an admirable opportunity of fully retrieving his losses by placing the Ericsson battery at the mouth of James River and ascending at once the left bank of that river, attacking, supported by the Ericsson battery, the works of Hardens Bluff and Mulberry Island Point, which are weak, and thus forcing my troops to fall back to protect Jamestown and Williamsburg and isolating and reducing Yorktown. I therefore hope that the steamers Patrick Henry, James- town, and Teazer may without delay ascend the James River, and should they require repairs, have them done at Richmond. When the Virginia is repaired they could join her at any moment, as she would be the mistress of the Roads. I have not had time to report that the troops ordered to Suffolk were embarked from Kings Mill wharf immediately after the reception of the ordersq as I am informed. A considerable number of the regiments sent were on furlough, and I therefore sent a somewhat larger number than that called for, estimating the number by the aggregate present and absent. I presume those absent will join at once. I sent also two batteries, that of Cobbs Legion and the First Company of Howitzers, the latter being asked for by General Randolph. I have sent 350 cav- alry, that number being embraced in Cobbs Legion. I beg leave respectfully to invite the attention of the Secretary of War to my remarks in relation to the location of the three steamers. I have at length assembled many negroes, and the defensive works begin again to progress satisfactorily. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKULAD MAGRUDER, ]lictjor- General, Commanding. General COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General Page 15 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 15 CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING SPECIALLY TO OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIR- GINIA FROM JANUARY 11 TO MARCH 17, 1862. UINION COIRRESPONIDENCE, ETC. Abstract from ret em of the Department of Virginia, 2rlaj. Gen. John E. Wool, U. S. Army, commanding, for January, 1~62. Commands. Department staff Fort Monroe - - -. Camp Hamilton Camp Butler Fort Calhoun Total Present for duty. ~ S a Q ~ 16 - 16 48 1, 280 1, 534 164 4, 365 5, 159 150 3, 301 4, 134 7 150 163 385 9, 096 Pieces of artillery. a. an 17 1, 614 5, 941 4, 376 184 11, 008 12, 132 223) 23 Organizations in the Department of Virginia, January 31, 1862. FORT MONROE. Maj. JOSEPH ROBERTS, 4th U. S. Artillery. 10th New York. 99th New York (1 company). 6th Massachusetts Battery. 4th U. S. Artillery, Batteries D and L. Wisconsin Light Artillery. Mounted Rifles (2 companies). CAMP BUTLER.* BriH. Gem JOSEPH K. F. MANSFIELD. 29th Massachusetts. 1st New York. 2d New York. 7th New York. 11th New York. CAMP HAMIIJON.t Col. MAX WEBER, 20th New York. 1st Delaware. 20th Indiana. 16th Massachusetts. 20th New York. 99th New York (6 companies). 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry. Mounted Rifles (4 companies). FORT CALHOUN f Lient. Col. G. B. HELLEDAY, 99th New York. 99th New York (2 companie8). Maj. Geii. JOHN WASHINGTON, D. C., February 21, 18624 p. m. E. WOOL, Fort ]Jifonroe: The iron-clad steam Monitor and a large frigate will be at Hampton P~oads within the time you specify. Do you need troops to replace those intended for General Butler; if so, how many ~ With the co- operation of the Navy, how many additional troops do you need to take Yorktown, and how many by a subsequent operation to take NorfolkeL 8end me your best map of Norfolk and vicinity. Please communicate U Newport News. Across Mill Creek, near Fort Monroe. I Rip Raps; name changed to Fort Wool Page 16 16 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. ~CuAr. XIX fu]1y~ Let me hear from you every day. Can you take the Sewell~ Point Battery? if so, do it and spike the guns. GEG. B. McCLELLAN, Major- General, Commanding U. S. A. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., February 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Commanding at Fortress Monroe: GENERAL: Your dispatch of the 2Oth,* in relatiou to the expected attack on Newport News, has been received and communicated to the~ Secretary of the Navy and the General Commanding. Accept my thanks for yonr prompt and vigilant attention. It wil be the aim of this Department to support you in every particular you~ may deem essential to the good of the service. You have its perfect confidence and respect. Yours, truly, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War~ HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, Va., F 23, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War SIR: * * * Yesterday I had the hono~ to receive your telegram by which I am informed that an iron-clad steamer and a large frigate would be in Hampton Roads within five days, the time stated whem the Merrimac, Yorktown, and Jamestown would attack Newport News. On land I will be prepared for them, and if the steamer and frigate arrive we will be well prepared for them on the water. I have not time before the mail leaves to give you all the informa- tion you desire. I have only time to say, give me 20,000 men, includ- ing one regiment of regulars, in addition to those I now have with two companies of artillery, and four field batteries in addition to the two I now have, which are nearly complete, wanting only a few horses; and harness, with boats sufficient to transport several thousand men. and I will, with Burusides co-operation, take Norfolk, provided I can. have aid from the Navy and can be furnished with land transporta- tion. All the boats we had at the post were given to the Hattera& expedition; consequently I have none that will answer for landing of troops. Ihaveaplanwhichwillbepresented to you by Colonel Cram, with~ a map, who will also be able to explain it to you in detail, and if I can be furnished with the means necessary and the co-operation of General. Buruside I have no doubt of sncc& ss against Norfolk, and, with aid. from the Navy, against Yorktown. If we were prepared now it wonld be more readily accomplished than at a future day. II prefer to have my plan explained by the colonel, because it is less likely to become. public. __ ___________ Not fcmnd Page 17 CHAP. XIX.~ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 17 Colonel Cram has a similar dispatch for Major-General McClellan, which is in accordance with his telegram. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN B. WOOL, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA Fort Monroe, Va., February 23, ~862. Hon. B. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: DEAR SIR: Colonel Cram, my senior aide-de-camp, will present you with a dispatch and a most excellent map, by which he will explain in detail my plans for taking Norfolk, Yorktown, and Richmond. There has been no time in the last three months until recently that Richmond could not have been taken with 50,000 men, and even with a less force. At all events 50,000 men menacing Richmond would not have failed to have relieved Washington. Fifty thousand men menac- ing the enemy in the rear and 150,000 advancing in front, the rebel army would have been destroyed. In conclusion, I would commend to your special attention Col. T. J. Cram. I am in want of another brigadier-general, having but one, who is at New port News. Colonel Cram would make as efficient a rigadmer-general as any other in service. 1 have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. P. S.A steamer has this moment arrived, bringing 372 returned prisoners from the South, of whom 345 are non-commissioned officers, privates, sailors, and citizens; also 10 negroes and 17 commissioned officers, 7 of whom were held as hostages, ranking as follows, viz: Col- onels Lee, Cogswell, and Wood; Major Revere; Captains Bowman, Rockwood, and Keffer all of whom ~ Baltimore. , bo forward this evening by boat to NAvY DEPARTMENT, March 6, 18624.10 p. m. Commodore PAULDING-, Gomdg. Navy- Yard, New York: Let the Monitor come direct to Washington, anchoring below Alex- aiidria. GJDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy. [Indorsemen t.j I never received the above telegram. JOHN L. WORDEN, Rear Admiral, U. S. N. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington Gity, D. 0., March 7, 1862. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. Woor~, Comdg. Fortress ]ifonroe: SIR: Your reqilest to be furnished with two gunboats has been re- ferred to the Secretary of the Navy, who informs me that Flag-Officer Goldsborough has withdrawn the class of vessels desired by Major- 2 H RYOL I Page 18 18 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. General Wool for operations in the North Carolina waters. It is presumed he will soon return with most of them. Until that period arrives this Department has no other force to place at Hampton Roads. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 7, 186210 p. in. Capt. JOHN iVIARSTON, Senior Naval Officer, Hampton Roads (via boat): Send the.St. Lawrence, Congress, and Cumberland immediately in to the Potomac River. Let the disposition of the remainder of the vessels at llamptoii Roads be made according to your best judgment, after consultation with Geit- eral Wool. Use steam to tow them up. I will also try and send a couple of steamers from Baltimore to assist. Let there be no delay. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Navy. NAVY 1)EPARTMENT, March 8, 1862. Capt. JOHN MARSTON, Senior Naval Officer, Hampton Roads: The Assistant Secretary will be at Old Point by the Baltimore boat of this evening. Do not move the ships until further orders, which he will carry. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary Nacy. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, Va., March 8, 18629 ~ m. Hon. GIDEON AELLES, Secretary Navy, Washington, D. C.: Consulting with General Wool, I have ordered the frigates out of the Roadsthe St. Lawrence to the Potomac, Roanoke and Minnesota to New York, the latter being disabled. The Monitor, of course, remains. If there are any of those 11.inch gunboats (I think there are two in Boston) please send them at once to this place. They can keep clear of the Merrimac and be of great assistance. Nearly all here are of the opinion that the Merrimac is disabled. I was the nearest person to her, outside of the Monitor, and I am of opinion she is not seriously injured. I have sent a steamer for Comino- dore Goldsborongh. I cannot see that anything m9re can be done by the Navy. G. V. FOX. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 9, 1862. HENRY B. RENWICK, Esq., 21 Fifth Avenue, corner Ninth street, New York: The Merrimac, an armor-clad vessel belonging to the rebels, issued from Norfolk yesterday, and captured several of the United State Page 19 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 19 blockading vessels, and threatens to sweep our whole flotilla from Chesapeake Bay. Under these circumstances it is of the last impor- tance to capture or destroy the Merrimac, and the whole wealth and power of the United States will be at command for that purpose. As this movement was anticipated and the subject of discussion between you and myself last December, you have no doubt thought of various modes by which it could be met and overcome most promptly. The Secretary of War desires you quietly to call a meeting of from three to nine persons, at your discretion, of the best judgment in naval engineering and warfare, to meet immediately at your fathers house or some other convenient and suitable place, and to sit as a committee to devise the best plan of speedily accomplishing the capture or destruc- tion of the Merrimac. I would suggest the name of Abram S. Hewitt as a member of the committee. You will bear in mind that every hours delay to destroy the Merrimac may result in incalculable damage to the United States, and that the plan or plans for her destruction should be submitted at the earliest hour practicable for the approval of this Department, to the end that their execution may not be anneces- sarily delayed a moment. To enable you to communicate hourly with this Department, the telegraphic company is directed to transmit all messages from you at the expense of the Government. Acknowledge this dispatch the moment you receive it. Spare no pains or expense to get the committee together immediately. Act with the utmost energy. You and each member of the committee will consider this whole matter confidential. P. .11. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Washington, March 9, 1862. COMMANDING OFFICERS Fort Delaware; Port Muffin; New York Har- bor, N. Y.; Newport, R. I.; Port Trumbull, New London; Boston Harbor; Portland, Me.: The rebel iron-clad steamer Merrimac has destroyed two of oii r frigates near Fort Monroe and finally retired last night to Crane Island. She may succeed in passing the batteries and go to sea. I~ is necessary that you at once place your post in the best possible coii - dition for defense, and do your best to stop her should she endeavoi to run by. Anything that can be effected in the way of temporary batteries should be done at once. GEO. B. MCCLELLAN, Major-4~eneral, U. S. A. HEADQUARTERS, ~o1. GOUYERNEUR K. WARREN, Baltimore, March 9, 1862. Commanding Fort Federal Hill: COLONEL: The Merrimac has come down from Norfolk and destroyed the Cumberland and the Congress. She may pass Fort Monroe and come 1~ere. You will have Forts Federal Hill and Marshall prepared for action, and take every precaution for their security against attack. This is especially necessary in regard to the latter, which has a very small garrison Page 20 20 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. You will make the same arrangements which would be necessary if we were in the pr6sence of an enemy. Very respectfully, yours, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 9, 1862. To the GOVERNOR OF NEW YORK, Albany; MASSACHUSETTS, Boston; MAINE, Portland: The opinion of the naval commanders here is that the Merrimac will n~ venture to sea, but they advise that immediate preparations be made to guard against the danger to our ports by large timber rafts, protected by batteries. They regard timber rafts, guarded by batteries, as the best protection for temporary purposes. General Totten says do not neglect the batteries. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, ]ifarch 9, 1862. His Excellency E. D. MORGAN, Governor of New York, Albany, N. Y.: The Merrimac was beaten back by the Monitor to-day after a five hours contest, anal is reported to be disabled. EI)WJN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. NAVY-YARD, Washington, D. 0., March 9, 18622 p. m. Brig. Gen. HOOKER, ~o~nmanding: Please have the following communicated to Captain Wyman as soon as possible: The Merrim~ c has got out of harbor, and had pretty much used up our ships at Hampton Roads. It is impossible to say what she may attempt, but as a proper precaution it is pro- posed to be ready to block the channel of this river in the event of an attempt to enter it. By direction of the President it has been agreed on by General McClellan, General Meigs, and myself, the Secretary of War present, to fill some canal-boats and other craft and tow them down near the place where it would be advisable to sink them. I wish you therefore to scud up some of the steamers to tow down. You have no doubt received my dispatch to send a fast vessel to observe the mouth of the Potomac. Let tbis duty be well looked to. Will General Hooker please to inform me of this reaching Captain Wyman. JNO. A. DAHLGREN Commandant, Navy- Yard. WASHINGTON NAVY-YARD, March 9, 18623 p.m. His Excellency the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I beg leave to inform you that upon consultation with such pilots as I have in the yard, I find them to be of opinion that a vessel draw Page 21 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 21 ing 22 feet water can pass up the Potomac within a hundred yards of the Arsenal. As far as the light-house on Blackistone Island, some 30 miles, there is abundant water for any ship. About 5 miles higher up ~s the first obstaclethe Kettle Bottoms. The channel passes among these shoals ~ doubt. The narrowest part about 300 yards wide. From this the chan- nel continues good until just below Aqula, where it shoals, so that 23 feet is considered the best water at common high tide. Having passed this, the water deepens passing the batteries and shoals about Mattawoman Creek, where the depth at common high tide is 22 feet. This obstruc- tion is less than a mile in extent, after which the channel deepens sev- eral feet; though it narrows, it runs nearly to the Arsenal, and perhaps some 3 miles from the Capitol. The actual blocking of the river is only to be resorted to when.the exigency arises, the means being at hand. There are three points where it can be donethe Kettle Bottoms, below Smiths Point, and at Mattawoman. I would advise that some heavy ordnance be got ready for placing at the Arsenal, at Giesborough Point, and at Buzzard Point. Fort Washington should also have suitable cannon. I have telegraphed to the flotilla for some steamers to tow down the blocking vessels as soon as General Meigs has them ready. It happens unfor- tunately that the only two good steamers belonging to the yard are at Fortress Monroe. JNO. A. DAHLGIIEN, Commandant. MARCH 9, 18623.40 p. m. General MCCLELLAN, Commander: I am making arrangements to place an 11-inch gun and some 10-inch mortars on Giesborough Point, which will command at short range the nearest point that a vessel drawing 22 feet can approach the Capitol. The channel passes within 50 yards of this position. As I have but a handful of men, it might be convenient to have some assistance from the neighboring regiments. If so, please authorize it. JNO. A. DAULGIREX. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 9, 18625.30 p. in. Captain DAHLO-REN: The steamer Sophia will leave G-street wharf in ten minutes, having in tow eight canal-boats loaded with. sufficient stone to sink them. Another steamer, with eight more, will leave in the course of the night. The captain of the Sophia bears a letter to the officer in command of the flotilla, stating that the boats are to be sunk if necessary. This telegram is sent for your information. By order of General Meigs, Quartermaster-General: D. H. IRUCKER, Quartermaster and (lolonel. FORTRE5S MONROE, 1[fareh 9, 18026.45 p. m. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: The Monitor arrived at 10 p. m. last night and went immediately to the protection of the Minnesota, lying aground just below Newport News. At 7 a. m. to-day the Merrimac, accompanied by two wooden steamers and several tugs, stood out toward the Minnesota and opene Page 22 22 OPERATIONS IN SOIJTIIEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. fire. The Monitor met them at once and opened her fire, when all the enemys vessels retired excepting the Merrimac. These two iron-dads fought~ part of the time touching each other, from 8 a. in. to noon, when the Merrhnac retired. Whether she is injured or not it is impossible to say. Lieut. J. L. Worden, who commanded the Monitor, handled her with great skill, and was assisted by Chief Engineer Stimers. Lieutenant Worden was injured by the cement from the pilot-house being driven into his eyes, but I trust not seriously. The Minnesota kept up a continuous fire, and is herself somewhat injured. She was moved considerably to-day, and will probably be off to-night. The Monitor is uninjured and ready at any moment to repel another attack. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary. XYASIIlNGioN NAVY-YARD, March 9, 1862 9 p. m. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy: The proposed measures for guarding the Potomac are in progress. I am informed from the Quartermasters Department that eight canal- boats, loaded with stone, were about to leave, and eight more would leave during the night. I have sent instructions to the commandant of the flotilla as to their disposition and use at the three places where the channel has the least depth of water. The only li-inch gun and 50-pounder which I have will be landed on Giesborough Point before midnight. The platforms will be laid and the guns in position to-morrow morning. The mortars will also be placed. Shot are being cast for all of them, and a full supply will be ready to- morrow. The Secretary of War has visited the defensive points and given me authority to draw on any of the regiments or forts for men, guns, or munitions. He has also authorized me to take for the while the private steamers plying on the river for present use of the Government, and I have sent around for them. If there should be any use at all for a bat- tery on G-iesborough, there ought to be twenty of the heaviest cannon. Shot of 170 pounds at 50 or 100 yards will be apt to do something. A smart steamer has been dispatched to the mouth o~ the Potomac to observe it. JNO. A. DAHLGIREK, Commandant. BuDDs FERRY, March 9, 18629 .15 p. in. Captain DAIILO-REN: I was absent when your telegram for Captain Wypian reached this office; it was, however, duly communicated. Captain Wyman is of the opinion that the Merrimac cannot ascend the Potomac. HOOKER, Brigadier- General. EXEcuTIVE MANSION, Washington, March 9, 1862. Colonel INGALLS, Quartermaster, Annapolis: Should the Merrimac, which did so much damage at Newport News, attempt anything at Annapolis, it is believed that the best defense would be an attack by a number of swift steamers, full of men, wh Page 23 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 23 shduld board her by a sudden rush, fire down through her hatches or grated deck, and throw cartridges, grenades, or shells down her smoke- pipes; sacrifice the steamers in order to take the Merrimac. If an overwhelming force can be thus thrown on board there will be little loss of life, though the steam transports may be destroyed. Of course the steamers should be provided with ladders, planks, grap- piers, and other means to board with. The Merrimac has iron sides, sloping above water to a deck about 9 feet wide. Said to be an iron- grated deck. Promotion, ample reward, awaits whoever takes or destroys her. By order of the Secretary of War: M. C. MUGS, Qnartermaster- General. You, of course, have a swift steamer outside on the look out. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 9,18621 p. lii. Maj. Gen. JOHN U. WOOL, Port Monroe: If the rebels obtaiu full command of the water it would be impossi- ble for you to hold Newport News. You are therefore authorized to evacuate that place, drawing the garrisou iu upon Fort Monroe, which I need not say to so brave an officer is to be held at all hazards as I will risk everything to sustain you should you be attacked by superior force. From indications here I suspect an intention of the enemy to fall back nearer to Richmond, that they may better concentrate their forces. An attack upon you is not improbable. If the 15-inch gun is at Newport News I would suggest its immedi- ate removal to either Fort Monroe or Fort Calhoun, unless it will enable you to retain possession of Newport News. By authorizing you to with- draw from Newport News I do not mean to give you the order to do so, but to relieve you from that grave sense of responsibility which every good officer feels in such a case. I would only evacuate New- 1)ort News when it became clear that the rebels would certainly obtain complete control of the water aud render it untenable. iDo not run the risk of placing its garrison under the necessity of surrendering. You will also please inform me fully of your views and wishes, the practicability and necessity of re-enforcing you, & c. The performances of the Merrimac place a new aspect upon everything, and may proba- bly change my old plan of campaign just on the eve of execution. GEG. B.. MCCLELLAN, Major-General, Commanding. FORT MONROE, VA., March 9, 186210.45 p. m. Major-General MCCLELLAN, Washington, D. C.: Your telegram to Major-General Wool received. The performance of the Monitor to-day against the Merrimac shows a slight superiority in favor of the Monitor, as the Merrimac was forced to retreat to Nor- folk after a four hours engagement, at times the vessels touching each other. The damage to the Merrimac cannot be ascertained. She re- treated under steam without assistance. The Monitor is all ready for her to-morrow, but I think the Merri- mac may be obliged to lay up for a few days. She is an ugly customer Page 24 24 OIERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. and it is too good luck to believe we are yet clear of her. Our hopes are upon the Monitor, and this days work shows that the Merrimac must attend to her alone. Have ordered the large frigates to leave. G. V. FOX, Assistant Secretary. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 9, 1862. Capt. HIRAM PAULDING-, Commandant Navy Yard, New York: If the Oneida can go to sea, send her to Hampton Roads instantly. Send any vessels you have. Dont delay a moment. GIDEON WELLES. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 10, 1862. HENRY B. IRENWICK, Esq., New York: Your dispatch of this morning received.* Why not take, say, three large and swift steamers, drawing not more than 16 feet of water when loaded, fill their bows, and strengthen them generally, and protect their machinery with timber ~ Could not three such vessels be fitted up and made ready for sea in three or four days, and would they not be sufficient for the destruction of the Merrimac by running her down, if managed by volunteer commanders and crews ~? Telegraph immedi- ately for Carryall to return. P. H. WATSON, Asshdant Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 10, 1862. Governor. ANDREW, Boston: The Merrimac is reported by General Wool as having returned to Norfolk in a sinking condition, but Assistant Secretary Fox, who is also at Fort Monroe, reports that it is not known whether she is dis- abled or not. My telegram to you respecting your defenses was sent before it was known that the Monitor had reached Fort Monroe, and it was unknown what further mischief might be done by the Merrimac. All the infor- mation possessed by the War Department respecting affairs at Fort Monroe is allowed to pass by the telegraph for public information. Any special information important to public safety will be communicated tG you. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. Above dispatch sent to Gov. E. P. Morgan, Albany, N. Y. Gov. John A. Andrew, Boston, Mass. Gov. Israel Washburn, jr., Augusta, Me. * Not found Page 25 CHAP. XIX.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25 HEADQUARTERS ARMY POTOMAC, Miarch 10 II Capt. JOHN. A. DAHLGREN: 8621 a. m. You will suspend operations for the present for sinking boats or placing obstructions in the Potomac. GIDEON WELLES. NAVY DEPARTMENT ilfarch 10, 186210.27 a. m. Capt. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of Navy, Port Monroe: It is directed by the President that the Monitor be not too muck exposed, and that in no event shall any attempt be made to proceed with her unattended to Norfolk. If vessels can be procured and loaded with stone and sunk in the channel it is important that it should be done. The San Jacinto and Dacotah have sailed from Boston for Hamp- ton Roads, and the Sabine in tow of Baltic, and a tug from New York. will be ordered forthwith. Would it not be well to detain the Minnesota until other vessels arrive ~? GIDEON WELLES. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 10 1 Capt. WILLIAM L. HUDSON, 8623 ~. m. Commandant Navy Yard, Boston: Send the Wachusett to Hampton Roads. Have the work on the other gunboats carried on day and night with all the force possible to put on them, and when ready send them to Hampton Roads. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. QUARTERMASTERGENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, March 10, 18623.50 p. m. Major BEL~ER, Quartermaster, Baltimore: Hold the steamer Commodore, which was sent to Baltimore from Annapolis yesterday, ready to carry a messenger with dispatches to General Buruside, who will be found in Pamlico or Albemarle Sound. The messenger accredited from the Secretary of War or Adjutailt- General will leave this place on the 5 oclock train. Have a carriage and conveyance ready to put him on board the Commodore. Acknowledge receipt of this and report progress. If the Commodore is unfit for the service, consult, by telegraph, Colonel Ingalls, Annapolis, who reports her as swift and drawing only 6 feet of water, as to a ves- sel for this service. A. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 10 186 Capt. WILLIAM L. HUDSON, 29.45 ~. m. L1ommandant Navy Yard, Boston: If Chocura and Penobscot have not sailed, send them to Hampto Page 26 26 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. (CHAP. XIX. Roads as soon as steam can be gotten np; also the Marblehead or ans other gnnboat ready. Answer. GIDEON WELLES. MARCH ii, 18629 a.m. Brigadier-General MEIGS: I am now ready to send the only 11-inch gun here to its position on Giesborough Point. It is probably the only heavy gun in this vicinity. It blew so freshly yesterday that there was danger of the scow found- ering on the way if sent. Is it still considered necessary to mount it ~? Captain Wyman considers more barges necessary than those to be sent. He wrote me that none of them had reached him at midnight, but they were met going down. JNO. A. DAHLGIREN. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, March 11, 186212.27 p. m. Capt. JOHN A. DAHLGREN, Commanding Washington Navy Yard: I take it for granted that all measures of precaution ordered are to be carried out, having no orders to the contrary. How many more canal-boats should be sent down? I will order eight more made ready and sent as soon as possible, and as many more as yon desire. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster. WAR DEPARTMENT, ]Jfarch 11, 1862. General JOHN E. WooL, For* Monroe, Va.: Let the name of the gun heretofore known as the Floyd be changed, and hereafter be called the Lincoln. What are you now doing with the two big guns? Cau they be mounted on the beach so a~ to be available for defense? Do you want any aid in mounting them? If there is a carriage for the 12-inch gun, mount the 15-inch gun in that carriage, and let another carriage be prepared for the 12-inch gun. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. FORTRESS MONROE, March 11, 1862. Major-General MCCLELLAN: Nothing of importance has occurred to-day. The enemy, under the command of Magruder, in some force about 8 miles from Newport News, expecting, nb doubt, that the Merrimac, called the Virginia, will again make her appearance. The Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Regiment arrived this morning. The First Michigan is expected this evening. I sent this day a flag of truce to Craney Island. No information was attained in regard to the injury sustained by the Merrimac. She reached Norfolk on Sunday evening. JOHN E. WOOL, Major. General Page 27 ChAP. XiX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 27 MARCH 12, 186210.45 a. m. Brigadier-General MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: Captain Wyman informs me that the barges sent down have no arrangement for sinking them, and have so little stone in them that he thinks they would not be very efficient in blocking the channel. JNO. A. DAIILGREN. FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, March 12, 1862. Capt. G. V. Fox, Port Monroe: Can I rely on the Monitor to keep the Merrimac in check, so that I can make Fort Monroe a base of operations. Please answer at once. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. FAIRFAX COURT-HOUSE, March 12, 1862. G. V. Fox, Assistant Secretary of the Navy: The possibility of the Merrimac appearing again paralyzes the move- inent-s of this army by whatever route is adopted. How long a time would it reqnire to complete the vessel built at Mystic River, working night and day ~l How long would Stevens require to finish his vessel, so far as to enable her to contend with the Merrimac ~ Jf she is un- injured, of course no precaution would avail, and the Monitor must be the sole reliance. But if injured so as to require considerable repairs, these things are important to be considered. The General would desire any suggestion of your own on this subject. By order of Major-General McClellan: J. G. BARNARD, Chief Engineer. NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Pairfax Court-House: The Monitor is more than a match for the Merrimac, but she might be disabled in the next encounter. I cannot advise so great dependence upon her. Buruside and Goldsborough are very strong for the Chowan River route to Norfolk, and I brought up maps, explanations, & c., to show you. It turns everything, and is only 27 miles to Norfolk by two good roads. Burnside will have New Berne this week. The Monitor may, and I think will, destroy the Merrimac in the next fight; but this is hope, not certainty. The Merrimac must dock for repairs. G. V. FOX. WAR DEPARTMENT, Captain DAHLGREN: March 13, 1862. On Sunday I sent down fifteen boats. On Tuesday eight more, ma Page 28 28 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX~ ing twenty-three in all. Do you want more ~ If so, notify Colonel iRucker by telegraph and also me. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 13, 18625.20 p. in. Captain DAHLGREN: I ordered yesterday nine barges, and some men to load them, sent down. Does Captain Wyman need more yet ~l I believe in precau- tion. I would not trnst this city and the fleet you see coming into the river to the strength of a single screw-bolt in the Monitors new machinery. If one breaks, the Merrimac beats her. The Merrimae~ too, is reported able to outrun, neglect her, and pass her. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General. MARCH 13, 18626 m m. Brigadier-General MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: I have your two telegrams. Captain Wyman writes me that he has placed eight barges on the Kettle Bottoms, eight off Smiths Point, and seven off Mattawoman. He thinks there should be four or six more on Mattawoman, and asks for them, with their anchors. if it is desired to put the matter beyond doubt, then it will be better to let the two frigates at the mouth of the Potomac enter and proceed to the Kettle Bottoms or Smiths Point, anchor, and prepare to sink them as soon as the Merrimac reaches the Potomac. She cannot get by them. The telegraph at Fort Monroe should give twelve hours notice; and it would be well to send a fast vessel, like the Metamora, to the mouth of the Potomac to observe and to convey intelligence. JNO. A. DAHLGIIEN. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Fairfax Court-House, March 13, 1862. (Received 9.40 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I would respectfully suggest that the Secretary of the Navy be re- quested to order to Fort Monroe whatever force DuPont can now spare, as well as any available force that Goldsborough can send up, as soon as his present operations are completed. GEG. B. MCCLELLAN, Major- General. NAVY DEPARTMENT March 13, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SIR: I have the honor to suggest that this Department can easily obstruct the channel to Norfolk so as to prevent the exit of the Merri. mac, provided the Army will carry the Sewells Point Batteries, in which duty the Navy will give great assistance. Yery respectfully, GIDEON WELLES Page 29 CHAr. XIX.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 29 ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, March 13, 1862. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Seeretary of the Navy: SIR: I am directed by the Secretary of War to say that he places at your disposal any transports or coal vessels at Fort Monroe for the pur- pose of closing the channel of the Elizabeth River to prevent the Mer- rimac again coming out. I have the honor, & c, L. THOMAS, Adjutant-General. FORT MONROE, VA., March 13,118622 a. in. lion. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have just sent the following to Major-General McClellan: Major-General MCCLELLAN, Ectifax Court-House: I have just received dispatch from thePresident, informing me that you are no longer 4l3imeral-in-Chief of the Army. You command the Army of the Potomac. My orders are hereafter to be received from the Secretary of War. I have urged for months Fort Monroe as a base of operations against the army of the rebels at Manassas and the South. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. FORT MONROE, VA., March 13, 18622 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I received last evening a dispatch from the President that Major- General McClellan was no longer General-in-Chief of the Army, and that he was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. The Army of the Potomac is not included in my departmentthe Department of South- eastern Virginia. Since the above telegram 1 have received the fol- lowing telegram fiom Major-General McClellan, viz: Can I rely on the Monitor to keep the Merrimac in check so that I can make Fort Monroe a base of operations? Please answer at once. I have answered. that he could rely on the Monitor; but if he makes Fort Monroe the base of operationswhich should have been done months agoI will rank him, and must command, for I am now in command by the President according to my brevet rank. Please to answer. JOHN E. WOOL Major- Geiera 1. FORT MONROE, VA., March 13, 18623.5 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: In reply to Major-General McClellans desire to know what I wanted (or defense of my position, I replied, for immediate defense, as follows, viz: Two thousand regular infantry and 8,000 volunteer infantry; five batteries of Light artillery (regulars, if possible); 1,100 horses for the five batteries, to complete the batteries I have here and to mount Dodge Page 30 30 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. cavalry. I have received only three regiments: First Michigan, Fifth Maryland, and Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania. I require several companies of regular artillery in Fort Monroe. I have only about 110 regulars for Fort Monroe and Newport News. Fort Monroe is too important a posi- tion to beneglected. I have never failed to so represent, and ask for troops and other means of defense. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- Ge-ncr 1. FORT MONROE, VA., March 13, 18%~. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Major-General McClellan desires by telegraph to know if the channel between Sewells Point and Craney Island could be blockaded. I reply that it would be impracticable without first taking the battery of thirty guns on Sewells Point and then sink twenty boats loaded with stone, exposed, however, to a fire of thirty guns on Craney Island. Flag- Officer Goldsborough agrees with me in this opinion. To take the bat- teries it would require the Monitor. Neither of us think it would do to use the Monitor for that service, lest she should become crippled. She is our only hope against the Merrimac. JOHN E. WOOL. Major- General. WASHINGTON, I). C., March 13, 18629.15 ~. ~ Major-General MCCLELLAN: I have seen Fox. He says the Merrimac is not able to come into the Chesapeake, and is slower than the Monitor. The latter fought under very disadvantageous circumstances, is uninjured, and is capable of mastering her adversary. He seems to regard the operations of the Merrimac as confined to Hampton Roads above the fort. The Secretary has telegraphed concerning Burnside and Wool.* No troops ordered to Fr6mont from this army. IRVIN McDOWELL, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON CITY, D. C., March 14, 18628.45 a. m. Maj. Gen. JOHN E. WOOL, Gommanding at Fortress Monroe: The following dispatch from General McClellan has been received by this Department: FAIRFAx COURT-HOUSE, March 131120 p. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I would be glad to have instructions given to General Wool that the troops and stores now being sent down to Fort Monroe are of my command and not to be appro- priated by him. GEO. B. McCLELLAN, Major-Generai. See Series I, Vol. V,p.7~0 Page 31 CHAP. XIX.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-~---UNJON. 31 The request of General McClellan is approved, and you are instructed to act in accordance with it, and to acknowledge the receipt of this communication. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 14, 186210.10 a. in. Major-General WOOL: It is represented that a large number of visitors for pleasure, dealers in trade, and other persons not in the public service are now congre- gating at Fort Monroe, whose presence may embarrass the grave naval and military operations now in progress or in contemplation there. You are authorized, in your discretion, to require the immediate depart- ure of all persons not in the service of the United States whose presence may incommode operations, ~nd to exclude all unauthorized persons from stopping or remaining there, until further orders. You will, from and after this date, exercise the most rigid discipline and police within the territory under your command. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT12 m. Captain DAHLGREN: (Received March 14, 1862.) Your telegram relative to barges received. I have ordered eight more sent down. I have seen nothing yet to satisfy me that in the next engagement the Monitor will not be sunk. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. FORT MONROE, VA., (Received March 14, 186211.20 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I beg you will send me more troops. The Merrimac is preparing and they are strengthening her weak points. It is thought she will be pre- pared to come out in a very few days. If she should overcome the Monitor we would lose Newport Newsan important positionunless I have troops enough to meet and repel the rebels before they can reach Newport News. JOHN E. WOOL, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, March 15, 1862. C. VANDERBILT, Esq., New York: The Secretary of War directs me to as~ you for what sum you will contract to destroy the Merrimac or prevent her from coining out from Norfolkyou to sink or destroy her if she gets out0? Auswer by telegraph, as there is no time to be lost. JOHN TUCKER, Assistant Secretary of War Page 32 32 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP XIX. NEW YORK CITY March 15, 1862. Hon. E. Xl. STANTON: Mr. Vanderbilt desires me to say he can make no satisfactory reply to the inquiry made of him, but will be in Washington on Monday next to confer with the Department. W. B. IMNSMORE. WASHINGTON, March 15 1862. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Seminary: In reply to your dispatch to this Department of yesterday [13th], which was transmitted to the Secretary of the Navy, he replies as follows: NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 14, 1862. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: SiR: Yours, inclosing the dispatch of Major-General McClellan, suggesting that the Secretary of the Navy be requested to order to Fort Monroe whatever force DuPont can now spare, as well as any available force that Goldsborough can send up, as soon as his present operations are completed, has been received. If a movement is to be made upon Norfolkalways a favorite measure of this Departmentinstant measures will be taken to advise and strengthen Flag-Officer Goldsborough, but unless such be the case, I should be extremely reluctant to take any measure that would even tempo- rarily weaken the efficacy of the blockade, especially at the points under the command of Flag-Officer DuPont. The importance of capturing Norfolk is, I know, deemed almost indispensable by Flag-Officer Goldsborough, who will be happy to co-operate in a movement in that direction, and will, I need not assure you, have the active and earnest efforts of this Department to aid him with all the force that can be placed at his disposal. lam, respectfully, your obedient servant, GIDEON WELLES. The foregoing letter was received late last night. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of Wak. CODATh CO ES~O~D~CE, ~YIPG. YORKTOWN, January 10, 1862. His Excellency the PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES: DEAR SIR: I understand that my lines of defense are under discus- sion at Richmond. I know I can expect from you the justice to post- pone any decision until I can report at length, which will be in a few days. In the mean time I will venture the remark that I have taken not only the best but the only way of successfully defending this Penin- sula with the means at my disposal, and that its defense will be success- fal. I did not call out the militia, though at one time I had determined to do so, but merely requested to be furnished with the strength of cer- tain regiments, to prepare arms for them, which arms I could procure from the colonels of regiments belonging, as they informed me, to their States. I only desired to prepare for the emergency of a landing in this Peninsula or on the Rappahannock, which I now think more prob- able, or for an attack on James River. These arrangements required time. I therefore anticipated the emergency. Colonel Randolph in Page 33 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. d formed me that I was authorized by you to do this; that is, to. call out all the militia I could arm. Very respectfully, J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ ADJT. A~n ThsP. GEN.s OFFICE, No. 13. Richmond, January 16, 1862. * * * * * * * V. Authority is granted Major-General Magruder to call upon the commanding officers of all regiments, battalions, and companies, at- tached to the Army of the Peninsula, for the names of all ship carpen- ters and joiners in their respective commands, and to grant furloughs to such mechanics, for the purpose of working on gunboats in such numbers and at such times as the public safety may permit. All men so furloughed will be directed to report to the Secretary of the Navy~ * * * * * * * By command of the Secretary of War: JiNO. WITHERS, A8sistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, January 23, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant- General C. S. Army, Richmond: Sm: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt last night of a letter from the Secretary of War, expressing his disapprobation of my having impressed the slaves of Chesterfield County, and directing me to countermand it. In answer I have to state that before the reception of this letter my agent, Mr. Junius Lamb, through whom I communicated my wishes to the people of Chesterfield, had informed me that nine-tenths of that community were willing to send their slaves to work on the public for- tifications in this Peninsula, but that some four or five citizens objected, and employed counsel to proceed to Richmond to lay the case before the Secretary of War and President; that the counsel had returned, and stated that the President would issue a proclamation condemning this course and forbidding it for the future. I immediately wrote to you that this last call on Chesterfield and the neighboring counties was made to meet the requisitions of the engineers under my command until the negroes who were being hired by authority of the Govern- ment, which I found to be aslow operation, should arrive. The Government had granted me authority to hire negroes, but I found it occupied more time and was attended with more difficulty than had been represented to Ine. The unsafe condition of the de- fenses on James River had been represented to the Department, in report of the Chief of Artillery, Col. G. W. Randolph, and the engineei7 here in charge, Mr. St. John whic myself. , h report was strongly indorsed by The work at Gloucester Point, ordered by the Engineer Department at Richmond, was not half finished. The works at Yorktown, though 3 R RYOL I Page 34 34 OPERATIONS IN SOUThEASTERN VIRGINIA. [OnAP. XIX~ trebled in strength in the last two months, were then and still are un- finished, both as regards the protection of the mcii against the enemys shell, guns, and mortars by sea, as well as his attacks by land. As the War Department had sanctioned during the administration of Mr. Walker, my calling on the people for slave labor to work on the forti- fications in my charge, and as my instructions were to push these for- tifications to completion, I considered it proper in itself and neces- sary to the faithful obedience of my orders to continue nsing, as before, this labor until the exercise of the authority grante(1 me by the Gov- ernment to hire slaves should be successful in procuring the requisite labor. It was intended to be my last eall. The counties of the Peninsula and neighborhood having furnished negroes frequently, I thought it prudent to call upon the counties of Chesterfield and Dinwiddie for this last supply, and I believe I have ~exercised the power (recognized by the War Department) with discre- tion. Nevertheless, I immediately directed Mr. Lamb not to take any further steps with reference to the county of Chesterfield, and as he informed me that he had an appointment to meet the negroes from Dinwiddie at Petersburg, I instructed him to keep it, but not to bring any whose masters objected in the least to thejr coming. This course, pursued before the reception of your letter, I presume meets with the approbation of the War Department and the President. I received a. letter last night from Captain Rives, temporarily in charge of the En- gineer Department at Richmond, stating in effect that he was not pre- pared to undertake the hiring of negroes for the works here or their control. All the negroes are discharged from Yorktown with the exception of 160, about 130 of these being procured from the county of Green- ville by calling upon the inhabitants to furnish the labor; it is re- ported to me that they furnished these men with pleasure. The num- ber required by the works here is about 400. At Mulberry Island, on James River, there are about 30; 200 are required there, and at least 200 at Gloucester Point, where there are, I think, not more than ~O, though I have not inquired within the last we~4i. Under these circumstances I beg that I may be furnished without delay with precise instructions which the War Department, I hope, is well assured will be executed with promptness to the letter and spirit. I beg that this communication may be laid before the President throngh the Secretary of War. Inclosed are copies of two letters from General Lee. That containing his original instructions to which allu- sion is made in one of the inclosed is mislaid, but doubtless will soon be found among the papers in the office. I have the honor to be, sir, very repeetfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER Major- General, Oommanding. P. 5.You will also receive a copy of a communication from the War Department fully approving my course in impressing slaves. [inclosure No. U HEADQUARTERS OF THE VIRGINIA FORCES, Richmond? Va., May 25, 1861. Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Gommanding, & c., Yorktown: COLONEL: Two 12-pounder brass pieces have been directed to be sent you at Yorktown, which may be applied to the land defenses eithe Page 35 CIIAl XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 35 below Yorktown or Williamsburg, as you may deem best. Two S-inch columbiads are also sent to you at Yorktown, and if not wanted for the water defense they had better be applied to the land, either there or t Williamsburg. I again urge upon you the necessity of the line of defenses between the heads of Queen and College Creeks, about which Colonel Ewell has already received instructions. Colonel Ewell had better be directed to apply all the force he can procure to the erection of those lines. Captain Itives and Meade, of the Engineer Corps, are on duty in the Peninsula, and subject to your orders. Should the lines below Will- iamsburg not have been surveyed and laid out, they had better be put at it directly. lam, sir, very respectfully, & c., RE. LEE, ]Jiiajor- General, Commanding. [Inclosuro No. 2.] HEADQUARTERS OF THE VIRGINIA FORCES, Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Richmond, June 10, 1861. Commanding, d~c., Yorktown, Va.: COLONEL: In answer to your letter of the 9th instant, just received I take pleasure in expressing my gratification at the movements and dispositions that you have made, and hope that you may be able to re- strict the advances of the enemy and securely maintain your own posi- tion. On the day after my return to Richmond forty-two wagons were ordered to be sent you. Twelve were sent day before yesterday, twelve on yesterday, twelve more will be sent to-morrow, and the others as soon as possible. As you are aware that it is probable when an effort is made to attack you it will be both by land and water, I tak~ this occasion of urging upon you the importance of pressing the constructioll of the batteries for water and land defenses. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE General, Co mman~iling. [Inclosure No. 3.] WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, September 24, 1861. Col. J. B. MAGRUDER, Williamsburg, Va.: SIR: In reply to your letter of the 20th instant, referred by the Ad- jutant-General to this Department, I am directed by the Secretary of War to say that your course in impressing labor for work upon fortili- eations in cases of absolute necessity and for a fair price is fully ap- proved. Respectfully, A. T. BLEDSOE, Chief Bureau of War Page 36 ,IIAF. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.cONFEDERATE. 37 Organization of the troops in the Department of the Peninsula commanded by Maj. Gen. J. Bankhead ]Ifagruder, 0. S. Army, January 31, 1862. Yorktow , vicinity, and Ship Point. FIRST DIVISION. Brig. Gen. G. J. RAINS, commanding. 13th Alabama. 2d Florida. 6th Georgia. 23d Georgia. 14th Louisiana. Louisiana Zonave Battalion. 2d Mississippi. 15th North Carolina. 32d Virginia (2 companies). 5~d Virginia (8 companies). 115th Virginia Militia. Maurins Louisiana Battery. Nelsons battery. 1st Virginia (3 companies) Artillery. Boutons independent com- pany. De Gournays independent company. Dukes independent com- pany. Elletts independent com- pany. Peytons independent com- pany. Prestons independent com- pany. Serving as heavy ar- tillery. MuTh ry Poi t Battery, Lands End, 4ic. SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. LA FAYETTE MOLAWS, com- manding. 8th Alabama. Cobbs Legion. 10th Georgia. 16th Georgia. Greenville Guards. 2d Louisiana. 5th Louisiana. 10th Louisiana. 14th Virginia. 15th Virginia. 32d Virginia (2 companies). 53d Virginia (1 company). 3d Virginia (4 companies) Cavalry. 1st Virginia (5 companies) Artillery. Gloucester Point. Col. C. A. CRUMP, commanding. 26th Virginia. 9th Virginia Militia. 21st Virginia Militia. 87th Virginia Militia. 3d Virginia (1 company) Cavalry. 1st Virginia (1 company) Artillery. Bagbys company Virginia volunteers. Jordans company Virginia Serving as volunteers. .1 Montagues company Vir heav~r artil- ginia volunteers. - lery. Oteys company Virginia volunteers. Williamsburg and ~pratleys. Col. B. S. EWELL, commanding~ 1st Louisiana Battalion. 32d Virginia (2 companies). 53d Virginia (1 company). Matthews County. Col. J. G. BOHANNAN, commanding. 61st Virginia Militia. Captain Todds company Virginia Cav- alry. Lebanon Church and cavalry camps near Yorktown. Col. R. JOHNSTON, commanding. 3d Virginia (6 companies) Cavalry. Jamestown island. Col. HILL CARTER, commanding. 52d Virginia Militia. 1st Virginia (1 company) Artillery. Jordans independent company Virginia Artillery. Rambauts independent company Vir- ginia Artillery Page 37 AIAI. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 3? Organization of the troops in the Department of the Peninsula, commanded by Maj. Gen. J. Bankhead Magruder, C. S. Army, January 31, 1862. Yorktown, vicinity, and Ship Point. FIRST DIVISION. Brig. Gen. G. J. RAINS, commanding. 13th Alabama. 2d Florida. 6th Georgia. 23d Georgia. 14th Louisiana. Louisiana Zonave Battalion. 2d Mississippi. 15th North Carolina. 32d Virginia (2 companies). 5~d Virginia (8 companies). 115th Virginia Militia. Maurins Louisiana Battery. Nelsons battery. 1st Virginia (3 companies) Artillery. Boutons independent com- pany. De Gournays independent company. Dukes independent com- pany. Elletts independent com- pany. Peytons independent com- pany. Prestons independent com- pany. Serving as heavy ar- tillery. MUTh ry Point Battery, Lands End, 4~c. SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. LA FAYETTE McLAWS, com- manding. 8th Alabama. Cobbs Legion. 10th Georgia. 16th Georgia. Greenville Guards. 2d Louisiana. 5th Louisiana. 10th Louisiana. 14th Virginia. 15th Virginia. 32d Virginia (2 companies). 53d Virginia (1 company). 3d Virginia (4 companies) Cavalry. 1st Virginia (5 companies) Artillery. Gloucester Point. Col. C. A. CRUMP, commanding. 26th Virginia. 9th Virginia Militia. 21st Virginia Militia. 87th Virginia Militia. 3d Virginia (1 company) Cavalry. 1st Virginia (1 company) Artillery. Bagbys company Virginia volunteers. Jordans company Virginia Serving as volunteers. } Montagues company Vir heav~r artil- ginia volunteers. lery. Oteys company Virginia volunteers. Williamsburg and Spratleys. Col. B. S. EWELL, commanding~ 1st Louisiana Battalion. 32d Virginia (2 companies). 53d Virginia (1 company). Matthews County. Col. J. G. BOHANNAN, commanding. 61st Virginia Militia. Captain Todds company Virginia Cav- alry. Lebanon Church and cavalry camps near Yorktown. Col. R. JOHNSTON, commanding. 3d Virginia (6 companies) Cavalry. I Jamestown island. Col. HILL CARTER, commanding. 52d Virginia Militia. 1st Virginia (1 company) Artillery. Jordans independent company Virginia Artillery. Rambants independent company Vir- ginia Artillery Page 38 38 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. Abstract from return of the Department of Norfolk, Maj. Gen. Benjamin Huger, eo~n man: ing, for January, 1862. Present for ~ duty. Stations. Troops. ~ o o n~ P~ ~ -~ k F- Fcl ,~ n~ cc ______ ________ _ _ 1 ~ Smithfield First (Coistons) Brigade 147 2, 752 3, 329 s, 637 46 Norfolk Second (Mahones) Brigade 231 3,715 4, 756 5, 224 61 Portsmouth Third (Blanchards) Brigade 227 3, 810 4,776 5, 177 6 Craney Island. ( 34 523 687 747 44 Suffolk 140 632 830 903 Fort Norfolk- . 4 8-2 94 94 14 Fort Nelson. - 1 8 140 154 184 16 Pinners Point ~Garrisons 4 108 123 ~ 11 Tanners Point 3 52 61 68 5 iLamberts Point. - - 7 93 119 133 Id Navy-yard. - - . J 15 240 278 300 - - - -,- - Saunders artillery battalion 3 31 45 47 Young Guard 4 76 80 93 - Total . 727 12,256 15,352 16,761 *216 *24 pieces field and 19-2 pieces heavy artillery. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, Va., February 1, 1S62~ SIR: I have been so constantly occupied Since my arrival on this Peninsula that I have not had time to make to the War Department the reports necessary, perhaps, to a clear understanding of my opera- tions. When I took command there were no works on the James Itiver below Jamestown, no fdrtifications at Williamsburg, Yorktown, or Gloucester Point, with the exception of one gun at Yorktown and perhaps two at Gloucester Point. I had to defend a Peninsula 90 miles in length and some 10 miles in width, inclosed between two navigable rivers, terminated by fortresses impregnable as long as the enemy com- manded the waters. My force was less than 3,000 men, the enemy never less than 12,000 and sometimes as high as 25,000, and always within a day~s march of us. I had neither adjutant, quartermaster, commis- sary, nor any staff officer whatever, and an army unfamiliar with the simplest military duties. I devoted, a day or two to necessary arrangements for subsisting the army, and, calling on the sheriff of the county as a guide, made a tonr on horseback of the lower part of the Peninsula, in order to get some knowledge of the country. Seeing at a glance that three broad rivers could not be defended without fortifications, and that these never could be built if the enemy knew our weakness and want of preparation, I determined to display a portion of my small force in his immediate presence, and upon this forthwith selected Bethel as a place at which a small force could best give him battle should he advance. Returning to Yorktown, I called upon Mr. B. D. Lee, who had mills on that stream, to show me the line of Warwick River, which rises near Yorktown, flows across the county, and enters James River a little below Mulberry Point, where there is now a fort. Having made this explora- tion, I determined to adopt this line to Mulberry Point as the true line of defense whenever its right flank, on James River, could be protected by water batteries Page 39 Cn~u~. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 39 The road to Richmond was open 2by the York or James Rivers, land- ing in the latter case below Jamestown. Tt was therefore necessary to erect defensive works in front of Williamsburg and at Yorktown to oppose an immediate advance. Jamestown Island, having been fortified when I took command, would constitute the right flank; the works at Williamsburg the center, and Yoik River and Yorktown the left flank; but Yorktown being 12 miles farther down the river than Williamsburg or Jamestown, the enemy could land at any time on James River below march acro Williamsburo~ ss to York River above Yorktown, and cut it off entirely from its supplies, thus reducing it in a very short time even if it were fortified. Hence it became necessary to erect works as soon as possible at some point on James River below or opposite Yorktown, so that a line across the Peninsula perpendicular to its axis should have both its flanks resting upon water defenses impassable by ships. These two are the lowest points which can be defended against the passage of fleets. To erect these several works, however, and fortify the lines here indicated would obviously be a work of immense labor, requiring, when prosecuted with the most determined energy, seven or eight months to complete them. The chances were extremely remote for success in such an under- taking, and th~re was but one way that furnished the remotest hope that the Peninsula could be defended at all with the means then at the disposal of our Republic, and that was by active and threatening oper- ations in front, to make t he enemy fear for himself, while the positions were being most vigorously fortified in rear. This plan was adopted by me, and the enemy on his first advance, with a force of five to one against us, having been repulsed and severely punishe were pushed forward with great vigor. d, the works The operations below (in front of) the enemy were, however, always carried on with the liability of having a large force of the enemy thrown in the rear of our forces by the Back or Poquosin Rivers, the former having 10, the latter I~8, feet of water. I could not, therefore, hold my position in front without building such works on the most navigable of these rivers as would defend its entrance against the en- emys vessels. Hence t~e work t Ship Point was built (by the labor of the troops and by my order), and completely commands the entrance to that river. I also felt the great disadvantage, when skirmishing with the enemy so near his fortress, that his re-enforcements were at hand, while mine were at so great a distance. I therefore availed myself of the near approach of the Poquosin River and IDeep Creek, on James River, for the establishment of a convenient base of operations from which I could draw re-enforcements and supplies when needed below, and which I could defend with success if attacked by superior numbers by land. For these reasons, and to prevent the enemy from occupying this strong position himself, I fortified the lines of Harrods and Youngs Mills, the flanks resting, as I before said, upon Poquosin River and Deep Creek, entering the York and James Rivers respectively. I also fortified the mouth of Deep Creek and Warwick River, sinking thirty canal-boats across the channel. This line could still be turned by the enemy landing between Yorktown and Poquosin River, but I hoped to be able to defend a landing between these points by erecting fortifications there before the enemy made the attempt. In the mean time winter approached and it was necessary to decide where the troops should build winter qaarters. I directed them to build on the front line. While this was being done intelligence arrived o Page 40 40 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. LCIAP. XIX. Burnsides preparations for an attack. Indications from the most authentic sources pointed to this region as that on which the attack would be made, and the question arose, Should the army receive the attack on the first or second lines l The engineers were in favor of the second line as the safest, the front line being liable to be turned by the landing of the enemy on York River, on our left flank. Fnlly appreciating the reasons for this advice, and concurring in the opinion as to the many physical advantages offered by the second line, I iiever- theless was satisfied that it would injure the morale of the army to fall back from its position at Youngs and flarrods Mills, where winter quarters had been built for some of the regiments. I therefore directed that the heavy baggage and sick be sent to the rear, and that the troops on the front line who had not built their winter quarters should build them, and all on that line should fight where they were, while the rest of the troops who had not built winter quarters should build them on the flanks of the second line, and that good roads, of easy cominunica- tion, should be made from the first to the second line. By this means, if the enemy attacked in front alone,the troops on the first line could be supported by those from the flanks of the second line, if attacked in front and both flanks. Our troops in front had as strong a central position oXi that line as they would have had on the second, and a greater certainty of victory, as they would fight on better ground for us, and the flanks of the second line, resting on the river, would be stronger to resist a naval attack. This disposition was also made to defend the left exposed flank be- tween Yorktown and the Poquosin River, so that if the enemy did land there he would be held in check sufficiently long to give time to our troops on the first line to fall back with deliberation and safety to the second line. Thus all would be accomplished in the end that the advo- cates of this measure desired and without unnecessary loss of morale. This decision carried with it the additional recommendation, that if the attack were delayed for any considerable time the advance of the enemy, should he land on the left flank, below Yorktown, might not only be checked, but ~uch works erected as would prevent a landing altogether, and thus secure both lines, and rftake the investment of Yorktown by land highly improbable. I have the satisfaction to state that this has been the result, and that this position, the left flank, to defend which made it necessary for me to ask for re-enforcemeuts of several thousand men five weeks ago, is now considered one of the strongest of my lines, and can, I think, be successfully defended by the troops which arenowthere, aslreported to you, before the sailing of Burnsides fleet, would be the case in a few days. You will perceive by this statement that there are no troops in winter quarters at Bethel, which is held only by a strong picket. It has never been occupied at any time but for a few days at a time, being a con- venient stopping J)lace for the troops in their operations below it. I beg leave to report what remains to be done: First. The lower defenses on James River are exceedingly weak, and ought to be strengthened without delay by building another bat- tery at Mulberry Point and placing guns in the embrasures of the battery already prepared at Hardens Bluff, opposite. Hardens Bluff and Mulberry Point should then be made impregnable on the land side, which can easily be done. Second. The number of guns at Yorktown has not yet reached the minimum stated by the engineers to be necessary for the successfu Page 41 CHAr. XIX.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE 41 defense of the place, and while I differ with them, and think it is strong enough to resist what the United States can bring against them at present, as I lately stated in an order to the troops, yet such for- midable preparations are being made at the Northof steel-clad ships and floating mortar batteriesthat no time should be lost in preparing adequate means to resist such an attack. For this purpose the 64- pounder 8-inch guns, firing solid shot, of the pattern of one on board the Patrick Henry, placed in casemates at the narrowest part of the river, would be most effective in breaking to pieces the steel-clad ships. Six of them would answer the purpose. In addition to these, there should be at least six of the heaviest mortars cast for this place and six for Hardens Bluff, by means of which the enemys bomb ships may be reached. Galleries cut into the side of the ravines leading down to the water are necessary for the protection of the stores and of the troops when asleep or not oii duty (luring a bombardment or siege. These gal- leries and the casemated batteries for six guns I have directed to be made, and they are now being built; and if the guns asked for, like that on the Patrick Henry, cannot be procured, the ordinary 8-inch columbiad would be the next best, or heavy rifled guns. The works on the land side at Yorktown are still incomplete, two redoubts being required to command dangerous ravines, and a portion of the river lines are to be completed. The works at Gloucester Point, ordered by the engineers from IRichmond, are but half finished, and until finished that post will remain in great danger. If the Govern- ment cannot furnish guns at Yorktown and the lower forts on James River, I request that I may be allowed to take without delay the heavy guns from Jamestown Island and mount them at Hardens Bluff and Mulberry Point, and that the command of Hardens Bluff be trans- ~rrcd to me. as it is exclusively a defense of James River and not of Norhulk. The narrow channel of the river at Jamestown bland does not require guns of such heavy, caliber as the channel below, at Har. dens Bluff. In connection with this subject permit me to say, that should the ex- pedition of Bnrnside fail to accomplish the evident purpose of General McClellan, to weaken our army in his front by forcing re-enforcements from it to other points, a landing in force on the Rappahannock might be resorted to by him for the same purpose and might embarrass us greatly. As the York River is broad~ and difficult to cross between here and West Point inclusive, I do not think it necessary to make any further defenses at the latter place, but think that the formation of an intrenched camp between the Mattapony and Pamunkey Rivers, commanding the main roads leading from Urbana and Tappahannock to Richmond for the reception of troops, should Richmond be threatened in that way, would be highly important. A few thousand troops from this and a few thousand from General Holmes command could be thrown on the enemys flanks and embarrass greatly his operations. I might cross over to Gloucester, say with 5,000 men, and march against the left flank of his 25,000 or 30,000 men. He would probably turn aside to crush me, bitt I should retreat, skirmishing to Gloucester Point, and if that work were finish ed, he would be obliged to retrace his steps or lay siege to it. lf he disregarded my approach and marched forward to Richmond, General Holmes and myself would unite in his rear and cut him off from his base while our troops were being assembled in the intrenched camp in hi~ front. He would thus be defeated. Should Burnsides expedition march from Edenton to Suffolk, afte Page 42 42 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CIIAV. XIX. taking iRoanoke Island, to meet Caseys division from Fort Monroe, might cross the James River with a small portion ff my force and assist in preventing a junction of their troops; but the propriety of making either of these movements depends entirely 111)011 the comple~ tion of the works on this Peninsula, for if 1 leave them in their prese~ state, defended with few troops, the enemy will advance from For Monroe and carry them; hence my desire to procure negro labor t( complete them. I have impressed the negroes of the counties compos- ing my department so often, that it would be oppressive and unjust ii the extreme to call upon them again to do the work in which all re interested. I therefore called upon some of the counties out of n~ department which never had furnished any labor, and a very large majority would have furnished it with pleasure, but a few I)C~50fl5 em- ployed a lawyer to raise objections at the War Department, awl my orders were disapproved and countermanded; the works re therefore making but little progress. ~I?he quantity of labor necessary in this department is greater, perhaps, than that required in all the depart- ments in Virginia put together, and I beg that I may be allowed to repeat my call on the counties in question out of my department in order to save time, which is so precious. The works on the lower James River being very weak, I desired to have some troops in the fortifications in front of Williamsburg, as the enemy, should he succeed in passing up James River, might occupy those fortifications, now almost without a man, and a great disaster might happen. As my troops were necessary beloxv, I asked for au- thority to call out the militia of certain counties to man these works? should it become necessary. I jrocured arms for them from officers who had control of these arms, but were willing to lend them for that purpose. I obtained the authority through Colonel Randolph from the President and Governor Letcher to call out the militia, but did not use it. I desired only that their colonels would send to inc an account of the number of men in each regiment, and the number of shot-gum. which could be procured. This course seems not to have been acceptable to the War Depart- ment, which I regret. I beg that this communication may be laid before the Secretary of War and the President, and I respectfully invite their attention to what remains to be done in the department under my command. I have to state, also, that two light batteries, with re-enforcements of infantry to the number of 4,000, are said to have arrived at Fort Monroe as part of the permanent force there, and that on sending a flag of truce to Hampton,. a few dais since, it was discovered by our officers that soldiers quarters were being erected in Hampton, showing that more troops were expected, and that they would remain there some time, winter quarters for the troops already there having been pre- viously built. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding General S. COOPER, Adjutant- General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va. WILLIAMSBURG, February 7, 1862. Professor JoYNus, War Department: DEAn SIR: The opportunity of putting the Peninsula in a state Page 43 Ca~. XIX.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. comparative security, by completing the defensive works begun and in part finished, before the spring campaign opens, has not, I regret to say, been improved as it ought to have been. The value of these works in protecting the James and York Rivers, and with the former the Norfolk and Petersburg Railroad (so accessible from many points on the James), whether we look at what may be required or at what they have already accomplished, cannot well be estimated in dollars and cents. As a citizen you are directly interested, and you will, by giving your aid, be doing good, individual and general. Not less than 1,000 or 1,500 negroes ought to be at work, and in six weeks, with this force, would the defenses be finished and rendered well-nigh impregna- ble. The counties south and west of Richmond can well afford to fur- nish this labor. General Magruder has so frequently impressed the local labor, that he is not willing to make another call without an order from the War Department to this effect, and thus the works are com- paratively at a stand still. He has done all in his power. So impor- tant do I consider this, I would at once write to the Secretary did not my position forbid it. Yours, sincerely, BENJ. S. EWELL, Colonel, Virginia Volunteers. RIcInVEoND, VA., February 15, 1862. Colonel EWELL, Commanding, Williamsburg: Srr~: You will immediately organize, on paper, all the nurses, em- ploy6s of the Government of every department, to be ready at a mo- ments notice to defend the works in front of Williamsburg, and lay aside arms and ammunition for the same. You will also prepare arms for any citizens, of whatever age, who are willing to turn out and assist in holding the works in front of Williams- burg should the lower defenses at Jamestown be passed. The most important points to be defended are Tetters Neck and Fort Magruder. You will place the negroes at the service of Mr. Derrick, the engineer, for the purpose, 1st, of preparing without the slightest delay the forts already constructed for the reception of guns; and, 2d, of completing such works as may be unfinished, infantry must be put on the right of Tetters Neck to prevent its being turned, and what you may have must be put at once in position. Have men assigned to it and drilled, ammunition prepared, and the pieces fired by the men several times. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER. Captain Lees company and the One hundred and fifteenth Regiment Militia are ordered to report to you; you will dispose of them in the best manner possible. J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, ]lfajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OP NORFOLK, February 24, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I have reliable information that the enemy are sending strong re-enforcements to Old Point as well as to Tennessee, and I hear, fo Page 44 44 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. this Purpose, are withdrawing large numbers from Manassas. Within he last week several thousand men have been sent up to Newport News and more are to go. General Bnrnside is also being re-enforced, and the numbers collected on both sides of this place are becoming powerfnl armies. They threaten such long lines it is difficult for me to tell where to concentrate my forces, and, until I know more than at present, have to keep my forces near the lines of railroad. The Ericsson (iron-clad) battery has arrived in the Roads, and will probably get one of our batteries to test her resisting qualities. I hear she carries two 11-inch guns. I write this to call the attention of the Government to the probabil- ity of this place being severely threatened by powerful forces, and a general attack may be expected in a week or more. From the same source I hear the mortar fleet, as it is termed, is destined for New Orleans. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant BEN~L HUGER, ]Jfcijor- General, Commanding Department. YORKTOWN, XA., February 24, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond: SIR: I have the honor to state that on the 21st I received a dispatch from General Huger, stating that four transports, loaded with troops, had been sent to Newport NewA, and an other dispateli from Captain Norris, my signal officer at Norfolk, that three regiments had been landed at Fort Monroe. I beg leave further to state 11 reported on the 20th instant that the Toads here were in extremely bad order. They are so much worse that it is very doubtful if artillery can be carried down the country, and it will be positively necessary to diminish the usual amount of ainmuni- tion by one-half if carried. I am also satisfied that no one ship can produce such an impression upon the troops at Newport News as to cause them to evacuate the fort. The demoralization to our troops under similar circumstances has been produced by a concentration of fire from many ships at differ- ent points. No important advantages can be obtained by the Merri- mac further than to demonstrate her power, which, as she is liable to be injured by a chance shot at this critical time, had better be reserved to defeat the enemys serious efforts against Norfolk and James River. I have the honor to request that this communication be laid before the President through the Secretary of War. I have failed in my efforts to get the substance of the above through by telegraph. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER,~ Major- General, Command-mg. SPECIAL ORDERS, ADJT. AND INSP. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 45. Richmond, February 25, 1862. * * * * * * * XVIII. Major-General Magruder will so dispose of the forces unde Page 45 Cii& v. Xrx.j CORRESPONDENOF ETC.CONFEDERATE. his command and make necessary preparations as to be able to mov across the James River all forces that can be spared from his batterie and intrenchments to co-operate in the repulse of the enemy from any threatened attack on Suffolk or other approaches to Norfolk. He will have his forces in readiness to cross the river on receiving fnrther orders. * * * * * * By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITHERS, Itssistant A cijutant- General. Ricmioxn, VA., February 26, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, NorjotA-, Va.: M~ DEAR GENERAL: I sent Colonel Lee, my aide-de-camp, to con.- verse with you freely and confidentially and to bring to me full and exact information as to your condition and views. This morning it has been stated to me that you feel restrained by the want of an assurance that the Government has left your action to the guidance of your own judgment. In that regard I have to say that my rule has been to seek for the ablest~commanders who could b obtained, and to rely ou them to execute the purposes of the Govern- ment by such plans as they should devise and with such means as could be made available. You certainly have not been an exception to that rule. My purpos in your case was the defense of Norfolk, and my confidence in you has been to me a constant sonrce of hope. You will accept assurances of my readiness to sustain you to the full extent of my power, and the expression of the desire that you would look to success ~ms the only directrix of your course in the discharge of your official duties. Very truly, your frier~d, JEFFERSON DAVIS. RICHMOND, VA., February 27, 1862. General B. hUGER, Nomjblk, Va.: You will l)lace the towns of Norfolk and Portsmouth and their de- pendencies under martial law. Preparation should be made for the removal of that part of the population who could only embarrass the defense in the event of a siege. JEFFERSON DAVIS. RICHMOND, VA., February 27, 1862. Brigadier-General WINDER: SIR: I have just finished an examination of the field works erected and planned around the city for its defense, and respectfully submit a brief report of their condition for your information. These batteries, numbering eighteen, and seven outworks, are placed in a circle of about 12 miles around the city. I think their location and desigu good. The magazines of those on the north side of the river are not in a fit condition to receive ammunition. All of them are more o Page 46 46 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIL less damp and some of them have 2 or 3 feet of water in them. I would suggest that they be built above the surface of the ground. There are eleven long 32-pounders mounted on barbette carriages and nine guns of the same class in the batteries on the north side of the river not monnted. Batteries Nos. 11 and 12 on the north side, and Nos. 17 and 18 on the sonth side of the river, have not been com- menced~ I would respectfully suggest that these last mentioned be completed and armed, as I think that we are most likely to be attacked from that quarter first. I do not deem it necessary to give a more detailed statement at pres- ent. I submit these facts to you in the hope that you will bring the matter before the Engineer and Ordnance Departments. The accompanying sketch of the works will give you a better idea of them than anything I have written or could write.* If these works were completed and well armed they would indeed be formidable; yet it seems to me doubtful whether we could supply an army with provisions that would be necessary to defend the city against the force the enemy would likely bring against us. We might possibly be made to experience the fate of General Mack at Ulm. But these are matters for the Government to decide. With these facts and re- marks I leave the subject in your hands. I have the honor tq be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. TANSILL, Colonel, Commanding Second Regiment Virginia Artillery. P. S.I should have before observed that it will require 218 guns to fully arm the batteries. II. TANSILL Colonel, Commanding Second Virginia Artillery. PROCLAMATION. [FEBRUARY 27, 1862.] Whereas the Congress of the Confederate States has by law vested in the President the power to suspend the writ of habeas corpus in cities in danger of attack by the enemy: Now therefore I, Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, do hereby proclaim that martial law is extended over the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth and the surrounding country to the distance of 10 miles from said cities, and all civil jurisdiction and the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus are hereby declared to be sus- pended within the limits aforesaid. This proclamation will remain in force until otherwise ordered In faith whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, at the city of Richmond, on this twenty-seventh day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two. JEFFERSON DAVIS. FEBRUARY 28, 1862. Colonel KEMPER, Speaker Rouse of Delegates, State of Virginia: DEAR SIR: I inclose my report on the condition of the defenses of Richmond, as called for by.a resolution. UNot found Page 47 Vnkr. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 47 Permit me to call your attention to its purport, the better to determine or not it should be read in open session. Most respectfully, yours, C. DIMMOCK, Colonel Ordnance of Virginia. [Inclosure.] Hon. SPEA KER OF THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES OF YIno-INJA: In compliance with the resolution passed by the House ofDelegates, requesting Col. Charles Dimmock to make acareftil and thorough ex- aminatIon of the fortifications and defenses of this city and to report the condition thereof to this House, I respectfully report that I have visited the works referred to, and find that on the north side of James River, commencing on the river below the city and running around to the river above the city, there are seventeen separate batteries and that there are two more about to be thrown up. On the south side of the river, inclosing the town of Manchester, commencing on the river below and running aroundto the river above the town of Manchester, there are four separate batteries, besides two more about to be thrown up. The length of line of works on the north side of the river is 7~ miles and on the south side 4~ milesin all about 12 miles. If 1 am to express my opinion, I take the occasion to say that these lines of defense are too near the city, placing it in close siege, if the enemy is to be suffered to approach within reach of the batteries; so icar can the enemy come that the city can be shelled and burned before our works are captured, and so near that all intercourse with the country will be cut off and for the want of subsistence the city would soon be eoml)elled to capitulate without any serious attack by the enemy. The line of defense should be neai~ the banks of the Chickahominy and its tributaries as far as they extend westwardly and thence by a line to James River; and on the Manchester side the works should be thrown out some 2 miles in advance. But as the present batteries are nearly nomplete, they may be used in the last resort. Yet advanced works should be thrown up as soon as possible upon the lines indicated. The present works (except their being too near) are well located and f approved ground plan, and when they are completed will make a good defense. There are several ravines running in between some of the works which are not commanded by their guns. Doubtless it is in contem. plation to throw up other small batteries to protect these depressions. All the batteries are in barbette (without embrasures) and are ob. jectionable, because both the guns and the men who serve them are too much exposed. The gnus will be liable to be dismounted and the men disabled. 1 think at least some of the most important and assailable ones should be embrasured, and there should be some bomb-proofs within which the men not serving at the guns may find security. There are several lesser defects general to all the works, which I presume the engineer will remedy. These batteries are from one-half to three-fourths of a mile from each ther, between which I think there should be breastworks thrown up, behind which infantry can be posted to prevent any attenipt of the en- emy to force through and take the batteries in rear wh s~iiite open and defenseless. , ere they ar Page 48 48 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHA1~. XIX. In each battery there is one or more magazines. With few excep- tions these are pits sunk under ground; covered with timber and earth. These I found all very wet and most of them filled with water. These should bernade dry by being bricked up or raised above the sur ~a e ot the ground and drained. Immediately around some of the works thick forests stand, which should be cut down. Of cannon I found on the north side but eleven mounted in all th works, and dismounted, lying upon the ground without carriages, there were twelve more, in all within the batteries twenty-three, when the number required is one hundred and forty-three; and on the south or Manchester side I found two mounted (none upon the ground), when the number required is seventy-four. I could not learn that any, either of guns or carriages, were ready; if they are not, they cannot be obtained and put in place in less tim& than three months if they are commenced at once. Of the batteries along James River below the city I only know from report. To remove all fear from the enemys gunboats, with their almost impenetrable sides and their heavy shells, I suggest that obstructions be gotten ready and floated down about 4 miles below the city, ieady to be sunk on the signal of the approach of the enemy. From what I have said above and especially from the small number of guns (twenty-five of the two hundred and eighteen required) that are ready mounted and dismounted (about two to the mile), I report that Richmond, as far as any reliance is to be placed upon these bat- teries, is in no state of defense against an enemy likely to approach. The danger from such attack from the north side of the river is greatly lessened by the positions of our armies on the Potomac and on the Pen- insula, but I regard an attack from the south side imminent. Buruside has obtained a permanent landing on the North Carolina coast, at which he is getting re-enforcem~nts. With 15,000 or ~(), 00~ men he can ascend the Itoanoke, march to Petersburg, thence to Man- chester, and from the commanding hills there shell this city without crossing the river. This he can do in ten days after he is ready. If to meet this force the assistance of our armies on the Potomac and on the Peninsula are called upon, the answer will be from General Johnston and Magruder, McClellan and Wool are threatening us (b concert with Buruside) and we can spare no assistance. If I am right, immediate action should be had toward completing the batteries now projected on the Manchester side and fully arming tIm m~ Respectfully submitted. C. DIMMOCK, Colonel Ordnance of Virgir~ia Page 49 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 49 Abstract from return of the Depa~tment of the Peninsula, Maj. Gem. John B. Magruder, commanding, for February, 1862. Present for ..~ -.~ Pieces of 0 8 duty. ~ ~ artillery. Q Q*~ 84 Commands. ~5 ~u a ~ a o Yorktown 158 2,498 3, 578 4, 553 45 14 Wynns Mliii 58 1, 410 1, 692 Youngs Mill 64 1, 016 1,254 1, 579 4 29 Lees Mill 27 461 615 683 flarrods Mill . 33 607 789 866 Fort Grafton 33 313 482 665 4 Camp Dudley 37 623 895 1, 018 Ship Point 37 686 856 997 Gloucester Point and Matthews County 116 1, 089 1, 561 2, 175 18 4 Williamsburg 22 160 231 404 Jamestown 4 76 90 105 Jamestown Island 7 147 169 184 15 4 Mulberry Point 2 65 78 83 Camp Marion 37 692 886 1, 000 4 Warwick Court-House 32 363 543 705 Lands End 36 555 648 704 4 Deep Creek 25 431 595 711 Walls Farm 23 616 762 945 Spratleys Farm 19 328 458 532 Total 770 11, 580 15, 900 19, 601 86 59 HEADQUARTERS, Lees Mill, March 1, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General: SIR: I received your letter* directing me so to arrange my forces as to send reenforcements, when I received orders, to Suffolk. You do not state what re-enforcements you intend to send; hence it is impossi- ble to know what arrangements to make. I immediately, however, gave preliminary orders. I can send but one regiment and one field battery, and th~ t with great risk here. The reason why I cannot do more is that, notwithstanding all my efforts to procure negroes, I have received but 11 from the counties in my district, the presiding magis- trate referring the call in some cases to the district attorney, who de- cides that it is illegal, and in other cases no response is made. Two mouths fully have already been lost in consequence of the War IDe- partment disapproving of my arrangements and countermanding my orders. I fear that it will be a fortnight before the evil following from these causes will have ceased, if ever. The people have got an idea that the influence of the Government will be cast against my efforts. Whilst I was in IRichmond 135 slaves from the county of Greenville were dis- charged, I am informed, by order of the Secretary of War, and without, my knowledge. I had expected to have employed these negroes and otherssome 800 ready in Henryin fortifying the second line of my position whilst my troops were occupying and fortifying the front line, where I prefer to fight, but may be forced to leave, as the flanks may * Not found, but see Special Orders, No. 45, Adjutant and Inspector Generals Office, February 25, p. 44. 4 R RVOL T Page 50 50 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. be turned by the operations of ships of the enemy. I supposed that by this time I would have had negroes enough to have fortified my positions sufficiently to have enabled me to spare temporarily and for a short distance 2,000 men. As I have not had the negroes I cannot spare more troops than I have stated, and for them militia ought at once to be substituted. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. P. S.I have to request that this communication be laid, through the Secretary of War, before the President. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT PENINSULA, Yorktown, March 2, 1862. General S. COOPER Adjutant and Ynsjpector General, Richmond: SIR: The telegraph not being at work, I have the honor to state for General Magruder, who is in the field, in forwarding to you the above [following] copy of telegram, that he recommends that the (Merrimac) Virginia be stationed a little above Newport News, to prevent the gun- boats coming up the swash channel leading into Warwick River and turning the right flank of his line of defense. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, / HENRY BRYAN, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. [Inclosure.] NORFOLK, February 27, 1862. General J. B. MAGRUDER: One regiment of infantry landed at Newport News yesterday and to- day six companies of a Massachusetts regiment of light artillery from the Baltimore boat; their horses arrived in transport. I have reliable information that 30,000 men will be landed at Old Point and Newport News before the 5th of March. No arrival or departure of importance to-day. WM. NORRIS. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF PENINSULA, Yorktown, March 3, 1862. Captain BUCHANAN, C. S. N. C. S. Steamer ]lferrimac, Gosport Navyz Yard, Va.: CAPTAIN: It is too late to co-operate with my army in any manner below with the Merrimac, even if the roads will admit it, which they will not, for the enemy is veryheavily re-enforced both at Newport News and Fort Monroe with infantry and six batteries of light artillery. It would have been glorious if you could have run into these as they were being landed from a Baltimore boat and a commercial transport. In addition to the above I have been ordered to make such disposi- tion of my troops as will enable me, in case of necessity, to send re-en Page 51 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CONFEDERATE. 51 forcements to Suffolk ob I have done. , liging me to fall back to my second line, which Any dependence, therefore, upon me, so far as Newport News is con- cerned, is at an end. Wishing you every success, I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKilEAD MAGRUDER, ]Jfajor- General, Commanding. RICHMOND, llfarch 4, 1862. Major-General MAGRUDER, Yorktown: Get 5,000 men and two batteries ready to be thrown across the river as soon as possible. By order of the President. I write to-day. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT PENINSULA, Yorktown lila Brig. Gen. LAFAYETTE MCLAWS, , rch 4, 1862. ~ Farm: SIR: I am instructed by the commanding general to inform you that he received a dispatch from the Secretary of War this morning, direct- ing him to send forthwith 5,000 troops to Suffolk, and that he ha8 already given verbal orders for the movement on Thursday to Kings Mill of Cobbs Legion, Sixteenth Georgia, and Fifty-third Virginia, and the Second Louisiana and FifteelAth North Carolina on Friday. You will give orders to Colonel Hodges, Fourteenth Virginia, to move early on Friday to Kings Mill wharf with all his regiment except the com- pany in charge of the four pieces of artillery. He will take with him his tents, five days rations, as few cooking utensils as possible, his ammunition, and 20 spades, and axes, turning over the remainder of the same, besides whatever picks and shovels he may have, to the acting quartermaster of the Fifth Louisiana Volunteers, and taking receipt for the same. You will direct Moseleys battery to proceed also on Thursday early to Kings Mill and embark for Suffolk, Va., by way of City Point. The commanding general desires that these orders be given verbally and kept as secret as possible. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant HENRY Bi~YAN Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, ]Jliarch 4, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army, Richmond, Th.: GENERAL: If 5,000 men are taken from this Peninsula and the ene- my should advance in force I fear I will be compelled to leave York- town to defend itself with a small garrison, the covering work at Mul- berry Island with one regiment to defend it, and that with the rest o Page 52 52 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. X1X. the troops I shall be forced back to Williamsburg, as there would be three roads to guard with a force of not more than 4,000 men, after de- ducting the above-named garrisons. I will do my very best with these against all odds. I have withdrawn the troops from Youngs and ilar- rods Mills, leaving the cavalry and one regiment of infantry at each of these places, and have nearly completed the concentration of my force on the second line preparatory to this call. The Quartermaster-General informs me that the Northampton will be ready from Thursday to Saturday, and that a tug and four lighters will be ready on Monday. The superintendent of the Southside Railroad writes that the most expeditious way to convey troops to Suffolk is to take them from Jamestown by steamer to City Point, thence to Petersburg, and by the Norfolk and Petersburg Railroad to Suffolk. I think this is the best and will also be the most secret, as the troops will have to march as high up as Kings Mill at all events and then go down the river to a landing in sight of the enemy, and then have a march of 30 or 40 miles. I shall therefore send them this way. I have this moment received the Secretarys dispatch and answer by the boat. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER Major- General, Commanding. P. S.Not having been previously informed what number of troops would be required to be transported, I could do nothing more than make inquiries and notify the Quartermaster-General of my probable wants in the way of transportation. J. B. MAGRUDER. WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, Va., March 4, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Yorktown, Va.: SIR: Your letter of March 1 has been submitted to the President, as you desired. The complaints made of the action of this Department in relation to the impressment of negroes were without just foundation. The Department has simply requested that you confine yourself to the impressment of such negroes as are within your command, and has pointed out the utter impossibility of permitting the generals who com- mand in different districts to cross their own lines and encroach on the commands of their neighbors. The slaves from Greenville County were in no sense under your control or authority, and the Secretary was forced, on appeal, to decide that you had no right to retain them. I regret that the people should have got an idea that the influence of the Government will be cast against your efforts. I assure you that such an idea is utterly unfounded. Ithas been my desire, and it is still my most earnest wish, to strengthen your hands and aid your efforts in every possible way, and no one does fuller justice to your zeal, activity, and high soldierly qualities. I pray you to dismiss all such thoughts from your mind as unworthy of us both. In times like these miserable scandal-mongers and panic-breeders ply their vocation of sowing the seeds of mischief among men in office; but we can bot Page 53 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 53 afford to scorn such attempts to create distrust between us, and apply ourselves to the sole task of defending our country at this moment of her great need. II sent you a dispatch to-day, by order of the President, to hold 5,000 men and two batteries ready for crossing the river. The President says that when in town, a week ago, you proposed yourself to cross and aid, with part of your army, in defense of Suffolk. We do not believe that you are in the slightest danger of an attack at present, either in front or by being outflanked by naval forces. All our intelligence tends to one point. Suffolk is the aim of the enemy. Norfolk is to be cut off if they can accomplish their purpose. If they succeed in this, then, indeed, your entire flank would be thrown open, and you would be forced to fall back rapidly, for they would get pos- session of all the defenses on the south side of the James River and cross at pleasure at any point they might select. It is for your own defense, as well as that of Norfolk, therefore, that the President desires you to be ready, at a moments warning, to re-enforce the army defend- ing Suffolk with at least 5,000 men and two batteries. It is not intended to order you to cross in person or to leave your command, but to send these troops under such general of your command ~s you may select. I am, your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS ARJWIY OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, ]Jfareh 4, 1862. To the Army of the Penin8ula: COMRADES: The time of service for which many of you enlisted is about to expire. Your country, invaded by an insolent foe, again demands your help. Your homes are violated, your firesides polluted by the presence of a mercenary enemy or silent in their desolation; many of your friends in captivity or in exile; our people slain, and the very altars of our religion desolated and profaned. The ruthless tyrants who have dared to invade us have vowed our conquest or our destruction. It is for you to rise and avenge our slaughtered countrymen or nobly share their fate. Of what worth is life without liberty, peace at the expense of honor, the world without a home ? When our fathers periled life, fortune, and sacred honor to our first war of Independence, was it an empty boast, or was it the stern resolve of freemen, who knew their rights and dared to defend them ~ The long war of the Revolution culminated at length in victorious triumph on these very plains of Yorktown. These frowning battlements on the heights of York are turned in this second war of liberty against the enemieM of our country. You breathe the air ~nd tread the soil conse- crated by the presence and heroism of our patriotic sires. Shall we, their sons, imitate their example, or basely bow the neck to the yoke of the oppresSor? I know your answer. You remember your wrongs, and you are resolved to avenge them. True to the instincts of patriotic devotion, you will not fill a cowards grave. You spring with alacrity to the death-grapple with the foe, nor relinquish the strife till victory crowns our arms. Cowards die a thousand deaths; brave men die but once, and conquer though they die. It i~ therefore without surprise that your commanding general has learned of your purpose to re-enlist in this holy struggle, and that you bear with a cheerkilness and con Page 54 54 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. stancy worthy of his highest admiration the disappointment of with- drawing from you the furloughs to visit your homes which the Gov- ernment promised you, and which the present dangers of our beloved country alone forbids it to grant. When the war is ended, in that hour of triumph you will be proud to remember that by your sufferings and sacrifices, no less than by your valor, you conquered. Soldiers! though reverses and disasters have recently befallen us, let us remember that trust is eternal and that God is just. His arm is our trust, and the Great Ruler of nations and of men will protect the right and crown with victory the noble and the brave. Let us take courage, then. Our enemy, dead to the spirit of liberty, can only fight while their coffers are unexhausted. Commerce is their kiug. Their god is gold. They glory in their shame. The war which intensifies our devotion and concentrates our resources scatters theirs. The day of retribution will come. The struggle will not always be defensive on our part. We will yet strike down our ruthless invaders amid smoking ruins of their cities, and with arms in our hands dictate terms of peace on their own soil. J. BAKEHEAD MAGRUDER ]Ilajor. General, Comrnanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF I~TORFOLI(, Norfolk, Va., ]Jliarch 5,1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I send inclosed a report made to me by Lieutenant Talcott, on engineer duty, who had been sent by me to Roanoke Island, and who assisted in the service of the guns at the Pork Point Battery. This is the only report I have received from any one. General Wise, as I telegraphed yesterday, has made no official report to me. I had a letter from him on his arrival at Poplar Spring, in Currituck County, informing me of the capture of the island, his information being re- ceived from a Sergeant Metzler, who left the island at 5 p. in. on the 8th February, which information I reported at once to the Department. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, .BENJ. HUGER Major- General, Gomman~ding. [Inclosure.] ROANOKE ISLAND, February 9, 1862 Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding Department of Norfolk: GENERAL: In obedience to your order of the 1st instant I visited Roanoke Island, and, arriving there on the 4th, commenced the dis- charge of the duties imposed. After paying off all the duly-certified claims against the Engineer Department that were presented I made an inspection of the batteries and a general reconnaissance of the position. On Thursday, the 6th instant, I had taken passage for Elizabeth City, on my return to Norfolk, when the enemys fleet hove in sight. Be- lieving that very strenuous efforts would be necessary to resist success- fully an attack for which the island was still unprepared, I deemed it my duty to return Page 55 CHAP. XIX.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 55 On landing I offered my services to Colonel Shaw, the commanding officer of the post, and during the attack which followed rendered such service as I could. The details of the actions of the 7th and 8th will no doubt be re- ported by the commanding officer. I merely desire in this to note the facts which may prove important to the department with which I was connected. The three guns which were alone brought fully into action at Pork Point were all en barbetle, and although the fire of from sixty to seventy guns was concentrated for six hours on these three, which were mounted close together, without either bomNproof shelters or traverses between them, no serious damage was sustained and the loss of life was very slight. Although two of the three guns used .were a 41-cwt. and 47-cwt. 32- pounders of short range, considerable damage was done to the enemys gunboats. One gun in embrasure was used during the early part of the action of the 7th with great effect, but the sod revetment of the cheeks of the embrasure suffered somewhat. These facts should tend to give increased confidence in open batteries and barbette guns. It is also worthy of remark that our force engaged at the causeway, not exceeding 350 men, was enabled, under the partial cover of a breast- work 4~ feet high and less than 100 feet long, to resist for five hours an attack by upwards of 10,000 of the enemys land forces, aided by artillery at least equal to our own. Although our arms have been defeated by overwhelming numbers and an i portant position has been lost to us, I cannot see that we have any reason to be disheartened. The enemy himself confessed to a dear- bought victory and the repulse of his Navy. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant T. M. ZR. TALCOTT First Lieutenant, Artillery, C. S. Army. WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, Va., March 5, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Norfolk, Va.: SIR: I have your dispatch stating that General Wise had made no report of the capture of iRoanoke Island. Congress insists on receiv- ing reports on the subject, and General Wise has sent me copies of his letters of the 10th and 11th ultimo, which he evidently considered as his report. I am informed by Colonel Shaw that he gave General Wise his re- port last week. You are therefore instructed to request from General Wise the report of Colonel Shaw, and to make up such report as you can from the material in your possession, whether letters, reports, or other documents, that I may transmit the report to Congress. We are using every effort to strengthen your command. It seems evident that a great effort is to be made to capture Norfolk, and its defense must be as vigorous as the whole power of the Confederacy can make it. We shall use all our means of concentrating troops for the defense of Suffolk. In the mean time I would be glad to be advised as promptly as possible of your plans of defense. I beg that in de- termining on this matter you will consider whether it would not be advisable to withdraw to your inner line, or perhaps send to Stiffol Page 56 56 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. such portions of your force as have been heretofore posted on the coast in the neighborhood of Lynn Haven Bay. The transports recently sent to se~ by the enemy are in all proba- bility destined to re-enfor6e General Burnside and to attack your rear. This is only a suggestion, and is by no means intended to interfere with your own dispositions of your troops. I trust that, with the aid of Generals Loring and Randolph, recently sent to you, and of General Ransom, who will be at once ordered to join you, you will be enabled to infuse such vigor and activity in your command as to inspire them with confidence in a successful defense. General Ransom has just been nominated, and his regiment of cavalry, which is one of the very finest in any service, is ordered to re-enforce you. We have also ordered about 2,000 men to aid you from Washington, K. C., and General Magruder will hold in readiness on James River 5,000 men, with the necessary means of throwing them across to your support the instant the movements of the enemy render certain what is now deemed very probablean attack on Suffolk. Several batteries of field artillery will also be sent to you. Your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, 17a., March 5, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Norfolk, Va.: SIR: Martial law having been declared in Norfolk under the Presi- dents proclamation, he desires me to call your attention to the various measures which he hopes will at once be vigorously executed: 1st. Some leading and reliable citizen to be appointed provost-mar- shal in Norfolk and another in Portsmouth. In the former city he suggests the mayor, said to be a zealous friend of our cause. 2d. All arms to be required to be given up by the citizens; private arms to be paid for. 3d. The whole male population to be enrolled for military service; all stores and shops to be closed at 12 or 1 oclock, and the whole of the citizens forced to drill and undergo instructions. 4th. The citizens so enrolled to be armed with the arms given up and with those of infantry now in service at batteries. 5th. Send away as rapidly as can be done, without exciting panic, all women and children, and reduce your population to such as can aid in defense. 6th. Give notice that all merchandise, cotton, tobacco, & c., not wanted for military use, be sent away within the given time, or it will be destroyed. 7th. Imprison all persons against whom there is well-grounded sus- picion of disloyalty. 8th. Purchase all supplies in the district that can be made useful for your army, allowing none to be carried away that you might want in the event that the city is beleagued. In executing these orders you will of course use your own discre- tion, so to act as to avoid creating panic as far as possible. Your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War Page 57 CHAr. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 57 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, T7a., March 6, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army: SIR: The telegram, informing me that the Baltic, with three regiments on board, had left Newport News, has just been received. Mr. William Norris, my signal officer at Sewells, had reported the arrival at Newport News of troops within the last week in large num- bers, estimated by me at six regiments, in addition to six companies of light artillery, with their horses. In pursuance of the orders of the Secretary of War, to so dispose my forces as to throw re-enforcements across to Suffolk, I withdrew the troops from ~ and Youngs Mills, except the cavalry and one regiment of infantry at each place. It was almost impossible to with- draw the artillery on account of the state of the roads. I have arranged the remaining troops not in garrisons, about 4,000 men, on the second line, and informed Captain Bnchanan that for the above reasons I would not be able to have my troops down in the neighborhood of Fort Monroe and Newport News should lie attack the two frigates at the latter place. It of course could not have been supposed that I could do so when the department ordered away from me more than one-half of m+ force disposable for the field, even if the state of the roads per- mitted it. The shorter line, which I now occupy, will be defended with a force totally inadequate for that purpose. The Merrimac will make no impression on Newport News, in my opinion, and if she succeeds in sinking the ships lying there it would do us little or no good, but if she had attacked the Baltic and other transports filled with troops in those waters her success would have been ce~taiu and of incalculable advantage to us. Please ask the Sec- retary of War to impress these views on the Navy Department. To make up the 5,000 men ordered to Suffolk I have been compelled to send the following regiments and corps, which are now marching to Kings Mill, to proceed via City Point and Petersburg, viz: Cobbs Legion, Sixteenth Georgia Regiment, Second Louisiana Regiment, Fifteenth North Carolina, and Fifty-third Virginia Regiments. In Cobbs Legion is included on~ held battery and about 350 cavalry, and I have sent an additional field battery. You will perceive that nothing can be done by me in the way of an attack after having parted with so large a portion of my army. Indeed, unless some important object could be attained, the policy of merely being present near Fort Monroe and Newport News when the latter is bombarded is exceedingly doubtful, as it would incur a risk of disaster without any corresponding advantage, ~nd especially as the number of troops at both places is increased, notwithstanding the recent depart- ures, while my own i~ diminished by more than one-half disposable for field service. In any event I could render no assistance to the Merrimac merely by my presence. These are my views, and I think they are those of every officer under my command. I will execute however with alacrity any orders which may be given. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, Miojor- General, Commanding. P. SThe negroes are coming in pretty rapidly Page 58 58 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF PENINSULA, Yorktown, March 6, 1862. General S. COOPER Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va.: SIR: I stated in a conversation when in Richmond that I could spare for a limited period 5,000 men to operate near me, but that their places should be supplied by 5,000 militia. This statement was made to Mr. IR. M. T. Hunter, and the next morn- ing I wrote him that upon reflection I did not think that more than 2,000 men could leave this department with safety, subject to the above conditions, an~i1 requested him, I think, to lay the statement before the President. I do not complain, but will abide with cheerfulness by any arrangement made by the Department, knowing the pressure every. where. I respond cordially to the friendly assurances of the Secretary of War, and will send him all the support in my power, but fear being misunder- stood; hence my explanations of to-day. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, Major-General, Commanding. YORKTOWN, ]Jfarch 6, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. Army: The troops intended for Suffolk will embark at Kings Mill, near Williamsburg, and proceed by steamers to City Point and thence via Petersburg Railroad to Suffolk. This is rendered necessary by the want of wharf facilities at any other point, and will save time as well as a land march of more than 20 miles. The troops will be in readiness to cross to-morrow, 5,000 men and two batteries. When shall they cross? Please answer. J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, ~Ifajor- General, Commanding. YORKTOWN, March 6, 1862, (Received Richmond, March 6, 1862.) General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General: No answer has been received in reply to my telegram of to-day say- ing the troops will be ready to embark to-morrow at Kings Mill. The horses will be sent by land from the south side, except a few for the officers. The rolling stock of the City Point and Petersburg Railroad will be in place for the transportation of the troops to-day, awaiting the movement. Detention will be attended with a heavy expense and inconvenience perhaps to the road. J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding Page 59 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 59 RIcHMoND, March 7, 1862. General J. B. MAGRUDER, Yorktown, Va.: Your dispatch received. The command will cross the river and pro. ceed to its destination as soon as you are in possession of the means of transportation, which it is understood you have. General Cobb is here. Shall he report to you in person or proceed to Suffolk ~? S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., March 8, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: Sn~: I received yesterday your letter of the 5th instant. I have written to General Wise, and directed him to send me the report of Colonel Shaw of the capture of Roanoke Island and any others he may have to submit. As regards advising you of my plans and purposes and contem- plated mode of ~ I have heretofore had to be only prepared for a front attack. I am now threatened both in front and rear, as the enemy can approach me from James River on my front and Albe- marle Sound and the Chowan River in the rear. The principal obstacles to the front attack are the batteries. On the direct approach up the Elizabeth River these batteries are strong and, with the obstructions in the channel, sufficient to prevent their passage. Other points are weaker, but the enemy would be compelled to land and march through a wooded country, intersected with creeks and marshes. He can land at different points at the south, but from any point of landing he must march from 30 to 50 miles before reaching any vitally-important point. My plan is to attack him the moment he attempts to advance on any hne, and, if possible, to throw on his flanks and cut his line. I have thought it necessary to hold Sewells Point. This battery covers the obstructions in the channel opposite to it. While this bar- rier remains large vessels cannot approach Craney Island. If the enemy is allowed to remove it, Craney Island could be approached and could be damaged by shells, which can do little injury at Sewells. I have to keep two regiments and a light battery at Sewells Point, and a small regiment and some field guns beyond them, to protect them from any landing near Ocean View. The Third Alabama Regiment and a battery of artillery, which was farther east, toward Lynn Haven Bay, I have withdrawn, and moved across the Elizabeth River. I have kept this regiment on the railroad near Portsmouth ready to proceed to Suffolk or elsewhere as required. Means of transportation for the regiments, wagons, and mules are what I will most require, and I have urged the Quartermasters Department to provide a sufficient supply as promptly as possible. Where the move will be must depend upon the enemy, but I see no other plan than to attack him as soon as possible after he attempts to march. I am, very respectfully, your obedient, servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-General, Gommanding Page 60 430 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGiNIA. [CHAP. XIX. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE PENINSULA, No. 657. Yorktown, March 9, 18623 a. m. Colonel Winston and Major Phillips will proceed at daylight in the neighborhood of New Market Bridge, sending a party of observation in the neighborhood of New Bridge. It is desirable to approach New MarketBridgethroughthewoods,astheenemyisingreatforce~ the neighborhood of Newport News. Colonel Winston is informed that our cavalry under Lieutenant-Colonel Goode and a regiment of infantry under Colonel Cumming will make a demonstration on the Warwick road on Newport News early this morning, and that the troops and artillery at Ship Point will march at daylight, and also that all the other troops of the Peninsula, except the necessary guards, will take post at Youngs and Harrods Mills. Colonel Winston will endeavor to surprise any party of the enemy that he may find about New Market Bridge. He will ascertain whether the enemy are on the Scondam road or not, and if not, he will send his dragoons by that road to communicate with Colonel Cumming, who will thereupon advance toward Newport News, displaying his force to the best advantage, but will not engage the enemy if he advances, ex- cept that our cavalry will charge their cavalry or their artillery if the occasion offers. Colonel Winston will keep his troops in ambush, securing for himself a safe retreat; and should the enemy advance he will permit their heads of columns to pass him and fall upon their flanks, and thus annoy him all the way in his advance. By command of Major-General Magruder: HEADQUARTERS, Youngs Mill, Twa., March 10, 1862. Commodore BUCHANAN, C. S. N.: Co1~IODORE: It is with the most cordial satisfaction that I tender you my most hearty congratulations on the glorious and brilliant victory you achieved over the enemy on Saturday and Sunday last. I consider it the greatest achievement of the age, and am delighted beyond expressiou that it was accomplished under your auspices and that of my friend Lieut. Catesby Ap R. jones. I went down in person as soon as I heard of the attack, and had given some orders for the movement of troops and one of my regi- ments, with 250 cavalry, and remained in front of the works within a mile and a half for some two hours yesterday without artillery, but though very strongI think at least 15,000they did not come out to attack us. I regret to hear that you are wounded, but hope your wound will not prove serious. I send you this hasty expression of my extreme satisfaction by Ser- geant Tabb, whose departure I cannot delay. With the highest respect, I remain, commodore, very sincerely, yours, J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding Page 61 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 61 ENGINEER BUREAU, Richmond, March 12, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: Sm: The following report is respectfully submitted as a partial reply to the resolutions of Congress of the 24th February, calling for infor- mation, snrveys, and reports connected with the defenses of Richmond: In ascending the James River the defenses consist of 1st. Fort Boykin, Days Neck.Mounting ten guns; 42-pounders and 32-pounders, hot shot, & c. 2d. Fort Huger, Hardens Bluff.Mounting thirteen guns; one 10-inch columbiad, pattern rifled, en barbette, fonr 9-inch Dahlgrens en barbette, two 8-inch columbiads en barbette, six hot-shot 32-pounders on ship carriages. 3d. Mulberry Island Point Battery.Five 42-pounder gnus en bar- bette, two 8-inch columbiads en route, fifteen casemates building rap- idly, and large covering work nearly completed. 4th. Jamestown Island Batteries.Thirteen guns; four 9-inch Dahl- grens, four 8-inch columbiads and two more en route, five hot-shot long 32s. 5th. Drewrys Bluff Battery, coupled with obstructions in the river, is being rapidly constructed, under the direction of Lieutenant Mason, of the Provisional Engineer Corps. The first is completed, while the second and third are being rapidly and intelligently improved with bomb-proofs, & c., by Captain Clarke, of the Provisional Engineer Corps, who has a force of at least 1,000 hands. From 20 to 30 miles below City Point there are two positionsFort Powhatau and Kennon~s marsheswhich have been thoroughly exam- ined by the ablest officers at the disposition of the department, and re- ported to be good locations for batteries. If they are placed at either~ of the above points obstacles should be constructed in connection with them. The final and intelligent selection of a site can consequently not be determined except by a thorough hydrographic survey. In regard to the Richmond defenses, it was the opinion of General Leadbetter that the works around the city were rather near, but so much had been done at the time he took charge of them, that he directed me, on leaving for Tennessee, to carry out the plans adopted by the Engineer Department of Virginia. This I have sought to do with the means at my disposition, and a large proportion of the leading works are completed. Intermediate secondary breastworks could be thrown ~ip with sufficient rapidity by the troops who are to defend the main works when there is occasion. Labor in that direction at present would seem fo be injudicious. Most of the works are closed, ami those which are not so can be rapidly protected. Directions have been given to drain the magazines thoroughly, and if necessary to construct new ones. There are but few guns monuted on the works. A fall armament for them would be exceedingly difficult to procure, and the propriety of concentrating so many pieces on a contracted local defense would seem at least doubtful. The batteries on the Manchester hills are very nearly, if not entirely,. constructed, and a force has been called out to repair and complete them. Drewrys Bluff, a most commanding point where the James River is narrowest, about 7 miles below Richmond, has been selected as the best point for a battery coupled with obstructions. In its im Page 62 432 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIL mediate vicinity also is a strong commanding ridge on the line of approach from Petersburg to Richmond. in regard to the line of the Chickahominy, I can as yet make no def- inite report, although an officer is on duty in its examination. The recent calls for engineers by General Johnston and others have left me but limited professional resources. I have heard, however, that Colonel Talcott, Chief of the Virginia Engineer Corps, examined this line, but did not think very favorably of it. It may, however, be possible to erect, in a reasonable time, a series of dams, with properly-constructed cov- ering works, which would add greatly to the strength of the Richmond defenses on the north. As soon as the surveys are completed a full report will be promptly made. The James River defenses, which a~re rapidly improving, afford already a good protection against wooden fleets, but not against iron- clad vessels. From recent developments it is evident that nothing but the very heaviest ordnance, and that in connection with obstructions and perhaps torpedoes, can contend successfully with this latter class.. It is to such means we are resorting on the James River. In positions similar to those of Fort Huger, Yorktown, and Mulberry Island Point the only course left to pursue seems to be to mount the guns on the bluffs, where they are not liable to be struck, or in well-constructed casemates, to contend with wooden ships, keeping sand bags ready filled to .protect them against iron-clad vessels. This class is so excess- ively expensive and confined as to be rn-adapted to the transportation of troops in large numbers. The effect, however, of passing our lower batteries by preventing the safe navigation of our rivers above them will probably be to force us at no distant day to rely in great measure on land transportation. A mistaken impression on my part that this report was called for on the termination of the surveys has led to this delay, for which it is the only excuse. With great respect, your obedient servant, ALFRED L. RIVES, Acting Chief Engineer Bureau. ENGINEER BUREAU, Richmond, March 12, 1802. General J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Commanding Army of the Peninsula: GENERAL: Colonel Carter, who will hand you this, submitted to me Captain Dimmocks report, approved by himself and addre~sed to you. From the experience derived in the recent contest between the Virginia and Monitor it is evident to me that water batteries in the immediate vicinity of deep water should be abandoned at oncethose at both Yorktown and Gloucester Point. I unhesitatingly recommend such a step, only leaving a masked battery of the smallest pieces to protect the beach and communicating with the works on the bluffs by a covered way Page 63 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 63 The sketch below gives the idea roughly: I will send plans promptly, but in case my occupations, which are now very heavy, should prevent, I feel assured the engineers in your command can arrange the details. By keeping sand bags filled, on hand, your guns can in a few minutes be protected against iron-clad boats. These bags could be thrown off rapidly should a wooden fleet attempt to pass with troops, and I believe in that case the bluff bat- teries fully equal to the water batteries. You will readily infer from what I have written that I think your water communication with West Point in great danger. I shall exert myself to have the Gloucester Point guns mounted promptly and properly. Colonel Carter can communicate more fully the result we have arrived at. With great respect, your obedient servant, ALFRED L. HIVES, Acting Chief Engineer Bureau. HEADQUARTERS, Youngs Mill, March 12, 1862. *jleneral S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond: Sn~: I have the honor to report that I sent Sergeant Tabb, a most intelligent man, who is on signal service in this department and was a volunteer on board of the Virginia in the late action, to reconnoiter Newport News in a boat yesterday afternoon, a~nd he has just returned~ stating that whilst in front of Newport News the Ericsson came up from Fort Monroe with some troops on board and landed them at Newport News; that a very large force was at that place and increasing. Their pickets have advanced some mile and ahalfup the river, and I am satis- fied that they mean to march up on the left bank of James River, send. ing the Ericsson to silence the guns in the river batteries, and thus free- ing the river for the passage of transports with other troops and forc- ing us to fall back by ascending the river. It may require some little time to do this, but they will succeed in the end, unless the Virginia can leave the dock and prevent the Ericsson from coming up. The latter vessel draws,Jam informed, much less water than the Virginia, and if she once gets up the Virginia could not follow her, as there is a bar below Days Neck, I am told by James River pilots, on which there is not more than 18 feet water, and the ~Virginia draws 22 feet Page 64 64 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX, I deem it of the utmost importance to make this statement to you for the information of the War and Navy Departments and the President, although the information may already be in their possession. My cavalry drove in the enemys pickets last evening, but the advance of their pickets and their increasing force admonishes me of the neces- sity of arranging my troops on the second line for defense, from which I have advanced them after the naval action, to be ready to take ad. vantage of the effect of that achievement, and at the same time to cover, if possible, the movement of troops from here to Suffolk. They will re- sume their places to-day, presenting, however, the same line of pickets to the enemy and holding the front line by cavalry and light infantry, with orders to fall back on the second line in case of an advance. I wouhi recommend that not a moment be lost in again bringing out the Virginia, as I learn from my spies that their officers say the Vir- ginia is much injured and that they have no apprehension from her for the present. I presume that they will advance as soon as possible in the hope that she will not be ready, and the Ericsson once up the river, she cannot follow. Should the Ericsson attack our batteries on James River, the guns on ship carriages will be withdrawn from the effects of the fire and all the other guns and men will be protected as much as possible. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, ]Jfajor- General, Commanding. RicHMOND, VA 3farch 18 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Gommanding, & c., Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge your letter of the 12th instant, reporting the result of a reconnaissance made by your orders of the condition of the enemy at Newport News arid your proposed movements in the event of an advance by him up the left bank of the river. As regards the steamer Virginia, the Secretary of the Navy in- forms me that she went into the dock upon her arrival at Norfolk, with orders that neither labor nor expense should be spared upon her repair. It is hoped that she will be out at an early day. I am, & c., R. E. LEE, General, Commanding. YORKTOWN, March 13, 1862, General S. COOPER, (Received March 14, 1862.) Adjutant and Inspector General: To-day the enemy drove in our pickets 4 miles below Youngs Mill. Troops are being again landed at Newport News from the Baltimore boat. Please order at once to Williamsburg by the James River boats the regiment which the Secretary of War said he would send. When will the Virginia be ont~ The disposition of my troops and the nature of my operations depend upon the answer to this question. Answer by telegraph. J. BANKIIEAD MAGRUDER, Major-General, Commanding Page 65 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONPEDERATE. 65 [Indorsement.] iMIAI~cn 14, 1862. The unarmed regiment promised by Secretary of War, to be armed by you with the surplus arms in your command, is expected here soon. It will thereafter be immediately sent to you. It is impossible to say when the Virginia will be in position; it is supposed in a day or two. S. COOPER HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, March 13, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I have expressed to you my conviction that iron-clad vessels can pass all our batteries with impunity. In barricading the approach to Norfolk it was necessary to leave a narrow passage for our vessels to go out. The Virginia passed through it to get into the Roads the other day. The question now is, Should not this passage be stopped? If done, it should be with the concurrence of the Navy Department. I think the channel should be stopped, and our vessels kept inside for the protection of the town. I beg the subject may be considered, and if the work is done, it should be by order of War and Navy 1)epart- ments. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. ARMY 0F THE PENINSULA, No. 159. Bartletts Ranche, March 13, 1862. All the arrangements having been made for the defense of this Pen- insula, and the commanding general, as the troops are stationed at differ- ent places, not having it in his power to be at the same time with each body of troops, the following directions are given for the government of all, viz: When any body of our troops, large or small, meets with any body of the enemys troops, however large, the commanding officer of our troops will cause the enemy to be immediately attacked, and the men will attack at once and furiously. This is an order easily understood by officers and men and will doubtless be obeyed with alacrity by both. The above instructions are not intended for those who have special orders under certain named circumstances not to fight. By command of Major-General Magruder: JOHN DONNELL SMITH, 6 Acting Aide-de-Gamp. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PENINSULA At Bartletts, near Bethel, March 14, ~862. General P. E. LEE, Commanding General of the Gonfederate Armies, at Richmond: GENERAL: I do not know your adjutant-general, and therefore ad- dress you personally. 5 R RYOL I Page 66 66 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. First, allow me to congratulate you upon the high positiou to which you have been advanced of being Commander-in-Chief of the Confed- erate forces, and ~to predict for you, however long our triumph may be delayed, a career of usefulness to the country and great honor to your- self. I come again under your command with pleasure, and will execute your orders with alacrity and, zeal. I have not time now to write a long letter nor have you perhaps the time to read one, but it is necessary that you should know the state of affairs here at once; and I therefore inform you that the number of my troops is far too small in comparison with the magnitude of the forces in front of me as well as that of the great interests which I have to defend. When in Richmond last the Secretary of War asked me the strength of the garrison at Newport News, and I answered about 4,000 or ~ He desired me, in con- junction with Captain Buchanan, of the Navy, to capture them if possi- ble. I readily assented, and proceeded to make the necessary arrange- ments. These were based, of course, upon the presumption that the garrison would remain as it was. Subsequently, in a conversation with Mr. Hunter I was asked what troops I could spare. I answered that I supposed about 5,000. rfhe next morning, after reflection, I wrote a communication to Mr. Hunter, stating that I found upon calculation I could spare but 2,000, and them only to operate for a short time and -within convenient distance, and also upon condition that their places -would be supplied by militia, from whom I could substitute in some of my works for better-drilled troops. Soon after my return and before the Virginia was ready troops began to assemble at Newport News, and they have been steadily increasing in numbers ever since, so that now they cannot fall much short of 20,000 men. In consequence of this increase of troops and of the roads being impracticable for artillery I advised the Government against the co- operation. The threatening attitude of Buruside caused them to send about 5,000 troops from . my command, which leaves me some 4,500 infantry disposable for the field and about 500 cavalry. With this nuzuber there is no line across the Peninsula which I could hope to defend with success. The enemy is fully aware of my having sent troo~ps across the river, though on Sunday last I sent troops in the imme- diate vicinity of Newport News, and have been operating since with the ~hope of deceiving him. A telegraphic communication has been established between Fort Monroe and Washington. All the enemys ships of war have been sexitont of the Roads except the Monitor Ericsson, and I expect an advance on James River every moment, snI)ported by the Monitor, while the Virginia is in dock. No militia can be expected from the counties assigned to my district, as almost all of them have volunteered, the few remaining having been called out long since, not more than a few hundred in all. I see by the papers that Burnside has landed his trooI)s before New Berne. Under these circumstances is it not absolutely necessary to order back the troops which I sent to Suffolk ~ I certainly think so, and request that, in view of the above and of the heavy force at New- port News, which threatens the Peninsula, and the changed aspect of affairs at Suffolk, it may be done with the least possible delay. The infantry should come to City Point and by steamboats to Kings Mill, and the cavalry, artillery, wagons, and ambulances should march to Carter?s wharf and cross over to Jamestown Island. Should the enemy advance I should be compelled to withdraw at once the few troop Page 67 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.z--CONFEDERATE. 67 I have in front to my main line of defense behind Warwick River, the left resting on Yorktown and the right on Mulberry Island. That line is too long for the few troops I have, being over 8 miles to the month of the Peninsula, known as Mulberry Island, and about 14 miles from Yorktown to Mulberry Island Point, which. is the corresponding work on James River. The enemy has at least sixteen companies of good cavalry and about forty pieces of good light artillery. I have abont 500 cavalry, all told, and about the same number of light pieces with [as] the enemy, badly mounted and equipped, disposable for the field, the rest being required in the various garrisons. I made requisitions for 50 artillery horses, but have not got them. I have the artillery harness ready. To meet the enemys great superiority in cavalry I suggest that the Lnnenburg Cavalry, from Fredericksburg, which is armed, and one or two companies from there, if they can be spared, and Capt. B. F. Winfields company, of Sussex, now at Richmond, armed, be sent to me, also a troop of horse in Petersburg and one in Mecklenburg, neither armed, be ordered to me, and be armed with shot-guns and lances. I thimik also that there has been an unequal distribution of counties from which militia is to be drawn. The call for the militia will not strengthen me at all, whilst the conflict between the laws of the State of Virginia and the Confederate States and the canvassing for the elections of officers that are to take place is disorganizing and demoralizing to a deplorable extent the twelve-months regiments and companies with me in this department. To produce something like order out of this chaos, if possible, I desire to publish an order to the following effect, if it meet with the views of yourself and the War Department: First. That none shall enlist out of this department in another. Second. That men who re-enlist shall do so in the same arm of the service to which they now belong. Third. That the artillery, light and heavy, shall be given only to the artillery officers, or those who have served with artillery who have already proved themselves worthy of having them. Fourth. That all men who have re-enlisted nuder the idea that they can choose their arm of service shall organize as infantry, unless they are already artillery or cavalry, and shall afterward be exchanged by the commnan(liug officer of the department, in accordance with their wmshes, whenever it can be done without injury to the public service. I sent a lmst of artmllery officers, accordii~g to merit, at the request of the Secretary of War, for the informuation of the President. Since then some exchanges have occurred. Colonel Randolph has been made a general, and I would like to place the name of [J.] Thompson Brown as colonel instead of Lewis Brown. The latter I recommend to be lieu- tenant-colonel. Should the troops sent to Suffolk be wanted there again they could be sent there in time, but unless sent at once here they will not be in time, I think. There is no indication of a possibility of troops crossing over to Suffolk from Newpom u News except up James River. I am, General, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKIJEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Gommanding. We have no more paper here Page 68 68 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. WAR DEPART1~IENT, C. S. A., Richmond, Va., March 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Norfolk, Va.: SIR: I have tlie honor of acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 13th instant. The question of closing the harbor of Norfolk, suggested by you, is decided against your views. None of us are of opinion that it would be proper to lose the vast advantages resulting from the enemys fright at the bare idea of the Virginia reappearing among the wooden ships. The fact of her presence guarantees you against any attempt to blockade the river. It is, however, necessary to keep the necessary means of closing the Elizabeth River ready at hand for use at a moments warning in case the Monitor should attempt an entrance. The Nansemond River ought to be obstructed without delay. I inclose you a letter, to be forwarded to General Wise after perusal by you. It explains itself. I also send herewith a voluminous report, 143 pages, sent to me by General Wise, for your remarks. You will find at pages 109 and 116 copies of his letters to you of February 10 and 11, which he evidently regards as his report, and which I asked you to send me, but which you seem not to have received. Congress has made a call for this report; but it cannot be sent in, if at all, without your comments, as it should regularly have been forwarded through you. I am, your obedient servant J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. RICHMOND, VA., March 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Comm nding, & c., Yorktown, Th.: GENERAL: As far as I can judge at this distance the plan of con- structing a defensive line between Yorktown and Mulberry Island by damming and defending the Warwick River promises the happiest results. I would therefore recommend to you, should you concur in this opinion, to apply as great a force on the work as possible. With your left resting on the batteries on York River and your right de- fended by the batteries on James River, with the aid of the Virginia and other steamers, I think you may defy the advance of the enemy up the Peninsula, supported as this line would be by your second system of defenses. I am, & c., R. E. LEE, General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, At Bartletts, near Bethel, March 16, 1862. Gen. R. E. LEE, Commanding Armies of the Confederate States: GENERAL: The enemy again drove in the pickets to-day on the War. wick road after exchanging fire. He appears to be operating with a considerable advance guard, supported by heavier bodies, between it and Newport News, so that it is difficult to cut off the advanced troop Page 69 CHAP. XIX.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 69 without entangling my handful of men with very superior forces lying in wait. The country is open from the wood to James River, ascending with heavy wood on the right of it all the way. He generally advances a column on the road and one on the beach under the bank, and lie oc- cupies the wood in force. A party sent out by me this morning fell in with what was represented to be a large body of skirmishers in this wo ods, fired upon them, and one of the enemy fell. Our party con- sisted of five men, who retired to report the result of their observations. I immediately sent out about 1,000 men, all I had down here, to sul)- port the pickets, but the enemy had withdrawn. I presume this will be repeated daily until he either gains ground or keeps my forces from Yorktown and Mulberry Island, with a view of attacking a more vital point. I cannot keep my troops so far down as this without incurring great risk of losing the vital positions in my rear. So, if the enemy persevere, I shall be compelled in a very short time to withdraw the tour regiments which are now in front to the second line, viz, from Yorktown to Mulberry Island. Upon the successful defense of this and its water flanks that of the whole Peninsula entirely depends. I inclose you a communication from Colonel Cabell in relation to Hardens Bluff. I applied more than three months ago to have this work transferred to my department, and sent Colonel Randolph and Mr. St. John, the engineer then in charge of the works of this Penin- sula, to Richmond to press this subject upon the consideration of the War Department, but couhi get no answer. It is too late now proba- bly to effect anything, bu~ I am willing to do what can be done. The battery has been a naval battery, and is now commanded by Captain De Lagnel (late of the Navy, but now temporarily a captain in the Confederate Army). I recommend that the whole be placed under the command of the commanding officer, whoever he may beat present Colonel Archerwhile the guns and the men who serve them should be under the immediate command of Captain De Lagnel, who, however, I believe, is junior to the captains of artillery serving the guns; and, if so, ought to be made a major, as has been done in many similar cases, and as his service~ at this time cannot be spared. I recommend that General Coiston, who commands that portion of General Hugers department, be ordered to call out forthwith all the negroes, with their axes, spades, & c., for the purpose of executing with- out delay any work which Captain Rives,in charge of the Engineer Bureau at Richmond, or Captain Clark, the engineer in immediate charge of the work, may require to be done. The decision as respects the rank, relative positions, and responsibilities of the officers at Har- dens Bluff I think had better come from yourself or the War Depart- ment, as I understand there is some feeling among them on this sul~ject. Has anything been heard at headquarters of Porters mortar fleet? I presume that now Yorktown will be the object of attack by the Monitor and that fleet, and I am doing my best to provide against this new danger. I am, General, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major- General, Commanding. [Inciosure.] CuRTIs FARM, iliiarch 13, 1862. Brig. Gen. LAFAYETTE McLAws: SIR: As directed by Major-General Magruder, I proceeded to-day to Hardens Bluff. Seven of the largest guns have been placed en barbette Page 70 70 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XIX. having been previously placed in embrasure. There are six other guns to be placed e~ barbette. The position I think singularly strong, if fur- ther assisted by art. The guns should be immediately placed in posi- tion. Traverses should be immediately thrown up. The fort is small, and this could be completed in a very short time. The woods come up immediately to the fort and surround it on all sides, except on the river front. They afford perfect shelter for an attacking force. The forest should be cleared with the utmost possible dispatch. In the woods a very short distance from the fort is a marsh, which nearly surrounds the fort. Over this marsh a road passes leading to the camp of Lieutenant-Colonel Archer. The road can be completely com- manded by the fort, but tile guns for this purpose are not yet in posi- tion. There are several wooden buildings recently erected inside the fort. I think they should be removed at once, with the exception, perhaps, of the one for commissary stores. Of this last I am doubtful. This should be removed as soon as a store-honse can be erected in another position. The two artillery cqmpanies should be placed under the immediate command of the commander of the fort, and required to occupy their position either in ~the fort or immediately adjacent thereto. They should be drilled immediately at their pieces. The drill for some time has been suspended, I was informed, partly because some of the guns were being removed en barbette from the embrasures. .1 do not wish to be understood as interfering in any question exist- ing as to the command between the officers, but the exigencies of the service, the importance of that position as bearing on the defenses of James River, and particularly Mulberry island batteries, and the bat- teries on the north side of James River generally justify my allusion to the necessity of its being immediately put in proper state of defense, and that the authority and respective rights and commands of the officers be distinctly defined. I also recommend that bomb-proofs be erected and the batteries case- mated with the utmost possible dispatch. Respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY COULTER CABELL, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Artillery, P. A. C. S. [ludorsement.] MARCH 14, 1862. Hardens Bluff batteries bear such a close relation to Mulberry Point Batterythe right flank of this department, for if that battery is taken the right flank may be considered as turnedthat I feel authorized in calling the attention of the commanding general to the remarks of Colonel Cabell, within, in relation to the condition of that battery, especially as to the drill, the command, and its rear defenses. L. MULAWS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. RICHMOND, VA., March 17, 1862. General J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding Army of Peninsula: GENERAL: I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 14th instant, and regret very much to learn the smallness of the number of your troops. I will endeavor to re-enforce you as soon as possible, bu Page 71 CH.4r. XIX.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.CONFEDERATE. 71 at this time I see no immediate prospect. The pressure of affairs in North Carolina rePders it necessary to send there all available forces, even at the risk of hazarding the safety of other points, inasmuch as if the line of railroad through the State is possessed by the enemy it will cause us serious injury. The object of sending a portion of your command to Suffolk was to prevent the seizure of that point by the combined forces of Generals Wool and Buriiside. The latter is now at New Berne, but can easily transfer his troops back to Albemarle Sound, and, unles sachangein the supposed original plan of the enemy is more apparent, I think it unnecessary to cross your troops back to the left bank of James River yet awhile. I hardly think he will risk an attack upon you un- supported by his columns in other directions. I know, however, you will be vigilant in watching his movements, and should you ascertain that to be his intention, your troops will be immediately ordered back by the route you designate. The Quartermaster-General will b~ informed that the artillery horses you require have not reached you, and be desired to send them as soon as possible. I had hoped that you had sufficient cavalry for your pur- poses. I have no knowledge of the service on which the companies named by you are placed, but will inquire. As regards the militia, it is the object of the State to fill up from those enrolled by volunteer or draft its companies and regiments. The disorganization of the regiments. & c., from the cause you mention is apparent, and some days ago the Military Committee of Congress were appealed to to draft a bill to accomplish what you desire. It is hoped some measure of relief will be gassed. I am, & c., R.E.LEE, General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, No. 161.. f Yorktown, Va., March 17, 1862k In going into battle commanding officers of companies will call the roll of their companies and in coming out of action the rolls will be called. Any member of the company absent at the latter roll call, unless killed or wounded, will be considered as having been derelict to the highest duty, and will be punished accordingly. The excuse sometimes given that men have left the field to carry off the wounded is inadmissible, as no man will be permitted to leave the ranks for such purpose, but wheu meu are killed or wouuded in the ranks their places will be filled by their comrades touching elbows toward the guide. * * * * * * * By order of Major-Ger eral Magruder: HENRY BRYAN, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 72 CHAPTER XX. OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. 4 January 11August 20, 1862. SUMMARY OF TIlE PRINCIPAL EVZENTS.* Jan. 11, 1862.The Burnside Expediti~n sails from Fort Monroe, Va. 13, 1862.Expedition arrives at Hatteras Inlet. Brig. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of North Carolina.t 22, 1862.Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wipe, C. S. Army, assigned to command at Roanoke Island. Feb. 8, 1862.Battle of Roanoke Island. 10, 1862.Action at Elizabeth City. 1820, 1862.Expedition to Winton, and skirmish February 19. 1920, 1862.Expedition into Currituck Sound. Mar. 14, 1862.Battle of New Berne. 19, 1862.Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson supersedes Brig. Gen. R. C. Gatlin in command of the Confederate Department of North Carolina4 2021, 1862.Expedition to Washington. 23April 26, 1862.Siege of Fort Macon. 24, 1862.Maj. Gen. Th. H. Holmes, C. S. Army, supersedes Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson. 31, 1862.Skirmish at Deep Gully. April 7, 1862.Skirmish at Foys Plantation. Skirmish near Newport. 7 8, 1862.Expedition to Elizabeth City. 13, 1862.Skirmish at Gilletts Farm, Pebbly Run.. 19, 1862.Engagement at South Mills, Camden County. Skirmish on the Trent Road. 27, 1862.Skirmish near Haughtons Mill, Pollocksville Road. 29, 1862.Skirmish near Batchelders Creek. May 2, 1862.Skirmish near Deep Gully, Trenton Road. 7 8, 1862.Expedition from Roanoke Island toward Gatesville. 1516, 1862.Skirmishes near Trenton Bridge, at Youngs Cross-Roads, and Pol- locksville. 22, 1862.-Skirmish at the Trenton and Pollocksville Cross-Roads. 30, 1862.Skirmish at Tranters Creek. June 2, 1862.Skirmish at Tranters Creek. Of some of the minor conflicts mentioned in this Summary no circumstantial re- ports are on file. This department, to consist of the State of North Carolina, had been created Janu- ary 7, 1862, by General Orders, No. 2, Headquarters of the Army, of that date. For General Gatlins report of operations in his department from August 20, 1861, to March 19, ~862, see Series I, Vol. IV, pp. 573579. 7 Page 73 Cair. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 73 June 3, 1862.North Carolina, west of the Blue Ridge, embraced in the Confed- erate Department of East Tennessee. 5, 1862.Action at Tranter~s Creek. 21, 186~2.Confederate Department of North Carolina ext& nded to the south bank of the James River. 24, 1862.Reconnaissance from Washington to Tranters Creek. July 6, 1862.Major-Geueral Burnside sails with re-enforcements for the Army of the Potomac, leaving Brig. Gen. John G. Foster in command of the Department of North Carolina. 9, 1862.Capture of Hamilton. 17, 1862.Maj. Gen. D. H. Hill, C. S. Army, assigned to command of the De- partment of North Carolina. 2428, 1862.Expeditions from New Berne to Trenton and Pollocksville, & c. 26, 1862.Skirmish at Mill Creek, near Pollocksville. 2629, 1862.Reconnaissance from Newport to Youngs Cross-Roads, and skir- mish 27th. 28, 1862.Expedition from Batchelders Creek, on Neuse River Road. Aug. 1415, 1862.Reconnaissance from Newport to Swansborough. FEBRUARY 8, 1862.Battle of Roanoke Island, N. C. REPORTS, ETC. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, U. S. Army, with congratulatory orders. No. 2.Lieut. Daniel W. Flagler, U. S. Ordnance Department. No. 3.Surgeon William H. Church, U. S. Army, Acting Medical Director. No. 4.Brig. Gen. John G. Foster, U.S. Army, commanding First Brigade, with sketch. No. 5.Capt. Daniel Messinger, Acting Aide-de-Camp. No. 6.Lient. C. Cushing Eyre, First New York Marine Artillery. No. 7.Lient. James H. Strong, Aide-dc-Camp. No. 8.Lient. James A. Hedden, First New York Marine Artillery. No. 9.Lient. James M. Pendleton, Aide-de-Camp. No. 10.Lient. Col. Albert W. Drake, Tenth Connecticut Infantry. No. 11.~ol. John Kurtz, Twenty-third Massachusetts Infantry. No. 12.Col. Thomas G. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 13.Col. Edwin Upton, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 14.Col. Horace C. Lee, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infantry. No. 15.Brig. Gen. Jesse L. Reno, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. No. 16.Capt. Montgomery Ritchie, Aide-de-Camp. No. 17.Lient. Col. Alberto C. Maggi, Twenty-first Massachusetts Infantry. No. 18.Lient. Col. Charles A. Heckman, Ninth New Jersey Infantry. No. 19.Col. Edward Ferrero, Fifty-first New York Infantry. No. 20.CoL John F. Hartranft, Fifty-first Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 21.Brig. Gen. John G. Parke, U. S. Army, commanding Third Brigade. No. 22.Col. Isaac P. Rodman, Fourth Rhode Island Infantry. No. 23.Maj. Gen. Benjamin Huger, C. S. Army, with correspondence. No. 24.Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S. Army, with correspondence. No. 25.Col. H. M. Shaw, Eighth North Carolina Infantry. No. 26.Capt. James M. Whitson, Eighth North Carolina Infantry. No. 27.Col. John V. Jordan, Thirty-first North Carolina Infantry. No. 28.Lient. Col. Wharton J. Green, Second North Carolina Battalion. No. 29.Maj. H. W. Fry, Forty-sixth Virginia Infantry. No. 30.Lient. Col. Frank P. Anderson, Fifty-ninth Virginia Infantry. No. 31.Mnj. G. H. Hill, C. S. Army, commanding Fort Bartow. No. 32.Capt. John S. Taylor, C. S. Army, in charge of heavy artillery. No. 33.Report of Investigating Committee Confederate House of Repre~entativcs Page 74 74 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLiNA. [CTIAr. 1X. No. 1. Reports of Brig. Gen. Ambrose F. Burnside, U. ~ Army, with congrat ulatory orders. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Roanoke island, N C., February 10, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that a combined attack upon this island was commenced on the morning of the 7th by the naval and military forces of this expedition, which has resulted in the cap- ture of six forts, forty guns, over 2,000 prisoners, and npward of 3,000 small-arms. Among the prisoners are Colonel Shaw, commander of the island, and 0. Jennings Wise, commander of the Wise Legion. The latter was mortally wounded and has since died. The whole work was finished on the afternoon of the 8th instant, after a hard days fighting, by a brilliant charge on the battery in the center of the island and a rapid pursuit of the enemy to the north end of the island, result- ing in the capture of the prisoners mentioned above. We have had no time to count them, but the number is estimated at near 3,000. Our men fought bravely, and have endured most manfully the hard- ships incident to fighting through swamps and dense thickets. It is impossible to give the details of the engagement or to mention meritorious officers and men in the short time allowed for writing this report. The naval vessel carrying it starts immediately for Hampton Roads, and the reports of the brigadier-generals have not yet been handed in. It is enough to say that the officers and men of both arms of the service have fought gallantly and the plans agreed upon before leaving Hatteras were carried out. I will be excused for saying in reference to tke action that I owe everything to Generals Foster, lieno, and Parke, as more full details will show. I am sorry to report the loss of about 35 killed and about 200 wounded, 10 of them probably mortally.* Among the killed are Col~ onel Russell, of the Tenth Connecticut Regiment, and Lient. Col. Joseph A. Viguer De Monteil, of the DEpineuil Zonaves, both of whom fought most gallantly. I regret exceedingly not being able to send a full report of the killed and wounded, but will send a dispatch-boat in a day or two with full returns. I beg leave to inclose a copy of a general order issued by me on the 9th instant. I am most happy to say that I have just received a message from Commodore Goldsborough, stating that the expedition of the gunboats against Elizabeth City and the rebel fleet has been entirely successful. He will of conrse send his returns to his Department. I have the honor to be, General, yonr obedient servant, A. E. BURNSTDE, Brigadier- General, Commanding Department of North Carolina. Maj. Gen. GEORGE B. MCCLELLAN, Commanding U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. *But see revised statement, p. 55 Page 75 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 75 GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, No. 7. f Roanoke Island, N 0., February 9, 1862. The general commanding congratulates his troops on their brilliant and successful occupation of IRoanoke Island. The courage and stead- iness they have shown under fire is what he expected from them, and he accepts it as a token of future victory. Each regiment on the island will inscribe on its banner, Roanoke Island, February 8, 1862. The highest praise is due to Brigadier-Generals Foster lieno, arid Parke, who so bravely and energetically carried out the movement that has resulted in the complete success of the Union arms. By command of Brig. Gen. A. B. Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Roanoke, February 14, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit a more detailed report of the events that have transpired in this command since my last dispatch to the General-in-Chief on the 4th instant, from hatteras Inlet , stati iig that I was about ready to move upon Roanoke Island with a portion of this commandof about twelve regiments and a halfthe hasty dis- patch of the 10th instant only giving the general result of the move- ment spoken of above. The difficulty of watering, coaling, and provisioning our vessels in the midst of the gale, after they had crossed the swash, was scarcely less than that of getting our vessels into the sound, o wing to the necessity of having to lighten every supply vessel over the bulkhead. On the evening of the 4th instant I reported to Commodore Golds- borough my readiness to start on the following morning, and accord- ingly we weighed anchor (the naval fleet leading) at 7 oclock on the morning of th~ 5th instant, and arrived without accident oft Stumpy Point, some 6 miles from the entrance to Croatan Sound, at 5.30 p. in., when the signal to anchor was given. On the following morning (the 6th) we again weighed anchor at 6.30 a. in., but could proceed no farther than to the entrance of the sound in consequence of a thick fog which had set in. The fleet of the enemy, anchored in line of battle, was discovered off Pork Point before the fog came on, which convinced us that the first bat~tery was probably at that point. The remaining part of that day was used in consultation and arranging the vessels for a general movement on the following day. Five of my armed propellers were lightened of their troops to one company each, and were sent forward with the Picket to anchor in line of battle with the naval fleet, under the direction of Capt. S. F. Hazard, of the Navy. The remain- ing two propellers I ordered General Parke to anchor some half mile below, as a rear guard to the transport fleet, which consisted of armed and unarmed steamers and sailing vessels. We weighed anchor early next morning and passed through the narrow channel at the entrance to Croatan Sound in single file, the head of the naval fleet arriving off Pork Point Battery at five minutes past 9 oclock a. in., when the first gun was fired. By 10.30 oclock the action became general, the attack continuing in most gallant style until 6.30 p. in. One of the two propellers forming the rear guard, having on board three companies of troops, moved forward and joined Captain Hazards division Page 76 76 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. At 1 oclock p. in., after ordering preparations to be made for landing, and sending a small boat with Lieutenant Andrews, of the Ninth Reg- iment New York Volunteers, and six of the Rhode Island Battalion, into Ashbys, to make soundings and examine the landings, I proceeded to the naval fleet, and after consulting with Commodore Goldsborough I determined to attempt a landing before night. After visiting my armed propellers and finding them doing good service, on my return to the troops fleet I received Lieutenant Andrews report, which satisfied me that the decision to laud at Ashbys Harbor was correct. In leav- ing the landing Lieutenant Andrews and crew were fired upon by the enemy, wounding one of the crew, Charles Viall, of Company E, Fifth Rhode Island Battalion, in the jaw. The reconnaissance of Lieutenant Andrews was such as reflects great credit upon him as an officer. I accordingly ordered General Foster, who was ready with his first detach- ment, to attempt a lauding at some point in the harbor. I had before ordered General IReno, who was also ready with his first detachment, to halt until the naval-boat howitzers, under Midshipman Porter, could be brought up and placed in position. They were soon taken in tow by General Iteno, and in a very few minutes General Fosters boat and his had reached the shore, and were soon after joined by the boats carrying the first detachment of General Parkes brigade. I had before ordered the Picket down to the mouth of the harbor to cover the landing of the troops, and Captain Rowan had also brought his flag-ship, the Delaware, nuder command of Captain Quackenbush, down for the same purpose. The immediate point of landing at Ashbys Harbor in the original plan was Ashbys Landing, but on approaching it General Foster discovered an armed force in the woods in the rear of the landing, and very wisely directed his leading vessel to another point in the harbor, opposite Hammonds house. This armed force was soon dispersed by a few shell from the Delaware and Picket. In less than twenty mm- mites from the time the boats reached the shore 4,000 of our men were passing over the marshes at a double-quick and forming in most perfect order on the dry land near the house; amid I beg leave to say that I never witnessed a more beautiful sight than that presented by the approach of these vessels to the shore and the landing and forming of the troops. Each brigadier-general had a light-draught steamer, to which were attached some 20 surf-boats in a long line in the rear. Both steamers and boats were densely filled with soldiers, and each boat hearing the national flag. As the steamers approached the shore at a rapid speed each surf- boat was let go, and with their acquired velocity and by direction of the steersman reached the shore in line. Capt. Lewis Richmond, as- sistant adjutant-general, with Mr. W. H. French, one of my secre- taries, landed with the Fourth Rhode Island, and Lieut. D. A. Pell, my aide-de-eamp, with the Fifty-first New York, Colonel Ferrero. I then went on shore, where I met General Parke, and received from him his report of the disposition of the forces for the protection of the land- ing of the remainder of the division, which disposition I entirely ap- proved of. Soon after I met General Reno, whom I left in command, General Foster having returued to his vessel to bring up his second detachment: A position on land having thus been secured, I went on board the commodores vessel to consult with him in reference to the work of the next day, leaving Captain Richmond, Lieutenant Pell, and Mr. French on shore. The battery at Pork Point was very formidable, an(l had not been entirely silenced; but when I informed him that the entir Page 77 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. e. 77 force would probably be landed that night, anti that we proposed to adhere to the original plan of making an advance early in the morning upon the inland fort in the center of the island, taking it, if possible, and proceeding rapidly up the main road, thus getting in the rear of all the shore batteries, he remarked that it would be dangerous to our- selves for him to renew his attack on the next morning, as his people might fire into our own troops, and I left him with the underst~inding that the attack would not be renewed without a signal from me. By 12 oclock that night the entire division (except the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, Colonel Stevenson, detained below by the grounding of the steamer), together with Porters battery of IDahlgren howitzers, had been landed. During the night a careful reconnaissance was made by my three brigade generals and their troops most judiciously posted, the leading regiment, the Twenty-first Massachusetts, Lieutenant-Colonel Maggi, occupying a position at the forks of the road above Hammonds house. Early the next morning, in pursuance of the plan of action, General Foster ordered an advance. I arrived on the ground after the first three regiments of the brigade had filed through the woods, the other regiments being in line ready to move forward as room was made for them. General IRenos and Parkes brigades were also in readiness for a forward movement. On reaching a point some mile and a half by the road from Ham- monds house, General Foster came upon the battery across the road which, from information received, we had been led to suppose was there, and immediately commenced the disposition of his forces for his attack; and I here beg leave to say that I must refer you almost entirely to the reports of my brigadier-generals for an accurate knowledge of their movements during the day, as the face of the island precluded the possibility of any general oversight of operations on the field. The road from the opening in front of Hammonds house to the battery, some mile and a half; was very narrow and winding, leading through a deep marsh, covered with small pines and thick undergrowth, present. ing the appearance of being impenetrable. The battery is not visible until a point some 600 yards froni it is reached, when the road takes a turn to the left, and the timber in front is cleared away, that the guns may have full sweep. For more accurate information I beg leave to refer you to the acconipanying map of the road.* Soon after the attack was commenced I ordered General Parke to place a regiment in the woods to the north of Hammonds house and extending up to the main road, to prevent the possibility of the enemys turning our left. The Eighth Connecticut, Colonel Harland, was de- tailed for this service. The Fifth Rhode Island Battalion, M ~jor Wright, had been ordered to occupy Ashbys house. I then ordered Captain DWo1f~ with a boats crew kindly loaned me by the Delaware, which waylying oft the shore, to move (lown an(l land, and carefully recohnoiter the ground south and east of Ashbys, thus ascertaining that there was no force in the rear or on our right flank. Soomi after this the firing indicated that General Foster was very warmly engaged with the enemy. General Renos brigade was forcing its way up to his relief and General Parkes brigade was ready to follow. I had ordered Gen. eral Parke to have the Ninth New York, Colonel Hawkins, land their Dahigren howitzers from their floating battery on the shore, but as the marshy ground would have made it a half days work, I counter. * Not found Page 78 78 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. manded the order, which was most fortunate, as the regiment moved forward in time to take a most important part in the action. General Foster commenced the attack by putting six Dahigren how- itzers in position in front of the eiiemys battery, supporting it with the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, Colonel Upton. This regiment was sup- ported by the Twenty-third Massachusetts, Colonel Kurtz, also in line. After the Tenth Connecticut, Colonel Russell, came up, General Foster ordered the Twenty-third Massachusetts and Twenty-seventh Massa- chusetts, Colonel Lee, to pass into the swamp ~n the right, for the pur- pose of getting on the left flank of the enemy. Soon after this the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts exhausted its ammunition, and the Tenth Connecticut advanced to its position. All these movements were per- formed by the regiments under lead of their respective commanders with the most commendable efficiency. The skill with which the IJahi- gren howitzers were handled by Midshipman Benjamin Porter and Acting Master J. B. ilamnumond is (leserving ~he highest praise, and I take great pleasure in recommending theni to the favorable notice of tIme Navy Department. At this time the number of wounded arrivimig on litters indicated that the engagement was serious, and two hospitals were established by my brigade surgeon, Dr. W. II. Church, one at Hanimonds house and the other at Ashbys, where the wounded were well cared for. In the mean time, General Reno, coining imp, sent wor(l to General Foster that he would try to penetrate the (lense wood to the left and thus turn their right flank, wliich movement was approved by General Foster and was carried out by General Iteno, the T\venty-flrst Massa- chusetts, Lieutenant-Colonel Maggi, leading, followed by the Fifty-first New York, Colonel Ferrero; Yinth New Jersey, Lieutenant-Colonel Ileckmian, and Fifty-first Pennsylvania, Colonel llartranft, each most gallantly led by their respective commanders, an(l resulting in a coin- l)lete success. Wheim it is remembered that in addition to the obstacles of thicket and underbrush the men were more thami knee-deep in mmmd and water, it seems a most wonderful feat. Immediately after Gen- eral lienos brigade had cleared the road General Parke caine up with his brigade, and was ordered by General Foster to support the Twenty- third Massachusetts and Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Regiments, which had by direction of General Foster most gallantly initiated under their colonels a mnovemnemit to turn the left flank of the enemy, when he at once turned his brigade to the right, the Foimrth Rhode Island in ad- vance, gallantly led by its colonel and Capt. Lewis Richrnommd, mimy as- sistant adjutant-general, meeting with obstacles equal to those on the left. Just as the Ninth New York was entering the woods to follow the Fourth Rhode island Generals Foster and Parke, discovering that the al)pearance of General Reno on the enemys right had staggered him, they decided to order the Ninth New York to charge the battery in front, which was instamitly done, and at once the road was filled with a sea of red caps, the air resounding with their cheers. The charge of General Renos leading regiment, the Twemmty-flrst Massachusetts, and Fifty-first New York was simnnltaneous with the charge of the Ninth New York, when the enemy broke and ran in the greatest possil)le con- fusion, while the cheers of our men indicated to every omme on tIme island that we had carried the battery. The merit of first entering the fort is claimed by the Twenty-first Massachusetts and Fifty-first New York, a few men from each regiment entering at the same time, one regiment hoisting the regimental flag and the other the national flag on the parapet Page 79 CHAr. XX.] BATTL1~ OF ROANOKE ISLAI~D, m C. 79 Just before the charge the steamer Union arrived with the Twenty- fourth Massachusetts, which I hastened forward, with the exception of three companies, detailed to carry np ammunition. It must be remem- bared that up to this time there had not been a single horse landed, owing to the impossibility of getting them through the marsh on the shore. All the ammunition and stores had to be transferred by our soldiers, and the general and field officers had to perform their duties on foot. On moving up the road toward the battery I met my aide- dc-camp, Lieutenant Fearing, whom I had sent to the front to report progress, when he informed me that an advance was made by General lienos brigade immediately after the battery was taken, thus antici- pating my order sent by LieMenant Anderson. I had learned from an officer of the Richmond Blues, taken prisoner and brought to me by Capt. William Cutting and Lient. D. A. Pell, that there were no more batteries on the road. The Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, Colonel Stevenson, coming up fresh, General Foster pushed on, followed by General Parke. On arriving at the road leading to Pork Point Battery I detailed the Fourth Rhode Island and the Tenth Connecticut from General Fosters brigade, send- ing them under General Parke down this road to take the battery in the rear, but on their arrival it was found to have been just evacuated. The pursuit was continued by Generals Foster and Iteno to the head of the island in rear of Weirs Point Battery, where the entire force on the island had concentrated in two camps. A slight engagement ensued, in which the enemy lost four men killed, after which they surrendered to Generals Foster and Reno at discretion. The entire force of the enemy on the island, in the batteries, and stationed as sharpshooters was about 4,000. Gov. II. A. Wise had a force in reserve at Nags Head, with which he left as soon as he heard of our victory. Their troops were well posted for defense and their inland battery well masked, so that our men were really fighting against an enemy almost entirely concealed. The force that surrendered to Generals Foster and Reno consisted of 159 officers and over 2,500 men. Among these are two colonels, two lieutenant-colonels, and three majors. I omitted to mention that the Ninth New York was diverted to the right of the main road by General Reno, where they captured some 60 prisoners in their attempt to escape through Shallow Bag Bay. Among these prisoners was Capt. 0. Jennings Wise, who was severely wounded and has since died. The loss of the enemy is unknown, as many had been removed, but it will not exceed 150 killed and wounded. By this victory we have gained complete possession of this island, with five forts, mounting thirty-two guns, winter quarters for some 4,000 troops, and 3,000 stand of arms, large hospital buildings, with a large amount of lumber, wheelbarrows, scows, pile~drivers, a mud dredge, ladders, and other appurtenances for military service, of which a careful inventory will be made and sent on, with an accurate list of prisoners, by our next dispatches. Fort Forrest, on the main-land, opposite Weirs Point, was burned by the rebels on the evening of the 8th instant. It contained eight guns, thus making their loss forty guns in all. The Navy has recovered nearly all from this fort in good condition. When it is remembered that for one month our officers and men had been confined on crowded ships during a period of unusual prevalence of severe storms, some of them having to be removed from stranded vessels, others in vessels thumping for days on sand banks and under constant apprehension of collision, then lauding without blankets o Page 80 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. 80 [CHAP. XX. tents on a marshy shore, wading knee-deep in mud and water to a per- manent landing, exposed all night to a cold rain, then fighting for four hours, pursuing the enemy some 8 miles, bivouacking in the r~in, many of. them withont tents or covering, for two or three nights, it seems wonderful that not one murmur or complaint has been heard from them. They have endured all these hardships with the utmost fortitude, and have exhibited on the battle-field a coolness, courage, and perseverance worthy of veteran soldiers. The companies left on board the armed propellers during the naval engagement rendered most efficient service, and are highly spoken of by the different brigade commanders. There had been placed on these propellers, by the brig- adier-generals, aides-de-camp, who ren~ered marked service during the action, as did also the officers and men of the Marine Artillery in charge of the guns, headed by Col. William A. Howard. I desire to tender my thanks to Capt. S. F. Hazard, U. S. Navy, commanding division of armed vessels, for his efficient management of the division. The vessels comprising this division were the Picket, Capt. T. P. Ives; Vedette, Captain Foster; Hussar, Captain Crocker; Lancer, Captain Morley; Ranger, Captain Emerson; Chasseur, Cap- tain West; Pioneer, Captain Baker. The Picket was particularly serviceable in covering the landing of the troops. I must express to Commodore Goldsborough and the officers of his fleet my high appreciation and admiration of their gallantry, and my thanks for the kind assistance rendered us from time to time in our joint labors. I have to thank my personal staff for their efficient aid in the work through which we have passed. They are as follows: Dr. W. H. Church, brigade surgeon; Capt. Lewis Richmond, assist- ant adjutant-general; Capt. William Cutting, assistant quartermaster; Capt. James F. DWolf, assistant commissary; Lieut. D. W. Flagler, ordnance officer; Lieut. D. A. Pell, aide-de-camp; Lieut. G. R. Fear- ing, aide-de-camp; Lieutenant Andrews, topographical officer. All of these officers have rendered most efficient service in their several capacities. Mr. ID. R. Lamed, my private secretary, accompanied me to the shore, and, with Mr. W. H. French, my other secretary, were very serviceable in communicating with the vessels and forces, doing the duty of volunteer aides. I beg leave to refer you to the report of Dr. W. II. Church, brigade surgeon, for list of casualties, which amount to 41 killed and 181 wounded.* Among the killed I regret t.o record the following officers: Col. Charles L. Russell, Tenth Connecticut; Lieut. Col. Yiguer De Monteil, of Fifty-third New York; Second Lient. John H. Goodwin, jr., Company B, Twenty-third Massachusetts; Lieuten- ant Stillman, Tenth Connecticut; Capt. Joseph J. Henry, Ninth New Jersey. I refrain from mentioning special cases of heroism in the brigades, as it would be wrong to make distinctions where all behaved so gallantly. In closing this report I beg leave again to call your attention to Brigadier-Generals Foster, Reno, and Parke, who throughout the action showed the greatest gallantry and directed the movements of the troops with skill and euergy. From the moment they joined me I have given them large discretionary powers, and the sequel has shown that I have acted wisely. I especially recommend them to the favor of the Department. * But see revised statement, p. 85 Page 81 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 81 I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. E. BURNSJDE. Brigadier- 6~eneral, Commanding Department North Carolina. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-qeneral U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. No. 2. Report of Ijeut. Daniel W. Flagler, U. S. Ordnance Department. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT NORTH CAROLINA, Roanoke Island, February 20, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit for your information the fol- lowing report of the ordnaiiee and ordnance stores captured on I~oa~ noke Island during the engagement of the 8th instant: The total number of cannon captured was forty-two. In the iniqud battery were three, all mounted on field carriages and covered by an earthwork with enibrasures. One of these is a heavy 24-pounder boat howitzer; one a 6-pounder brass field gun, model 1846, and the other an 18-pounder brass field gunprobably a Mexican trophy. There were no caissons with these pieces, but the implements and equipments of the pieces were uninjured, and a quantity of ammunition in the ammu- nition-chest of each of the limbers. In Fort Foster, at Pork Point, were nine guns. Eight of these are heavy 32-pounder navy smooth- bore guns and one a banded rifled gunthis last peculiarly rifled, and has been manufactured by the enemy since the beginning of the war. It has seven grooves, the bottom of the groove being cylindrical in form, intersecting at one edge with the surface of the bore. At the other edge the groove is eleven-hundredths of an ixich dee). It has thus but one shoulder, which is at the right edge of the groove, as the twist is to the left. The grooves and bands are of eqnal width, and have a uniform twist of one turn in 32 feet. The gun is manufactured from a 32-pounder navy gnu of 61-cwt. A portion at the breech was turned down to a perfect cylinder, and then wrought-iron cylinders shrunk around the breech, similarly to the Parrott gun. The cylinder, when complete, is 244- inches long and 14- inches thick. The few experi- ments I have been able to make with the gun show that it will com- pare not unfavorably in range and accuracy of fire with the Parrott gun. The only projectiles found for it were shells, ready filled and fused with the navy fuse. It is mounted en barbette, with the French navy carriage, on a chassis traversing a semicircle. Two of the other guns at the left flank of the battery are mounted en barbette, traversing the entire circle. All the remaining guns have embrasures, and are mounted on the French navy carriage, with platform. The fort has two small magazines. In them and in the fort were found 828 32- pounder round shot, 84 stand of grape, a few shells, and 110 cartridges for the 32-pounder guns. There was also a small quantity of musket ammunition and ammunition for l2Zpounder boat howitzers stored in the magazines. In Fort Parke were found four 32-pounder navy guns mounted en 6 R RVOL I Page 82 82 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. barbette on the army 32-pounder barbette carriages, and one spare carriage without the chassis. It had also 440 32-pounder round shot, but all the ammunition had been taken from the magazine and de- stroyed; The implements belonging to the guns in this fort were not much injured. In Fort IReno were twelve guns. Of these the two upon the left flank of the battery are rifled guns like the one in Fort Foster which I have already described, and mounted upon the same carriage em bar- bette. All the others are smooth-bore 32-pounder navy guns of 57 and 61 cwt. The two upon the right flank are mounted em barbette and the remaining eight on the navy carriage at embrasures. In the fort and magazines were 2,144 32-pounder round shot, 110 shells for- the rifle guns, and 42 32-pounder shells. All the ammnnition had also been taken from this magazine and destroyed. I found in the water near the shore just outside this fort a 32-pounder gun, which the eiiemy had apparently let fall in trying to land it. I have hauled it out and if necessary it can be mounted on a spare carriage. The remaining two guns are in Fort Ellis, opposite Nags Head. All of the guns excepting the three field pieces in the inland battery I found had been spiked and other ineffectual attempts made to render them unserviceable. Six of them were spiked with rat-tail flies; the remainder with wrought-iron spikes and iiails. They were all Loaded, some with several shot wedged, and others with charged shells unfused and inverted, so arranged as to explode in the gun if fired. All of these have been removed without accident, and the guns are now ready for service. In Forts IReno and Foster considerable injury was done to the car- riages, implements, and equipments. The guns being mounted on navy carriages, the breechings and tackle-ropes were in most cases cut. With some of the carriages, however, the breechings and tackle were unnecessary, so that with some repairs, using the spare parts and im- plements that were found, the injuries have been so far repaired that the guns can now be maneuvered and fired without danger. I have made some 400 cartridges for the 32-pounder guns, and so distributed the ammunition found in these two forts as to render them as defensi- ble as possible until larger supplies can be obtained. The implements and equipments in Fort Parke sustained much less injury. These have all been repaired, but as the magazine of the fort is very damp, and you told me you intended to change the position of the battery, I have done nothing to supply the guns with ammunition. The small-arms captured were generally of an inferior quality. Of those that have been preserved there are about 1,500. They are prin- cipally smooth-bore muskets (caliber .69) made at Harpers Ferry, in 1832, and have either flint-locks or have been altered to percussion. Some of the enemys troops were armed with fowling-pieces, sporting rifles, and a motley collection of arms nearly useless for military pur- poses. These were all carried away by our soldiers and people from the transports. The iron parts found among the ruins of the camp near Fort Foster indicate that some 200 or 300 muskets nmst have been destroyed by fire on the day of the bombardment. I am also satisfied that a quantity of arms and ammunition has been buried or hidden on the island, although we have as yet been unable to find it. Several mus- kets have been sent as trophies to naval officers of the fleet in accord- ance with your orders. This must acconut for the large discrepancy between the number of prisoners and small-arms captured. There are also 1,600 sets of infantry equipments, many of them incomplete. Suc Page 83 ChAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. 0. 83 of these and of the muskets as will not be required for service in this department II have had boxed, preparatory to any disposition of them the Ordnance Bureau may direct. The greater part of the ammunition found in the cartridge-boxes of the prisoners was so much injured by exposure to the weather that I do not think it worth preserving. In the mag~izine at Fort Foster were found in good order 40,000 musket cartridges (caliber .69), 2,200 cartridges for Minie rifles (caliber .54), and 134 rounds fixed ammunition for the 24-pounder boat howitzer. The magazines in the forts are generally not well constructed, affording insufficient protection for the ammunition against dampness. They are bomb-proofs, and built of such light soil that in falling weather the dampness easily penetrates to the magazines. If they are to contain considerable stores or ammunition for any length of time I would respectfully recommend that they be reconstructed or replaced by new ones. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient serv- ant, D. W. FLAGLER, Lieutenant, Ordnance Officer Department North Carolina. General AMBROSE E. BRUNSIDE, Commanding Department of North Carolina. No. 3. Report of Surg. William Iii. Church, U. .S. Army, Acting ilfedical Director. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Roanol~e Island, February 12, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the killed and wounded of your command consequent upon the attack upon Itoanoke Island: February 7 a small boat, having been ordered on shore to recon- noiter, was attacked by the enemy, when Charles Viall, a private in Company E, of the Fifth Rhode Island Battalion, received a wound in the lower jaw, causing a compound comminuted fracture, from which he will probably recover. February 8, upon the advance of General Foster the houses and out- houses at the landing were at once prepared for the reception of the wounded, and l)laced in charge of Surgeon Storrs, of the Eighth Regi- ment Connecticut Volunteers, his regiment having been ordered there to protect the landing of our forces and hold the position. Brigade Surgeon Thompson now advanced with the troops to take charge of the wounded on the field of battle, where he remained until the bat. tery was taken, assisting in the care of the wounded, and sending them with the least possible delay to the hospital. Through the energy of Dr. Thompson much suffering has been avoided. Finding that there was not sufficient room in these buildings to receive the wounded, we immediately took possession of Ashbys house, a short distance from the first and quite as convenient to the field of action. The Fifth Rhode Island Battalion having been ordered to guard this point, Asst. Surg. A. Potter took charge of it until further assistance could be procured. Surgeon Minis, of the Forty-eighth Reg Page 84 84 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX ment Pennsylvania Volunteers (owing to the death of Surgeon Weller, by drowning, at Hatteras Inlet, lie was letailed to serve with the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers), was very soon placed in charge of this tem- porary hospital, where there was sufficient room to receive the wounded not provided for. During the action of this day 32 were killed and 174 wounded.* Col. Charles L. Russell, of the Tenth Connecticut Volun- teers, was shot through the lung, and died almost immediately. Lieut. Col. Viguer De Monteil, of the Fifty-third ]I~egiment New York Volun- teers. was also killed by a ball passing through his brain. Accompanying this please find a list of the killed and wounded of each regiment that participated in the engagement.t The surgical portion of your command has performed its duties faith- fully and fearlessly, Surg. J. Marcus Rice, of the Twenty-fifth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, ha~ving been wounded in the midst of his very arduous duties. The ball grazed his side, fortunately without inflicting a severe wound. We have found three unusually large, commodious, and well-venti- lated buildings erected upon the island for hospital purposes, which will afford ample accommodation for our sick and wounded. The largest hospital at the north end of the island I have placed in the charge of Surg. S. A. Green, of the Twenty-fourth Regiment Massachu- setts Volunteers, and Surg. George A. Otis has the management of the two hospitals near the fort at the center of the island. I would respectfully ask your attention to the fact that the wounded of the enemy have received the same care and attention from the sur- geons as our own wounded. Permit me to take advantage of this op- portunity to express our gratitude to. the officers of the United States gunboat Delaware, the surgeon having dressed a large number of onr wpunded. Iam,g eneral, very respectfully, your obedient servant and friend, WM. HENRY CHURCH, Brigade & trgeon and Acting Medical Director. * But see revised statement, p. 85. t The revised statement on p. 85 is substituted for that submitted by Dr. Church. Page 85 BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 85 Return of casualties in the Department of North Carolina, command by Brig. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, at the battle of Boanoke Island, N. C., February 8, 1862. [Compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, & c.] Killed. Wounded.. Captured or missing. n n Commands. S S -~ S u a a ,,~ a ~ a ~ a -~ a a -S ~ -S 0 ~ 0 ~ Q F~ First Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOHN G. FOSTER. 23d Massachusetts 24th Massachusetts * 25th Massachusetts. 27th Massachusetts 10th Connecticut Total First Brigade~ ,Secend Brigade. Brig. Gen. JESSE L. REKO. 2lst Massachusetts 51st New York 9th New Jersey. - - . 51st Pennsylvania - - - Total Second Brigade - - Third Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOHN G. PARKE. 4th Rhode Island * . 5th Rhode Island, 1st Battaliou* 8th Connecticut * - 9th New York. Total Third Brigade UNASSICNED Taoors. 1st New York Marine Artillery, Detachment* 99th New York, Company B. 1 2 2 6 4 4 3 1 2 8 41 11 47 11 59 16 55 3 16 6 107 11-2 5 2 57 44 3...... 11 9 23 i 6.----. 28 2 37 1 2 3 1 14 2 77 13 107 2 15 17 2 15 17 I I 2. 5j I .-I~ r - Grand total Department of Nortli Carolina t5 32 10 204 I 13 264 I I * No loss reported. Includes Lient. Col. Joseph A. Viguer De Monteil, whose regiment, Fifty-third New York, was not engaged. Ko. 4. Report of Brig. Gen. John U. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade, with sketch. * HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, Roanoke Island, February 9, 1862. Sin: I have the honor t.o report that, in obedience to the orders of the commanding general and in pursuance of the plan of observations previonsly agreed upon in a council ordered by him, I proceeded to land my brigade on Roanoke Island on the evenilig of the 7th instant, * The sketch is taken from his report to the Committee on the Conduct of the War. CHAP. XX. Page 86 86 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. while the engagement between the fleet and the enemys battery on Pork Point was still in progress. I embarked 500 of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Regiment on the Pilot Boy, and towing all the boats from the vessels of my brigade loaded with detachments from the dif- ferent regiments composing it, in all 1,400 men, I headed for Ashbys Harbor, which had been agreed upon as the landing point. As I ap- proached closely I detected with the glass the presence of an ambus- caded force of infantry and artillery, and in consequence immediately headed the boat for the point just above the harbor, in front of Ham- inonds house, where the force landed without molestation. General Reno, with the Union and Patuxent, and General Parke, in the Phienix, landed immediately after my detachment, making in all over 4,000 meu landed in twenty minutes. As soon as the force at Ashbys Harbor saw us land at the point above they commenced a hasty retreat, in order not to be cut off by road from Hammonds house, which intersects the main road through the island above its intersection with the road from Ashbys. During the landing Captain Rowan, U. S. Navy, commanding the first division of the fleet, ordered the Delaware, Captain Quackenbush, U. S. Navy, and Captain Hazard, U. S. Navy, ordered the Picket, Capt. T. P. Ives, to run iu and cover the landing with their guns. This was handsomely done, althongh it required but a few shells to accelerate the retreat of the force from Ashbys. I returned and brought on shore a second load, and then landed, leaving Captain Potter, assistant commissary of subsistence of my brigade, on board the steamer to continue the debarkation. Finding that the general commanding had returned to the fleet, I assumed com- mand as senior officer present. During the night my entire brigade (with the exception of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts on board the Guide and aground) were landed, as also the brigades of ~enerals Reno and Parke. The night was rainy, and the men, wet from their march from the landing, were obliged to bivouac around their fires, but kept in excellent spirits. I made a reconnaissance in the evening with Gen- erals Reno and Parke, to ascertain the position of the enemy, the roads, & c., and made all the proper dispositions for the night.- At daybreak of the 8th I advanced my brigade across the creek in accordance with the plan of operations above referred to, the Twenty- fifth Massachusetts being in the advance. On reaching a clearing I met the enemys pickets, and was fired upon by them. They then fell back on a run, followed by our skirmishers. We advanced to the main road, and then upon that road until, when near the middle of the island, we came upon the enemy in a strong position prepared for battle. The road at this point was a causeway, flanked on each side by an almost impassable marsh, with thick underbrush on either side. In front of the battery the trees were cut down, so as to give a clear sweep of their guns for a distance of 700 yards in front, for the whole of which dis- tance the advance in front was fully exposed to the fire of three pieces in embrasure, supported by a force of about 2,000 men. Of the seven light pieces from the ships launches, six were placed on the road so that two could be used at a time, flanked by the Twenty-fifth Massachu- setts Volunteers in line. This regiment was supported by the Twenty- third Massachusetts Regiment, also in line. We then advanced to the attack. As soon as the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts and the Tenth. Connecticut Volunteers came up I ordered the Twenty-third Massachu- setts, supported by the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, to advance through the morass on our right and endeavor to turn the enemys left Page 87 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF RUANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 87 The Tenth Connecticut was brought up to support the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts. General Peno then came up with his whole brigade, and proceeded to turn the right of the enemys position through the swamp on that side. General Parke next came up with his brigade, and I directed him to push forward to the right, following the Twenty-third and Twenty-seventh Massachusetts in the attempt to turn the enemys left through the marsh and swamp on that side. In the mean time the engagement was warm in front. The light pieces having fired all but ten rounds, I ordered their fire to cease, and these rounds to be preserved for an emergency, keeping the pieces in position. The Twenty-fifth Massachusetts had expended its ammunition and suf- fered considerable loss. I therefore advanced the Tenth Connecticut in front of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Regiment, and held the lat- ter in reserve. After the engagement (which commenced at 8 oclock) had lasted three and a half hours, the Ninth New York (the last of General Parkes regiments) coming on the field, followed by the Twenty-fourth Massa- chusetts ,I directed General Parke to order it to charge. The order was given, and the regiment charged at a run with yells, cheered by the other troops, right up the road at the battery. Major Kimball, of this regiment, exhibited marked gallantry, leading the charge by sev- eral rods. The enemy left the battery. Their retreat was, however, a necessity from other causes, for General Reno had at this time turned the enemys right and was firing into the rear of their battery and charging at the same time into them, and the Twenty-third Massachu- setts, at the head of General Park& s column, sent to turn the enemys left, had also made its appearance on the other flank. The enemy re- treated in precipitation, leaving three guns unspiked, their caissons, and the dead and some wounded in the battery. General Reno im- mediately pushed on in pursuit, and I sent to report to the commanding general the result of the battle and the anticipation of another one at the upper batteries. I then followed General Reno with my brigade, the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, which was fresh, being in front. I soon overtook and passed General iReno, who was busy in securing the fugitives attempting to escape in boats across to Nags Head, and pushed forward toward the upper end of the island to overtake the re- treating regiments of the enemy. Just before reaching the fort on the upper extremity of the island I was met by a flag of truce, borne by Lieutenant-Colonel Fowle, of the Thirty-first North Carolina Volunteers, who came from Col. II. M. Shaw, of the Eighth North Carolina Volunteers, commanding the en- emys forces on the island, to ask what terms of surrender would be grante(l. I replied, none but those of unconditional surrender. He asked what time would be allowed for consultation. I replied, just as long as it will take to get to Colonel Shaw and return, and sent Major Stevenson, of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, to bring back the an- swer. Becoming impatient, I advanced with the Twenty-fourth Mas- sachusetts, but when near their camp was met by the flag of truce returning to say that my terms were accepted. I then marched into the main camp and received the surrender of Colonel Shaw as com- mander of the enemys forces on the island, with all his forces. I im- mediately ordered Colonel Kurtz, with the Twenty-third Massachusetts, to advance and secure the camp of the Thirty-first North Carolina Volunteers, near by, but his arrival was anticipated by General IReno, who had already secured their camp, with the regiment it contained Page 88 88 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CuAr. XX. The camps consisted of well-built quarters, store-houses, and hospitals, all newly built. The forces surrendered numbered in all about 3,000. The two forts on the island above the one on Pork Point are well constructed, and mount in all sixteen guns of heavy caliber, with well- stocked magazines. After securing the prisoners and arms I went to report the result to the general commanding, and found him in the Pork Point Battery, upon which he had advanced with General Parke, supported by the Tenth Connecticut (one of my brigade). I have only time in this hasty report to notice in general terms the conduct of the troops, and to say that I never saw men stand up more gallantly under a hot fire than did the regiments of my brigade, espe- cially the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts and Tenth Connecticut Regi- ments, both of which suffered quite severely. Colonel Russell, of the Tenth Connecticut, fell gallantly at the head of his regiment, and after his fall the regiment was commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Drake. I would notice here the gallant conduct of Midshipman Benjamin Porter and Acting Master J. B. Hammond, of the Navy, who commanded the light guns from the ships Launches and were constantly under fire. They both deserve commissions for their admirable conduct on this occasion. The reports of the several regimental commanders of my brigade, which are herewith inclosed, will show in detail the names of those fficers and men who distinguished themselves by their gallant con- duct. They all behaved admirably, both officers and men. With the exception of Captain fl~ffman and Lieutenant Anderson, who were on the field with me, and Captains Potter and Hudson, who were engaged in bringing up ammunition and provisions, my aides were on time gunboats Ranger, Hussar, and VedetteCaptain Mes. singer and Lieut. Ed. N. Strong on the Ranger, Lient. James M. Pen. dleton on the Vedette, and James II. Strong on the Hussar. Lieuten- ants Van Buren and Gordon, of the Signal Corps, volunteered as aides at the time and were of great service in carrying orders. I would mention that Vigner De Monteil, hienten ant-colonel of the Fifty-third Regiment, came up during the action and asked permission to fight as a private. This I granted, and lie passed on in front to the position of the Tenth Connecticut, where he stood coolly aiming and firing his rifle and exhibiting the most marked bravery. He fell shot dead toward the close of the engagement. The colonels of the different regiments of my brigade exhibited marked ability, coolness, and daring. The Twenty-fifth Regiment was commanded by Colonel Upton, the Twenty-seventh by Colonel Lee, the Twenty-third by Colonel Iiurtz, the Twenty-fourth by Colonel Stevenson, the Tenth Connecticut by Colonel Russell. I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, ~T. G. FOSTER, Brigadier-4ene~al, U. ~. Army. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 89 CHAP. XX.~ BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. Nbte~ fl~...~1~9117ZSG7Ld )WIJZtLUMCL. FDrIB& WchLudA9w1., .B,rtfla~tow & l& ~PUj tP29ma A Janciiruy PLu.cE dS B Le ~u, foi~~kL . licbeLi .mnvicZea~cL 89 SKET(T[ 0:33 No. 5. Report of Capt. Daniel ]JiLessinger, Acting Aide-de-Camp. HEADQUARTERS GENERAL FOSTERS BRIGADE, On Board Pilot Boy, off Boanolce Island, February 9, 1862. CAPTAIN: 1 have the honor to report that by order of Brigadier- General Foster, on the afternoon of February 6, Lieut. E. N. Strong, aide-de-camp, and myself went on board the gunboat Ranger to carry out his instructions. The troops on board the Ranger (the Twenty- seventh Massachusetts Volunteers), with the exception of one company retained as a guard for the boat, and a detail from Company E to serve as gunners, were placed on the steamer New York and schooner Re Page 90 90 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. t [CHAP. XX. cruit. We then, a~t 2 oclock p. in., reported as ready for action to Captain Hazard, U. S. Navy, on steamer Picket. At 9.30 the next morning a signal from the commodore was repeated to us from the Picket to get under way and follow the fleet into action. At 12.30 we opened fire with one 30-pounder Parrott gun on the battery at Pork Point. and lodged our first shell within the battery. We con- tinued our fire with the Parrott gun and two 12-pounder Wiard guns whenever opportunity was afforded us by the position of the fleet until the order came from the commodore to cease firing at 6.30 p. m. We then had thrown 121 shells, many with effect. In our endeavor to get within shorter range we ran aground, and thereby lost an hour. Although many of the enemys shells exploded near us, our vessel was not struck. On the following day, just after we were ordered into action, we were signaled that the attack had been commenced by our land forces, and we were thus prevented from reopening our fire. I respectfully call to your notice the zeal and efficiency of Lieutenant Eyre, of the Naval Brigade, under whose immediate direction the Par- rott and Wiard guns were served on the gun-deck, and of Lieutenant Dennison, of the Twenty-seventh lVlassachusetts Volunteers ,who had command of the 12-pounder Wiard boat howitzer on the upper deck. I append the report of Lieutenant Eyre, with interesting memoranda as to the service of the guns, and remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DANIEL MESSINGEiR Acting Aide-do- Camp. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 6. Report of Lient. C. Gushing Fyre, First New York Marine Artillery. ROANOKE ISLAND, February 8 1862. I have the honor to report the working of the battery of the Ran- ger during the action at Pork Point Battery on February 7 and 8: Commenced firing at 12.30 at the distance of 3 miles. As the vessel worked ahead we were several times obliged to wear ship, each time running nearer to the battery. During the afternoon the firing was more effective, owing to the vessel having been brought closer to the enemys position. During the latter part of the engagement the shell were thrown into the Point battery with accuracy. Expended during the action, 3 Parrott shell, elevation ~ dis- tance about 3 miles; 6 Parrott shell, elevation 150, distance about 2~ miles; 3 Parrott shell, elevation 16~, distance about 2~- to 3 miles; 12 Parrott shell, elevation 12~, distance about ~ miles; 2 Parrott shell, elevation 13~0, distance about ~ miles. From Wiards 12-pounder, expended 20 shell and shot at an eleva- tion of 15~ to 17~, distance 2~ miles; 38 shell and shot at an elevation of 80 to 120, distance 2~ miles. About 3.30 p. in., being within range for the 12-pounder boat how- itzer, commenced firing with it, and expended 45 shot and shell, ver Page 91 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 91 few of them falling short. This gun was in charge of Lieutenant Den nison, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers. Respectfully, ~ CUSHING EYRE, First Lieutenant Marine Artillery. Capt. DANIEL MESSINGER, Gunboat Banger. No. 7. Report of Lieut. James H. Strong, Aide-de- Camp. HEADQUARTERS GENERAL FosTERs BRIGADE, Pilot Boy, February 10, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to General Fosters orders,on the afternoon of February 61 went on board the gunboat Hussar to carry out his instructions. The troops on the Hus- sar were distributed on board the Highlander, Skirmisher, and New Brunswick, with the exception of one company, detained on board as a guard for the ship and 18 men detailed for working the guns. At 7 p. m. we reported, as directed, to Captain Hazard, U. S. Navy, on board the Picket. At 7 a. in., 8th instant, Captain Hazard came alongside and ordered us to follow the Pioneer on signal from Picket. This signal we re- ceived at 10 oclock a. in., and as soon as the Pioneer got under way we followed closely. At 11 oclock a. m. we received signal, Prepare for action, and shortly. after, Attack. We made all ready; as soon as we were within range commenced firing at the battery at Pork Point with one 30-pounder Parrott and sometimes at the gunboats of the enemy when they ventured within range of our 6-pounder Wiard, until a signal from the commodore, Cease firing,~~ at 6.30 p. in., when we anchored out of range of the battery. The guns were served with coolness and accuracy by Lieutenant Hedden, of the Marine Artillery, but owing to our draught of water (9 feet 8 inches) we were unable to get as near the enemy as we wished. Captain Alexander, of the Twenty-third Massachusetts Volunteers, and Mr. Ward, first officer of the Hussar, rendered very material as- sistance in serving the guns during the action. I annex report of Lieutenant Hedden, which I requested him to send, in regard to the working of the guns, as it contains some inter- esting details. 1 remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES H. STRONG, Aide-de- Camp. Capt. SOUTHARD HoFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 8. Report of Lieut. James A. Iliedden, First New York Marine Artillery. GUNBOAT HUSSAR, Roanoke Island, February 10, 1862. SIR: In answer to your request this morning I herewith inclose you a statement of the working of guns on board the gunboat Hussar a Page 92 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. c; 93 No. 10. Report of Lient. Col. Albert W. Drake, Tenth Connecticut L~fantry. IIDQRS. TENTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLS., U. S. Steamer New Brunswick, February 11, 1862. SIR: In obedience to orders of Brigadier-General Foster I beg leave to report the part taken by the Tenth Regiment Connecticut Volun- teers in the action of IRoanoke Island, February 8, 1862: The regiment was landed in three detachments during the afternoon, and bivouacked that night near Hammonds house. The next morning at about 7 oclock the regiment was ordered to fall in, and shortly after moved with the remainder of the First Brigade up the island. We had marched but a short distance before the sound of sharp firing in advance told us that the action had commenced. Arriving on the field the regiment was ordered to form line and commence firing on the en- emy, but owing to the dense bushes on our right and the exceedingly swampy nature of the ground there was room only for the right wing to move forward into position. The left wing was held in reserve a short distance in their rear. Firing was immediately commenced by the right wing and was maintained with much steadiness and constancy. Near the close of the action Colonel Russell was killed. I inune- diately assumed command, and after the enemy had left the battery formed the regiment, and taking our position on the left of the brigade followed in pursuit. After proceeding up the road some 4 miles I was ordered by General Burnside to march the regiment in rear of the Fourth Rhode Island Volunteers to Pork Point Battery, where we ar- rived late in the afternoon and found it abandoned. I bivouacked the regiment near the fort until the morning of the 10th, when, in obedience to orders from General Foster, I marched the regiment to the upper end of the island, whence it was transferred to its old quarters on board the steamer New Brunswick. Before closing this report I feel it my duty to say a word in com- mendation of the behavior of the officers and men of the regiment during the action and to speak of the noble manner in which they all performed their duty., Captains Pardee, Coit, Leggett, and Jepson, who were in the right wiug and hottest of the fire, with their lieuten- ants, showed great coolness and courage, and merit the highest com- mendation. Captains Leggett and Jepson were wounded. Appended is a list of our killed and wounded.* Yours, very resl)ectfully, ALBERT W. DRAKE, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Tenth 1?egt. Conn. Vols. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brigade, Dept. North Carolina. No. 11. Report of Col. John Kurtz, Twenty-third Massachusetts Infantry. HDQRS. TWENTY-THIRD MASSACHUSETTS VOLUNTEERS, - Camp Foster, Roanoke island, N. C., February 9, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to General Fosters orders, my regiment, at daybreak on the morning of Saturday last, fol *Embodied in statement on p. 85 Page 93 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 93 No. 10. Report of Lient. Col. Albert W. Drake, Tenth Connecticut Ii~fantry. IIDQRS. TENTH IREThIENT CONNECTICUT VOLS., U. S. Steamer New Brunswick, February 11, 1862. Sin: In obedience to orders of Brigadier-General Foster I beg leave to report the part taken by the Tenth Regiment Connecticut Volun- teers in the action of iRoanoke Island, February 8, 1862: The regiment was landed in three detachments during the afternoon, and bivouacked that night near Hammond~s house. The next morning at about 7 oclock the regiment was ordered to fall in, and shortly after moved with the remainder of the First Brigade up the island. We had marched bnt a short distance before the sound of sharp firing in advance told ns that the action had commenced. Arriving on the field the regiment was ordered to form line and commence firing on the en- emy, bnt owing to the dense bushes on our right and the exceedingly swampy nature of the ground there was room only for the right wing to move forward into position. The left wing was held in reserve a short distance in their rear. Firing was immediately commenced by the right wing and was maintained with much steadiness and constancy. Near the close of the action Colonel Russell was killed. I imme- diately assumed command, and after the enemy had left the battery formed the regiment, and taking our position on the left of the brigade followed in pursuit. After proceeding up the road some 4 miles I was ordered by General Burnside to march the regiment in rear of the Fourth Rhode Island Volunteers to Pork Point Battery, where we ar- rived late in the afternoon and found it abandoned. I bivouacked the regiment near the fort until the morning of the 10th, when, in obedience to orders from General Foster, I marched the regiment to the upper end of the island, whence it was transferred to its old quarters on board the steamer New Brunswick. Before closing this report I feel it my duty to say a word in com- mendation of the behavior of the officers and men of the regiment during the action and to speak of the noble manner in which they all perforumed their duty~ Captains Pardee, Coit, Leggett, and Jepson, who were in the right wiug and hottest of the fire, with their lieuten- ants, showed great coolness and courage, and merit the highest com- mendation. Captains Leggett and Jepson were wounded. Appended is a list of our killed and wounded.* Yours, very resJ)ectfully, ALBERT W. DRAKE, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Tenth Regt. Coun. Vols. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brigade, Dept. North Carolina. No. 11. Report of Col. John Kurtz, Twenty-third ]Jiiiassachusetts Infantry. IIDQRS. TWENTY-THIRD MASSACHUSETTS VOLUNTEERS, Camp Foster, Roanoke island, N. C., February 9, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to General Fosters orders, my regiment, at daybreak on the morning of Saturday last, fol *Embodied in statement onp. 85 Page 94 94 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. lowed the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts from the ground upon which we bivouacked the night before up the main road of this island. At 8.15 oclock we arrived at a crotch of the road, and found General Foster, with the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, already engaged with the rebels at a breastwork wbich they had thrown across the road in a well-chosen position. I was ordered and formed my regiment in column by division in rear of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts. I subsequently received an order to march by a flank across the fire of the enemy and through an almost impenetrable swamp and turn his flank, and after an effort of two and a half hours of the most fatiguing and laborious exertion I succeeded in getting four companies into position to rake the left flank of the enemys lines behind his work. My men lutroduced themselves to his notice by opening a brisk fusillade, which he did not condescend to return, but immediately commenced to retreat, when the whole line of our troops made a charge which made him accelerate his pace toward his other strongholds, and we took possession of the work. I cannot speak with too much praise of the conduct of the officers and men of my command for their indomitable perseverance in forcing through the swamp. The undergrowth was a thick bush, entwined by a strong brier, which caused it to close immediately upon the. disap- pearance of a man through it. The water and mud all the way was above the knees of the men, several of whom I saw waist-deep in the mire, and taking into consideration the fact that this was the first time nearly all of them had been under fire, I cannot speak two highly of their conduct, individually and collectively. After a rest of about half an hour we were ordered to follow the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, which had just arrived, and pursue the retreating rebelsq and after a march of 5 or 6 miles we entered the encampment or winter quarters of the rebels, and found they had sur- rendered to General Fo~ter, and we were ordered to take up our quar- ters there with the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts and disarm and guard the prisoners, some 1,900 officers and men, with their arms, equipruents, ammunition, and ordnance, quartermaster and commissary stores. Yery respectfully, JOHN KURTZ, 6~olonel, Commanding Twenty-third Massachusetts. Captain HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Brigade, Coast Division. No. 12. Report of Col. Thomas G. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth ]Jliassachusetts In fantry. The steamer Admiral, with the Twenty-fourth Regiment on board, having got aground on the afternoon of 7th February, the regiment was not landed until the morning of the 8th. At 7 oclock in the morn- ing the steamers Union and Eagle came alongside the Admiral and took the troops on board. Two companiesA, Captain Redding, and E, Captain looperwere put on board the Eagle, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Osborn, and seven companies on the Union, under command of myself. C& mpany C, Captain Pratt, had been detailed for service on board the gunboat Vedette, where it remained during the action. The Union landed the troops on board at the same place tha Page 95 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. 0. 95 troops had been landed the nightprevious, and about 2 miles below where the action was taking place. After landing 1 was ordered by General Buruside to advance as rapidly as possible. I accordingly marched the regiment forward, but unfortunately arrived after the battery had been carried. On arriving at the captured fort I reported to Genera?Foster, who ordered us to the front to follow .np the enemy. After marching some distance we met the Fifty-first New York arid continued with them until we were halted at the sand hills. From this point we were ordered forward alone to take what prisoners we could, as many were reported to be leaving in small boats. We were accom- panied by General Foster. After marching aboi~ 3 miles we were met by a flag of truce from the enemy, proposing a suspension of hostilities until the following morning. The reply was given by General Foster, Unconditional surrender,~ and time enough given to return to their camp and send back an answer. Major Stevenson, of the Twenty- fourth, was ordered to retain with the flag and bring back the reply. After some time he returned with the answer that they surrendered. I was then ordered by General Foster to advance and take possession of their camp. On the way Company H, Captain Daland, and Com- pany B, Captain Austin, were detached and ordered to proceed along the shore and stop any boats that might be leaving with rebels, the remaining five companies numbering about 300 men, and entered their camp, where Colonel Shaw, commanding, delivered up his sword to General Foster, who ordered me to take command. I then ordered the prisoners to be mustered and their arms to be taken possession of All the muskets were then placed in the quartermasters building and a guard put over them. While this was being done Private Sanborn, Company K, was wounded in the~ arm by the accidental discharge of one of the muskets. The officers were allowed to retain their side- arms by order of General Foster. The prisoners were then l)laced in quarters and a large guard placed over them. Company B returned from their scouting, having fired upon. and brought to a boat containing 10 rebels, including 3 officers. Company H also returned, having captured two boats containing 9 men and 2 officers. They also brought in about 150 prisoners captured in the woods and on the shore. The regiment was joined during the evening by the two companies under Lieutenant-Colonel Osborn. They had been employed in bringing ammunition forward from the landing. THOS. G. STEVENSON, Colonel Twenty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN Assistant Adjutant- General, Eirst Brigade. No. 13. Report of Gol. Edwin Upton, Twenty-fifth Mdssachusetts infantry. HDQRs. TWENTY-FIFTH MASSACHUSETTS REGIMENT, Gamp on Roanoke Island, February 10, 1862. SIR: At about daybreak on the morning of Saturday, the 8th instant, by order of Brigadier-General Foster, my regiment left the bivouac it had occupied the night previous at Hammonds house, and advanced, accompanied b~ General Foster, in its position on the right of his br Page 96 96 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. gade. Arriving at the ford about one-half mile from Hammonds house, the advance was fired upon by ttie enemys pickets. I was inane- diately ordered by General Foster to throw forward skirmishers, and ordered Company A, Capt. Josiah Pickett, to deploy, supported by Company E, Capt. Thomas ONeil. The enemys fire was returned, and his pickets retired rapidly to and down the main road, followed by the skirmishers. Advancing to about a mile from the ford, they reported having discovered the enemy in position, apparently about 2,009 strong. General Foster at once ordered me to form the regiment in line of bat- tle across the road, the right resting on a clearing commanded by the guns of the enemy, th~ left extending into the woods and thicket. Fire was opened by both parties, oni artillery shortly after getting into posi- tion, supported by the right wing of my regiment. I was ordered to and did press steadily forward, bringing oar line within about 300 yards of the enemys battery. Fire was kept up by us without inter- mission for about three hours until about 10.39 oclock a. in., whei, our ammunition being exhausted, I was ordered to form in column by com- pany in rear of our right, which was done in good order. The men rested on their arms, waiting for a fresh supply of ammunition until, the enemy having left his work~ I was ordered to advance in company with the remainder of General Fosters brigade. Arriving at the upper end of the island, I was ordered by General Foster to quarter in this camp, then in possession of the Twenty-third and Twenty-fourth Massa- chusetts Regiments. Appended is a list of killed and wounded, amounting to 6 killed and 42 wounded.* I would express my great satisfaction with the conduct of the regiment, both officers ahd men. It was throughout the en- gagement of the bravest kind, standing as they did for hours in water to their knees and waists, exposed to an incessant fire of musketry, grape, and shell, with no disposition on the part of any man to waver. The skirmishing of Company A, Capt Josiah Pickett, was performed ki a manner that would have done credit to regulars. 1 can b~t ex- press my particular satisfaction with the manner in which Lieutenant- Colonel Sprague, Major McCafferty, and Adjutant Harkuess performed the duties devolving upon them and the support rendered me by them throughout the engagement. I am, sir, yours, very respectfully, EDWIN UPTON, Colonel, Commanding Twenty-fifth Regiment Mass. Vols. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Pirst Brigade. No. 14. Report of ~J0l. iforace C. Lee, Twenty-seventh Mass~aehusetts Infantry. HDQRS. TWENTY-SEVENTh REGIMENT MAss. VOLS., In Camp at Doughs Farm, February 10, 1862. SIR: I would respectfully report the movements of the regiment under my command at the engagement February 8: We had but nine companies engaged, Company D having been de * But see revised statement on p. 85 Page 97 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. 0. 97 tailed to serve on board the Ranger. Three of my captains were sick and left on the Recruit. Upon arriving at the scene of action we im- mediately, by order, filed to the right of the road into the swamp, and formed in line in rear of the Twenty-third. We soon commenced mov- ing to the front and across to the left, firing as we could get an oppor- tunity. As soon as we were uncovered by the Twenty-thud, or par- tially so, being then directly in front of the enemy, we commenced firing. We here met with all the loss sustained. Upon reaching the cover of the woods, finding that we could only fire by company on account of the Twenty-third being partly in front and the Tenth Connecticut par- tially covering our rear and firing, we formed in that manner, marching out in succession, firing deliberately, then retiring. We were in this manner evidently doing good execution, when orders were received to push on and flank the enemy upon their left. This, on account of the dense undergrowth of vines and bushes, the water and mud being also much deeper, was extremely difficult, and our progress consequently slow. Before we could possibly get through we heard the cheering, and soon learned that the rebels had retreated. After the engagement we, as ordered, followed up the road as rapidly as possible to the rebel encamp- ment. Finding that they had surrendered and were under guard, we encamped on Doughs farm, near there, and now await further orders. I cannot speak in too strong terms of the good conduct of both offi- cers and men. With scarcely an exception they behaved with the utmost coolness and bravery. Lieutenant Fowler had his sword and sheath deeply indented by a grape shot. Lieutenant Goodale had his sword knocked from his hands and bent nearly double by a ball. Very respectfully, your obedieliLt servant, H.C. LEE, Colonel, Comdg. Twenty-seventh Regiment Mass. Vols. Brig. Gen. J. G. FOSTER. No. 15. Report of Brig. Gen. Jesse L. Reno, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIG-ADE, LATE CAMP 31ST N. C. REGT., NOW CAMP BURNSIDE, February 10, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in compliance with orders from General Buruside I embarked the Twenty-first Massachusetts Reg- iment and eight companies of the Fifty-first Regiment New York Vol- unteers upon light-draught steambo~ ts and proceeded toward Ashbys Harbor. General Burnside coming up, ordered me to wait until the boat howitzers, then being rowed towards my vessels, should arrive. While waiting, General Foster, with a portion of his command, passed ahead. As soon as the howitzers arrived they were taken in tow, pre- ceded by the gunboats Picket and Delaware, and under cover of their fire we effected a landing, no resistance being offered. General Foster first reached the shore, then my conimand, followed immediately by General Parkes, and within twenty minutes over 4,000 men were landed. I immediately dispatched Captain Neill, assistant adjutant- general, to land the Ninth New Jersey and Fifty-first Pennsylvania, all of whom were landed before 9 oclock p. m. The general commanding 7 R RVOL I Page 98 98 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. passed me as I was landing, and having given direction to secure and hold the position, returned to the fleet, leaving me in command, Gen- eral Foster having returned to bring up the rest of his brigade. I sent the Twenty-first Massachusetts Volunteers to occupy the road and woods in front, General Parke having previously sent out skirmishers to hold the woid~ on the right and left. General Foster having returned, he, General Parke, and my~,Af pro- ceeded to the front of our lines and made as careful a reconnaissance as circumstances would allow. In accordance with the plan previously adopted in council and ordered by the general commanding, General Foster proceeded at daylight with his brigade, and about 8 oclock met and engaged the enemy. I followed with my brigade in the following order: The Twenty-first Massachusetts, Fifty-first New York, Ninth New Jersey, and Fifty-first Pennsylvaiiia. As the road was very iiar- row and the woods and swamp on each side almost impenetrable, we proceeded but slowly, General Fosters brigade occupying the road. Finding it impossible to proceed directly to the front, I sent Lieutenant Morris, my aide, to inform General Foster that I would endeavor to penetrate the woods and swamp, and thus turn their right. General Foster having approved the plan, I proceeded at the head of the Twenty- first Massachusetts Volunteers toward the enemys right. We were soon hotly engaged, but without stopping I kept moving my flank toward Lhe left, bitt owing to the depth of water and dense under- brush we could make only slow progress. Finally, after the lapse of about two hours, we succeeded in turning their right. I then ordered a charge, which was most gallantly executed by the Twenty-first Massa- chusetts, Fifty-first New York, and Ninth New Jersey. The Fifty-first Pennsylvania, owing to their position in the rear, could not get up in time to participate, but they would have been in position in a very short time. Fortunately our charge was successful and the enemy fled pre- cipitately. The honor of first entering the fort is divided between the Fifty-first New York and the Twenty-first Massachusetts, but all charged gallantly, and it was owing only to their position being nearer the fort that enabled them to reach it first. During the engagement, which lasted about four hours, General Fosters brigade most gallantly attacked them in the front, and General Parke was in the act of turning their left when my brigade charged and carried the battery. During the engagement I proceeded to General Fosters position in front of his brigade, and meeting General Parke, the final plan of the assault was made. From the beginning of the attack until the battery was taken not a regiment or company retired or faltered, bat advanced as rapidly as water waist deep andthe thick and almost impenetrable under- brush would permit. Within fifteen minutes after the assault Iformedmy brigade and started in pursuit, the Twenty-first Massachusetts being in advance, followed by the Fifty-first New York, Ninth New Jersey, and Fifty-first Pennsylvania. Colonel Hawkins regiment (Ninth New York) for some distance accompanied the head of my column, occupying the right. On coming to a road that led to the right I sent my aide, Lieu- tenant IReno, to direct the Ninth New York to follow it and endeavor to capture those of the enemy that were attempting to escape in small boats. Some 24 wounded prisoners were thus captured, and among others Capt. 0. Jennings Wise, who had been mortally wounded. By advancing rapidly we captured a large number of stragglers. Upon arriving within about a mile of their advanced position I learned from the prisoners that there were some 2,500 of the enemy in advance, and as the Twenty-first Massachusetts was some distance i Page 99 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 99 advance I halted them and sent back one of my aides to hasten lip the rest of my brigade. While awaiting their arrival General Foster came up and passed on with the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, my brigade following immediately. Captain Bradford, commanding Company E, Twenty-first Massachusetts, being in advance, came upon a large body of troops, whom he immediately ordered to lay down their arms, bnt they opened fire upon him, which he returned killing 4 of them. The rest then fled precipitately. Immediately after a flag of truce was sent up, and General Foster being in advance, Lieutenant ilovey accompanied it, and an unconditional surrender was made to him. In the mean time I came up, and proceeded immediately to the barracks of the Thirty-first North Carolina liegiment, commanded by Colonel Jordan, who sur- rendered his entire command. Their arms having been secured, I as- signed the prisoners to a portion of the barracks and occupied the remainder with my brigade. As the command behaved with distinguished gallantry I cannot in justice to the others particularize individuals, but I beg leave to refer you to the accompanying reports of the regimental commanders for the particulars, all of which I most heartily indorse. Lieutenant-Colonel Maggi commanded and led the Twenty-first M~ ssachusetts, Colonel Ferrero the Fifty-first New York, Lieutenant-Colonel lleckman the Ninth New Jersey, and Colonel llartranft the Fifty-first Pennsylvania. Lieutenant-Colonel Maggis regiment captured the flag of the fort and raised the first colors (the regimental flag). The Fifty-first New York raised the national flag on the parapet. Lieutenant-Colonel Potter, of the Fifty-first New York, led the three companies of his regiment that first entered the fort and was one of the first in. Captain Neill, assist- ant adjutant-general, Lieutenant IReno and Lieutenant Morris, my aides, and Lieutenant Marsh, of the Signal Corps, rendered me valuable as- sistance iu carrying orders through the thickest of the fight and in directing the various regiments to their positions. In my brigade the total number killed was 16 and 64 wounded.* The regimental reports give the full particul~ rs concerning the killed and wounded. Captain Henry, Company H, Ninth New Jersey, was killed whilst gallantly leading his company. Captain Foster, Company D, Twenty-first Massa- chusetts, was severely but not dangerously wounded, and Lieutenant Stearns, adjuL nt of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, was hit twice in the head and neck, but fortunately the wounds were slight, and he remained, his face covered with blood, with his colonel at the head of the regiment during the whole day. Captain iRitchie, assistant commis- sary of the brigade, was~ detailed by me on the 7th instant to go on board the Pioneer and join the naval attack. He gallantly directed the vessel to the thickest of the fight. I beg leave to refer to his report for the particulars. Captain Nichols, of the Naval Brigade, took direc- tion of the Lancer, the other gunboat belonging to the brigade, and participated in the naval athek. Two companies of the Fifty-first New York were on board the gunboats. I have had no report from them, but I have heard that no casualties occurred. Inclosed I send a list of the prisoners now in my camp.t The list is not complete, but it is all that I have had time to obtain. The names of 30 officers and 493 men are given. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, tour obedient servant, J. L. lIENO, Brigadier-General, Second Brigade, Bur sides Division. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. * But see revised statement, p. 85. tOmitted Page 100 100 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. No. 16. Report of Capt. Montgomery Ritchie, Aide-de- Camp. ON BOARD PROPELLER GUNBOAT PIONEER, February 7, 1862. SIR: On the 6th instant, in obedience to the orders of General Reno, 1 proceeded on board and took command of this vessel. At 8.30 a. m. this day got under way and cleared the ship for action. The action became general at 12.30 p. m. between the rebel gunboats, their redoubt on the central part of iRoanoke, and the fleet. Opened fire from our ~0-pounder Parrott at 25 minutes to 1 p. in., and from the Wi~rd gun at 10 minutes to 1 oclock. Owing to her draught of water, though we ran her aground, it was impracticable to approach as near as desirable. We maintained fire during the day until after 5 p. in., expending 95 rounds of ammunition. Captain Baker, of the Pioneer, placed his ves- sel skillfully in position. The Parrott gun, under command of Lient. F. W. Tryon, Fifty-first New York Volunteers, and the Wiard gun (12- pounder), under Mr. , fist mate, deserve honorable mention for the manner in which their guns were halidled. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, M. RITCHIE, Captain, Aide of General Reno. Capt. E. M. KEILL, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Brigade. No. 17. Report of Lieat. Col. Alberto C. Maggi, Twenty-first Massachusetts In fantry. IIDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST REGIMENT MASS. VoLs., Roanoke Island, February 9, 1862. GENERAL: Friday, the 7th, at 5p. in., my regiment disembarked. I formed the line rapidly and in good order. Then General Parke came in your name and asked from my regiment a company of skirmishers, in order to go in advance to explore the road which from the place of disembarkation was crossing the woods toward our riglmt side. I gave to him Company D, 90 men strong, commanded by Capt. T. S. Foster. Afterward you came and gave me the order to go to the cross-road and take possession of all that ground, placing my pickets for the night in order to cover the main body. I did so, placing a section of artillery at the cross-road, supported by Comnpany C, and throwing to right and left from water to water two other companies in small pickets, covered by sentries at a distance of 15 paces each, and placing the rest of the regiment at the emid of the wood a supports. Duriub this march the head of the advance guard was fired upon by the advance pickets of the enemy and one of our men wounded. We brought him back. It now being quite dark, the advance guard was called imi and one m~ n was found missing. He returned the following day. I had already detailed two sections as a scouting party, who would have relieved each other during the night, in order to explore the ground in front of the pickets and advance as far as possible with- out giving the alarm, in order to discover the position of the enemy Page 101 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 101 but at that time you, general, and General Foster, came and gave me the order to change the position of the pickets, concentrating them on the road and place them to the front. I did so. Six companies were in front, with two pieces of artillery, with a prolongation of picket iu the two roads which opened through the woods at an angle of about 60g. The other four companies, with the three pieces of artillery, were to the rear precisely at the other cross-road, which lay 500 yards behind the first. Those companies had pickets right and left, bnt with the order to do no firing to the front and in case of an attack to act as sup- port, we stood all night without fire, it raining all tile time. None of the men slept, and every half honr I made the companies fall in in the greatest silence. All officers and men of the regiment, with out exception, comported themselves with remarkable patience and endurance dnring the twelve hours of darkness and raiuing. Not a word of grumbling, not an expression of weariness. At 6.30, after a small scouting party which I seut a little beyond my pickets returned, I permitted my meu to light fires, in order to dry themselves as mnch as possible. At 7 oclock an aide of General Fos- ter came and ordered me to allow the First Brigade to pass through my line of pickets. The brigade came half an hour after, headed by the general himself~ in the following order: Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, Twenty-third Massachusetts~ Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, Fifth Battalion Rhode Island, and Tenth Connecticut. My regiment was in line, and immediately npon your arrival we followed them. We arrived in time. Following your order to defile through swamp and water to the rear and left of the Twenty-fifth and then halting, I took the two flank companies, D and G, armed with Harpers Ferry rifles and saber bayouets, and having assured myself of the position of the battery of the enemy and by the different shot of their guns of the extension of the ground which they could sweep toward our left (their right), I ordered the two companies to jump into a deep swamp, and commanded them to open fire by file, marching slowly front and toward the left. I forbade those two companies to waste any ammunition, but to aim and fire only when they were l)erfectly sure of their aim. We had soon in fiont the infantry of the enemy, which supported the right flank of the battery. It was then that the fire began to be really hot, and I had many men put hors de combat. Among those, I regret to say, Capt. T. S. Foster was shot by a bullet through the left leg. But we steadily kept up the firing for more thaii two hours, ad- vancing toward the front and left at the same time. At such a moment, the Twenty-fifth Regiment having changed their position, two of my companies joined my line, and a few minutes after all the rest of the battalion proceeded by my order, guided by Major Clark. I was at that moment at the edge of the swamp, and in front of me was an ex- posed ground of 100 yards. The regiment once in line, I commanded a general fire. After the charge for all that distance the men lay down and loaded, covered by a small natural elevation. During that march we suffered four or five minutes a very thick fire and lost 15 men, but it was the last of the enemy. The battery was already flanked. You came and said to me, Charge and take it. We did so. At our left flank were three com- panies of the Fifty-first New York. Our State color was the first on the battery; afterward the flag of the Fifty-first New York; then, immediately after, our regimental flag. One of our men captured a rebel flag with the motto, Aut vincere aut ~ After a few moments of joy, by your order I put again the regiment in line in the road be Page 102 102 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLIfl.. [Cm IL hind the battery, and first led by you we proceeded toward Camp Georg~ Company E of my regiment, which was in advance, found the enemy retreating. ihey turned ad bed, but soon wn repulsed with joss of 8 dead aind some wdnded. They seat a flag of truce and surrendered. I am glad to say that I never saw better behavior by an~ soldiers, young or veterans, and I do not believe It was possible m such a groundif a continual swamp and ponds of water can be so called. that any one coi4d have surpassed the brifliant and gallant conduct of all my command. I would mention the names of those officers who have distinguished themselves, but I would be obliged to send you the names of all, from:the major to the last second lieutenant, as every one of them deserves it Nevertheless I shall name two, not because they have been braver than the others, mt because both by force of circum- stances have been obliged to stand alongertime in the most dan us position than any other. They are Capt T. B; Foster, who followed me, leading his company, and my a4jutant, F. A. Stearns who has been during all the tight cool and bravely at my side from ihe begin- ning to. the end. Mid also I would call your atteatiou to the faithftl services of Surgeon Cutter and Warren and the chaplain, who bravely followed the troops throughtheflghtto bearback the dead and wounded1 All our wounded were ed at once to the hospital and our dead immediately buried. Both C apt T. S. Foster and Mit F. A. Stems have been wounded, the first, as I said, by a bullet in the left leg and the second slightly in the right temple and in the neck. I send you. anexed the list of killed and woundedP I have the honor to be, your obedient subordinate,. A. C. MAGGI, Lieutenant- Colonel, Couwnanding. Erigadier-General lino, Cos.nanding Second Brigade, B.m.W.. Dfrfrion.. No. 18. Report of Bent. VoL (ilsarlee A. Heebnan, YEntA Yew Jeraey Ifantrg.. HDQEs. NINTH REGIMENT NEW JERSEY VoLs., February 9, 1802. I hereby respeotfall report that the regiment which I command took its position in the brigade about? a. in. When we had approached near the field of action we passed, by order of Lieutenant Reno, the Fifty-bet Regiment New York Volunteers, and when we had arrived on their right we were met by General Foster, and were ordered by him to enter the swamp to the left br company front However, finding that our fire would be more effective, I formed them by division. At 9.80 a. in. the bet division commenced an oblique be upon the bat- tery, and the be was continued until 11.15 a. in. by the successive divisions, when, the be of the enemy slackening; I ordered the regi-. ment to charge, and in company with the Twenty-first Massachusetts Volunteers we entered the battery. The officers and men of the regiment conducted themselves with courage and coolness, and I am perfectly satisfied with them. The Embodiedin st.tunquat on p. 85 Page 103 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 103 ground was very swampy, and for most of the time the men were up to their waists in water, thongh, notwithstanding these discouraging circumstances, they behaved themselves admirably. There are 35 men missing from the regiment. C. A. IIECKMAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Capt. E. M. KEILL, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Brigade, Dept. of North Carolina. P. S.AIl the missing have returned except 14, most of whom prob- ably will. No. 19. Report of Col. Edward Perrero, F~fty-fir8t New York Infat~try. I beg leave to submit the following as the report of the Fifty-first Regiment New York Volunteers at the battle of the 8th of February, 1862, on Roanoke Island, N. C.: I received an order from General Reno on the morning of Saturday, the 8th of February, 1862, at about 7.30 oclock a. in., to form line on the right of the Second Brigade. The regiment started about 8 a. m. in rear of the First Brigade. After having marched a distance of about half a mile we met three companies of the Twenty-first Massa- chusetts Regiment. I halted my column and allowed them to take their I)osition. Following them on the main road up the island and marching a distance of about half a mile, I received an order from Gen- eral Reno to force our way through a dense jungle in the direction of the fighting. On arriving near the rear of the Twenty-first Massa- cliusetts received an order to advance and take position on their left. Finding the swamp almost impassable, owing to the dense growth of underbrush on the right of my line, I ordered the four companies of the right wing, viz, ~A, G, D, and I, to push forward toward the left, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Potter. Said companies ad- v~ aced and entered the fire on the left of the Twenty-first Massachu- setts. During the engagement of the above companies in said position the firing was very galling, but the men and officers replied to it with great vigor. I ordered the companies of the left wing to push forward toward the right. Finding it impossible to engage the enemy on account of the Twenty-first Massachusetts being in front, I ordered the men to lie down to avoid the shower of bullets from our own troops is well as those from the enemy. The enemy, finding that they were outflanked, commenced to retreat, when the orl er was given by General Reno to charge. The right wing charged, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Potter, while I led the left wing. Havimig advanced a frw paces in front of the Ninth New Jersey and the Ninth New York, I feared that their fire would be directed into our ranks, so I halted my men and ordered the signal for cease firipg to be sounded by our bugler, which was understood by all the troops in the vicinity. At that moment the cry came to charge, when all charged together, my right wing arriving at the fort first. Captain Wright, of Company A, color company, arrived first with his company, and planted the American flag upon the ramparts in advance ~of any other regiment. Captain Sims, of Company G, and Captai Page 104 104 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. Johnson, of Company I, took possession of the gnns of the fort. I led the left wing down the main road, followed by the Ninth New York~ crossed the moat, and halted inside of the fort. On arriving inside of the fort jiAeutenant Springweiler, of Company K, brought me a wounded officer, who was a lieutenant in the Wise Legion of Virginia, who was found lying a short distance off. After remaining in the fort about fifteen minntes I rallied the men formed line, and started up the main road in pursnit of the enemy. On arriving at the end of the island I found that two boat loads of the enemy had escaped, but one had beeii captured, containing 0. Jennings Wise, severely wounded, and four others, who were all in charge of the Ninth New York. The four prisoners were transferred to my charge, and I left them in a honse which was gnarded by our troops. Ascer- taining that General iReno had advanced across the island to the left I immediately followed, and arrived in time to receive an order from him to place a chain of sentinels to encircle the grounds and barracks of the captured enemy, which was executed, and remained upon duty until relieved by the Ninth New Jersey. The men and officers under my command behaved with a coolness that was really surprising for men who were under fire for their first time. On Sunday morning, the 9iII, I received an order to detail a company to plant the American flag on one of the captured forts o the sea-shore. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, EDW. FERiREIRO, Colonel Fifty-first Regiment New York Volunteers. No. 20. Report of Col. John F. Iliartranft, Fifty-first Pennsylvania Infantry. IIDQRS. FIFTY-FIRST PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS, Camp Jordan, Roanoke Island, N. C., February 9, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that in accordance with orders I yesterday marched my regiment onto the field in rear of the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers. I was ordered by Lieutenant Morris to take my regiment to the extreme left, about 200 yards beyond the tem- porary hospital. On arriving at the proper place I filed them to the left through the swamp. On account of the depth of water and the extreme thickness of the underbrush I was obliged to conduct them in single file. When two companies had entered, finding it impossible to advance, I returned in person to the road, and I was there ordered to leave two companies already in the morass where they were, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Bell, with orders to hold the posi- tion he was then in until further orders. I proceeded with the eight companies to the right. I was ordered to follow in rear of the Twen- ty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers. In passing to the right we were all very much impeded by the underbrush and water, that reached to our middle. By taking a shorter route I succeeded in coming up side by side with the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers. Be- fore any of us succeeded in reaching to cleared ground the battery was taken. Soon after leaving my first position Colonel Bell received an order to bring his companies toward the main road. Receiving no orders Page 105 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 105 he marched his companies to the front and joined the companies I was bringing out of the morass. As soon as I could get five of my com- panies together I moved them forward, leaving orders for the remain- der to follow under command of the major. The live companies that were thus left behind were ordered to garrison the battery and are still there. As far as I have learned, but one man, a private of Company B, has been wounded. I have every reason to be most pleased with the coolness and bravery of all my officers, and with the patience, bravcry, and ready obedience upon the part of my men. I have two men missing. I have the honor, general, to be, very respectfully, yours, J. F. IIARThANFT, Colonel, Comdg. Fifty-first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers~ Brig. Gen. J. L. RENO. No. 21. Report of Brig. Gen. John C. Parke, U. S. Army, commanding Third Brigade. llm~s. Tnlkn BRIc~ADE, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, Pork Point Battery, Roanoke Island, February 9, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Third Brigade during the 7th and 8th instant from the moment the signal for landing was displayed: The brigade is composed of the Fourth Rhode Island, Ninth New York, and Eighth Connecticut Regiments, and a battalion of the Fifth Rhode Island Regiment. On the signal being given one winb of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment was transferred to the light-draught steamer Phoenix, and all the surf-boats, life-boats, and ships boats belonging to the transports of my brigade filled with men from the Eighth Connecticut and Fifth Rhode Island Regiments, and attached in tow of the steamer. We then proceeded toward the shore as rapidly as safety to the small boats would permit. The steamer was mu into the marsh between the steamers of Generals Foster and Reno, and the men immediately sprang into the marsh and were led by their respective commanders out to the firm ground, and there formed in line in the field to the left of Hammonds house. Capt. John N. King, bri- gade qnartermaster, and Lient. M. A. Hill, aide-de-camp, returned to the transports to superintend the landing of the balance of the brigade~ Orders were then given to the colonels of the Fourth Rhode Island and the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts and Tenth Connecticut Regiments of the First Brigade to send out a forcc to occupy the woods surround- ing the landing place with a continuous line of skirmishers. The com- manding general soon appeared on the field, and I reported in person the disposition I had made of the force then on the ground. Brig- adler-General Reno came up immediately after and assumed command of the portions of the three brigades then landed. My entire brigade was landed before 11 oclock p. in. The men bivouacked on their arms. Soon after daylight on the 8th instant I received orders from General Foster to have my command ready to support his and General Reno Page 106 106 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. ~CHAr. XX. brigades and follow along the road leading through the middle of the island, and to send four companies to occupy Aslibys house, below onr camp and on the right of the road. The First Battalion Fifth Rhode Island Regiment was detailed for this latter duty. Firing was heard in onr frout, and it wa s soon evident that General Foster had engaged the enemy. Before my brigade could advance on the road, it being still occupied by General Reuo II received orders from the general com- inanding to detach a regiment and hold the landing and bivouac grounds, and preveut the enemy from tnrning our position by coming through the timber down the beach. The Eighth Connecticut Regiment was detailed for this duty. Before leaving the bivouac the major command- ng the First Battalion Fifth Rhode island Regiment reported Ashbys house and premises occupied by the enemy. I ordered him to throw out skirmishers and hold his position, and if attacked he would be supported. As soon as the last of General Renos brigade were nuder way I followed with the Fourth Rhode Island and Ninth New York Regiments. On reaching the battle-field I fouud General Foster occupying the road on the edge of the clearing in front of the enemys battery, and General Reno, with his brigade on the left, endeavoring to turn the enemys right. The trOOl)5 of both brigades were exposed to a steady. fire from the battery and musketry, but were nevertheless hotly engag- ing the enemy and gradually gaining upon his flanks. General Foster ordered me to support a portion of his force on his right who were endeavoring to turn the enemys battery. The Fourth Rhode Island Regiment, on reaching the boat howitzers, which were in position in the road in the edge of the clearing, bore off lightly to the right, and, exposed to the fire of the enemys battery and ~ continuous fire of musketry, were gallantly led by the colonel com- manding, I. P. Rodman, and yourself through the clearing, and closing upon the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Regiment, they encountered an almost impenetrable cypress swamp. through which they worked their way with great difficulty. The Ninth New York Regiment, arriv- ing on the ground, was ordered to follow the Fourth Rhode Island Regi- ment and turn the left flank of the battery. The regiment, under lead of time colonel, Rush C. Hawkins, entered the clearing with great spirit. It being now ascertained that the natural obstacles on this line were of so serious a character, and that the delay in the progress of the troops through the swamps was so great, it was decided to change the ~ourse of the Ninth New York Regiment, and the order was sent to the colonel to turn to the left and charge the battery directly up the road, and the regiment, with a hearty yell and cheer, struck into the road and made for the W ttery on the run. The or ~r was given to charge the enemy with fixed bayonets. This was done in gallant style, Major Kimball taking the lead. The major was very conspicuous during the movement, and I take great pleasure in commending him to your favorable notice. Before reaching the intrenchment the enemy retreated through the timber in great confusion, abandoning their guns, ammunition, and private property. General Reno started immediately in pursuit, and as soon as the Ninth New York Regiment were reformed they were ordered forward and sue- eee(led in taking some 40 prisoners. Among them were several of the officers and men of the Richmond Blues, with 0. Jennings Wise at their head, who was badly wounded and trying to make his escape in a boat across to Nags Head. As soon as the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment was reformed I pro Page 107 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 107 ceeded with it up to the support of General iReno until he sent me word that he required no more regiments. The commanding general then ordered me to proceed with the Fourth Rhode Island and Tenth Connecticut Regiments, with a boat howitzer, to take Pork Point Bat- tery. A guide being furnished me we left the main road, and following along a narrow cross-road about a mile, we entered the battery and found that it had been but a short time evacuated, the garrison having retrea ed up the beach to the northern end of the island. The arma- ment consiste of eight 32-pounder smooth-bore and one 32-pounder rifled gun. They were all spiked and the carriages seriously damaged. From papers found in the quarters the battery is called Fort Bartow, aiA commanded by 1\Iaj. G. II. Hill, formerly a lieutenant in the United States Artillery. A flag-staff, with the national colors made fast, was immediately raised, and the men had scarcely finished cheering when General Foster rode in to announce enemy had surrendered. to the general commanding that the At the takii~g of the masked battery the officers and men, not only of the Fourth Rhode Island and Ninth New York Regiments, but of other regiments that came under my observation beh coolness and , aved with great gallantry, bravery. All seemed imbued with determination to carry the day. Considering the length of time that ihey have been on board ship, that they bivouacked in the rain on the night of the 7th, and considering the great natural obstacles in front of the batterya broad swamp surrounded by a dense tangle and thick growth of cypress, through which but a single narrow roadway or trail passed, and that completely raked by the batteryconsidering all this, it would seem that all engaged are worthy of much praise. I would respectfully beg to call your attention to the adjutant of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment, Lieutenant Curtis. He was very con- spicuous in conducting and cheering on the men of his regiment while l)assing through the clearing. I also wish to pay a just tribute to the officers of my staff for their reat gallantry throughout the battle and untiring zeal through the whole day. The staff is composed of the following officers: Capt. Charles T. Gardner, assistant adjutant-general; Capt. John N. King, brigade quartermaster and acting commissary; Lients. M. Asbury Hill and Philip iVI. Lydig, aides dc-camp. Lient. L. Bradley, of the Signal Corps, was with me, aim d acted as aide. All of these, including Capt. J. N. King, who volunteered his services as aide early in the morning, ~~-ere constantly occupied carrying orders, bringing up and conducting the trooi)s into positron, and were necessarily greatly exposed. Lieuts. J. W. Hopkins and Anthony Lang, of the Signal Corps, were also act- ively engaged bringing up the men during the fight. On the morning of the 9th a company of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment took pos- session of Fort Blanchard, a small work mounting four 32-pounders. The guns were spiked and the carriages damaged. A detachment from the Ninth New York Regiment took possession of a two-gun battery on the east side of the island. They found the gnus spiked and pointed inland. The battery is surrounded by a marsh and swamp, the only approach to it being by a causeway from the water side. One prisoner was taken imi this work, lie having been left by his omrades when they evacuated the place. I regret to have to record the death of Lieut. Col. Viguer Dc Monteil, of the Fifty-third New York Regiment (DEpineuil Zouaves). The colonel of the Ninth New York Regiment reports that he was killed instantly, while urging my men to the charge. He dies greatly l Page 108 108 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. mented by all my officers and men who came in contact with him, His bravery was as great as his patriotism was sincere, and I cannot but feel that had he lived he would have proved a most valuable officer, The casualties in the Ninth New York Regiment are 2 lieutenant and 15 piivates woundednone likely to prove fatal. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Brigadier-General Volunteers, Commanding Third Brigad Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 22. Report of Col. Isaac P. Rodman, Fourth Rhode Island Infantry. FORT BARTOW, Roanolce Island, N. C., February 10, 1862. DEAR SIR: I had the honor to write you last from Camp California Va. Since then the Fourth Rhode Island has been detached from How- ards brigade and assigned to that of General John G. Parke, Third Brigade, Burnsides division, and reported for duty at Annapolis, Md., on the 3d of July [Jannary]. Embarked on the steamer Eastern Queen for Fort Monroe; sailed [January] 9th; arrived the 10th, and sailed for Hatteras Inlet the 11th; arrived the 12th and entered the inlet the 13th, where we were obliged to lay until the 28th before all the tleet ha passed over tlie Bulkhead. The Pocahontas, on which onr horses were embarked, was lost on the cape, and all the horses, except 19, perished. I am happy to say that none of the teamsters that were with them were lost, but all succeeded in getting on shore and joining the regiment. On July [February] 5 the Ileet sailed for Roanoke and arrived in sight the same evening. The gunboats, having completed their preparations, commenced the bombardment of Forts Bartow, Huger, and Blanchayd (mounting eight 32s and one 7-inch rifled Parrott on Bartow; six 32s and three 7-inch Parrotts on Huger, and one 7-inch rifled Parrott on Blanchard) on Friday morning at 11.30 a. in., and continued through the day. The troops from different transports were landed the same evening without opposition, with the exception of a small party firing on the sounding party of the Fifth Battalion Rhode Island Volunteers, wounding 2 slightly; the gunboats of the enemy not approaching near enough to do us any damage, of which there were ten in all, with from two te three guns each. On the morning of the 8th the First Brigade (General Fosters) wa put in motion, followed by General Renos (the second), offrs (the third, General Parke) remaining for a short time in reserve. The Fifth Rhode Island Battalion having been deployed on our right and the Eighth Connecticut held in reserve on our left to prevent flank movements, we ~ that is, the Fonrth Rhode Island and Ninth New York) were ordered orward. When the head of General ~ column had proceeded about 1 mile on the road they were suddenly met by a sharp volley of musketry and the contents of a Dahlgren (12-pounder brass field piece) from behind a masked battery, called by the enemy Fort Defiance, across and commanding the only road for 400 yards, on each side o Page 109 CHAP. XXJ BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 109 which was a hitherto-impassable cypress swamp. The First Brigade advancing was supported by Reno, who threw two regiments on their right flank. The Fourth Rhode island was ordered to follow part of Fosters brigade in turning their left flank, Parke holding the Ninth New York in reserve. Our men at once plunged into the swamp, nearly waste deep with mud and water, and after almost incredible exertions succeeded iu forcing our way through briers, cypress, and a dense mass of birch, & c. When we had nearly succeeded in turning their fia uk on the left and right General Parke ordered the Ninth New York to charge in front, when the enemy, finding that they were flanked ,fled ip the island, followed by regiments of Foster and Reno in pursuit, General Parke ordering the Ninth New York to cut off their retreat by the Nags Head, which they did, taking 0. Jennings Wise prisoner, and apturing the batteiy at that point, with three heavy columbiads. The enemy retreated to Weirs Point, where they did not make any fight, but surrendered to Generals Foster and Reno, about 3,000 all told. General BuRiside ordered the Fourth Rhode Island to proceed to Pork Point and take possession of Fort Bartow, giving us the Tenth Connec- ticut for our support. We immediately marched for the point and took possession of the place, planting the banner of the Fourth Rhode Island on the ramparts. The Eighth North Carolina was within about half a mile of us, advancing to take possession of it, the battalion of Seven- teenth North Carolina having evacuated it about two hours before we took possession. When they saw our flag on the fort they fell back and snrrendered to General Reno. The lar~,er fort on the main-land was tired about ten minutes after our arrival and consumed. We have taken thirty-five to forty pieces of artillery, about 4,000 stand of arms, and camp equipage and stores of four regiments of infantry. The gunboats of the enemy have escaped up the sound. Four hun- dred to 500 of the eunmy got off the island, and a regiment from Nor- folk that were coming to re-enforce the rebels did not land, but got away. The enemy had sunk hulks and driven piles into the channel, which, with their masked batteries and natural advantage of the island, they supposed had made their position impregnable to anyforce we could bring against them. How we ever got through that swamp I can hardly conceive of now; as it was, we were full two hours in it. Half the time the regiment was under fire, but the distance300 to 400 yards off the batteryand the enemy being obliged to take uncertain aim from the constant firing of Fosters advance, preserved us from loss. I dont think we have lost a man, all but one (Corporal Perkins) having joined the regiment, and I think he will be found. A number of our men in the Fourth had balls through their coats and blankets. Our flag being half rolled up, did not present much surface to the fire, and we only got one bullet-hole through it; shall do better when we have a chance. The Fourth was cool and did well. All our force be- bayed well and gave satisfaction to the commanding officer of the division. I must now close this hasty and imperfect sketch, hoping it will give you some idea of the battle of Roanoke. Our regiment is again em- barked on board the Eastern Queen, and is to proceed to , I sup- pose. The blank I am unable to fill, And remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. P. RODMAN, Colonel Fourth Rhode Island. Gov. WILLIAM SPRAGUE Page 110 110 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. No. 23. Reports of Miaj. Gen. Benjamin Huger, C. S. Army, commanding Depart ment of Norfolk, with correspondence. HEADQUARTERS DEl ARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., February 10, 1862. SIR: I telegraphed last night that a steamer had arrived from Nags Head and brought the news that Roanoke Island was captured. Men who escaped across Hoanoke Sound brought them this information. Lieutenant Pearse brought up his ammunition by this opportunity, but h~d no communication with Boanoke Island, and got his information from runaways. Such information is not usually correct, but from his statements I had to treat it as true as regards the fact of the captu e of all the forces on the island. I have ordered 1st. The Sixth Virginia Regiment, some six companies, under Col- onel Corprew, to proceed to the Currituck Bridge, near outlet of Ches- apeake and Albemarle Canal, to block that avenue to Norfolk. There is a battery of three 32-pounders at Currituck Bridge. 2d. Five companies of the Third Georgia Regiment, under Major Lee, to South Mills, the outlet of Dismal Swamp Canal, to protect that approach, and I have sent orders to Colonel Henningsen, who is at Elizabeth City, to fall back to South Mills and co-operate with Major Lee. 3d. Colonel Hamilton, at Suffolk, is ordered to throw some companies to the Black Water and protect the approach to the railroad bridge on the Black Water, and to obstruct the river. 4th. Lieutenant-Colonel Williams, First North Carolina Battalion, to proceed down the Black Water and Chowan to near Winton, to obstruct the passage of the Meherrin and Chowan, and I have ordered Captain Nichols light battery to join him and assist in preventing a landing and stopping their boats. As soon as the enemy hears the news (if true) I expect he will make demonstration in my front, and you will perceive this force can only perform outpost duty. I will advise you of facts as soon as I can get them, and if the enemy are in strong force on the south of me Ii must be re-enforced. I need say nothing now of Roanoke Island. I send you a copy of my instructions to General Wise as soon as he reported to me, dated Jan- uary 13. These orders have never been carried out. I cannot but regret that Commander Lynch did not come into the Albemarie Canal; We could have supplied him with ammnnition and had the use of his boats. I had loaded up a boat with ammunition for him and the island and dispatched it last evening. Soon after it left it met the steamer from Nags Head with the news of the disaster and returned. These two boats are all I have to forward troops and supplies. Now Com- mander Lynch is shut up in Elizabeth City I fear he will lose all his boats. Persons from the south of this report firing in direction of Elizabeth City. Nothing official to 11.30 a. m. Very respectfully, yolir obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, ]iliajor- General~ General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General Page 111 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 111~ HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., February 11, 1862. SIR: I telegraphe(l to you this morning that I had a letter from Geneial Wise, dated 9 a. m. yesterday at Poplar Branch, Currituck County, North Carolina. He would move on to the Canal Bridge and collect all his troops there. I have before reported to you I sent Colonel Corprew, Sixth Virginia Volunteers, to the same point. They left via canal early ~yesterday morning. I have not yet heard of their arrival. General Wises account of the capture of Roanoke Island is from the report of a sergeantMetzer, McCullough Rangerswho left the island at 5 p. m. on the 8th instant. He reports that Lieutenant Selden, in charge of a howitzer, which did great execution, was killed. Capt. 0. J. Wise was wounded thrice and carried to the hospital, where it is reported he died, and Captain Coales was killed. All this is only report. As I heard that Colonel Henningsen had retreated from Elizabeth City toward Edenton, I sent three pieces of Captain Girardeys com- pany (Louisiana Guard) and the Second Battalion of the Third Georgia toward South Mills. I just have the following report from Sewells Point: Three steamers. have left the Roads seaward bound. Seventeen schooners are getting under way. The enemy seem re-enforcing their forces in Albemarle Sound. I cannot detach further. Re-enforcements must be sent to guard the railroad beyond Meherrin. I have telegraphed General Gatlin he must take care of the Roanoke River and Weldon. Jam, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, General S. COOPER, Major-General. Adjutant and Inspector General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Richmond, Va., February 23, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Norfolk, Va.: SIR: I have the honor to inclose herewith copy of a letter addressed by General Wise to the President, with copy of the indorsement by the President. You are respectfully requested to make such remarks thereon as the nature of the case may in your opinion require, and report the s~ne. Your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. [Inclosure.] CANAL BRIDGE, CURRITUCK COUNTY, N. C., February 13, 1862. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President~ & c.: SIR: You are aware already, doubtless, of my defeat and disasters. I did my best to prqpare for the unequal conflict. Unequal it was. In vain I appealed for re-enforcements; the reply was an order to my post, and that supplies, hard work, and coolness, not men, were all tha Page 112 112 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. was needed. After this there was no election for me but to fight. The lack of time and the storms prevented me from working, and no work had been done. The North Carolina troops had not been paid, clothed, or drilled, and they had no teams or tools or materials for constrUcting works of defense, and they were badly commanded and led, and, except a few companies, they did not fight. About 600 of my Legion withstood the enemy for half a day on the 8th without field artillery, except a 24-pounder and 18-pounder with 12-pounder ammunition, and a 6-pounder brass howitzer; which did terrible execution among the enemy. Twice the enemy, at least 8,000 strong, were repulsed with slaughter, and it was not until they passed a dense, deep swamp, thought to be impassable, and outflanked ns on the rightand until Lieuten~nt Selden was killed at his gun sighting the aim of his last round of ammunition, and until the enemy advanced under a white flag, firing at our men as they cheered a supposed sur- renderthat our artillery pieces were captured and the Legion gave way, but never surrendered. They fought on all the 8th and continued the fight on the 9th. Never did men do and dare more nobly, but they were unsupported, except by two or three companies of the Eighth North Carolina Regiment. The Thirty-first was hardly in the action at all, and had leave of their colonel (Jordan) to take care of themselves, and some 60 or 70 of them escaped. The forts on the island were all out of place; they ought to have been at the south end, and they were at the north, leaving several of the landing points on the south end without any defenses against the shot and shell of the heavy steamers, which came quite up and covered the landing of their troops, horses, artillery, and everything required for land forces. We had but four indifferent mules for our pieces and they were killed. Such were the odds and the deficiencies of our defenses, yet my men fought firmly, coolly, and stubbornly up to the muzzle, to wounds, death, and captivity. Providence sharply prohibited my commanding in person. For nine days I was prostrated at Nags Head with high fever and a severe attack of pleurisy; but this enabled me to save about 200 of my men. Here we are, a remnant of infantry, a corps of artilleryin all six companies, besides fragments of about 40, who escaped, of the Legion. I desire your favor now to recruit it. My Third Regiment was, unjustly to me and my men, taken from me and sent to South Caro- lina. I ask for its return to my command. I ask for the four field pieces taken from me by General Floyd or their equivalent. I ask for the transfer of such troops as seek to join my commamP and for all facilities to move it under the circumstances. Having obtained my Legion by your good pleasure, having spent it at every risk and sacri- fice with honor in the service, I ask your interposition in behalf of its full restoration. With the highest respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier- General. [Indorsement.] Referred to Secretary of War, whose attention is.called to the repre- sentation of [General Wise] and especially to the order marhed by quotation. A copy of the letter will be furnished to General Huge Page 113 BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. CHAP. XX.] 113 for report. Authority and all due assistance will be given to recruit and reorganize General Wises Legion. My anxiety for the construc- tion of a work on the south end of the island was freely expressed to General Wise, and its importance appears to have been even greater than I supposed, as the north had been reported to me impracticable for the movement of troops. The Third Reginient was not considered a part of the Legion, and it was only the Legion proper which it was designed to remove, with General North Carolina. Wise, to the coast of Virginia and JEFFERSON DAVIS. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., Ailiarch 5, 1862. SIR: I beg to submit the following report of facts in regard to Roanoke Island: 1. On hearing of the capture of Fort Hatteras, on August29 last, I sent troops to hold Roanoke Island and throw up some fortifications as promptly as I)OSSible. Roanoke Island being outside the limits of my command I reported my action to the Department, and was notified that my course was approved by the President. 2. The Third Georgia Regiment continued to garrison the island and the engineer officers I sent there to fortify it. As the place was so distant and out of my military district, and other troops were sent there from North Carolina, I requested, by letter (dated November 14, 1861), that Roanoke Island be placed entirely under my control and sufficient troops sent me to garrison it, or that I be relieved of the charge of it. An order dated November 26, 1861, placed the island in the command of Brigadier-General Gatlin. General D. H. Hill had immediate command. About December 1 Colonel Wrights Third Georgia Regiment was relieved and ordered to return to this depart- inent. The Thirty-first Regiment of North Carolina Volunteers re- l)laced them. 3. From the time the command was given to Generals Gatlin and Hill nutil the date of Special Orders, No. 272, December 21, 1861, forming a brigade, commanded by Brig. Gen. H. A. Wise, I had no control over the position, and when Orders, No. 272, were issued I was not certain that it included Roanoke island, but wrote to inquire on January 2. Answer received January 4. General Wise reported to me early in January, and I urged his immediate inspection and exam- ination of the position. He did visit it, and returned and reported to me. I addressed him my instructions in a letter of January 13 (copy inclosed). General Wise went a few days after this to Richinond. While he was there an order for him to proceed at once to Roanoke Island was issued, and on or about January 29 General Wise arrived at Nags Head. On February 7 and 8 the place was attacked and cal)- tured by the enemy. 4. The orders of the War Department will show that I had not the control or management of Roanoke Island from the time it was assigned to General Gatlins command until General Wise was assigned to the comm and. My opinion concerning the defenses is expressed in my letter of January 13. I did write to General Wise that batteries should be so placed as to repel a fleet of gunboats, and that supplies, hard work, and coolness were what was wanted. 8 R RVOL I Page 114 114 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [ChAP. XX. I send copies of my letters of January 9 and 13, to wliich I ask your attention. I regret that General Wise addressed you directly instead of through me, as it prevented me from sending the above explanations with his letter of February 13. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, ]liJiajor- General. His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President of the Confederate States. [Inclosures.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., January 9, 1862. GENERAL: I have your letter of the 7th (received last night), and have seen persons who have left you since. The gunboats that have gone to Hatteras are not those which were here. A large number of small vessels and barges are still in the Mill Creek Channel, near Old Point. No number of vessels, but sch ooners, have left Old Point lately. I send the steamer Currituck to-day, with Capt. J. S. Taylor and Lieutenant Loyall, to take charge of the batteries at Roanoke Island. I have directed all the supplies asked for by Major Williamson, except the large quantity of shot for which there was no powder sent. I have got from Richmond to-day an order for a small quantity of powder at Raleigh, and send for it at once. I will send the chief quartermaster with a good pilot down to-morrow. Major Johnston, the quartermaster, will give all instructions necessary in his depart- ment. He must have boats and barges enough to get up supplies both for your brigade and the rest of the army. You will find him fully capable to manage the business. The pilot I send, Captain Taylor, informs me that it would be easier to obstruct the chaiinel inside; that is, to the northward and westward of the marshes. He says the water is too deep between some of the marsh islands to block them there; but as soon as you get through, the water shoals and the channel could be obstructed by sinking vessels in some 12 feet of water. I send him, that he may sound out the positions and assist in obstructing them, if yon desire it. Let Major Johnston send back all such boats as you can spare, that we may use them in supplying you with more articles you want~ I think you want supplies, hard work, and coolness among the troops you have, instead of more men. If men can help you, you shall have them, if we have boats here to take them. I am most anxious to do all I can to strengthen you. I only want to know how. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II3ENJ. HUC ER, Major- General, Commanding. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, fiommanding Fourth Brigade. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., January 13, 1862. SIR: Your requisition for means to carry on all necessary work a Page 115 CHA1~. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 115 Roanoke Island will be approved. To secure this important pass, the key of Albemarle Sound, I direct that all efforts be made First, to establish batteries at the marshes off south end of the island, oue of your own propositions after your personal reconnaissance. If guns at these marshes can prevent the enemys gunboats from passing they will also prevent any lauding, and it will be impossible for them to take the island. The more permanent battery, as proposed by you, for the marshes may be postponed for the present, and two or more guns mounted on barges or vessels, and placed in position on the different marshes to pro- tect the approaches to the island; this to be the first work done. If it will expedite the work, you are authorized to move one or both of the barges with guns on them now at Redstone Point to the marshes. Second, one or more wharves appear to be necessary for landing, & c., and should be erected as soon as possible. I do not consider large forces necessary for the defense of this island. If the batteries can keep off gunboats and transports the infantry will have little opportunity to act. Very respectfully, your o1~edient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major- General, Commanding. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WIsE, Commanding Fourth Brigade. [MARCH 5, l862.Huger to inclosing Talcotts report, see p. 54.] Benjamin, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., March 11, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I transmit inclosed a copy of a letter received from Brig. C-en. H. A. Wise in reply to mine of 8th instant, requiring, as directed by you, hiN report of the battle at Roanoke Island. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant I3ENJ. HUGER, Afajor- General. [Inclosure.] ROLLISTON, NEAR NORFOLK, March 8, 1862. Maj. C-en. B. HUGER, Commanding, & c.: SIR: In reply to yours of this day, I have to inform you that I did not receive the report of Colonel Shaw of the battle on Roanoke Island on the 7th and 8th February until Monday, the 3d instant. It inclosed the reports of Colonels Anderson, Jordan, and Green, iMIa,jors Hill and Fry, and Capt. J. S. Taylor, and is dated February 24. As soon as col)ied, with its accompanying reports, it was sent to the Secretary of War, Wednesday, the 5th instant, the day of the date of the letter of the Secretary of War to you. Before this he has received the re- port of Colonel Shaw to me and of mine to him. I retain the origi- nals, amid if you desire copies will furnish them to you. A.t the same time I request to be furnished with copies of all official letters or papers which you have sent to the War IDepartment, and of all letters sent or orders issued by your subordinates coinmandino de- partmnents or other forces in the district assigned to my command i Page 116 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. 116 North Carolina touching or relating to my late command in that dis- trict, and especially any of those sent to Colonel Wright at Elizabeth City or elsewhere. I make this request in order to aid the inquiry which I have demanded respecting my command and to subserve the justice due to you as well as to myself in respect to the defenses of Roanoke Island and their conduct by you and by myself and others and in respect to my retreat to Great Bridge. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, March 17, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I received yesterday by special messenger your letter of the 15th instant, * inclosing a letter to be forwarded to General Wise.t Also a voluminous report (143 pages) sent to you by General Wise, and forwarded to me for my remarks. ~ The letter to General Wise was sent to him at once. I have devoted the night to looking over the voluminous report, which I find is not a report of the battle of Iloanoke Island, but a collection of all General Wises correspondence, with his explanatory remarks, giving his views of the conduct of the War Department, myself~ and others. As you remark, no such report should be sent, unless forwarded through me. It will take much time to examine so voluminous a document care- fully, which at this moment I can illy spare from more important duties. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., March 18, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I send herewith a letter received from General Wise, dated 16th instant, covering a copy of his report to you of the capture of Iloanoke Island and the original reports of his subordinates on the subject, viz: The report of Col. H. M. Shaw and the reports to him of Colonel Jordan, Lieutenant-Colonels Green and Anderson, Majors Hill and Fry, and Capt. J. S. Taylor. Having no personal knowledge of the positions, and uninformed, except by these reports, of the occurrences there, I have no remark to make upon them. As I occupied this island the end of August last on my own respon- sibility, it being without the limits of my command, there seems to be a general impression that I had had entire control of it, which is an error. I did partially fortify and garrison it last summer. I was after- ward relieved from all charge of it, and the troops I had sent there were withdrawn and returned to this command. It was, by order of * See p. 68. tOf March l4~ see p. 168. t No. 24, p. 122 Page 117 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 117 the War Department, the latter part of December, assigned to the im- mediate command of Brigadier-General Wise and attached to this de- partment, and it is only since then I have had any charge of it. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major- General, Gommanding. Llnclosure.] NEAR NORFOLK, VA., March 16, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Oommanding, d~c.: SIR: On the 5th instant I sent to the Secretary of War the report of the surrender of iRoanoke Island, of which the inclosed is a copy.* At the same time I sent to him copies of the reports of Cols. H. M. Shaw and Jordan, and Lieutenant-Colonels Anderson and Green, and of Majors Hill and Fry, and Captain Taylor. By a letter dated March 14, just received by me, he corrects my error of sending copies and not the originals and of reporting directly to the Department instead of through you. I deeply regret these errors in form, and ~now send my report through you, accompanied by the origi- nals. I respectfully assure you, and through you the Secretary of War, that these informalities were entirely unintentional, as the Secretary does me the justice to suppose. I supposed the originals, addressed to me, were mine, and that I, being changed from your department, was 110 longer required to report to you. I beg that you will forward this report to the Secretary of War an dient servant, , d believe me, respectfully, your obe- HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier- General. RICHMOND, VA., April 2, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Norfolk, Va.: SIR: The committee appointed by the House of Representatives to inquire and report the causes and circumstances of the capitulation of Roanoke Island have instructed me to inclose you the within copy of the comments filed by Brigadier-General Wise with the committee upon the remarks made by yourself upon his report of the battle of Roanoke Island. The committee have thought that you might like to reply to the remarks of General Wise. The committee are delayed in their investigation for the want of the report of Brigadier-General Wise, made on February 21 to the Secretary of War, in relation to the surrender of Roanoke Island, and which was sent by the Secretary of War to yourself, and which has not been returned by you to the War Department. The committee will be greatly obliged if you will return the report to the War Department, so that they can obtain a copy. I have the honor to be, B. S. GAITHER, (JAairman. [Indorsement.] Respectfully referred to the Secretary of War. BENJ. HUG tDR, __________________________________________ _____ Major (~engrai. See No. 24, p. 122 Page 118 118 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. [Inclosure.] RICHMoIND, VA., March 28, 1862. Hon. Mr. GAITHER, Chairman, & c.: SIR: By permission of a portion of the committee over which you preside I obtained yesterday a copy of General fingers remarks upon my communication of Colonel Shaws report of the battle of Roanoke Island. I beg leave most respectfully to submit some remarks upon the re- marks of General finger. First. He says that my statem~nt that the artillery of my Legion did not reach me owing to his interruption of my orders to Colonel Hen- ningsen seems to convey the insinuation that the officious interruption of General Huger was the cause of the artillery not arriving, and that his intention was to expedite its arrival, not prevent it, as his paragraph seems to imply. if General finger, in this paragraph, had left out the word insinuation, and for the word officious had substituted ignorant had stated that I meant to convey the idea that the ignorant interrnp~ tion of General finger was the cause of my artillery not arrivinghe would have been nearly correct in his inference, a~nd he would have been relieved of the necessity for any averment of his intention to ex- pedite the arrival of my artillery. I ordered Colonel Henningsen, commanding a light artillery corps of three companies, six pieces and 213 horses, to have the horses led from Norfolk across what is called the Sand Bridge dowii the sea-beach to Nags Head, and to have the field pieces, caissons, and ammunition towed by steam-tugs through the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal to floanoke Island. After I left Norfolk he countermanded this order, and commanded Colonel Henningsen to mount the artillery and haul it by horses on land to the nearest point. The nearest point was Powells Point, about 15 or 20 miles from the island, across the Albemarle Sound, where there was no means of water transportation, except in a small lighter ferry at Gallops, from the beach to the l)Oint. Colonel Henningsen went to Elizabeth City, 45 miles off, and thence to the island. There was no transportation. Had he been allowed to obey my orders he could have reached me easily in three days, and would have arrived from three to five days before the fight on Feb- ruary 8, leaving Norfolk, as General Huger admits, on the 29th or 30th of January. On Febrnary 8, during the battle, I wrote to General finger for a boat, and expressed my regret that his chaiige of the route of my artil- lery prevented its arrival. On the 9th lie replied by note, saying, You are in error when you say Colonel fienningsen was diverted from following the route you ordered hium to take by ~ I gave him no order, but not to send one company by the beach, as you ordered. In all other respects he was to obey your orders. Thus he in effect denied making the change in my orders except as to one company, and now he pleads justification of the change of my orders admitted to have been made by him. I required reports of Colonel fieuningsen and of my or(lnance officer, Lient. J. H. Pearce. Both officially reported that General Huger bad changed my orders, and assigned as reasons for changing the route designated by me that it was impracticable to lead the horses down the beach, owing to the tide estiiaries,inlets, creeks, and deep sands. That was his reason then for doing what he had written he had not done Page 119 CHAP XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE IS~JAND, N. C. 119 Again, when I met him at Great Bridge, February 16, he corrected verbally what he had written to me, alleging error in the statement that he had changed my orders, admitted that he had changed the route of my artillery as ordered by me and assigned the same reasons for so doing that he had given to Colonel Henningsen and Lieutenant Pearce, to wit, the impracticability of the beach route, & c. I as- sured him that I knew it to be not only practicable, but the best route in either Virginia or North Carolina, and referred him to my son, Lieut. IR. A. Wise, who had but lately then pursued the route most of the way in a tilt-wagon with a pair of mules, and to Lieut. J. C. Gallop, who had described the route fully to Colonel Henningsen and Lieutenant Pearce at Norfolk in my presence, and who resided at Gallops Ferry. He still insisted that the route was impracticable, and said he would order a survey. That, unfortunately, was impracticable, as the beach then was in possession of the enemy, and I so replied. But then I aver he was ignorant of the route. There are no inlets, no estuaries, no creeks to obstruct horsemen from Cape Henry to Oregon Inlet, nearly 100 miles, and the deep sands of the hills are easily avoided by taking the ocean shore at almost any tide. But now he changes his grounds for changing the route. In reply to Colonel Henningsens statement, he says that every tug, barge, and vessel that could be procured was engaged to transport troops, & c., to iRoanoke Island. Unfortunately for General Huger this excuse is as groundless as the former. I aver that not only every tug, barge, and vessel that could be procured was not engaged to transport troops, & c., to IRoanoke Island, but that every one, of every description, was most inopportunely ordered away from iRoanoke Island, and imperatively put under orders of General Huger~s quartermaster for the transportation of forage to Norfolk. The only steam-tug I had for transportation was the tug IRoanoke and two barges, and these ordered away after the arrival of the enemy at Roanoke Island, as the order, of which the following, delivered to inc during the battle, is a copy, will show: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., February 3, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Commanding Fourth Brigade, Roanoke Island: Sin: The steamer Roanoke towed down two barges, which were ordered by the quartermaster to proceed to Scuppernong and brin~, back corn to this place. If the Roanoke has been taken for other service, you will, on receipt of this, send her and the barges to carry out the orders of the quartermaster. I have to charter vessels to bring forage here, and will give vessels so employed by the Quartermasters Depart- ment certificates that they are employed by me, and such vessels are not to be inter- fered with by any one. You will direct the captains of all steamboats coming here from your command to report to the chief quartermaster and any officer coming up to report to headquarters. These orders are imperative. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-General, Commanding. Why General Huger says that if these men and horses are sepa- rated from their guns they would probably never meet again~~ I cannot conceive. This blunder may account for his ~ company error in his note to me. The men were not to be separated from their guns nor froni their horses. One company was to be detailed to lead the horses down to the beach to Nags IIeaj, and the other two companies, with their guns, & c., were to be towed ~o the island through the canal, the two ways converging to the same pointthe island. But grant what he says, that every tug, barge, and vessel that could be procured wa Page 120 120 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. engaged to transport troops to IRoanoke Island, and therefore none could be got to transport the artillery pieces, ~ & c., and there- fore he sent them by land route. What land route? Not the beach route, for he had ordered them away from that route, and that was the oniy route by which Roanoke Island could be approximated by land. That route even had to cross iRoanoke Sound from Nags Head. Any other land route had to cross from 15 to 45 miles of the boisterous and broad Albemarle Sound. Then tugs, barges, and vessels would be needed by the route he sent them; an(l he says there were no tugs, barges, or vessels to be procured for them. Did he know this, and yet did he send them by a route for which there was no water transport? He did; and yet I believe General Hugers intention was to expedite them; that his object, as he says, was to get them there, not to detain them. His intention and object were ever so good, but he was grossly ignorant of the routes and careless in organizing his means of trans- portation. For information of the means of transportation and how it was ordered and disposed and how and when it could be procured I refer the com- mittee to Marshall Parks, president of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, and to Mr. Lindsay, of Norfolk. They have furnished most of the tugs, & e., and can tell how many lighters, vessels, and barges could have been procured; if not at Norfolk, in any of the waters of North Carolina nearer to the island than Norfolk. I refer also to Dr. Thomas Warren, of Edenton, N. C. Second. He says that my remark upon Major Hills and Captaiii Taylors reports about the only three guns brought to bear on the enemy is disingenuous. This is an offensive term; it means to say that I was not in this remark frank, free, open, sincere, plain ; but my respect for the military service and for the committee admonishes me to deal with it mildly and forbearingly. I trust, then, it is not unbe- coming in me to say that General Hugers reply, showing his reason for using the term, is so naive, so innocent, as to render it innocuous. I stated the fact on the authority of Major Hill. Other guns were fired on the enemy, but because they could not be brought to bear on them ceased firing. But what says General Huger? The enemny selected a position in which only three guns bore on them. Ah, and were the five batteries so located that an enemys fleet of thirty-seven sail in attack could select a position in which only three guns bore on them? So says General Huger, and that is all any fair, intelligent mind could have understood me to say. The worst constructed forts in any locality with more than thirty guns could perhaps bring more than three guns to bear if the enemy would let General Huger select his I)OsitiOn for him. But in this instance the enemy selected his own position. Where? Jn the open Croatan Sound. How far off from Pork Point Battery? One thousand yards. Did no guns but three of that battery bear? None. Did the guns of no other battery bear? None. So that General H tiger is certainly naive, and I not ~~disingenuous.~~ His reasoning is like his command, and my statement is in effect admitted by him to be fair. As far as permitted by the rules of propriety and positiomi I repel his imputation on my sincerity. The committee will maintain decorum and I will observe military discipline. General Hugers averment that those three guns did repel their whole fleet is just simply ridiculous. They did no damage to the enemys fleet that ever I have been ~formed of and why the enemys fleet did not pass the three batteriesas they could have done in thirty minutesis not to be accounted for, except upon their supposition tha Page 121 CnAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 121 due preparations had been made at the north end of the island, as they found none at the south end. They accordingly ceased firing at insig- nificant batteries. General Hugers concluding remark under this head forgets his reasoning for the word disingenuous. There lie says but three guns were brought to bear, because the enemy selected a I)O5itiOn in which only three guns did bear on them. Here he says that from that position the battery was exposed to a heavy fire. Then the enemy did fire a heavy fire upon the battery from a position on which but three or four guns could be brought to bear. Material injury was done to the earthworks of the battery. It was materially knocked down by the first days bombardment, and the night of that day (the 7th) it had to be rebuilt. For proof of this 1 refer you to Lieutenants Bagwell and Bolton, who are now in this city. Third. General Huger supposes I meant him and the War Depart- ment by the words my superiors. I meant and mean every superior of every grade and position at all responsible for the lack of defenses at iRoanoke Island. I did all I could with the means and facilities allowed to me by them. He coupled himself swimmingly with the War Department. I separate them for the purpose of my remarks on his remarks. He says we could not control time, weather, or sick- ness. I say emphatically that he could have takemi time by the fore- lock, which he never did. Thathe might have worked while the sun shined and not have left everything to be done and undone, too, in the winters weather of Hatteras; and if he had promptly aided me, as he might to have done, with men and munitions of war, I could while in good health, have been preparing at Itoanolie Island, and might have saved my command, if it had not been grossly neglected up to the time I was prostrated by a severe illness and up to the arrival of the enemy. Thus, in a very rational sense correlatively with his own use of terms, he niight have controlled time, weather, and si~kness. I could not control my command even under his orders. He says that he does not know what available preparation asked fbr by me could have been made by my superiors. He does know. He has; I believe, now in his hands my letter to the Secretary of War reporting the causes of the disaster at Roanoke Island. It was delivered here by Maj. William B. Stanard on March 1 instant, and the original was for- warded by the Department to him for his remarks. That will fully inform the committee of what was asked and what was not allowed. I intend to accuse ~ General Huger of nothing! nothing!! nothing!!! That was the disease which brought disaster at iRoanoke Island. My purpose is only to fully reply to the committees inquiries and to his imputations. Respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, April .~, 1862. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General: Sin: I return to the Secretary of War a voluminous document (143 pages), which lie sent me for mny examinatiou and remarks, stating Brigadier-General Wise had forwarded this as a report from him di- rect to the Secretary, instead of sending it through me; that this repor Page 122 122 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. had been called for by Congress, but it could not be sent in, if at all, before being submitted to me. This reportas it is calledis, I find, copies of such official letters as General Wise has pleased to select, connected with his remarks, to give his view of the case. I have other employment, and can find no time to examine this voluminous docu- ment further. I consider it an improper report, and ought not to he published without other official correspondence, which may not sustain the views here desired to be made history. I return it to the Secretary of War, to be disposed of as he thinks proper. I received on the 3d instant the inclosed reply,* which a committee of Congress received from General Wise, criticising the few remarks I thought proper to make on his report of the capture of Roanoke Island. I considered those remarks proper and just, and regret they do not coincide with General Wises opinion but I have no time to discuss the subject with him, andlsendhispapertothe Secretary of War. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER Major- General, Commanding Department of Norfolk. No. 24. Reports of Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S. Army, with correspondence. GREAT BRux~E, NORFOLIC COUNTY, VIRGINIA, February 21, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to make a full report of my command in the Dis- trict of North Carolina, attached to the Department of Norfolk, un& er general orders from Major-General Huger. Upon my; return to Richmond from Western Virginia, under orders transferring my command to Brigadier-General Floyd, I was immedi- ately, on September 30 last, stricken down by a severe and protracted illness. November 18 last I reported for duty to the Secretary of War by letter of which the following is a copy: ROLLISTON, NEAR NORFOLK, VA., November 18, 1861. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: Sin: I take the earliest opportunity of returning health to report myself officially as ready for duty. I earnestly request that the forces composing my Legion may without delay he ordered to the point at which the President intends to employ my services. Even the promptest movement OR their part will now scarcely enable them to prepare their arrangements for winter before the winter shall be upon them. In General Lees absence from Richmond I take the liberty to remind the President and yourself of the disposition which he thought advisable in connection with the Legion, viz: that each western company should decide for itself whether to remain with the Legion or on service in the west; that a certain prop rtion of the pieces of artillery in possession of the Legion should be retained in the west; and, finally, that all the eastern companies and such of the western companies as shall so elect, with at least one battery of field pieces, should be ordered, with the least practicable delay, to the new field of operations where it is intended to employ them. In the mean time I also request permission to detail a party to explore the channels of Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds, if it is intended to employ me on the North Caro- lina coast. I will await at this place the orders of the President. My post-office is at Norfolk City. I have ihe honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. * See Gaither to Huger, April 2, p. 117 Page 123 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 123 lii reply I received from the Secretary of War a letter of which the following is a copy: CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, War Department, Richmond, Pa., November 23, 1861. Brig, Gen. HENRY A. WISE Rolliston, near Norifolk, Pa.: Sin: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 18th instant, and am hajipy to learn that you have been restored to health. As soon as we are luformed of the movements of the enemy consequent upon Gen- eral Floyds withdrawal from Cotton Hill orders will be issued in regard to your Legion. Until then, however, it will be impossible to decide. I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. On December 4, 1861, the following Special Orders, No. 254, extract IV, was issued: ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE, Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Rich nd, Pa., December 4, 1861. (Through General llennin~gs :) SPECIAL ORDERS, 254. 5 * * * * * * * IV. The Wise Legion, under the command of Col. J. Lucius Davis, will repair to Richmond, Va., by the nearest railroad route, and report to Brigadier-General Winder, commanding Department of Henrico. * * * * * * * By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITJiEI~5, Assistant Adjutant-General. By Special Orders, No. 272, dated December 21, 1861, from the Ad- jutant and Inspector Generals Office, I was assigned to the command of the military district composed of that part of North Carolina east of the Chowan River, together with the counties of Washington and Tyrrel, designated ~s the Fourth Brigade, Department of Norfolk. I immediately, from Richmond, ordered Col. J. L. Davis, who was in command of my Legion in Weshrn Virginia, to move with all the forces, arms, ammunition, and equipments of the Legion under his orders to Richmond and report to me. I then returned home, to prepare for assuming the colnman(l assigned me. Again, on January 1 last, I addressed to Col. J. Lucius Davis a letter of which the following is a copy: ROLLISTON, NEAR NORFOLK, VA., Col. J. Lucius DAVIS, Gommanding, jc.: January 1, 1862. SIR: General Huger thinks it important that the Legion should reach its place of operation and of quarters as early as convenient and practicable; that the troops should come on to Norfolk, and that the quartermaster and commissary of my brigade should precede time troops to Norfolk, in order to arrange quarters and rations before- hand with the quartermaster and commissary of his division. To these ends, then, you will issue the following orders: That Quartermaster Cleary and Commissary Thomas will proceed to Norfolk im- mediately, and report either to General Huger or to myseli in order to arrange for quarters aud rations with the quartermaster and commissary of the division; that Lieutenant-Colonel Richardson will proceed, as early as practicable, with the Eight- eenth Regiment of Infantry, to Norfolk, procure transportation from the Quarter- master-General, and report either to me, or,if absent, to General Huger; that Colonel Henningsen will, as early as practicable after the Eighteenth Regiment of Infantr Page 124 124 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. has reached Norfolk, proceed with the Second Regiment of Infantry and Captain Wallaces company of the Third and the corps of artillery to join the command at Norfolk, and Major Gibbes will regard this as an order to him to proceed under the command of Colonel Henningsen (Colonel Henningsen will procure transporta- tion from the Quartermaster-General), and that Col. J. Lucius Davis will proceed to Norfolk at the earllest practicable moment with all the cavalry of the Legion and with the two companies of infantry under Colonel Tyler, who will regard this as an order to him to proceed under the command of Colonel Davis. He will transfer Cap- tain Wallaces company of infantry to the Second Regiment, under Colonel Hen- ningsen, to supply the place of the company of Captain Crane, disbanded. Colonel Davis will procure transportation from the Quartermaster-General. In case any of the Legion are still in the west they will be ordered to Norfolk directly, and transporta- tion will be furnished accordingly. Separate orders will be issued to Colonel Green, at Wilmington, N. C., by myself. Very respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-Gener 1. On January 2 I proceeded to Norfolk on my way to Roanoke Island, and Major-General Huger referred to me the letters of which the fol- lowing are copies: [1.] FORT BARTOw, ROANOKE ISLAND, December 29, 1~61. Cd. H. M. SHAW, Commanding Forces Boanoke Island, ~Jamp Raleigh, N. C.: COLONEL: I feel it my duty to the cause in which we are engaged to make the fol- lowing report in relation to the condition of my fort: In the first place, I have only one gun which can possibly bear upon an enemy on the south side of the fort, and an enemy can keep out of the range of that gun, and, with good guns on their vessels, shell us in such a manner as to drive us from our guns without our being able to return her fire, except from this one gun, which is mounted upon a common ships carriage, and this placed upon a chassis of a columbiad carriage. It is almost impos- sible to work this chassis so as to traverse the gun, and in its present condition it is my opinion that after firing a few rounds it will become perfectly useless, and in its exposed condition it can be very easily dismounted by the enemys shot. In the second place, all my other guns are mounted on small ships carriages and in embra- sures, and their field of fire is so limited in extent that I am almost certain if an enemy were to come with a large force, say eighteen or twenty gunboats at a time, they would by a general pressure of steam pass our battery without receiving any per- ceptible injury. The battery is placed in such a position as to render very little pro- tection to the men and guns from an enfilading fire from tile enemys vessels. My opinion of the battery in its present position is that it affords no protection to the defense of the sound; for if the enemy attempt to pass, I firmly believe they can do so despite all I can do to prevent it. I therefore earnestly recommend that something be done at once to render the fort more efficient. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. H. HILL, Major, State Provisional Army, Commanding Fort Bartotv. [2.] HEADQUARTERS FORCES ROANOKE ISLAND, Camjp Raleigh, December 30, 1861. General HUGER, Commanding Department of Norfolk: GENERAL: Not where to address Brigadier-General Wise, who ,aslhave learned unofficially, is now in command of this district, I take the liberty of forwarding to you directly the accompanying report of Maj. G. H. Hill, of the Seventeenth Regi- ment North Carolina troops, commanding battery at Pork Point, and of submitting at the same time some remarks in reference to the defenses of these waters. I am clearly of the opinion tbat the defensive works on this island are altogether insuf- ficient, as at present au enemy could pass the above-named battery witbout comning within range of its guns at all, and the others could be passed without much liability to danger. Impressed witb this belief, immediately upon assuming command of the forces on this island I urged upon General Gatlin, commanding Department of North Carolina, the necessity of strengthening the lower battery (Pork Point) by the additio Page 125 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 125 of two rifled 32-poun~ers, so mounted as to give a wide command, and to so obstruct the two channels of the sound as to compel the enemy, should he attempt to pass, to come within easy range of all the guns. (By reference to the map you will see that this battery is not in connection with the others, and can receive no support from either of them.) I also thought, and still think, that it was necessary to obstruct the sound on a line between Weirs Point Battery (Fort Huger) and the floating bat- tery. To that end I directed an agent in Norfolk to call on Commodore Forrest and urge him to send out a steam pile-driver. He agreed to send it, and it was to have been here some time since, but up to this time it has not arrived. I have been very much surprised to hear it has been delayed, because the men desire to have their Christ-. inns holidays. If the plan of obstructing the sound shall meet your approval, I hope you will have the pile-driver in question, and another, if to be obtained, sent out without the least delay. Had this work been undertaken early in the fall it would have been comparatively light, but at this season of the year more than three working days in the week on an average cannot safely be counted on. I beg leave respectfully to suggest that a competent engineer officer be sent here to examine the works, with a view to such alterations and additions as may be found necessary. I would also request that a naval officer of intelligence and experience be sent here to give instructions at the several batteries in artillery practice. The steamboat Wilson, employed for the use of this station, is now, by reason of the carelessness of the captain, ashore here, without any immediate assurance of her being gotten afloat. She will be greatly needed as a tender to the pile-drivers. Per- mit me to request that you call upon the owner to dismiss the captain and put a more competent man in his place. The supply of ammunition at this post is altogether insufficient. I hope you will authorize the requisition I have sent by Major Williamson to be filled at once. Major Williamson is an officer of intelligence and high character, and will give you any fur- ther information you may desire in regard to this post. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. SHAW, Colonel, Commanding the Forces on Roanoke Island. [3.] HEADQUARTERS FORCES ON ROANOKE ISLAND, General HUGER, Camp Raleigh, December 30, 1861. Commanding Department of Norfolk: GENERAL: I have to request that you will cause to be returned to this post two 6-pounder boat howitzers, lately taken away by Col, A. R. Wright, formerly com- manding on Roanoke Island. I deem it very necessary that we should have those pieces or others of a similar character, and I earnestly hope they will be promptly returned. I have to report to you, moreover, that one large flat, one two-mast flat-boat, and some five canoes were carried away by Colonel Wright. These fiats and canoes were taken in the expedition to Chicamacomico; were of considerable value, and would be of great service at this post. I beg leave to call your attention to the matter, hoping they will be restored. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. SHAW, Colonel, Commanding on Roanoke Island. [4.] HEADQUARTERS OF THE FORCES ON ROANOKE IsLAND, Camp Raleigh, Dec ber 30, 1861. General HUGER, Commanding Department of Norfolk: GENERAL: I beg leave to represent to you the necessity of having this post con- stantly supplied with at least four weeks rations for the entire command of about 1,800 men. Should the enemy unfortunately destroy our little navy and get above the batteries, they might, by cutting off our supplies, force us to yield the place without having had the ability to strike a single blow. This command is now being supplied by a commissary officer (Maj. S. ~T. Sawyer) stationed, by order of General Gatlia, at Elizabeth City, but the supplies come in very small quantities. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. SHAW, Colonel, Commanding Roanoke Island Page 126 126 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. On the same day (January 2) Major Williamson, under orders from Colonel Shaw, in command of Roanoke Island, called on me and showed to me several requisitions of nearly all kinds of supplies for the derense. of the island, Which had been largely curtailed by General Huger. I immediately (the same day) addressed to General Huger the letter of which the following is a copy: NORFOLK, VA., January 2, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER: SIR: I return the inclosed papers, which found me this morning in this city, on my way to make reconnaissances of Roanoke Island and other places in my command. They show the sad condition of that post, which I regard as the very key of the rear defenses of Norfolk and the navy-yard. Norfolk and the navy-yard may well then supply its deficiencies, in order to save themselves or their connection with Rich- mond and the South. I beg, then, that you, sir, will not scale the requisitions of Colonel Shaw so low as was shown to me this morning by Major Williamson. I have already attended to the two 12-pounder howitzers. They were navy boat howitzers, loaned by Captain Lynch to Colonel Wright; were returned by the latter to the navy-yard, and I am allowed by the authorities of the yard, with the consent of Captain Lynch, to take one of them, while that officer takes the other. The authorities of the yard have also consented for me to have two 12-pounder iron guns. These pieces need boats and carriages. I beg that I may have assigned to my command at least four boats, of at least fourteen or sixteen oars each, with howitzers, or guns, fitted for both land and water service. As to the batteries, I will have them surveyed and reported upon immediately. My Le,ion is ordered to move as early as practicable to Norfolk on their way to join my command, and some of its officers are good artillerists. In the mean time I-ask that a competent officer to command batteries may be temporarily assigned to Roanoke Island, in conformity to Colonel Shaws request. I request that a commissary and quartermasterbothbe appointed at onee for Roanoke Island, to act until my brigade quartermaster arid commissary can arrive and report for duty, and that provisions and all supplies be sent directly from Norfolk to the island, and not by way of Elizabeth City. Thirty days provisions for 2,500 men, at least, ought to be stored on the island at once. One pile-driver, I am told, was started yesterday for Roanoke Island, and I have venti red to ask t~ie Secretary of War for three more. I beg that you will order whatever you can to forward the work of obstructing Croatan and Roanoke Channels. If the captain of the steamer Wilson is not discharged by the owner, when I get to the island I will discharge him myself, and put in his place a substitute. Any number of rifled cannon required may be got at the navy-yard. I ask to be allowed to have four at least. I repeat the reque~t, urgently, for a far more ample supply of ammunition. With the highest respect, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On the same day, January 2, General Huger, through Lieutenant Talcott, Acting Chief of Engineers, furnished me with the appended chart of lioanoke Island and its defenses (marked I), which chart I found afterwards to be wholly inaccurate and incomplete.* It was not made by the officer himself, but copied, in part probably, from the Coast Survey, not laying down the marshes correctly, nor the islands of marshes at the south end of IRoanoke Island at all. I proceeded immediately to IRoanoke Island, stopping on the way to examine the narrows at Knotts and Crow Islands, and the temporary works constructed at Cnrrituck Canal Bridge. There 1 found four heavy 32-pounders placed in battery out of range of either end of the canal~ one sweeping down the canal toward North River and three covering the road leading up from Powells Point. The battery and position of the guns were alike futile. They were mounted on navy carriages, were not manned or guarded, and could easily be flanked or enfiladed on either hand. *Not found Page 127 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 127 On January 7 I assumed command, in accordance with the order of the War Department, of the district assign~d me, just thirty days be- fore the enemy arrived at Roanok~ rsland. I arrived at the island, I think, late on January 6. On January 7 I addressed to Colonel Shaw the letter of which the following is a copy: GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ROJ~NOKE ISLAND, No. 1. iVorth Carolina, January 7, 1862. Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise having been ordered to the command of the district lying east of the Chowan River, with the counties of Washington and Tyrrel in addition, in North Carolina, he now announces that he takes command, in accordance with the orders of the War Department of the Confederate States. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. Col. H. M. SnAw, Commanding, pc., Boanolce Island: Sin: Upon conference with you, immediately on my arrival at Roanoke Island, I have issued the foregoing general order. Under this special order you will con- tinue iu command of this island until further orders. You will endeavor to have the two guns lying near Weirs Point placed in hattery at Roberts Fishery; assist by every means iu your power the driving of piles across the Croatan Sound; construct a permanent wharf at the most eligible landing near Weirs Point or Northwest Point, on the island; report generally upon the defenses at this point, the number and cali- ber of gnus, and amount of ammunition and provisions, and the location of batteries, and in all respects prepare all the means in your power against any attack of the enemy by sea or land. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On January 8, 1862, Colonel Shaw made the report of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS FORCES ON ROANOKE ISLAND, Camp Raleigh, N. C., January 8, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE Commanding District of Aibemarle: GENERAL: In compliance with your special order I have the honor to submit the following report of the defenses of this island, quantity of provisions and ammunition on hand, the strength of this command, & c. The defenses at Croatan Sound consist of four batteries, mounting in the aggregate thirty guns, all 32-pounders, as follows: At Weirs Point (Fort Huger), ten smooth-bore and two rifled guns; at Fort Blanchard, four smooth-bore guns; at Pork Point (Fort Bartow), six smooth-bore and one rifled gun, and at Redstone Point (Fort Forrest), seven smooth-bore guns. There is another battery on the Tyrrel side of Croatan Sound, at Roberts Fishery, already completed, but no guns have been mounted, General Hill having ordered a discontinuance of the work. Its capacity is six barbette guns. The two :32-pounders now lying on the beach at Weii~s Point will, agreeably to your orders, be mounted as soon as possible. Upon Roanoke Sound there is a small battery of two smooth-bore 32-pounders, at Midgetts Hommock. The bat- tery at Pork Point ought by all means to be strengthened by the addition of two pivot- mounted guns. Orders have been given for the construction of bomb-proof quarters for the detachment at Fort Blanchard; but up to this time lumber ordered for that purpose has not been received. Quarters should be constructed in the immediate vicinity of Fort Huger for the accommodal ion of at least one of the companies by which the guns at that battery are manned. There ought also to be built at Fort Forrest quarters not only for the company afready there, hut for another company necessary at that fort. Most of the guns require sights; nearly all of them have nothii~g but the dispart sight, which I believe is very unreliable especially in the hands of inexperienced gacuers. I submit that it is vei7y necessary that the most im- proved sights be obtained at once, and, if needful, an expert artisan sent at once to adjust them. Of light artillery there are three pieces at this postone 24-pounder howitzer, one 18-pounder Mexican piece, and one 6-pounder; the latter brought to this place from Elizabeth City, N. C. These pieces are all mounted on carriages, with limbers, but no caissons. For operations upon this island I am not sure that caissons are necessary. Ammunition on kand.387 charges for ;32-pounder guns; 1,300 round shot; 250 rifl Page 128 128 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. shells; 300 match primers; 83 rounds fixed ammunition (24-pounder howitzer); 1 box percussion wafers; ITO port-fires; 98 rounds 6-pounder shot; 1,000 rounds 6-pounder shot, from Elizabeth City, N. C.; 250 pounds of powder; 315 stand grape (32-pounder); 2,600 friction primers; 500 percussion primers; 150 junk wads; 400 grommet wads; 9~8 canistei (A powder); 38 spherical-case shot; [and] 10 slow matches. Amnutnition for small-arms.52,159 ball-cartridges for percussion; 3,320 halls; 16,578 ball-cartridges for percussion (issued one hundred and fifty pounds of lead); 17,183 ball-cartridges for flint and steel; [and] 55,000 percussion caps. Quantity of provisions on hand.13,682 pounds of bacon and pork; 3,420 pound8 of beef; 20 barrels of licef; 2,158 pounds of hard bread; 598 pounds of lard; 265 barrels of flour; 3,692 pounds of rice; 649 I)ounds of coffee; 10,554 pounds of meal; 54~ bushels of pease and beans; 3,082 pounds of sugar; 460 gallons of vinegar; 1,570 pounds of candles; 1,348 pounds of soap; P4 bushels of salt; 1 barrel of fish; 58 gallon& of whisky; [and] 5 boxes of yeast powder. Aggregate number of entire comma~d 1,822 Four cooks allowed to each company.. - 92 Total to be subsisted~~ - - 1.914 Effective force, officers included, absent and sick being deducted 1, 435 A call has been made for 250 free negroes, for service in the engineers department. These will have to be subsisted, as will also the gang of 8 men on the pile-driver. florses, mules, and oxen in charge of quartermasters d~partment.9 officers horses, 6 yoke of oxen (hired by quartermaster), 2 pairs of mules (of Eighth and Thirty-first Regiments, property of Government). The mules and oxen are used for general purposes of land transportation. Amount of forage on hand.725 pounds of fodder; 2~ bushels of corn; 1~ bushels of oats. Orders have been given for the construction of a magazine. No regular ordnance officer has been appointed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. SHAW, Golonel, Commanding, i-c. On January 8 also I addressed the following orders t& Lieutenant Selden and to Colonel Shaw: STEAMER SEA BIRD, January 8, 1862. WILLIAM B. SELDEN, First-Lieu4en ant, Artillery, on Engineer Duty, ic.: SIR: ~ou will commence piling from Pork Point, on the eastern shore of the channel of Croatan Sound, passing that point to the western edge of that channel or Fulkers Shoal. Place the piles 8 feet apart; wedge with poles 24 feet, alternating from pile to pile or wattling the piles therewith, and then above the poles wattling in the chain the reverse of the poles, thus: * * * * * * * * Please see Colonel Shaw and call for all his available force in assisting at the piling. Very respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C., January 8, 1862. Colonel SHAW, Commanding, ic.: Sin: Lieutenant Selden will call for all your available force to assist in piling the Croatan Channels, which you will order, reserving whatever force may be necessary for equally necessary workof which you must judgesuch as mounting guns, build- ing quarters, & c. You will reserve fozee enough especially for building wharf. Mr. Selden reports the want of civil laborers. You will please address the Governor of North Carolina on the subjecV of procuring free black laborers under the laws of the State, and you will take the necessary steps to obtain about 250 common laborers on the works of this island. Respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. * Diagram omitted Page 129 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 129 I landed on the island, and in company with Colonel Shaw and Major Duffield made a personal reconnaissance to its extreme south end. I noted three successive hommocks of high land between the breastwork for light battery and the south end, each nearly surrounded by marshes and swamps; that the dangerous points were the ilommock Landing at the south end, Pughs Landing on the southwestern shore, and at Ashbys Landing just on the south side of the swamp south of Pork Point. That swamp on the right and the marshes on the left of Suples Hill were reported to me by Colonel Shaw to be impassable. They ap- peared to be so, but I ordered them to be explored and the earthworks at Suples Hill to be extended as far as possible on the right and left flanks. The water at ilommock Landing I ascertained to be about 44 feet. Water at high tide at Pughs to be from 6 to 9 feet, the channel running between the main and first island of marsh u Fulkers Island, inside of the sound and then it passes widening out a mile until opposite Ashbys Landing, up to wlich a vessel drawing 6 feet of water may ruin close in to the shore, as a large steamer of the enemy with transports did. I saw that the enemy might land at Pughs or Ashbys a portion of their force, pass the batteries with all ease, round the north end of the island, and land another portion of their forces, and gain the rear of all the batteries without exchanging a shot with them, or the least danger of damage. Not a fort was in the right position. They should have been located on the islands of marshes at the south end w at ilommock and Pnghs Landings. ith batteries By the courtesy of Flag-Captain Lynch I passed in the Sea Bird through the channel by the light-house and returned through the channel by the Tyrrel shore. If the five batteries had been placed on those islands of marsh and on the opposite shores every channel would have been guarded and the enemy would have been cut off from land- ing. As it was, they could have taken the island in two hours easier than they did in two days, if they had landed (as they could easily have done) in front of the breastworks at Suples Hill and in rear of all the batteries on the north end of the island. I found no teams for light artillery or for transportation, and no tools, axes, spades, shovels, or hoes for constructing breastworks. There were two North Carolina regimeuts, the Eighth and Thirty-first, and a battalion of three companies of the Seventeenth, all under Col- onel Shaw. Their entire effective force was less than 1,500 men, and several companies of these were taken from the infantry to man the heavy guns of the batteries and part to man the gunboats of Captain Lynch. The infantry were undrilled, unpaid, not sufficiently clothed and quartered, and were miserably armed with old flint muskets in bad order. In a word, the defenses were a sad farce of ignorance and neg- lect combined, inexcusable in any or all who were responsible for them. Captain Lynch was energetic, zealous, and active, but he gave too much consequence entirely to his fleet of gunboats, which hindered transportation of piles, lumber, forage, supplies of all kinds, and of troops, by taking away the steam-tugs and converting them into per- fectly imbecile gunboats. He reported to me the indefensible conditior of what he called the floating battery at Redstone, on the Tyrrel side of Croatan Sound. I accorded with his request by the letter of which the following is a copy: 9 R RYOL I Page 130 130 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. X~. STEAMER SEA BIRD, January 9, 1862. Capt. W. F. LYNCH, Flag-Officer, 4~c.: SIR: I received yours of this morning, and regret to be informed of the indefensible condition af the floating battery at Redstone Point, on Croatan Sound. I need not inform you that I have just arrived, and am yet to visit various points of defense at the Roanoke Island. On conference with Colonel Shaw I find that the report of Mid- shipman Gardner was made December 28 last, and immediately Colonel Shaw (De- cember 29) issued the accompanying order, in which he states that Midshipman Gardner, having been detailed by Flag-Officer Lynch to instruct and drill Captain Whites company, stationed in the naval battery, Captain White will see that strict obedience is given to all orders given by him while in the discharge of that duty. Cap- tain White rel ains the entire command of his company, except during such hours each day as the men may be under drill by Midshipman Gardner, & c. This order would seem to cover sufficiently all the purposes of Midshipman Gardners services. But this order to Captain White, you inform me, has been violated by him in not enforcing the obedience of his men under the command of Midshipman Gardner, as verbally reported by the latter to you. My desire and purposes are to co-operate with you in the way to insure the most efficient military and naval service. To that end I have issued the accompanying order, which I trust will be satisfactory. If you claim the command of this battery as a naval battery, I yield it at once. If it is a military battery, it must be under military command. But in either case, when naval and military officers co-operate in service, the command must depend upon the laws and regulations of rank. In this case I presume that Captain White will com- mand and rank Midshipman Gardner; yet you will observe that under my orders to Captain White, Midshipman Gardner will have ample authority to command the men for drill and instruction in working and fighting the guns and to control the maga- zine for artillery purposes. The men need instruction, and I trust Midshipman Gardner will not be taken away from the battery. If you choose to regard this battery under my military command, the accompanying order, if duly enforced by Colonel Shaw in my absence, will effect our mutual desires and efforts to make the battery efficient. With the greatest respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. And I issued the following special orders: SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ CAMP RALEIGH, ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C., No. 2. January 9, 1562. In constructing the wharf heretofore ordered, the commandant at this post will see that it is a permanent structure, of good, solid materials, capable of bearing the arti- cles of transportation and landing for the army and navy. It should have an outer pier or platform large enough to bear upon it a four-horse wagon, and to accommodate at least one large steamer, with a causeway connecting it from seven feet of water with the dry land. It should be placed where the causeway will be the shortest dis- tance between the requisite depth of water and the dry laud. The steam pile-driver will be detained for the wharf. * * * * * * * III. The commandant will cause a full and detailed report to be made of all ord- nance and ordnance stores, embracing arms and ammunition issued and not issued. He will also report the amount of provisions and the whole number of persons in camp to be supplied with provisions; also the number of teanls of horses, mules, or oxen now in charge of the quartermaster, and the purposed for which they are used, and the amount of forage on hand. Also whether there be a proper magazine and ordnance officer in charge, and if not, he will cause temporary magazines to be con- structed of logs and earth, as fire-proof as practicable, and detail a proper or(lnance officer to take charge thereof, who will receive from the (luartermaster all ordnance and ordnance stores and receipt to him4for the same, and issue the same upon proper vouchers to the troops. If there are no horses for field artillery, he will make requi- sition for a sufficient nnmber to serve four pieces and their caissons, and procure cais- sons for the samesay four caissons and thirty-two horses. IV. No firing or discharge of pieces will be allowed in camp, for the purpose of cleaning guns or for practice, without special permission or order of the commandant. The ammunition will be carefully economized. V. No ardent sl)irits or, wine or beer shall be allowed in camp without special or- der or permission of the commandant, and men or messengers will not be permitted to go to Nags Head unless under orders. No persons will be allowed to pass .to and from the sea-beach and the island without special permission. And to prevent intercours Page 131 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. with the enemy the boats and arms of all suspected persons must be seized, so a~to prevent their use by such persons. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, CAMP RALEIGH, ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C., No. 6. January 9, 1S~2. Captain White, Seventeenth Regiment North Carolina troops, stationed at the float- ing battery at Redstone Point, on Croatan Sound, will observe the order of December 29, issued by Col. H. M. Shaw, commanding, & c., in respect to the duties and powers assigned to Midshipman Gardner, detailed by Flag-Officer Lynch to instruct and drill the men at said battery. Capt in White will place his men under the command of Midshipman Gardner for the purposes of drill and instruction iu workiug and fighting the artillery pieces; and Midshipman Gardner, for such purposes, will order the men on duty as the service of drill and instruction may require, and Captain White will afford him every facility in the discharge of this dnty, making him ordnance officer of the artillery and giving him charge of the magazine for artillery stores. In all other respects Captain White will command his company, and he and Midshipman Gardner (while the latter is on military duty) will report to Colonel Shaw, command- ing, & c., at Roanoke Island. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On January 9 General Huger addressed to me the following letter,* which I did not receive for some time after it was written. * * * * * * * It was not nutil J annary 10 that my Legion was ordered to report to me, and then it was ordered to proceed to Edenton, N. (3., and at my request the orders were changed to report to me at Portsmouth, as appears by the following orders and memoranda thereon made by Gen- eral Huger: SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE, No. 8. ~ Richmond, Va., January 10, 1862. * * * * * * * XXVII. All the officers and men of the Wise Legion in this city will immediately proceed to Edenton, N. C., and report for duty to Brig. Gen. H. A. Wise, commanding. By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITHERS, A88istan t Adjutant- General. [Memorandum.] JANUARY 11,1862. By reqncst of General Wise send the men to Portsmouth, Va., for Roanoke Island. B. H. It was not nutil January 11, twenty-one days after the order was dated at Richmond assigning me to the command of the Chowan Dis- trict on December 21, 1861, that Special Orders, No. 8, were issued from the headquarters of the Department of Norfolk, announcing my com- mand, as appears by the following order: SPDCIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, No. 8. 5 Norfolk, Va., January 11, 1862. * * * * * * * II. Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, having reported at these headquarters, is, in obedience to Special Orders, No. 272, Adjutant and Inspector Generals Office, Richmond, Do- * Printed in General Hugers report, p. 114 Page 132 132 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX cember 21, 1861, assigned to the command of the military district composed of that part of North Carolina east of the Chowan River, togethcr with the counties of XYashington and Tyrrel, which will be designated as the Fourth Brigade, Department of Norfolk. General Wise will establish his headquarters (subject to the approval of the major-general commanding the department) at the most central and accessible point to the forces of his brigade. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General linger: S. S. KNDERSON, Assistant Adjutant-General. When I went to IRoanoke Island on the 6th. the pile-driver from the navy-yard reached there about the same time, and on January 2 1 wrote to the Secretary of War for authority to procure several others. I re- ceived a reply of which the following is a copy: CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, WAR DEPARTMENT, Richmond, Va., January 12, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Norfolk, Va.: Sm: I have your favor of the 2d instant. On inquiry I find that but one steam pile- driver can be procured, viz, one at the navy-yard in Norfolk, and if that is the one you have, it is the only one to be obtaiued. I am told, however, that one other exists that is accessible, and was tendered for the service you are now supervising by the owners at Morehead, iu North Carolina. The Secretary of the Navy tells me that these two tile-drivers are the only ones that exist in the waters in our neighboihood, and it must be one of the two that is now in your possession. I have not yet seen your requisition for munitions, but think there can be no diffi- culty in sending you from here a moderate supply of fixed ammunition for field pieces; but our supply of cannon powder is very limited. At the first indication, however, of an attack on Roanoke Island a supply will be sent you. With the number of bat- teries now requiring a supply we have a very small reserve, that we can only part with to the point that maybe actually attacked. I am in daily hope of the receipt of a handsome importation of powder from abroad an supplied. , d the instant it arrives you shall be Your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. While the Secretaries of War and of the Navy were thus uninformed of any but two pile-drivers, three within reach were offered to my com- mand by Messrs. Parks and Culpeper, of Norfolk, and by Dr. Warren, of Edenton. I had hurried back to Norfolk from Hoanoke Island, and made in person the strongest verbal representations of the defensele~s condition of the post to General Huger and left a memorandum of the necessary requisitions. I particularly iml)ressed upon him the necessity of mak- ing the defenses at the marshes at the south end of the island. On January 13 he gave me the instructions of which the following is a copy. * * * * * * * These were the first instructions, on January 13, which I received from General Huger; he adopted my own proposition to establish bat- teries on the marshes; he postponed my proposition for several perma- nent batteries, probably for want of time, but he did not consider that the enemy might probably come before the two-gun batteries he pro- l)osed could be begun. The wharves were to be constracted, too, labor- ers, tools, and machines had to be gotten, and materials transported; he did not seem to calculate upon an early approach of the enOmy; he did not appreciate the shortness of time, the want of men and means to do * Printed in General Hugers report, p. 114 Page 133 CRAP. XX 1 BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 133 and undo all this work, nor the stormy and inclement season of winter on a Hatteras coast, which cut off more than half of the remaining short time; he wholly overlooked the very contingency which happened, of the enemys arrival before these batteries at the marshes could be begun, much less completed; nor did he estimate that the enemy might land on the beach north of Oregon Inlet and cross over to the island by wading, as they could the Roanoke Channel, or by barges out of reach of the battery on that sound. In a word, he formed his conclusion that large forces were not required, not from the state of things which did but from that which did not exist, and probably could not exist from shortness of time, stormy winter weather, and want of men and means. The change of defense of batteries on th~ inar~hes, instead of at the places where they were put, was all essentialso absolutely necessary that steps ought to have been taken by all means to effect it, in order to make any force effectual, and to reduce the force necessary for de- fense; but in any event a large force was necessary, and if the change could not be effected, the largest of forces was necessary. What if the enemy came while we were in the act of the change? This they did and this General Huger did not take into his calculations. Who is responsible for the location of the batteries on the island and their malconstruction and efficiency, I am not informed. On the same day I addressed to him a letter of which the following is a copy: NORFOLK, vA., January 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, 4~c.: SIR: I have left in your office a memorandum of requisitions for additional pile- drivers, for a steam dredging-machine, for steam-tur and barges for transporting forces, formore ammunition, and for an additionalnumber of large artillery pieces, & c. The items were specified, but will be more formally prepared if necessary or required. Under your orders to make all efforts to carry on all necessary work at Roanoke Island I will proceed at once to employ or procure the laborers necessary, such as free blacks and slaves, under the laws of North Carolina, and to do whatever is necessary without further authority. At the same time, sir, I will refer to you at all times for your orders, advice, and permission, whenever it is practicable to do so. Indeed, I report that Roanoke Island is now in a defenseless condition and in presence of a very formidable enemys force. My Legion is ordered to report here or at Portsmouth, but has not arrived. I beg you to urge on their movement and have them forwarded as soon as possible. The Burnside expedition is reported as having sailed. Independent of that, the for& e now at Hatteras Inlet can pass or take Roanoke Island, and i~ardon me for saying that I respectfully differ from the opinion you expressod in your orders to-day, that to prevent the enemys ~unboats from passing the marshes at the south end will also prevent any landing. Batteries at the marshes are vitally essential to prevent the gunboats from passing into Croatan Sound, but they will not prevent the landing on the south or east end of the island. At least 3,000 infantry are needed on the island, and a considerable force, say 1,500 more, are needed on the beaches, and if the enemy pass Roanoke, 5,000 at least are necessary to fight them on the tongues of land on the north side of Albemarle Sound. We need on the beach and on the island at least eight field pieces and the carriages and caissons necessary. We require thirty-two horses for the artillery. The gnus at Redstone are necessary where they are. We - need at least six heavy pieces at the south-end marshes and two at least at Fleet- wood Point. The wharves necessary I will proceed at once to have constructed. A large aniount of lumber is needed for quarters. You will please bear in mind that as yet the infantry have to man the batteries. There are no trained artillery companies at the island now; therefore it is that I ask for the transfer to my command of Cap- tain Grandys company of artillery, now at Sewells Point. very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-GeneraL Page 134 134 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. And on the same day, January 13, I addressed to the Secretary of War a letter of which the following is an extract: NORFOLK, VA., January 13, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War, ~c.: SIR: It is very importantthat my Legion should be forwarded as speedily and in as large a force as possible. The defense of Roanoke Island, which is the key of all the rear defenses of Norfolk audits canals and railroads, is committed to my charge, and I have just returned from a reconnaissance of that point. It is now utterly defense- less. No preparations have been made there at all adequate. General Huger has given me a large authority to do whatever is necessary and has advised what he deems proper in my command; but we have very limited means, and not half time enough to prepare to meet an enemy who is now almost in our immediate presence in very formidable force. Twice the number of my Legion is necessary, and I beg that the place of my Third Regiment maybe speedily filled or that it may be restored. If that cannot he done, or whether that can he done or not, I ask that the officers of the forces left me may be duly commissioned from the time they were nominated by me and that they have served. The incomplete report of the organization of my Legion, dated August 13 last, is in your office. On it, indorsed in pencil, I found your order for the commissions to be issued according to the report. They were not issued, and I found that the report was not indexed or recorded. The only excuse given me was that the report was not signed by me. It was signed by Assistant Adjutant-General Tabb by my order, and it was recognized by you in your order. That order has not been obeyed, and I ask that the commissions then ordered be issued, not to take effect from their respective dates of nomination and service. Again, on Jannary 14,1 addressed to General llnger a letter of which the following is a copy: ROLLISTON, NEAR NORFOLK, VA., January 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, fe.: SIR: Yours of January 11, 1862, assigning me to the command of my appointed military district, designated as the Fourth Brigade, Department of Norfolk, was received late last evening. As reported verbally to you I have already visited the district, assumed command, and issued such orders as I was proud to find met with your approbation. You were also informed by memorandum, and since in writing, of the requisition for my com- mand. I am now awaiting the arrival of a portion of my Legion. As soon as it is moved to Roanoke Island I desire to visit the War Department, to look after that portion of the Legion on its way and to attend to the issuing of commissions for certain of my officers. I am ordered to establish my headquarters, subject to your approval, at the most central and accessible point to the forces of my brigade. Permit me to call your attention, sir, to the fact that the most central are not the most accessible points in my command. Elizabeth City is most central and accessible by land from Norfolk; by water from Roanoke Island 45 miles either way; but there are times in foggy weather when the sound is impassable, and in stormy weather when it is unsafe. Currituck Court-House (called Crawford) is on the line of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Bay Canal and more accessible, but still remote from the main body of forces at Roanoke Island, and the Albemarle Sound has to be passed to and from the island. Ilertford, Nixonton, or Edenton are still more remote, with the same objection of delay and danger by water navigation. The key of the whole command is Roanoke Island, and the only quarters yet erected near it are at Nugs Head. With your up royal I propose to adopt the latter as my headquarters, to be changed, of course, as necessity or experience may dictate. I found a long wooden building erected at Roanoke Island for a hospital. The island is unsafe as a medical depot and hospital, and the spot selected is near a mnmh andawamp, which must be, and is reported to be, unhealthy and beset in summer by mosquitoes. On consultation with Surgeon-General Dc Leon I have ordered Surgeon Lyons to proceed at once to Currituck Court-House and examine that place for a hos- pital site. It is both healthy and safe, and accessible to the forces at Roanoke Island and to medical supplies at Norfolk. As soon as my forces arrive and I can make the selection I will detail a suitable offi- cer from my brigade to report to your headquarters as acting assistant inspector-gen- eral. I will also examine whether the provision returns of tbe respective regiments and posts of my brigade correspond with their morning reports, and I will see that the hospital and commissary returns do not exceed the whole force. This, though, can only be done when my forces shall have arrived and been posted Page 135 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 135 General Orders, No. 50, shall be strictly observed. General Orders, No. 65, calls my attention to General Orders, No. 46, dated Augnst 1, 1861, of which I have no copy and am not informed. I ask a copy, in order that it may be prou~ptly obeyed. Are these orders explained by the letter of the Assistant Adjutant-General of Jannary 9 instant I Very respectfully, & c., HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On the 15th I again addressed to General Huger a letter of which the following is a copy: NEAR NORFOLK, VA., January 15, 1562. Major-General HUGER, Commanding, 4c.: Sin: I ordered Lieutenant Bagwell to procnre a boat, with oars, from the navy-yard fit for sounding the channels of Croatan Sound. He made the within request inform- ally on his friend Captain Lee to save time, expecting to observe official forms after- ward. It is absolutely necessary to have a boat belonging to the army, to be imme- diately and constantly in the sounding service for weeks. It may be sent with the First Regiment of my Legion (just arrived). I beg, therefore, that you will approve of my reqnest to Flag-Officer F. Forrest, to order a proper boat, oars, & c., to he trans- ferred to the army for my command. There are two brass boat howitzers, mounted as field pieces, at the navy-yard, which Captains Lee and Fairfax (in the absence of Flag-Officer Forrest, with the consent of Captain Lynch) said might be allowed to the commands of Captains Lynch and my- selt~ Captain Lynch agreed that I might have one of them, and the two carriages, harness, & c., for my command, while he would take the other for his boats. They are the guns returned to the navy-yard by Colonel Wright from Roanoke Island; and there are also two 12-pounder guns, which Captains Lee and Fairfax said could be spared to the army, and which can he mounted soon in the yard. Will you please ap- prove of my requisition on the flag-officer for these three guns, carriages, & c., and apprise him thereof. The brass howitzers and two carriages are ready now, and I ask that they may he obtained in time to be sent down with my First Regiment of Infantry. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On the same day I ordered Col. W. J. Green as follows: NORFOLK, VA., January 15, 1862. Col. WHARTON J. GREEN, Commanding, ic.: SIn: You will as early as practicable move your whole force from Wilmington, N. C., to Norfolk, Va., aud there report to General linger for transportation to Roanoke Island. Bring with your men all the outfit which you can procure at Wilmington, and make requisitions at Norfolk for deficiencies. Prompt movement is necessary, as the enemy are near in large force. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. I returned from IRoanoke Island to Norfolk on January 11, arid on the 15th addressed to the Secretary of War a letter of which the fol- lowing is a copy: NEAR NORFOLK, VA., January 15, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War, 4~c.: Yours of the 12th, in reply to mine of the 2d instant, is just received. I am sure you will not adjudge me importunate when I inform you that I returned from Roan- oke Island to Norfolk last Saturday. I hastened back, after a short reconnaissance, to apprise headquarters and the Department that there are no defenses there; no adequate preparations whatever to meet the enemy, and to forward all the means in my reach as speedily as possible to make the key of all the rear of Norfolk, with its canals and railroads, safe. Inside of Hatteras Inlet I found twenty-four vessels of light draught, eight of which, at least, are steamers, said to carry four guns each. They are, at farthest, but 30 miles from Roanoke Island, and can reach there in four hours or less, to attack five small gunboats under Captain Lynch and four smal Page 136 136 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CRAP. XX. land batteries wholly inefficient. Any boat drawing 7 feet of water or less can pass the Croatan Sound as far off as l~ miles from any battery, and the enemys guns can silence our batteries there in a very short time. Neither battery is casemated, and our men now there are untrained to heavy pieces mounted on navy carriages. The moment the enemy passes Croatan Channel the North Landing River, North River, Pasquotank, Chowan, and Roanoke, Alligator, and Scuppernong Rivers, and the Dismal Swamp and Albemarle and Chesapeake Canals will be blockaded effectually, and Norfolk and Portsmouth will be cut off from supplies of corn, pork, and forage. The force at Hat- teras is independent of the Burnside expedition. No matter where the latter is, the former is amply sufficient to capture or pass Roanoke Island in any twelve hours. Let me say, then, sir, that if we are to wait for powder from Richmond until we are attacked at that island, that attack will be capture, and our defeat will precede our supply of ammunition. The case is too urgent for me to delay speaking thus ont plainly at once. We have the navy-yard pile-driver. I took it down and put it to work. It can drive about twenty piles per diem, and can work, perhaps, not three days in the week; drives its piles 5 feet apart, and has at least 3 miles to pile. You can see, then, how slowly we can obstruct the channels with but one pile-driver. I can procure three othersone in a day or two and two in a week or two. We want also a steam dredging-machine, to fix our floating batteries in the marshes. That I can procure here. We want a number of decked lighters and barges, on which to transport and mount heavy guns in the marshes and to use as camels for the pile-drivers. We want also large transport boats and steam-tugs, to throw infantry and artillery across wide channels from the island to the beaches on the main. We want ammunition andmen. In a word, almost every preparation has to be made. To make them and to do the least that is necessary I ask, in the emergency, for plenary power, to order what is necessary and to procure what I can get without the delay of observing forms and without making special requisitions for every want. Delay is defeat now at Roanoke Island, and with present means Captain Lynch and I combined cannot guarantee successful defense for a day. I beg, sir, that you will urge this upon the Navy Department, and believe that I am not superserviceable in this urgency. With the highest respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. At this time the First Regiment of Infantry of my Legion arrived in Norfolk, numbering nine companies, averaging about 45 men, making a total of about 405 privates; and on the 16th I issued to Colonel Richard- son, of that regiment, the special order of which the following is a copy: SPECIAL ORDERS, NORFOLK, YA., No. 16. January 16, 1862. Colonel Richardson, of the First Regiment of Infantry, Wise Legion, having reported the arrival of his regiment in Norfolk, he will proceed, as early as practicable, by the way of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, to transport his troops to Roanoke Island, N. C. To that end, before moving, he will see that thirty days rations for at least 1,000 men are forwarded for the Legion and placed in charge of A. Kinney, acting com- missary, in the place of Maj. William H. Thomas, during the absence of the latter; he will see that no provisions are drawn from the commissary of the Legion for more than his actual force, as reported by the morning and hospital returns; he will see the ord- nance officer at Norfolk, and ascertain the amount of ammunition and ordnance stores in depot there or at Portsmouth for the Legion, and he will detail some one competent officer to take charge thereof, as acting ordnance officer of the Legion, who will act until further orders, and have the same conveyed to the post at Roanoke Island under guard of Colonel Richardsons command, on its way there, and there put it in a maga- zine; he will also see the quartermaster at Norfolk, and ascertain whether the means of transportation have been provided, seeking information from Marshall Parks, the president of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, as to the capacity and comfort of his steam-tngs and barges for transportation, and seeing that they are sufficiently heated and veutilated, and when he arrives at Roanoke Island he will report to Col. Hill Shaw, commanding, & c.; and if sufficient quarters are not in readiness o~ the island for his troops, he will land his men at the wharf of Nags Head, on the beach opposite the north end of the island, and take quarters in the cabins and cottages there erected, occupying such as may be pointed out by the proprietor, Mr. Happer; he will take command there until further orders as of a separate post for the Legion, and as the east and central portions of the beach can be shelled by the enemy from the sea-side, he will, as far as practicable, occupy the west side of the beach next the Roanoke Chan- nel or Sound; he will at once establish the strictest discipline of drill, guard, and vedette duty, keeping a vigilant lookout as far down as Oregon Inlet, and as high n Page 137 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 137 as Gallops, opposite Powells Point on the main, and keeping up a regular and ample ferry across the Roanoke Channel to the part of the island opposite; he will observe the accompanying orders from headquarters, and allow of no firing or ardent spirits in his camp, except what may be allowed by his own special permission. - Owing to the scarcity of powder the order as to firing must be rigidly adhered to, and strong and in- toxicating drinks must be issued by the sutlers under the strictest regulations, enforc- ing moderation and sobriety. The enemy are near, within a few hours steamin ~ attack is hourly expected, and the camp must be in constant order and readiness; and to prevent attracting the enemys steamers the men must not be allowed to appear in any bodies by daylight, and no fires must be kindled day or night on the sea-side. Fuel must be regularly sup- plied on the sound side, and covered ways of logs and sand provided against the enemys shells behind the sand hills on that side. If the enemy attempts to land on either side of the beach north of Oregon Inlet within reach, he must be attacked by all means, and if our forces are obliged to retreat before superior numbers, they will either cross in the ferry to the forts on Roanoke Island or move northward on the western shore of the beach up to Gallops, and there cross in the ferry over Curritnck Sound to Powells Point on the main. They will never retreat unless compelled, and then in good order, saving all stores and equipage. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. I then hurried to Richmond to forward the remaining corps of my Legion and to urge upon the War Department the necessity of expedit- ing the defenses of Roanoke Island. I was allowed but a short and cursory interview with the Secretary of War, but pressed upon him the necessity of supplies and re-enforcements and of forwarding the whole force of my Legion; and on January 18 I ordered Colonel llenningsen to visit the Governor of North Carolina in person, with instructions and a letter of which the following are copies: Col. C. F. HENNINGSEN, Commanding, 4c.: RICHMOND, VA., January 15, 1862. Sin: You will take charge of the inclosed letter to His Excellency the Governor of North Carolina. You will confer with him on the defenses of that part of his State confided to my command. You will inform him fully of all the lack of preparations for defense, especially at Roanoke Island. You will impress upon him the importance of those defenses as objects for the enemy to attack. Their main aim is to shut up the rear of Norfolk and the forces there; attack on Wilmington is minor, but the forces of the enemy at Hatteras and with Burnside are ample for invading both Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. You will urge upon him the necessity to obtain permanent re- cruits for my Legion, and arms and ammunition, barges, lighters, dredging-machines, pile-drivers, steam tug-boats, negro laborers, & c. You will look at the within and note its purport as to his executive circular respect- ing corps formed from the North Carolina Militia, and as to the regret of Colonel Martin, of North Carolina, who, with his men (late prisoners at Hatteras), are now discharged from their paroles, & c. You will, in a word, obtain all the aid you can in any and every form from Governor Clark, and then as early as practicable report to me at Roanoke Island. In the mean time you will turn over the command of the Second Regiment of the infantry of the Legion to Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, and issue orders to him to have the Second Regiment in readiness to proceed to Norfolk on Tuesday next, Jan- uary 28 instant, and toproceed on that day and there report to Maj. Gen. Ben. Huger, commanding, & c., not using his quartermaster and commissary for subsistence and transportation to Roanoke Island, N. C. If he arrives there prior ~ my return to the island he will report to Colonel Shaw, commanding, & c., at the post1 and take quarters, as they can best be provided, either on Roanoke Island or at Na& s Head on the sea-beach. He will apply to Lieutenant-Colonel Richardson, of the Fir~ Regim~nt, for copies of the general orders of the Legion at Nags Head. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General; Fourth Brigade, Department of Noifolk. RICHMOND, VA., January 18, 1862. To His Excellency Governor CLARK, North Carolina: Sm: I have made but a brief reconnaissance of the defenses of the counties of your Commonwealth under my command; but, brief as it was, it startled me with the con Page 138 138 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. viction that the large fleet of vessels and steamers inside of Hatteras Inlet can pass Roanoke Island at any hour and blockade all the waters of Albemarle and Currituck Sounds, shutting up the Dismal Swamp and Albemarle and Chesapeake Canals, cutting Norfolk and Portsmouth off from supplies, and North Carolina off from trade, and threatening the Seaboard and Roanoke and the Pctersburg and Norfolk Railroads. Roanoke Island is the key of all these defenses, and is wholly unprepared, in every respect, to repulse an enemy as formidable as that inside of Hatteras Inlet. The fleet there is independent of the Buruside expedition. Eight of the ships are steamers and sixteen sailing vessels, unless those masted have steam propellers also. We want every- thing in the way both of personnel and materielmen, laborers, organization, drill, am- munition, piles, pile-drivers, dredging-machines, barges, boats, steam-tugs, & c. I am here urging and hastening preparations. I appeal to you for aid, and with that view send General C. F. Henningsen, colonel of the Second Regiment of the infantry of 1 Legion and commander of my corps of artillery, to confer with you in person. The Burnside expedition and the fleet at Hatteras may threaten Wilmington, it is true, hut my opinionis tbatthe enemys two fleets are ample to endanger both Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds alike, and as the objects of attack upon the rear defenses of Nor- folk and Portsmouth are the more important and vital, it is reasonable to suppose that the enemy will pursue the larger game with the larger, force, and the lesser is ample to pass and capture all the present defenses of Albeinarle Sound. By circular, under your orders, I am informed that you save power to call out the militia of certain counties, including those in my command, taking one-third of each regiment either by enlistment or allotment. Willyon please say how Imay makerequisi- tions? How the men are to be called out and report for duty? And may I suggest, sir, that unwilling mennot volunteering reallyare not reliable, and will you perasit me and aid me in inducing companies, battalions, or regiments to enlist in my Legion for the war and to jo~i the Confederate service under the liberal regulations of the late law of Congress? Permit me also to call your attention to the fact that there are three companies belonging to the regiment lately under Colonel Martin, fragments of the North Carolina regiment captured at Hatteras. Colonel Martin and the pris- oners of his regiment are now released from their parole as prisoners and may reform their regiment. I saw Colonel Martin at Elizabeth City lately, and I ask that you will, with his consent, assign him to my command, and assent that his regiment may be incorporated in my Legion. General Henningsen will present you with his views of the defense of North Caro- lina and with other of my views also, and I beg you to belie~ie that, however much I may lack the ability, I will devote to your defense all my energy, faithfulness, and care. With great respect, sir, I am, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General, Fourth Brigade, Department of Norfolk and North Carolina. The Secretary of War replied verbally to my urgent appeals for re- euforcements that he had not the men to be spared for my command. I asked for the restoration of my Third IRegiinent, which had been taken from me, for the reason that they had been raised to defend Western Virginia and then had been sent to South Carolina. This was not granted. I then urged th t General Huger had about 15,000 men in the front of Norfolk, lying idle in camp for eight months, and that a considerable portion of them could be spared for the defense of the rear of Norfolk, and especially as my district supplied Norfolk and his army with nearly or quite all of its corn, pork, and forage; that re-enforce- ments at Roanoke Island were as absolutely necessary to the defense of Norfolk a~ forces in its front, and that particular or special posts should not be allowed to monopolize nearly all the men, powder, and supplies. Failing to obtain any definite reply to this appeal, I then resorted to an attempt to procure the addition to my forces of a few men (about 150) at Norfolk, who had escaped from the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and addressed to the Secretary of War a letter of January 19, of which the following is a copy: RIchMOND, VA., January 19, l~6~. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: The regiment raised for service on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, Accomack, and Northampton Counties, commanded by Col. Charles Smith, has been dispersed, as you know, by the weakness of its local position and the orders of its commander Page 139 CuAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 139 A. portion of that regiment escaped to York River and Norfolk posts. The number of men would form two, perhaps three, good companies, but they consist of fragments of companies, under different company officers, who cannot or will not unite so as to form full companies, and it is certain that their regiment cannot be reconstructed or reformed. Mos(, if not all, of these men are assigned to the department of Major- General Hu,, er, in which mine is the Fourth Brigade. Now, these men are natives of my native peninsula, are known to me, and I have a special regard for them, as I have reason to believe they have for me personally. I ask, by way of repairing the dam- a~e done to my Legion by taking from it fourteen companies, disbanding one, and nearly destroying two, in all seventeen companies, of which I have been deprived, that these companies may be transferred to my command. I will reorganize them into two or more companies, with the aid of some recruits, and then I propose that they may be discharged from their former service, on condition that they will elect their own company officers and enlist for the war under the late law of Congress. This, I am authorized to say, meets the approbation of General Huger, who will rec- ommend the transfer, and I trust the whole proposition will be at once adopted by you. Most respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. Instead of complying with this request to first transfer them to my command and then to allow them to be mnstered out of service on condition that they would re-enlist, the Department ordered that they should first be mnstered out of service, and then left it to their option to join my command or not. The consequence was, they were mus- tered out of service and were entirely disbanded and scattered. From January 19 to the 22d, at Richmond, I was actively and con- stantly employed in issuing orders and in urging the forwarding of my artillery and other remaining corps of the Legion. Dr. Thomas D. Warren, of Edenton, N. C., an active and efficient patriot, having tendered to me his services as a volunteer aide, on January 21 i[ addressed to him a letter of which the following is a copy: RICHMOND, VA., January 21, 1862. Dr. THOMAS D. WARREN: DEAR SIR: Yours of the 17th instant is just received here. You are ordered to b& announced as one of my volunteer aides. You will order Colonel Shaw, from me,t~ have the piles sent for as early and as fast as possible. You can always get a vessel at Elizabeth City. If the piles cannot be driven fast enough he will sink vessels. If the price is too high (the demanded price), he will have them appraised, and at all events will sink enough to obstruct the channels at material points next the piling, taking all he can get for that purpose; and if all are not necessary to be used, he will use first the lowest price vessels. You will see to this, taking post at Edenton and superintending transportation and supplies. Hastily, yours, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. Previously I had sent Captain Bolton and Lieutenant Bagwell to iRoanoke Island, to superintend the pile-driving and to sound the chan- nals of Croatan and IRoanoke Sounds. They were ordered on this duty January 15. On January 22, in reply to all my urgent appeals for the means of defense, I received the order of which the following is a copy: SPECIAL OnDuns, ~ ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOn GENERALS OFFICE, Iso. Y~. S Richmond, Va., Junnco-9 ~ Th~Z. * * * * * * XXXII. Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, Provisional Army, will immediately proceed to Roanoke Island, N. C., and assume command of the Confederate States troops at that place. * * * * * * * By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WItHERS, Assistant Adjutant-General. Page 140 140 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CUAP. XX. I immediately replied by letter, of which the following is a copy: RICHMOND, VA., January 22, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: Y& ur order of to day, to immediately proceed to Roanoke Island, N. C., and assume command of the Confederate States troops at that place, is received. 1 will proceed immediately, as commanded; but it is just to myself to say that I had pro- ceeded heretofore to Roanoke Island and assumed command, but finding no adequate preparations whatever to meet an enemy at that place I hastened on to Richmond, to forward that portion of my Legion remaining here and to obtain necessary authority to procure the means of defense. I am without an ordnance officer or an assistant inspector-general, and various req- uisitions are delayed here, so that my artillery cannot be forwarded. I beg respectfully that the Department will expedite the forwarding of my troops and furnish them with the actual necessities of the service. With great respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. The next day (January 23) I returned to Norfolk, and hastened home to prepare to execute the order of the 22d, which was peremp- tory, and left me no election but to go to iRoanoke Island, assume com- mand of that post, and defend it as best I could with or without men or means. In reply to my order to Lieutenant-Colonel Green to report to me as early as practicable, he informed me that he had been detained by Brig. Gen. J. iR. Anderson at Wilmington until he could get informa- tion from the Secretary of War whether to obey my order or not. I immediately, on January 25, sent him an order of which the following is a copy: ROLLISTON, NEAR NORFOLK, VA., W. J. GREEN, Lieutenant-Colonel, ic.: January 25, 1862. SIR: I did not, of course, issue orders to you without conferring with the Secretary of War before you were sent to Wilmington as part of my Legion to recruit, and since when I was ordered to North Carolina. In both instances you were acknowledged as part of my Legion, subject to my orders. I therefore report to you the order to at once move from Wilmington to Norfolk, and thence to Roanoke Island, where you will report to me in person. Your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. I also the same day addressed a letter to the Secretary of War of which the following is a copy: NEAR NORFOLK, VA., January 25, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I am detained here by stress of weather and want of transportation to Roa- noke Island. To-morrow, probably, or next day, I depart for that post. To-day Lieut. Col. Wharton J. Green reports from Wilmington, N. C., that on reporting to 43eneral Anderson my orders to Colonel Green to move to Roanoke Island, General Anderson, commanding the Cape Fear District, objected, until he could communicate with the Secretary of War. I beg that you will at once inform General Anderson that Colonel Greens command was sent to Wilmington simply to winter and to re- cruit; that they belong to my brigade (the Legion), and that they are essential to the defense of Roanoke lsland; a more important point than Wilmington. This hinder- ance at this time is annoying and might prove fatal. Colonel Green reports to me seven companies, and the probable completion of his regiment in a week from the 23d instant. I have repeated my orders to him to move to Roanoke Island via Norfolk. I hope you will promptly sustain me in this. With the highest respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General Page 141 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF RQALNOKE ISLAND, N. C. 141 The Department ordered Colonel Green on, but his arrival at Boa- noke Island was on the morning of February 8, while the action was raging, in which his battalion of five companies, about 450 men, were not engaged at all, but they arrived quite in time to be captnred. Thus by this interruption I was deprived of this re-enforcement. My Sec- ond Regiment, but eight companies (about 350 men), was not forwarded from Norfolk until the evening of January 25, and arrived at Nags Head on January 27. On January 26, at home, I received from the Secretary of War a let- ter, dated January 23, of which the following is a copy: CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, WAR DEPARTMENT, Richmond, Va., January 23, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Norfolk, Va.: SIR: I liave your letter of yesterday, giving me information of your intended im- mediate departure for Roanoke Island. The terms of your letter imply the idea that you consider the order as being in some way a reflection on your absence from that post at this time. I write therefore to say, as due to you, that nothing was further from my thoughts. I knew you to be here on useful public service connected with your command, and my order was only issued because of receipt of information that an immediate attack was threatened on your post; and I well knew that in such case you would feel grateful for being allowed the opportunity of assuming your command and would be much mortified if accidentally absent. I will take pleasure in attending to your requests and help you to the best of my ability. Yours, respectfully, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. I immediately replied by letter of which the following is a copy: ROLLISTON, NEAR NORFOLK, January 26, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: SIR: I express to you gratefully my acknowledgments for yours of the 23d instant. Your order to be at my post in the hour of apprehended danger was very proper, yet it relieves my absence from reproach to have it said that I hastened awayfromit only to return as speedily as possible with the means of its defense. The weather has delayed here the transportation of my Second Regiment of Infantry. They started yesterday for Roanoke Island. and I depart to-morrow, if a steam tug, through the canal, can be found. You, I am certain, would have me succeed triumphantly in my duties, and will excuse even eager, as well as anxious, appeals for the means of vic- tory. Wherever the Buruside expedition may be, the forces of the enemy already in the Hatteras Inlet are sufficient to overwhelm the present forces and means of defense. I avail myself of your kindness in attending to my requests and helping me to the best of your ability, by asking that you will order commissions to be issued to the fol- lowing officers: Maj. C. B. Duffield, of cavalry; Ordnance Officer James H. Pearce~~ Assist. Inspector-General H. Dugan; Adjutant (of the First Regiment of Infantry~ Henry A. Wise, jr., and Second Lieuts. (in the Engineer Corps, Artillery) T. C. Kin- ney, C. Ellis Munford, and R. A. Wise, & c. Please order the forces of my Legion under Colonel Green, at Wilmington, N. C., and the two companies at Staunton, assigned to the command of Col. N. Tyler, to be forwarded to me, and order my artillery corps at Richmond to be furnished with guns, carriages, and caissons, and forwarded. I beg you also to order back to me the Third Regiment of Infantry taken from my command. With the highest respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On January 28 I addressed to the Secretary of War a letter inform- iug him that at last I had procured transportation to Roanoke Island; that 1 would leave that evening at 4 p. in., and begging him to forward my artillery corps and pieces. I had gone to Norfolk on Monday (the 27th) to start for the island Page 142 142 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [Ciir. XX. The steam tug could not promise to start before Tuesday evening, the 28th. At 1.30 p. in. we started, and the tug broke down before getting to Portsmouth, and had herself to be towed back to Norfolk by the ferry-boat. We were detained until the evening of the next day (the 29th) for repairs to the tug. On January 28 I issued various orders in Norfolk to expedite prep- arations at the island, among others those of which the following are copies: NORFOLK, VA., January 28, 1862. Lient. JAMES H. PEARCE, Ordnance Officer, 4~c.: Sin: You will report to Major-General Huger as the ordnance officer of my Legion. You will ask him for orders to take a gun-carriage and limber, or 12-pounder, or ti-pounder, now at Kempsville. It is one of three artillery pieces, mounted at the navy-yard, and allowed, with carriages, & c., to be issued to me in the spring of 1861 for the defense of Lynn Haven shore. Two of the pieces, I am informed, were taken away from Kempsville, under orders from General Huger. The other is there under no command that I know of; and I desire it to be restored to me. I am personally responsible for all three pieces, as they were issued to me by Flag-Officer Forrest before I was commissioned or had a command, and were taken in my absence at the West. I desire to have all three returned to me, and you will so request of General Huger; but you will especially request to be allowed horses by the quartermaster here to bring the gun from Kempsville to Norfolk, in order that it may be taken to Roanoke Island. You will also call upon Flag-Officer Forrest, at the navy-yard, and ask for one brass howitzer, allowed to be taken by me, with the consent of Captain Lynch, to whose command it belonged. It is one of two pieces loaned by Captain Lynch to Colonel Wright, and returned by the latter to the navy-yard. Now, Captain Lynch consents that I shall have one of the pieces, with both carriages, caissons, harness, & c. You will also apply at the navy-yard for two iron 12-pounder pieces, their carriages, caissons, & c. As fast as obtained you will forward these four pieces, & c., to me at Roanoke Island. To this end you will remain here not more than eight days, and within that time proceed to Roanoke Island as early as you cau; and while here you will consider yourself detailed to look after and arrest deserters and stragglers from my command. I am informed that some of my men are now on board the Merrimac. You will take orders and proper steps to arrest them and send them on to Roanoke Island. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-U era~. NORFOLK, VA., January 28, 1862. Maj. F. D. CLEARY, Quartermaster, pc.: Sin: You will proceed as early as practicable to procure for the service at Roanoke Island, its marshes, & c., at Nags Head, uhe following implements and materials: Piie-drivers.Three can be obtained: one from Capt. M. Parks, and one from Mr. Culpeper, at Norfolk, Va., and one from Dr. Thomas Warren, Edenton, N. C. Each will require a crew of six men. D. edging-machine.One; to be procured from the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal Company, of Capt. M. Parks. They require a double crew of 24 men. Lighters.Eight; 50 or 60 feet long, 3j or 4 feet deep, and 12 or 15 feet wide, well calked and made water-tight. Lumber.Twenty thousand feet of 1-inch plank (sorted), from 12 to 20 feet long; 17,000 superficial, or 42,500 board measure; decking-plank, 2j inches thick. Scant- ling, 6 by 4 inches, 16 feet long; ki all 12,000 feet long. Plank for wharves, 12 feet long, 2 inches thick; in all 26,000 feet, board measure. Piles, 1,500, 14 feet long; 1,000, 18 feet long; 500, 22 feet long; 1,500, 20 feet long. Nails.Whatever is necessary. The piles, plank, and scantling you will get best, probably, through Dr. Warren, of Edenton, N. C., and the lighters from the Dismal Swamp Canal. You will also procure such number of cooking and warming stoves as you may deem necessary for the Legion; and also such an assortment of axes, hoes, spades, shovels, and other implements as are necessary for constructing the works at Roanoke Island, and forward the same as early as possible to that post. Very respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General Page 143 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 143 On the night of January 28 Colonel llenningsen arrived in Norfolk with fragments of three companies of my artillery. On the 29th, as I was departing from the wharf at Norfolk, I ordered him to send, his men and horses by land over the sand bridge to the sea-side beach and thence by the shore to Nags Headall except men enough to guard his guns, carriages, caissons, and ordnance stores and these would be shipped on the barges and towed down to the lower section of the canal at Currituck Canal Bridge, where they would be met by tugs and barges from the island. This order could have been executed in two or three days at most, and the artillery could have reached me by February 1 or 2. I had previously sent my,own private wagon the same route to the point opposite Knotts and Crow Islands, and the beach road the whole way to Nags Head is not only practicable, but the very best and firmest road in all this seotion. I found Lieutenant Gallop, of the Eighth North Carolina Regiment (son of Mr. Gallop, who keeps the ferry between the beach and Pow- ells Point), on Hoanoke Island, and from him got a minute description of the whole route, and gave a memorandum of the way to Lieutenant Pearce and Quartermaster MTebb, of the artillery, for Colonel Hen- ningsen, whom I saw at the wharf, and to whom I gave the order and description of the route. By the reports of Colonel Henningsen and Lieutenant Pearce, of which the following are copies, it seems that General Huger thought differently of the beach route; changed my order to Colonel Henning- sen, and attempted to send the artillery by land to Powells Point, and the fatal consequence was that Colonel Henningsen, with more than 100 men and six field pieces, well mounted, did not reach me at all before the island was captured, and joined me not at all until after I fell back to Currituck Court-House, eight days after the action: Extract from Cotonel Benningsens report. On Tuesday, January 28, about 12 p. in., reached Norfolk by rail, with Batteries B, C, and D, of artillery, of Wise Legion, with all the horses, five p,ieces, and five cais- sons. Horses fed in the cars that night because too dark to remove them. On Wednesday morning, January 29, reported to Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, and received orders from him to march, with the men and horses of artillery, by a route indicated by him to Lieutenant Pearce, who furnished a copy of these route orders to Captain Webb, quartermaster of artillery of Wise Legion. The guns, caissons, and wagons I was ordered by General Wise to leave in Norfolk, to be transported by water. I gave marching orders for January 30, the condition of the horses, much injured by the cars, rendering it advisable to rest them twenty-four hours. On Thursday (30th) was informed by Major Bradford that General Huger could not furnish water transportation for guns, caissons, or wagons, and that I must take them by land. There were now unexpectedly six guns (a sixth iron 6-pounder without caissons having been received at Norfolk), five caissons, and fourteen wagons to be transported by land, with only six horses that had been worked in harness, and be- tween thirty and forty horses and mules which had never been broken to harness. Thron~h consequent accidents occurring it took forty-eight hours before we could move from Norfolk. I ordered a march, however, for next morning, and after receiv- ing General Hugers orders, through Major Bradford, reported to General Huger Oeneral Huger confirmed these orders and also ordered me to change the route laid down by General Wise; that is to say, he ordered me to proceed by the main-laud road to Powells Point, instead of by the beach, he (General Huger) giving as a reason that guns and wagons could not be dragged along the beach, and that, in the then state of the weather, the road would be washed over by the sea. This view, which I have since found to be erroneous, was confirmed by several of General Hugers officers and by others who professed to be acquainted with the locality. On Friday, the 31st, attempted to march, but had much trouble and several acci- ilents with the teams. One team ran away and damaged the forge wagon, breaking the pole Though the forge wagon was new, being drawn just before leaving Rich- mond, the wood of the pole when broken was rotten half through. At 2p. in., whe Page 144 144 OPERATIONS IN NOIi~TH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. ready to start, found that, on account of the prevailing wind and high tide, the bridge over the East Brauch was covered by two feet of water and deep holes reported on the other side. Low water not occurring till after dark, suspended march till next morning, Saturday, February 1. Fresh accidents with teamsone gun-carriage dam- aged, and ]iiarness so insecure, though drawn new in Richmond, that we were obliged to procure bolt-rope. This and waiting for repairs delayed us till 12 in., when we marched from Norfolk City. C. F. HENNINGSEN, Colonel Fifty-ninth Regiment Virginia Volunteers, Commanding Batt iea B, Q and D, Artillery, Wise Legion. NAGS HEAD, N. C., February 6, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WIsE: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to your commands, I read to Colonel Henningsen, in Norfolk, your orders that all the artillery horses and men were to go by the beach route to this place, except such of the latter as were neces- sary for the Protection of the field pieces, & c., which, with their carriages and cais- sons, were to go in tow of a steam-tug to the lower section of the canal. Capt. L. N. Webb, assistant quartermaster of artillery corps, wrote down, in Colonel Henning- sens presence, tlie prescribed route, with all the material, as enumerated by Mr. Gallop and embodied in your orders to me. I saw Major Johnson, assistant quar- termaster of this department, in order to procure the water transportation for the pieces, caissons, & c. He informed me they were not to go that way. I reported that fact to Colonel Henningsen, and he and I went to General Huger, who ordered Colonel Henningsen to take the horses, pieces, caissons, & c., by the inland route, as thebeach was impracticable from inlets, high tides, and the probabilities of being shelled by the enemys gunboats. I have the honorto be, general, your obedient servant, JAMES H. PEARCE, Lieutenant and Ordnance Officer. When General Huger met me here on the 19th instant he was still incredulons about the route. I had ordered and promised to order a survey of it. Unfortunately the enemy are now in possession of Nags Head and the beach; how far up it is not known. I was myself driven in a two-horse wagon on the evening and night of the 8th as high np from Nags Head as Gallops Ferry, and was assured by all who knew that it was the only bad part of the beach route up to Cape Henry. The Currituck and other inlets have filled up long ago, and there is not a foot of the way not passable by horses, footmen, carts, and wagons. On the evening of Jannary 291 left Norfolk, and reached Nags Head the night of the 30th. I immediately issued Special Orders, Nos. 12 and 13, of which the following are copies: SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NoRFoIi, No. 12. 5 Nags Head, N. C., January 30, 1862. The quartermaster, or his brigade agent, for the post at Roanoke Island and Nag& Head will immediately procure twenty lighters, as near 60 feet long, or longer, and 12 feet wide as he can get them, and have them well calked and water-tight, fbr the service o# ferries and transportation across the Roanoke Sound; to and froni the island and the beach and across Currituck Sound; to and f~om Gallops on the beach and the shore opposite Powells Point and across to Croatan Sound; to and from the island and marshes and Tyrrel shore opposite. And to this end he will at once dis- patch the steam tug-boat Currituck, Capt. C. Bonton, to such places on the waters of the Albemarle Sound as such lighters can be obtained at, with orders to return as. speedily as possible with as many as she can tow to the wharf at Nags Head; and Sergt. J. C. Gallop, of Company B, of the Eighth North Carolina Regiment, is detailed for the duty of accompanying Captain Bonton as pilot and to assist in obtaining the lighters. He will examine them, and those fit for service he will take at a fair valu- ation; and if he and the owner or owners cannot agree on the prices he will cause them to be valued by arbitrators, one to be chosen by him and one by the owner, and if they cannot agree, the two to call in an umpire. Upon the return of the steamer and the lighters to Nags Head he will report to me, or in my absence to the officer of the post there as to the lighters, and also to his commanding officer at Roanoke Island Page 145 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 145 accoanting for his absence by these orders, and Captain I3onton, of the Currituck, will await there for further orders. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, No. 13. ~ Nags Head, N. 0., January 30, 1862. The steam tug-boat Roanoke, Captain Hobbs, will proceed as early as practicable to the great bridge over the northern section of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, and there apply to Mr. Parks, the president of the canal company or his agent at that place, for a steam pile-driver and a steam dredging-machine, with their crews, to be employed on the defenses of Croatan and Roanoke Sounds. As soon as he can obtain them he will tow them to Roanoke Island, and report to me at Pork Point Bat- tery for further orders. The brigade commissary, or his agent, will fnrnish the crews of the pile-driver and dredging-machine with rations for ten days; and if Captain Hobbs finds that either the pile-driver or the machine is ready and the other is not, and cannot be ready for two days or more, he will return immediately with the one which is ready, and report to me for further orders. HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. The next morning (January 31) I visited iRoanoke Island, saw Col- onel Shaw, and gave him special orders. The same day I returned to Nags Head and fixed my quarters. On the morning of February 1, early, I issued and distributed van- ons orders of my own and of headquarters, when, about 9 a. m. of that day, I was seized with a violent and acute attack of pleurisy, with high fever and spitting of blood, threatening pneumonia, from the bed of which I was taken and placed prostrate in a wagon late on the evening of the 8th instant, after the island was captured. I continued, how- ever, to dictate all orders. The weather was one continual cold rain and high wind, and no work of consequence could be accomplished. I made, however, every disposition in my power. I could not send to Colonel Shaw, as he requested, any field pieces of artillery, for mine had not arrived;, but on the 4th I detailed Cap- tain Schermerhorn and Lieutenant Kinney to report for duty to Colonel Shaw, for drilling and instructing in light artillery practice. Colonel Shaw had reported to me three field pieces of artillerya 24-pounder, an 18-pounder Mexican piece, and a 12-pounder. I sent liim from Norfolk a 5-pounder brass howitzer; but when I arrived there were but three piecesthe 24-pounder, the 18-pounder, and the 6-pounder. It is not yet explained to me how it came that there were but three pieces. For the 24-pounder and the 18-pounder there were no other ammunition than that for a 12-pounder. On February 3 the Secretary of War addressed to me a letter, in reply to my appeals, of which the following is a copy: CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, WAR DEPARTMENT, Richmond, Va., February 3, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WIsE, Boanoke Island, N. C., (Care of General Huger, Norfolk, Va.) SIR: In response to your several letters, which it has not been in my power to an- swer separately, I now inform you that First. The North Carolina Battalion was ordered by me to report to you, and I sup- pose it is now with you. Second. I ordered Captain Clement to muster into service his own company of cav- alry and to join your command. Third. In relation to the several commissions asked for your Legion, I beg leave to state what I have done and can do, as follows, viz: 10 R RYOL I Page 146 146 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XL 1st. Charles B. Duffield has been nominated for major, and his commission will be sent as soon as he is confirmed by Congress. 2d. Henry A. Wise, jr., has been confirmed as first lieutenant and adjutant, and his commission has been forwarded. 3d. J. H.I~ichardsou will be promoted to colonel of the First Regiment of Infantry of your Legion as soon as the regiment of cavalry is filled up to ten companies, in order to justify the transfer to it of Col. J. Lucius Davis. 4th. M. Dimmock will be appointed adjutant of the cavalry regiment as soon as the ten companies are mustered in. The law does not allow an additional officer as adju- tant to a battalion. 5th. You have a right to assign Lieut. J. H. Pearce to duty as ordnance officer if you choose. There is no such office provided by law as ordnance officer, and there can be no appointment. It is a mere assignment to duty. 6th. You cannot have, by law, more than one adjutant-general, who must also act as inspector-general. I cannot, therefore, appoint Hammond Dugan, as you desire; but you have no quarterma~ter for your cavalry, and you might confer that post on him if you desire. 7th. I will present the name of T. C. Kinney for a second lieutenancy in the Pro- visional Engineer Corps. This corps is too limited in number for me to be able to yield to your wish for any further nominations in it. Fourth. I will send your cannon as promptly as possible. I would have had it ready for you before, but I was compelled to direct all my resources in light artillery to aid our army after its recent disaster at Somerset, in Kentucky, where we lost all our artillery. Your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. February 3 General Huger sent to me an order of which the follow- ing is a copy: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NonlroLK, Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Norfolk, Va., February 3, 1S~2. Commanding Fourth Brigade, Boanoke Island: Sin: The steamer Roanoke towed down two barges, which were ordered by the quartermaster to proceed to Scuppernong and bring back corn to this place. If the Roanoke has been taken for other serv)ce, you will, on receipt of this, send her and the barges to carry out the orders of the quartermaster. I have to charter vessels to bring forage here, and will give vessels so employed by the quartermasters depart- ment certificates that they are employed by me, and such vessels are not to be inter- fered with by any one. You wilt direct the captains of all steamboats coming here from your command to report to the chief quartermaster and any officers coming up to reportto headquarters. These orders are imperative. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-General, Gommanding. Had I complied with this order I would have had no means of trans- portation whatever. The steam-tug Currituck had been sent for lighters and never returned to Nags Head. Febrnary 3 General Huger inclosed to me a letter of the Secretary of War to him, inclosing a letter of Captain Lynch to the Secretary of the Navy: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, .Yo~folk, Va., February 3, 1562. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Commanding Fourth Brigade, Roanoke Island: SIR: I inclose herewith copies of a letter, dated January 22, from Commodore Lynch to the Secretary of the Navy, and a copy of a letter of the Secretary of War addressed to me, dated January 31. I am sure you will with pleasnre aid the naval officers as far as may be in your power. Without adopting the plans of Commodore Lynch for the defenses of Roanoke Island, I count upon your promptness and energy in rendering the defenses as formidable as possible. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-General Page 147 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 147 CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, WAR DEPARTMENT, Richmond, Va., January 31, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Norfolk, Va.: SIR: I have the honor of inclosing for your information a copy of a letter from Cap- tain Lynch to the Secretary of the Navy. This letter has excited the deepest solici- tude of the President and myself, and you are requested to take the most prompt and energetic measures in your power to remedy the deficiencies in the defenses at Roa- noke Island suggested by Captain Lynch, as well as to furnish him men to man his gunboats, even if necessary to detach temporarily some of the soldiers under your command. Your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. CONFEDERATE TATES STEAMER SEA BIRD, Off i?oanoke I8land, January 22, 1862. S. H. MALLORY, Secretary of the Navy: SIR: I have the honor to report that on the 20th instant, with this steamer and the Raleigh, I started on a cruise in Pamlico Sound and for a reconnaissance of Hatteras. Yesterday afternoon we looked into the inlet and there saw a large fleet of steamers and transports. We counted twenty-one of the former all inside the spit; a fog bank concealed those outside. Two large steamers were outside the bulkhead and one was being lightened over by two schooners. They are evidently prepared for a general movement. The commanding officer at Middletown, in Hyde County, learned through a deserter that the enemys force consists of twenty-four gunboats, seven large steamers, aad sixteen transports. To meet these I have two old side-wheel steamers and six pro- pellers, the former possessing some speed, the latter slow in their movements, and one of theni frequently displacing its shaft; but my greatest difficulty is in the want of men. So great has been the exposure of our crews that a number have been necessa- rily invalided; consequently the complements are very much reduced, some of them one-half. I have sent to Washington, Plymouth, Edenton, and Elizabeth City for recruits without success, and an earnest appeal to Commodore Forrest brought me only four from Norfolk. To meet the enemy I have not more than a sufficient number of men to fight half the guns. In a former communication I have informed you of niy appeal to Colonel Shaw, commanding the military forces here, for some of the North Carolina Volunteers who had been sailors and wished to enlist in the naval service and of my limited success. Inclosed I send a letter addressed this day to him asking for 50 men, and detailing Lieutenant-Commander Parker to personally urge compliance. I request the letters to be placed on file, to be referred to in the event of calamity. My opinion is that the North Carolina Volunteers will not stand to their guns. Men so devoid of energy are incapable of determined and long-continued resistance. General Wise has sent troops to Nags Head, upon the sea-beach, where they can be drivei~ from their position by a single gunboat, and is selecting points of defense in Currituck which can scarcely be reached in row-boats, owing to the shallowness of the water. Here is the great thoroughfare from Albemarle Sound and its tributaries, and if the enemy obtain lodgments or succeed in passing here he will cut off a very rich country from Norfolk market. His next aim, I presume, will be to obtain posses- sion of the Seaboard and Roanoke Railroad. Since the preceding page was written I have received a note from Colonel Shaw, wherein he promises to let me have some men temporarily, but declines increasing the garrison at the floating batteries. Those two batteries mounted together seven ~us, manned by 70 men; on my last inspection only three and a half guns crews conld be mustered. Thirty-two-pounders of 500 weight require 13 men each to work them, and when the sick and casualties are taken into consideration, it will be seen how very inefficiently those batteries are manned. I mention these things to protect in a very probable event the reputation of the Navy. The Army now has the batteries in charge, as General Wise refused to allow the volunteers to remain unless the control was assigned to him. Not having any men to send I was constrained to comply, but have placed an officer there to train the men. Should General Wise be in Richmond you cannot exert your great influence more patriotically than by urging him to come here at once or at least to send some ener- getic officer of rank to take command. I have this momentreceivedyour communication of the 17th instant. General Huger is misiiiformed. When the propeller PoHhatan was offered to me, Mr. Parks told me that another party had offered him $10,000 for her, but that he would not take less than $12,000. Understanding hiia to mean a private person, I told him I would tel Page 148 148 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. graph to you, and that the desire of individuals to purchase should not conflict with the wants of the Government. He did not undeceive me. I did telegraph to you; next day received your authority, and immediately sent my secretary, with a note t& Mr. Parks, closing the purchase. Mr. Parks was not in his office, but my note was delivered to his brother, who transacts business for him. In the mean time the Pow- hatan had left for this island, and I overtook her in the Currituck Canal with Mr. Parks on board. I then told him of my note and claimed the Powhatan. He informed me that Major Johnson, quartermaster at Norfolk, was the one who had offered him $10,000, but that the offer was a conditional one, based upon the approval at Rich- mond of his application for authority to make the purchase. As Mr. Parks had told me that $12,000 was his very lowest price, and as the quartermasters offer, if sanc- tioned, would not be accepted (supposing Mr. Parks to be truthful), I felt justified (as there was a large force at Hatteras) iu taking possession of the Powhatan. If the enemy is coming this way, and there is every indication that such is his in- tention, his visit has only been delayed by the inclemency of the weather, and I sub- mit to you whether I would not have been derelict to my duty if under the circum- stances I had not availed myself of an auxiliary means of defense. The crisis will soon be over, and desirable as it is to keep the Powhatan until some of the new gun- boats are ready, I have no wish to detain her unjustly. I do not think the claim of the Army as good as our own; yet, although we were treated unkindly in the matter of the Kahukee, I feel no disposition to retaliate. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, W. F. LYNCH, Flag-Officer. No notice was given to me by the Secretary of War of this letter, but I presume it accounts in part for the order to me of January 22. As soon as I could write, and had time and opportunity, I replied to this letter of Captain Lynch by addressing General Huger a letter of which the following is a copy: GREAT BRIDGE, NORFOLK COUNTY, VA., February 17, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, 4c.: SIR: It has been utterly out of my power heretofore to reply to yours of the 3d in- stant, inclosing to me a copy of a letter from the Secretary of War, dated January 31 altimo, addressing to you a copy of a letter from Capt. William F. Lynch, which ex- cited, the Secretary says, the deepest solicitude of the President himself.. Justice to myself demands that I should put upon the record a reply to this unwarrantable letter of Captain Lynch. His report of the enemys force was wholly inaccurate, and he was not timely ap- prised of the enemys approach when they came. They were nearly up to the marshes, at the south end o~ the island, before his fleet were aware of it, as I have every reason to believe. Captain Lynch took his position opposite or between the batteries, instead of keeping a lookout at the marshes or even far below them. His information, from the first, I found very inaccurate in respect to the waters of the Croatan Sound. His difficulty in the want of men took away forces from the island twice the number of which were wanted there, and he hindered operations of the army materially. He was furnished by Colonel Shaw with more men than ought to have been spared from the infantry, with which or at the batteries they would have been far more useful than with Captain Lynchs useless and worthless gunboat fleet. The North Carolina Volunteers at the batteries did stand at their guns, and were able to do so much more firmly than did or could Captain Lynchs fleet before the force of the enemy. His letter was dated January 22, two days after I had sent my first regiment of infantry to Nags Head. My troops were not upon the sea, but upon the sound beach, where the men could not be shelled from their position by a force much superior to a single gunboat, or to even Captain Lynchs fleet, from the sea. My men were sent there for three princial reasons: 1st. There were no quarters for my men on the island and there were ample quar- ters for them at Nags Head, and it was a comparatively safe place for ordnance and other stores; whence, indeed, nearly all were saved in the disaster which came, while none were saved on the island. 2d. It was a necessary position for part of the forces, in order to prevent the enemy from landing on the Roanoke Sound beach and crossing that sound, which they easily could to the island, unless the sound beach was guarded. 3d. It was the only position which could cover a retreat from the island and from which to construct a floating bridge or ferry of lighters, while it was convenient to re-enforce the island Page 149 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 149 It was unauthorized intermeddling in Captain Lynch to criticise military positions without better information than he had, and it would have been well for the service to have employed his boats as tugs for transports, instead .of vainly trying to turn tugs into gunboats to encounter a Burnside fleet of sixty vessels, any one large 8teamer of which could easily have taken his seven boats. He asserts further that I was selecting points of defense in Currituck which could scarce be reached in row-boats, owing to the shallowness of the water. This state- inent is wholly untrue and without a shadow of foundation. I selected no place whatever for defense in Currituck except the landings of Pugh and Ashby, on the island, aud at the latter the enemy did land under cover of the shot and shell of a heavy steamer, which ran in with her train of transports quite up to the landing. Captain Lynchs fleet afforded not the least protection to any landing. He was far above them all. He could not have known where my points of defense were except from some idle rumor. My defenses were wholly on the island, and, weak as they were, for want of men, were incomparably beyond any Captain Lynchs fleet could possibly render. While Captain Lynch was so jealous of the reputation of the Navy he should have been a little careful not to assail that of the Army. The truth is that the greatest assault upon the reputation of the Navy was the want of judg inent and skill in getting up a tug-boat fleet of seven to meet a Buniside expedition of sixty vessels. Captain Lynch does not precisely or accurately state the facts correctly when lie says, General Wise refused to allow the volunteers to remain unless the control was assigned to him. This statement applies to all the batteries. It is not exactly cor- rect as to one of them only. The Rcdstone Battery, on the Tyrrel side, was con- structed of two vessels or b rges, embauked in the mud of the marshes. There Cap- tain White, of the North Carolina Volunteers, was poste with his company. A midshipman, Mr. Gardner, had been sent to drill the men at the buns of the battery. Captaii~ Lynch chose to call this a floating battery, and claimed to command it as part of the naval armament, and that Midshipman Gardner should command th& company of Captain White. Colonel Shaw issued what I deemed a very proper order in the case. This he and Captain Lynch submitted to me, the latter claiming for the midshipman the entire command of the battery and the men. I declined to subject a captain of the Army to the orders of a midshipman of the Navy, but ordered Captain White, the officer in command, to submit his men to the drill of Midshipman Gardner and to put him in charge of the keys of the magazine. With this Captain Lynch professed to be satis- fied. When he threatened to take his drill-officer away unless he could command a captain of infantry and his company, I offered to give the battery up to him wholly, but said I must remove the company of infantry from the battery rather than have a midshipman of the Navy put in command of a captain of the Army, on the land at least. My record of orders and correspondence will sustain this correction of Captain Lynchs statement. There was no controversy about any other battery. Captain Lynch, it seems, called for me to be sent at once from Richmond to Roanoke Island. This, I suppose, accounts for the sudden order which I received from the War Depart- ment to repair to the island. I was on duty in Richmond, urging my Legion to be sent; urging for supplies of ammunitiou and re-enforcements. It. was extraordinary meddling with my movements in this instance also for Captain Lynch, of the Navy, to be asking for my orders from the War Department. The truth is, I had just left Captain Lynch in Croatan Sound to go to Norfolk and to Richmond and apprise our superiors of the lamentable deficiency of defenses at the island. I was not more zealeus in the mission than Captain Lynch was in urging me to go ou to hasten supplies and re-enforcements. He was urgent that I should do so. I had gone down in the large and comfortable tug Powhatan, to the surprise of her owner (Mr. Parks), who had already bargained to sell her conditionally to the Qwmrtermaster of the Army. Captain Lynch, immediately on her arrival, sent an officer or agent on board of her to take an inventory Gf everything belonging to her, and he claimed to have purchased her for ~l2,000, when the Army had purchased her for $10,000. By his own statement lie had not bargained, but said he had been so badly treated by Quartermaster Johnson in respect to another steamer (the Kaliukee) that he was determined to have the Powhatan whether the bargain by him for her was legally binding or not. The Powllatan wa~ given up to him, and I returxed in the little Roanoke to Elizabeth City, and thence by land to Norfolk. The truth undoubtedlyis, that if Captain Lynch had never attempted to make the futile fleet he did make out of the Canal Companys tugs, we could have had them for the purpose of transportation. The piles could have been brought, perhaps, in suffi -cient number to obstruct the channels; the wharves could have had timber brought for their construction and repairs, and the transportation of the trc9ps and tools would have been in time. All this was a want of judgment only on the part of Captain -Lynch. A braver, more earnest, and active officer is not to be found in either Army or Navy, but he was too vainglorious of the fleet that got the name of the Mosquit Page 150 150 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. Fleet, and really the enemy did not take time to brush it away while he was bombard. ing the batteries. It fought bravely and well for its size and construction, bnt had to run into a trap, where, when pursued, it was nearly destroyed. My only complaint of Captain Lynch is that he was superserviceable and overzealous; grasped at too~ much conimand and meddled too much with mine. But this complaint would never have been made by me against so gallant and patriotic an officer except in response to what I deem his injustice to me. I beg that you, sir, will forward this letter, or a. copy, to the Secretary of War and Presid~nt of the Confederate States. As Captain Lynch gave me no notice of his letter, but sent it to his Department, I follow his ex- ample by sending this to my Department without notice to him. With great respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On February 51 ordered requisition to be made for free negro laborers,. under the laws of North Carolina, and I required report from Colonel Sliaw of the number of men stationed at each of the batteries on IRoanoke Island and on the Tyrrel shore, & c. He reported to me on the 7th but~ 803 men left for infantry duty. On the 5th I ordered Colonel llenningsen to send my artillery horses to Gallops Ferry, and to transport them thence by the beach to Nags Head. The guns were to be left at Elizabeth City, whither he had gone,. until I could tow them to IRoanoke Island. On February 6, at 4 p. in., I dispatched Lient. R. k Wise to General Huger with my letter of that date, of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Camp at Nag8 Head, February 6, 1862. Major-General HUGER, Commanding Department of Norfolk: SIR: A messenger from Col. H. M. Shaw, commanding at Roanoke Island, has just arrived (10 p. in.), bearing a dispatch, of which I have the honor to inclose you a copy,. by order of General Wise. The officer who brought the dispatch reports that he saw four steamers, about 9 a m. this day, which had passed the marshes, going up Croatan. ~onnd. He likewise brings information that Captain Cook, C. S. Navy, reported jeven steamers in sight about the same hour. The general directs me to request that jteam-tugs, with lighters suited for the transportation of troops between the island md the beach, may be forwarded as early as practicable. General Wise has been very sick since Friday last, from a violent attack of pnen- rionia. He is better to-day, but unable to leave his bed. He is, however, issuing: ~rders, and will do everything in his power, with the means at his command, to repel the advance of the enemy. It is very much to be regretted that the means of commit- nication between the island and beach are so limited and insufficient at this time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. B. DUFFIELD, Assistant Adjutant-General. On February 6, also, I dictated an order to Colonel Shaw, of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Camp at Nags Head, February 6, 1862. Col. H. M. SHAW, Commanding, ic., Boanoke Island: COLONEL: Your dispatcb dated 2.30 oclock, inclosing report of Lieutenant Loyall, has been delivered by Lieutenant Simmons. I am directed by the general to sayin reply that you will obtain reports from the pickets at Pughs and Ashbys Landings. You will move all your field pieces to the points commanding these two landings and divide them between the two at your discretion. The general, however, recommends that you place two at Ashbys and the like number at Pughs. You will move the whole of your infantry, except what is ample for the batteries, stationing one-third at Pughs, one third at Ashbys, and the remaining third at the breastworks called Suples Hill. If the enemy attempt to land at Pughs the force at Ashbys will re-en- force that at Pughs, and fight every inch of ground at the waters edge as long as prudence will permit. Under no circumstances fail to save your field pieces, retiring: them first always and covering their withdrawal with the infantry Page 151 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF EGANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 151 You will fall back to the first eligible position and fight again as long as prndence will allow. Then, if compelled to, retreat to the breastworks, and there make a final stand. if the enemy do not land at Pughs, bnt pass the marshes, the force at Pughs will join the force at Ashbys, and there they will, if possible, prevent the landing of the enemy. There is a point jnst in the rear of Ashbys house, on the road, where the field pieces may be masked and the enemy may be ambuscaded. If driven from that point, you will fall back to the breastworks and there make your first stand. If the enemy pass the sound without attempting to laud, yonr aim then will be to with- draw the forces to such point on the eastern side of the island as will be most practi- cable for ferrying them across the Roanoke Sound to the beach. The steamer Curri- tuck is honrly expected; but if she fails to arrive, all the .means at our command will be used to prevent their being cut off. There is but one tug now here to do the entire service for the army, and she (the Roanoke) must be kept for the purpose of towing the barges and ferry-boats. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. B. DUFFIELD, Assistant Adjutant-General. At th,e earliest moment on February 7 I sent to the island ten com- paniestwo of the First and eight of the Second iRegimentsand additional orders to Colonel Shaw, of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS Founra BRIGADE, DEPARrMENT OF NORFOLK, Camp at Nag~ Head, N. C., February 7, 1862. Col. H. M. SHAW, Commanding Boanolce Island: COLONEL: I send you, as promptly as possible, ten small but efficient companies, under LieutenantColonel Anderson, who will hand you this and show to you his instructions, which you will consider, as far as they are pertinent, additious to those sent you yesterday. He is a brave officer, has traiued and seasoned men, and you may rely on him implicitly. While you will send a portion of your most efficient men to the south end, who may be relied on to fall back with order and precision, you will be particular in reserving an equally good portion of your best men to maintain the post at Suples Hill. They must be such picked men as will not fire on our own forces when retreating to that post. At Suples Hill you will make your breastworks for the infantry right and left byfelling trees and brush and coveringwith earth as sufficiently as time will permit. You will detail a proper reliable officer with a small detachment to mark the best and most solid road over the marsh to the battery on Roanoke Sound, and he will there mark on that sound the narrowest portion of it convenient to the fort at the Hommock where a ferry of lighters may be placed across to the beach. He will on the island side place a signal of the narrowest part of the channel where the ferry ought to terminate on that side. If the enemys gunboats pass the batteries on the Croatan they may easily prevent our steam-tugs from towing off our troops from Weirs Point or the north end of the island. Your only retreat may be by the ferry of lighters. To establish that ferry you will collect all the lighters and barges you have to spare at Weirs Point and notify me when to send for them. The Currituck is expected to-day with a sufficiency, but may not arrive. Report to me all you know of the enemy this morning and everything new as soon as it occurs. I dispatched to Norfolk yesterday a messenger announcing the approach of the enemy. The road across the marshes and the ferry across the Roanoke Sound are all important. Incul- cate upon your men deliberate coolness, and make them work night and day, to hold on until we can re-enforce them or withdraw them in safety. Furnish Colonel Anderson with all needed requisitions. I am still confined to my bed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On the same day, the 7th, I gave the following instructions to Lieu- tenant-Colonel Anderson: HEADQUARTERS FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Camp at Nags Head, N. C., February 7, 1862. Colonel ANDERSON: Sin: On yesterday orders were sent to Colonel Shaw, commanding at Roanoke, as to the disposition of his forces and guns to repel the enemy, who are now in sight of the island in strong force, to which you will refer for your instructions. Have a small but efficient guard at Hommock Landing, at the extreme south end of the island, as the enemy can approach there iu the lightest-draught gunboats. The guard must be Page 152 152 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. (CHAP. XX. directed to give the earliest notice of the approach of the enemy at that point to the force at Pughs Landing. If no enemy is approaching Pughs for a landing at the same time, the force at Pughs will re-enforce the guand at the Hommock. lf not, the guard at the Hommock will act as vedettes and prevent the enemy from falling in the rear of Pughs. Of the artillery, you will leave the heaviest pieces at the breastworks and at Ashbys, and take the lighter pieces to Pughs and the Hommock, as you will have no artillery horses. Under every emergency save your field pieces, in order to fall back, if com- pelled, to the breastworks. They will be the only pieces you will have for the defense at Suples Hill, where tbe breastworks are. If any fights at the landings, let them be sharp, close, and hot, but not continned too long against great odds. Fall back timely, slowly, and continue to fight and fall back till all the forces at the landings are concentrated at Suples Hill. There will be in all about 1,350 effective infantry to repel the landing of the enemy and to maintain the post at Suples Hill. One-third of that force will be posted in reserve at Suples Hill. That force will at once be em- ployed in constructing right and left flank breastworks at Suples Hill Battery. To do that work, take with you all the available spades, shovels, and axes, and apply to Shaw for all that he can furnish. You will let the senior captain of the Forty-sixth Regiment take command of the companies from that regiment as a battalion, subject, however, to your command. You will ask Colonel Shaw for the loan of all.the spare tents and cooking and other ntensils of which you have not sufficient. You will make requisitions upon the quartermaster and commissary at the island for whatever you may need. You will report these instructions immediately on your arrival to Colonel Shaw, and be subject to his orders as commandant. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On February 71 also sent to General Huger and to Colonel Shaw the following letters: HEADQUARTERS FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Camp at Nags Head, N. C., February 7, 1862. Major-General HUGER, Commanding, ~5jc.: Sin: I send you, by direction of General Wise, copies of the dispatch of Lieutenant Loyall to Colonel Shaw, with the colonels note forwarding the same to these head- quarters, and of the dispatch of Colonel Shaw, received about daybreak this morning. The officer who brought the dispatch first-above mentioned reports that of the enemys fleet twenty-eight are gunboats, seven are towing steamers, and the rest are transports. A re-enforcement of ten companies was sent from this place this forenoon to Roanoke Island, leaving about 300 men here to cover the retreat of our forces to the beach, should they be compelled to withdraw from the island. Owing to continued sickness the general was unable to accompany the troops sent to Roanoke. He is very much prostrated from the illness which still confines him to his bed, and which, in all prob- ability, will compel him to keep his room for some days to come. At 10.20 a. m. a single gun was heard, which the general supposed to be the signal-gun of Flag-Officer Lynch. At ll.1E4 a. m. of this day firing in the Croatan Sound commenced, and from that time till the period of closing this dispatch from two hundred and fifty to three hun- dred guns have been heard, showing a furious battle to be raging between our forces and the enemy. It is now 12.25 p. in., and the firing is very rapid and heavy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. B. DUFFIELD, Assistant Adjutant- General. P. S.l p. m. The firing still continues most furious. A cannon is heard every second. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Camp at Nags Head, N C., February 7, 1862. Col. H. M. SHAW, Commanding, 4c.: SIR: Your brief dispatch, announcing that the enemy have landed on the island, has been delivered by Captain Robinson. I am directed by the general to say that he very deeply regrets that the enemy were allowed to land without resistance. The orders heretofore given you required that the enemy should be attacked while attempt- ing to land; that you should fight every inch of ground at the waters edge as long as prudence would permit, and, if compelled to fall back, to do so fighting, and make a final stand at the breastworks. Captain Robinson reports that you expected to be attacked at the breastworks i Page 153 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF EGANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 153 the morning. The general directs that you will fight until retreat becomes a neces- sity that cannot be resisted. The very great importance of preventing the enemy from getting possession of the island requires that the most desperate and determined resistance be. made, and that you continue to fight as long as there is a possibility of repelling them. If you ar compelled to retreat, you will do so in good order, guard- ing your rear by a sufficient number of your coolest and most reliable men, detailed for that purpose. You will also feel the enemy at Ashbys, and if they are not too strong you will attack them. The general further directs that you will bave provisions conveyed to some point near the breastworks in the morning, and direct that they be cooked, so that the men may refresh themselves during the progress of the anticipated fight. Lighters will be sent to the battery on Roanoke Sound to facilitate the withdrawal of the troops from the island should the necessity therefor arise. A re-enforcement of four companies will be sent you in the morning. Keep a vigi- lant watch on your flanks, and strengthen the breastworks as much as you can. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, C. B. DUFFIELD, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEAD UARTERS FOURTH BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Cam at Nags Head, N. C., February 8, 1862. M. jor-General HUGER, Commanding, c.: SIR: The dispat h sent you yesterday afternoon announce that a fight was in pro~ress between the enemys fleet and o r batteries at the Croatan Sound. A brief 1 encil not from Colonel aw, dated 7.15 p. in., received during the night, states that the fight commenced at Pork Point Battery, no other batteries being engaged; that at no time coul more than four guns of that b ttery be broubht to bear upon the enemy, and that when he left, at 4 p. in., two of the guns there ha been disabled. The firing commenced, as announced in my previous dispatch, at 11.16 oclock, and eased only with the approach of night, having continue six hours an thirty-eight minutes, rapidly and unremittingly, from guns of heavy aliher. It is estimated that ~bout three thousan discharges from cannon took place during the time mentioned yet our loss at the batteries, so f~ r as ascertaine is only two killed. Nothing 18 known of the damage sustained by the enemy. Certain information has been receive at these hea narters that the enemy landed on Roanoke. Island yesterd~ y afternoo . Colonel Shaw reports that they landed hove Ashbys, up a small creek, an it is expected that they will get their field artillery on shore during the ni~ht. Or ers were given to Colonel Shaw to resist their I nding; to fi~ht at the waters edge every inch of ground as long as prudence would permit, and, if compelled, to fall b~ ci fighting to Suples Hill, and there make ~ stand. Why the enemy were allowed to lan without resistance has not been satis- f~ etorily explained by Coloaci Shaw. Our forces are now posted at the breastworks at Suples hill to receive the attack of the enemy, and orders have been sent to Col- onel Shaw to make a most determined and desperate resistance. There are now about 1,350 infantry on the island to protect the batteries and meet the enemy at the breastworks, who will in all probability advance with from 3,000 to 5,000 men and field.artillery likewise. This number of infantry i so entirely usufficient for these purposes that four other companies have been sent to the island, leaving only three small companies at this post, comprising in all about 130 men to uard the commissary stores and construct a ferry for our forces on which to retreat from the island should that necessity occur. Lighters have been collected and will be sent to the redoubt on Roanoke Island this morning to transport our troops across hould we be beaten and compelled to retreat. Arrangements have been made to remove to some place of security as much of the stores and equipage as there is trans- portation for. It is confidently anticipated our men will fl~ht most bravely; yet the -cry great disparity of numbers ren ers the result exceedingly doubtfuL The loss of the island, or the passage by the enemy of the Croatan Sound, will enable them to ravage the whole of the Albemarle country, and subject the people there residing to the most terrible of disasters. The gendral further directs me to say that a very large additional force is necess ry for the successful defense of the district assigned to him. Prostrated by disease, and ssuing or ers from his sick bed, he is striving with the very limited means at his Aemmand to arrest the a vance of the enemy. The fleet of Flag-Officer Lynch, doing all that ii~ can, can be of no use to us in the expected conflict. Should the enemy, lan ing abo re our breastworks at Suples liii] take our batteries in the rear, it would prove a most lamentable ant of men for the defense of the island. If they defeat us in the anticipated fi,,ht at Suples Ihill, or pass the island unless very spec ily or strongly re-enforced, he can do hut little tow rd giving protectiou to the peo le of the counties on th Albemarlc Sound and its trbptarics Page 154 154 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. On yesterday our men fought with deliberate coolness. All the work that could be has been performed in the time allowed us. The commissary reports that large sup- plies are on the way. The only want to enable us to drive back the enemy and hold the island is that of more men. Since the above was written the fighting has recommenced. The enemys bombard- ment commenced this morning at 8.47 oclock with apparent vigor and continued until 9.15 oclock. Contemporaneously, and since the cessation of the cannonading, volleys of musketry, with the discharges of field artillery, have been distinctly heard from the island. The smoke and firing receding toward the south end of the island, accompanied by cheers, supposed to be from our men, seem to indicate that the enemy are being driven back in that direction. A steamer is reported as having arrived at the island during the night with troops, supposed to be Colonel Greens regiment; if so, this will furnish~in addition to the four companies sent from this post this day, a re-enforcement of eleven companies since my last dispatch. The general further instructs me to say that he very deeply regrets that the change made by you of the orders given by him for the transportation of his artillery ha~ entirely deprived him on this occasion of that arm of service. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. B. DUFFIELD, Assistant Adjutant-General. On February 8 General Huger addressed to me a letter of which the following is a copy: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., February 5, 186211 a. m. Brigadier-General WISE, or COMMANDING OFFICER: Lieutenant Smith has just arrived with your dispatch of yesterday, reporting the attack of the enemy. He reports that firing continued till dark. The Arrow is just going off, and I write a line. I have no time to send anything by her. As the firing was stopped by dark, I count the enemy did no damage to signify. Long shot will not destroy batteries. If we keep cool and serve the guns well, light gunboats will get hurt. Stand to the guns. I may communicate later by land. Respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major- General. On February 9 General Huger addressed to me the following: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, Va., February 9, 1862. Brigadier-General WISE, Commanding Fourth Brigade: GENERAL: 1 have your letter of the 8th. I have ordered the only boat left here te be got ready at once. I will have ammunition ready to go on board, and consult Com- modore Forrest as to what he can send. I hope to hear soon what more I can do. I consider every hour you hold out as most favorable to us. I send Lieutenant Smith back, and have placed a company of cavalry along the route to Powells Point to carry dispatches. You are in error when you say Colonel Henningsen was diverted from following the route you ordered him to take by me. I gave him no order, but not to send one com- pany by the beach, as you ordered. In all other respects he was to obey your orders. Your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-General. P. S.I much regret to hear of your sickness. It is really unfortunate. In correcting my error General llnger admits that he did change my orders to Colonel llenniugsen, and that change did divert him from his true course, and prevented my artillery from arriving at all at Roanoke Island. On the 9th also the following orders were addressed to me Page 155 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C 155~ HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Norfolk, 17a., February 9, 1862. To the SENIOR OFFICER, Commanding any Troops at Gurrituck Bridge or Neighborhood: Sin: I will dispatch a regiment to Currituck Bridge and the mouth of the canal as soon as possible. Obstruct the canal by any means in your power, and get the guns at the battery at the bridge in order. Powder will be sent with the troops for these guns. Order out the militia, and order all the citizens to protect the canal with shot- guns or what they can get. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-General, Commanding. Send back the steamer Roanoke, with the four barges, at once. By order of General Huger: FRANK HUGER, Captain, Aide-de-Camp. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, To the SENIOR OFFICER Norfolk, Va., February 9, 1562.. At Currituck Bridge or Neighborhood: SIR: I am directed by the major-general commanding to give you the following in- structions: 1. He will dispatch a regiment to Currituck Bridge and the mouth of the canal as soon as possible. 2. Obstruct the canal by any means in your power. Get the guns at the battery and at the bridge in order. Powder will be sent with the troops for these guns. 3. Order out the militia, and get all the citizens to protect the canal with shot-guns. or what they can get. 4. Send back the steamer Roanoke, with the four barges. I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, S. S. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant-General. On the 10th I addressed to General Huger a report in full, of which the following is a copy: POPLAR BRANCH, CUJIRITUCK, N. C., February 10, 18629 a. m. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, 4~c.: SIR: I was delayed in Norfolk for want of transportation until Wednesday, January 29, and arrived at Nags Head on the night of Thursday (30th). My two regiments (the First and Second of the Legion, numbering seventeen companies and less than 800 men) had preceded my arrival, and for want of quarters on Roanoke Island occu- pied Nags Head. It was absolutely necessary to maintain some sufficient force there to make and protect a ferry across the Roanoke Sound to the island to secure a com- paratively safe depot for provisions, stores, & c., and to guard the beach against the landing of the enemy north of Oregon Inlet. We commenced immediate] y to procur& lighters for the ferry, to repair the bridge, and to make a magazine. Early on Friday I visited Roanoke Island, meeting Colonel Shaw at Weirs Point. I gave him the necessary orders to forward the pile-driving, to construct breastworks at Suples Hill, and to keep strong guards at Hommock, Pughs, and Ashbys Landings, on the south end of the island. I returned then to Nags Head on Friday, and ordered every preparation there. At neither post were any tools to work with. No axes, shovels,. spades, nails, & c., and requisitions had been made in vain for them both at Rich- mond and in Norfolk. Neither place had any teams, except two pairs of broken-down mules at the island and some weak and insufficient ox-carts. The consequence was that men had to carry everything on their shoulders, and no work could be accom- plished, and in the evening of Friday a cold, hard rain and storm set in, which lasted. until the evening of the 5th instant. On the morning of Saturday, tbe 1st instant, I was seized (while attending to duty). with a high fever, resulting in an acute attack of pleurisy, threatening pneumonia, from which I was unable to rise until late on the evening of the 8th instant, but from bed continued to issue orders and to dispatch preparations for the enemy, and on the morning of the 6th the enemy appeared off the southern end of the island. I imme- diately ordered ten companies (eight companies of the Second Regiment and two Page 156 156 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. companies of the First Regiment), under Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, to re-enforee Colonel Shaws force. We had but one tug and two barges for transports. They were landed early on Friday morning. Colonel Shaw was ordered to divide his forces into three divisions. He had for infantry duty, independent of the detachments for the batteries, .but 803 men and the ten companies added made 1,250 effective infantry. He had but three pieces of field artillerya 24-pounder, an 18-pounder, and a small 6-pounder brass howitzerwith no teams for the guns, and with 12-pounder ammuni- tion only for the 24 and 18-pounders. I sent Captain Schermerhorn and Lieutenant Kinney to assist Lieutenant Selden in commanding these, but there was no artillery company to work them. The artillery of the Legion, under Colonel Henningsen, had not arrived. Colonel Shaw was ordered to leave one-third of his force at Suples Hill, and to post one-third at Ashbys and one-third at Pughs Landing, to concentrate his forces wherever the enemy might land, and to fight them at the waters edge as long as prudent, and by all means to save his field pieces, with which to fall back upon Suples Hill, and there to make his final stand. Colonel Jordan was stationed at Ashbys. On the morning of the 7th, about ~.a. in., the signal was given of the approach of the enemy, and exactly at 11.16+ a. m. the enemy opened upon our batteries. The fire at first was slow, but rapidly increased to a continued roar of the heaviest artil- lery, which continued exactly six hours and thirty-eight minutes and until after sun- down. But little damage was done to any of the works except those at Pork Point (Fort Bartow). Its walls were dilapidated much, but no guns disabled; 1 man killed and 3 wounded. It was repaired by the next morning. About 3.30 p. m. of the 7th the enemy ran up to Ashbys Landing a three-masted heavy steamer, and covered the landing of their troops with mounted artillery from a long train of transports, and Colonel Jordan retired before them without a struggle to Suples Hill. The next morning I got over four more companies of the First Regiment, about 180 men, under Major Fry, and the battalion of Lieutenant-Colonel Green arrived, but neither were in the action; why, is not explained. But the enemy early, on the morn- ing of the 8th, advanced on Suples Hill, and were met by about 1,250 men only. They brought up a 24-pounder and two 12-pounder howitzers, at least, well mounted and worked. The fight began in earnest between 7 and 8 a. in., an continued uninter- mittingly until about 1 p. in.; about 10,000 against 1,250. Twice the enemy were repelled with great slaughter, but they fell back and took to the marshes and swamps on either hand, and by wading through mud and water to their knees outflanked us. The fight on the flauks was hot and close, the Richmond Blues, under Captain Wise, leading the left skirmishers, and Lieutenant Haslett leading the Ben. MeCulloch Rangers on the right. As soon as the flanks were thus attacked the enemy rallied a third time, charged, and took the three field pieces. Colonel Shaw then ordered a retreat, and the Eighth North Carolina Regiment broke, but the other forces fought on, and the fighting continued irregularly until night. I ordered Colonel Richardson, with his three companies, to rally and rescue those who escaped. The enemy had cut them off from crossing the Roanoke, and advanced at once on the redoubt at Midgetts Hommock. Its commandant spiked its guns, and with his force escaped to Nags Beach; a number of others escaped by boatsin all, thus far, about 150. With these we came to Gallops Ferry, 15 miles above Nags Head, the night of the 8th, having sent all the heavy baggage, stores, & c., we could by the tugs Roanoke and White in safety (we now know) to the canal bridge. This morning the remnant of my forces will reach there, where I shall await your orders. It is impossible to state the loss of killed and wounded on either side, but the num- ber must be great. But few of the casualties are yet reported. Sergeant Metzler, of the MeCulloch Rangers, escaped about 5p.m. on the 8th, and has just reported to me that the swamp to our right at Suples Hill, which Colonel Shaw and all had reported to be impassable to infantry, was easily passed by the enemy in quick-time; that Lieutenant Selden, in command of the 6-pounder brass howitzer, behaved with exemplary coolness and courage, and three times mowed a lane through the ranks of the enemy, killing, he thinks, at least 200 in the three fires, and was killed himself as he was sighting his gun with its last charge; that Captain Wise, on the night of the 7th, was in command of 10 of the Blues and 10 of the Rangers on picket duty; that upon returning from picket he joined the guard to the company of Rangers and drove in the enemys picket. This was the commencement of the action. On returning from this duty he was ordered in command of his own company of the Blues to prevent the enemy from turning our left flank, Colonel Shaw saying that if the left could be guarded the right was protected by the swamp. Early in the action he was wounded severely, and while wrapped in his blanket, being taken off the field, was struc~ twice again; was carried to the hospital, and is there reported to have died; that Captain Coles, of the Albemarle Rangers, was killed fighting firmly and bravely; that all the men of the Legion, about 450, in the action were cool and firm and fought to the last; that most of the North Carolina regiments were kept in reserve, and finally fell back under orders of Colonel Jordan; that the artillery exhausted its ammunition before it was taken, and the 24-pounder and 18-pounder were not so efficient as the 6-pounder Page 157 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 157 owing to having ammunition for 12-pounders oniy. The Pork Point Battery is Bald ta have discharged every round of ammunition but one. Twenty of the enemys steamers are said to have passed up the sound yesterday evening, and this m~rning we hear heavy firing toward Elizabeth City, where it is feared Captain Lynchs fleet retired. I regret to say that the vessels, with our provisions on board for thirty days, which escaped in safety from Roanoke Island, went to Elizabeth City, and will there, I fear, be taken, unless they can escape by the Dismal Swamp Canal. I am now here with three companies of my First Regiment and about 150 men who escaped and about 200 militia without arms or ammunition. I have called in all their spades, shovels, and tools of all sorts for obstructing the canal. My ordnance officer, Lieu- tenant Pearce, passed on to Norfolk with many of my ordnance stores, which I hope you will have returned to me and order him to ~etnrn with them. I await anxiously all the re-enforcements you can send me, and beg you will furnish provisions for, say, 300 men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-Getzeral. On February 11 General Huger addressed to me the following: HEADQUARTERS ]I)RPARTMENT OF NORFOLK Norfolk, Va., February 11, 1862. General HENRY A. WIsE, Carrituck BTidge: GENERAL: I received this morning your letter from Poplar Springs yesterday. I hope you met Colonel Corprew, with the Sixth Regiment Virginia Volunteers, at Currituck Bridge. I regret you had suffered from so severe an attack of illness. I would recommend you as soon as you have organized your forces to place them under command of Colonel Corprew, and return home and get your health re-established. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-G~al. FEBRUARY 11, 186211 a. m. No further news from Elizabeth City or South Mills. I have sent a battery bf artiL. lery and re-euforcements down there. B. H. On the same day I replied as follows: CARAL BRIDGE, N. C., February 11, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, ~c.: Sin: I wrote my report under such inconvenient circumstances that I omitted to add that, on the second day of the bombardment, the enemy, on the 8th instant, opened about 9 a. in.; fired irregularly for an hour and ceased. They opened again about 12 in., and fired for about half an hour and ceased. The fight with small-arms was continued by the men of my Legion all the day of the 8th, and they renewed the fight again on the 9th. I am now convinced that the de. fense wonid have been made better if the troops which had been posted there had been removed out of the way entirely. Colonel Shaw ordered retreat before he was justified in doing so, and Colonel Jordans Thirty-first Regiment was hardly in the fight at all, and he demoralized them by ordering them to take care of themselves while they were in reserve, and they were never led into the action at all. He is said to have escaped, to be in Norfolk or Portsmouth, and, if so, I ask for his arrest. Col- onel Shaw is a prisoner. Colonel Corprew arrived this evening between 3 and 4 oclock with five companies. I have obstructed the canal by sinking one old barge across the l4orth River end of it, and will add more obstructions, as the enemy now have the dredging-machine which was taken to Roanoke Island, and may remove easily any ordinary obstructions. I shall try to obstruct the channels at the Narrows of the Currituck Sound, also at Pop- lar Spring. The militia have been called out, but they have but few indifferent arms and no ammunition. I will feed those who will work efficiently, and send the rest home. They are, in fact, in the way. Yesterday I sent my official aide, Captain Bacon, and a volunteer, Captain Doland, to Elizabeth City. They were there last night and have just returned, reporting that about two-thirds of the town is burned, and fourteen heavy war steamers are lying off Cobbs Point. The inhabitants have all left and burned the town themselves. Several schooners, with the provisions sent to Roanoke Island, a large supply, are lying up Sawyers Creek, about S miles above the floating bridge. Captain Bacon stationed Page 158 158 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. picket at the latter, and ordered that, upon the appearance of the enemy, the bridge ~houId be let down, and a schooner all ready to be sunk, so as to obstruct the cresk upward. To-morrow morning I will dispatch him with a detachment of cavalry to procure teams, and have our stores hauled to a place of safety. If the enemy approach to seize them, orders were given to destroy them. This morning, upon her arrival from below, I dispatched the tug Currituck with a flag of truce, in charge of Major Duffield t~nd Captain Robinson, to Roanoke Island, to inquire for killed and wounded; to take clothing and other comforts to the latter, and, if possibie, to obtain the bodies of captains Wise and Coles and Lieutenant Selden, and get all the information they could. I expect the tug back to-morrow evening. It is reported that Colonel Henning~n, with my artillery, has moved toward Eden- ton. I shall order him back. He is needed both at South Mills and here. I beg you to order him to join me at Currituck Court-House or Indiantown. I trust also that you will urge the forwarding of my cavalrythey are very much ueeded to head these ~treamswitli dispatch, and there is a vast amount of forage to supply them which cannot be got to market awl is in danger of being taken by the enemy. My artillery ~nd cavalry are needed to prevent the euemy from landing and from reaching Cur- rituck Court-House from Elizabeth City or South Mills and from cutting us off. In- 4eed, the cavalry is indispensable on these peninsulas. I thank you, sir, gratefully for the leave, after organizing my forces, to return home for the sake of my health. Providence sharply prohibited me from sharing the fato of my brave, devoted troops, but I can sit in my saddle now. I am happier at the post of duty than I could be at a home now wailing for its best scion, cut down in its full vigor; and, God willing, I never mean to leave the remnant of my men again until I see them recruited again and proudly reanimated. I humbly think that now I may ask your co-operation in building up a corps which more than attempted to obey your orders to be cool, to work, and to fight hard. They have done so nobly and devotedly up to the muzzle, to wounds, captivity, and death, against such odds only as were irresistible by their numbers. With great respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On February 11 I detailed William G. Wilson, esq., of Indian Ridge, Currituck, with a sufficient force of laborers to cut trees across the in- diantown Creek and otherwise obstruct it by all the means in his power 4 miles below the creek bridge. On the 11th also I sent a flag of truce to the enemy, to obtain the bodies of officers killed in action and to ascertain the number of killed and wounded and to take comforts to the latter. Our killed and wounded were 10 of the former and 30 of the latter; the enemys loss was from 300 to 500 killed and wounded; the former number they admitted. On the 12th I received orders from the War Department showing that my cavalry was sent to Garysburg. Not a company of mine has joined my command in this district. February 13 General Huger addressed to me the following: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Eebrveary 11, 1862. Brigadier-General WIsE: I have received your letter of the 11th. I am glad to hear you are recovering. I will inform you further what I can do on the several subjects you mention when I get a little more certain information. Captain Tabb reported to me a few days ago, and not being able at this time to forward him to you, I ordered him to collect all the stragglers of your Legion, officers and men, and require transportation and forward them to you. Every one who can is escaping to this town, and I desire to get them back to their duty as soon as possible. Shall I continue Captain Tabb on this service At tliis time I have no report from any company of cavalry of your command, and I do not know exactly where Colonel Henningsen is. I hear he is moving toward South Mills. This separation of your troops was one reason why I thought you might assist in collecting and reorganizing them, and I leave it to your judgment at what point you can be most usefully employed. Provisions for ten days for 300 men have been sent to-day. Respectfully, your obedient servant, B. H Page 159 CHAr. XX.1 BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 159 CURRITUCK BRIDGE, N. C., February 13, 156212 noon. I have received a message from Edenton by a Mr. Haughton, who left there yester- day. He states that the enemy landed at Edenton yesterday morning, estimated 5,000. I have many stragglers of your Legion here. All effective men should move toward Suffolk, and non-effective west of Suffolk, to come back when ready. By this movement up the river they are passing around your position. The report of the landing at Edenton is fully confirmed. I send this by my messenger in haste. Your obedient servant, BENJ. HUGER, Major-General. P. S.I hope to bear from your flag of truce this evening or to-morrow. This gave me full discretion to select whatever position I could occupy most usefully, and intimated that there was apprehension the enemy would, by moving up the river, pass around my position. I immediately replied as follows: CURRITUCK COURT-HOUSE, N. C., February 13, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, ic.: SIR: Seeing the position at the Canal Bridge utterly indefensible by my force with- out field artillery, and that the men had no quarters and the heavy artillery exposed to capture, I this morning shipped them in a schooner, and have orderi~4 them to the ~3reat Bridge, on the Virginia section of this canal, with all my extra ordnance and commissary stores. I have ordered the unarmed escaped men of the North Caroli~ regiments to Norfolk. They are unfit for service. Just as we were moving from the canal bridge three of the enemys steamers appeared at the North River end of the canal and opened with a few round shot and shell, which all fell short. We moved slowly away while they were landing at the mouth of the canal. We by land and the transports by water have all arrived here safely. Colonel Henningsen is reported as not far offsome 5 mileswith his artillery. This will give me eleven companies of infantry and artillery and one of cavalry. I have ordered vedettes down to the bridge and westward near to Sawyer~s Creek. I shall be governed by the movements of the enemy. I sank a barge at the month of the canal and a steam dredging- machine higher up, so as effectually to delay for a day or two, if not to effectually arrest, the entrance or passage of the canal. I beg that Captain Tabb may detail another officer to collect and send to me the stragglers of the Legion. I do not want any of the Eighth and Thirty-first Regiments of North Carolina. Captain Tabbs services as my assistant adjutant-general are needed very much. Please send the Legion men to me, not to Suffolk. The enemy cannot get around my position by passing up the sonud and rivers. I fear they mean to move on the Great Bridge. 4& ~aptain Robinson has taken full report of the flag of truce. Very respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. On the same day I also addressed to him the following: CANAL BRIDGE, CURRITUCK COUNTY, N. C., February 13, 1862. Major-General HUGER, Commanding, ~c.: SIR: The Currituck, with flag of truce, has just returned. She brings the bodies of Captains Wise and Coles and of Lieutenant Selden, and a copy of Major Duffields report is herein inclosed. Captain Robinson bears to you the letter of General Burn- side. I send also the copy of his to me. I beg most earnestly that his proposition be at once accepted and my men released on parole. The messenger must return imme- diately to Elizabeth City. Send Captain Robinson, if you please, back with a favor- able answer. The enemy have about 15,000 men; they landed about 10,000; had 5,000 in the action; 5,000 in reserve. We had not over 500 in action. Our killed, about 15; the enemys, about 400. Edenton has fallen. This place is wholly indefensible by the force under my com- mand here. I have determined to move the guns to Currituck Court-House, and, after getting quarters there, to advance toward Elizabeth City and join my forces on the line between Edenton and Currituck. We are to-day throwing more obstructions into the canal and will block it effectually. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General Page 160 160 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. On February 15 I addressed to General Huger the following: NEAR NORTHWEST BRIDGE, VA., February 15, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, ~c.: SIR: I have forwarded all extra baggage and stores (saving just what is necessary of commissary stores) to the Great Bridge. Had determined to take post a while at the Northwest River, but finding no quarters, and the weather being very bad in which to expose my men, I concluded it best to fall back to Great Bridge, there to erect quarters, intrench myself, and thence move upon the enemy in ease he attempts to penetrate the country and seize on the little canal leading from Northwest River to the Dismal Swamp Canal. I shall try to obstruct Northwest River and Tull Creek, and will fight the enemy at both points. If he passes or crosses south of me before I can obstruct him, I will block the streams and canals behind him and harass his rear. I beg you to order Col. J. Lucius Davis, at Garysburg, to s~id three, if he can (two, at all events), of his companies of cavalry, by the shortest route, via South Mills or Sawyers Creek, to me at North West River Bridge. With his remaining companies (six, if he has them, or as many as he has) he will take the most eligible position northeast of Edenton, as near that place as prudent, so as to communicate both with South Mills or Colonel Wrights command and mine. Captain Belsches company is overtaxed in vedette service from Currituck Court- House to Norfolk and to Elizabeth City and South Mills. I ask that you will order Colonel Davis to scout the enemys cavalry, said to be 150, lanJed at Edenton, to their saddle-girths. He must not let them penetrate the country beyond cannon range. The enemy has left the Currituck Canal Bridge and Elizabeth City. No report of them to-day. They said at the bridge their purpose was to attack the rear of Norfolk from several points simultaneously. I will arrange the defenses of Great Bridge. Send Colonel Henningsen on there to- day. He joined me yesterday. I follow with a rear guard of infantry, in charge of baggage and stores, to-morrow mornin~. My march is necessarily scattered to get quarters. As soon as I make matters safe and systematic at Great Bridge I will return and establish a post at Northwest and Falls Bridges, obstruct ~Aese streams, and endeavor to join Colonel Davis. Cavalry is our only means of communication now. I inclose orders to Colonel Davis, which I hope you will approve. I received your acceptance of General Burnsides proposition, and forwarded it to Elizabeth City immediately, in charge of Captala Belsehes, baviiig no steam-tugs to convey it to the island. With great respect, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-G a7. P. S.From personal inspection and all reliable information it is certain there is an abundance of forage and provisions in the country between this and Edenton. Meeting General Huger here at the Great Bridge on the 19th, he expressed his surprise that I should have fallen back to this point, after having left me full discretion to select whatever position I could occupy most usefully; after warning me that the enemy might pass. around my position at Currituck Canal Bridge; after being regularly informed of my intention to fall back, and after knowing that the enemy had already appeared at the North River end of the Currituck section of the canal, might remove the obstructions there, and by passing up Cur- rituck Sound cut me off ~nre enough, or might attack the North- west or Little Canal and gain the Dismal Swamp Canal, or land at North Landing and seize this section of the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal and seriously threaten the rear of Norfolk, and after being informed that there were no quarters for my men at a very bad season, and no defensible position by a small force between this and Currituck Canal Bridge! The same day (19th) I received an order from the War Department,~ to which I replied as follows Page 161 * CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 161 GREAT BRIDGE, NORFOLK COUNTY, VA., February 19, 18625 p. m. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER. Commanding, 4~c.: SIR: I was within the current hour surprised by the following order: SPECIAL ORDERS, ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE, No. 40. * Richmond, Va., & ~bruary 18, 1862. * * * * * * XVIII. Brigadier-General Wise, with the Legion under his present command, ex- clusive of the eight battery companies, will proceed, with the least practicable (lelay, to Manassas, and report to General Joseph E. Johnston, commanding the Department of Northern Virginia. * * * * * * * By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITHERS Assistant Adjutant-General. It is not for me to murmur at any military order commanding my prompt obedience. I am bound to regard it as not meant to do inc any injustice and to obey it implicitly; but I trust that under the circumstances of my case and my comumand I may be allowed a little reasonable time to make arrangements and inqniries necessary to be made under so sudden and unexpected an order. 1st. My men cannot properly be moved to Manassas until they are provided with clothes, blankets, and outfits generally, of which many were wholly deprived by the late disaster at Roanoke Island. 2d. I require some short time to prepare a full report of my command in the district assigned to me in North Carolina attached to your department. 3d. I desire a few days of time to attend to my private family affairs. 4th. I beg time to inquire of the War Department its purpose in respect to my Legion, and respectfully to protest against detaching the companies of the light bat- teries. The remnant of the Legion, without these companies, is so small, that it will be inefficient as a distinct force. I wish also to inquire whether by present command the Department means to include the men only whom I have with me here at the Great Bridge, excluding my men to be exchanged as prisoners and my cavalry. 5th. I wish respectfully to inquire whether this order, weakening your defenses in the rear of Norfolk, meets with your approbation, or has been issued at your instance or with your cognizance, and to inqnire of the Department whether any censure upon my command here is intended by this order. With great labor and sacrifice I raised the Legion to 2,850 men, and left 2,400 effi- cient men at Camp Defiance when my command in the West was transferred to Gen- eral Floyd. I had the repeated promises of the President and of the Secretary of War to have my Legion restored to me, all except the companies raised in Western Vir- ginia, which were desirous of remaining to defend their homes; but four companies elected to remain in the West. Six were ordered to be left there and ten were taken from both the Legion and from the West, where they were wanting, and sent to South Carolina. Less than 900 men, 750 infantry and 100 artillery, have been forwarded to me. My cavalry has been sent to Garysburg, N. C., and has just been ordered by me to this district. Several of my companies have been left in the West and not fur- nished with trajisportation, and nineteen of umy. companies have been captured and are now prisoners of war. I left nine pieces of light artillery in the West. Four were taken from me, with the express promise of General Lee and the Department that they or their equivalent should be restored to me in the East, and now, if it be the design of this order to take from me all my companies and pieces of artillery, I desire to be so informed distinctly, in order that I may understandingly determine upon the course which self-respect demands of me to pursue. With the request that you will forward this conimunication to the War Department, I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. GREAT BRIDGE, NORFOLK COUNTY, VA., His Excellency J. P. BENJAMIN, February 19, 1862. Secretary of War: SIR: The foregoing letter, addressed to General Huger, touching your Special Or- ders, No. 40, Extract XVIII, 18th instant, I have, as you see, requested time to forward to the War Department for information upon certain points and for answers to certain 11 R R.-VOL I Page 162 162 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. inquiries which concern my personal rights and self-respect. I protest that my mo- fives are founded upon the most anxious desire to serve my country on terms con- sistent with a sense of houor and of justice to myself and to the brave and faithful officers and men who have joined my command. They have served arduously and faithfully, from one extremity of the State to another, and at last have been compelled to fight against all odds without support of re-euforcements and without adequate means of defense, and have fought well, firmly, and nobly. They have never yet been provided with winter quarters; were removed from the western part of Virginia, where their services were urgently required, at a very inclement season, without a proper allowance of transportatiou, and now ordered in the depth of wiuter again to change quarters to Northern Virginia, while their services are again nrgently required here. Very respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. To these I have as yet received no reply from either General Huger or the Secretary of War. But yesterday, the 21st, I received the fol- lowing papers, one of which is not signed: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF No~~FoLK, Norfolk, Va., February 21, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Provisional Army Confederate States: GENERAL: Major-General Hn~er directs me to say to you that Extract XVIII of Special Orders, No. 40, Adjutant and Inspector Generals Office, Richmond, February 18 1862 renders it necessary that he should. make a different arrangement of the brigade in this department. I therefore, by his directions, inclose you an extract of General Orders, No. 14, from these headquarters, for your information and guidance. I am, general, very respectfully, your most obedient servaut, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure.J GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, No. 14. Norfolk, Va., February 20, 1862. Until further orders the following will he the arrangement and designation of the hrigades in this department: * * * * * * * II. The Second Brigade, the country east of the Elizabeth River (South Branch), and extending southeast of the Dismal Swamp, in Virginia and North Carolina; head- quarters Norfolk, Brig. Gen. William Mahone commanding. By command of Brigadier-General Huger: S. S. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant-General. To these I have to-day (the 22d) replied as follows: GREAT BRIDGE, NORFOLK COUNTY, VA., February 22, 1862. Maj. Gen. B. HUGER, Commanding, 4~c.: - SIR: Yesterday evening kite I received the inclosed papers, purporting to come from the headquarters Department of Norfolk. As the letter professing to communicate General Orders, No. 14, is not signed, non constat that the order was intended to be issued. But, if it was so intended, I respectfully submit that this has been ordered to be issued before you have replied to mine of February 19, and before a reasonable time has been allowed to receive an answer from the War Department to the same. I respectfully ask whether I may expect an answer from you to the inquiries of that letter? If not, I will immediately demand a court of inquiry upon my defense of Roanoke Island and upon the previous preparation for its defense. At our last per- sonal interview at this place you said verbally that you would order a survey of the sea-beach on the coast of Virginia and North Carolina, to ascertain whether horses moving from Norfolk could be led down that beach to Nags Head. In case of such a survey I beg to have notice; and in case of a court of inquiry I claim the justice of not being separated from my artillery corps. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General Page 163 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 163 I am thus (after obeying all orders to the letter and, without men or means being furnished at all adequate to meet an ordinary superior force, fighting for two days one of the most formidable expeditions ever fitted out on this continent, and giving my men and more than my men, as martyrs to military law and obedience, and suffering, by sickness, care, and grief more pangs than bullets could inflict) left in an anomalous state of doubt whether I am censured or superseded or not, or am a commander without a command or not. FEBRUARY 23, 1862. To-day I received the following letter and order: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORFOLK, Brig Gen. HENRY A. WISE: The February 23, 1862. Sin general commanding has received your letter, addressed to him, acknowl- edging the receipt of special order, dated Adjutant and Inspector Generals Office, Richmond, February 18, 1862, (paragraph XVIII). As requested by you, it was im- mediately forwarded to the War Department. The general has no reply ~ make to your letter. The order is imperative, and, being sent through him, it is his duty to see that you obey it, and he directs, if you have not already made the necessary arrangements, that you call at once on the proper departments to provide transportation, & c., and give the necessary orders to move your troops to the point indicated. The pieces of light artillery and the company or detachment serving them will remain at its present position, unless otherwise ordered by the War Department. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. S. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant-General. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS DEPARTIWENT OF NORFOLK, No. 14. Yorfolk, Va., February 20, 1862. Until further orders the following will be the arrangement and designation of the biigades of this department: * * * * * * * II. The Second Brigade, the country east of the Elizabeth River (South Branch), and extending southeast of the Dismal Swamp, in Virginia and North Carolina; headquarters ~Norfolk, Brigadier-General Mahone commanding. By command of Major-General Huger: S. S. ANDERSON, Assistant AdjutautG eral. In reply I addressed to Asst. Adjt. Gen. S. S. Anderson a letter of which the following is a copy: GREAT BRIDGE, VA., Februai-y 23, 18621 p. m. S. S. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant-General: I have just received yours of this day. Please say to the general commanding that I have drawn from his silence in declining to reply to my letter the only inferences which seem to me fair and logical, and I shall immediately demand a court of inquiry upon the defenses of Roanoke Island and his conduct of them as well as mine. I have obeyed the imperative order of the War Department, and turned the com- mand of this post and that of the light battery of my Legion over to Brig. Gen. William Mahone. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-Gen al. * This was forwarded by Major-General Huger with the following indorsement: Respectfully forwarded for the information of the Secretary of War. Brigadier- General Wise has the right to ask a court of inquiry on himselt but I am not aware of his right to ask the favor for me Page 164 164 OPERATIONS IN NORTH C4ROLINA. [CHAP. XX. FEBRUARY 28, I~862. Having forwarded my remaining troops to Norfolk for transportation to Manassas I arrived at home the 26th instant and yesterday received from the Secretary of War the following: CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, WAR DEPARTMENT, Bien,uoud, Va., February 23, 1862. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, No~fol1c, Va.: SIR: I am in receipt of your letter of the 19th instant, forwarded by General Huger, as well as of a duplicate sent directly to this Department. I have no objcction to answering your inquiries in relation to Special Orders, No. 40. The recent disaster at Roanoke Island, having completely broken up the organiza- tion of your Legion, left you without a command sufficient to justify your retaining the office of brigadier-general, the act of Congress having provided that the officer should hold his rank only while his brigade is in service. (Section 6, Act of March 6, 1861.) General Huger notified the Department that in the organization of the brigades ~f his department you were supernumerary. General Joseph E. Johnston was urgent with the President to send him additional general officers. Your Legion was reduced to a few companies of infantry, two companies of artillery, and an incomplete regi- ment of cavalry, not snificient for an in(lependent comniand. Under these circum- stances the President deemed it advisable that the remainder of your Legion should be sent to the Army of the Potomac, in order to replace a regiment of North Carolina Cavalry, under Colonel Ransom, which it was thought proper to send into North Carolina, and to order you to the same army, in order that General Johnston might assign to you the command of a brigade, thus enabling the President to retain you in the service without loss of rank in the only manner allowed by law. In regard to your application for a short leave of absence, on the grounds stated in your letter, the Department willingly accords you a leave of twenty (Inys, as it i~ not believed that during the interval any active operations will occur in the Army of the Potomac. I aRm, your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. In reply to the foregoing letter, permit me to say that by the recent disaster at l~oanoke Island the organization of my Legion was not com- pletely broken np. It was reduced to three companies of the First Reginient of Infantry, nuder Colonel iRichardson, two under Colonel Tyler, txvo under Lieutenant-Colonel Green (not captured), Captain Lowrys company, which had been attached to the artillery (110w a fill company), and to the fragments of companiesmen who escaped from hoanoke Island, abont 70 men, now organizedinaking in all the equiva- lent of nine companies of infantry; to two companies of artillery, with five pieces; and to ninecompanies of cavalry; in all, twenty companies, numbering at least 1,000 men. Resides these there are two companies of infantry still at Lewisbnrg belonging to my Second Regiment; nine- teen companies captured at Roanoke lsland, soon to be exchanged, I hope, and my Third Regiment of Infantry, ten conipanies, which I still claim to be restored to me from South Carolina. With this force, which can easily be put at once, or soon, under my command, I cannot consent that my Legion is completely disorganized; and especially I insist upon this, when I refer to my first appointment to a brigade. I was commissioned after the act of March 6 was passed, and then had not a single company of the Legion mustered into service. But it may be said that I was assigned to the comluand of a district. True but the entire number of volunteers under Colonel Tompkins did not then exceed 600 men, and for months my entire brigade (lid not number 1,000, the force I now have. If then, my brigade might exist at first, before a sufficient number was raised for an independent com- mand, I c~minot see why it may not continue now, with many more forces than I had at first, and when, too, the Department may speedil Page 165 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 165 restore the Legion, as it was promised me, to its full force. Instead of this I respectfully complain that the two companies and five pieces of artillery have been ordered to be detached from my Legion and to be retained in this department under General Huger. I earnestly insist that I may be allowed to take all my Legion to the command of General Johnston. I had been assigned to the Chowan District, North Carolina, as an independent command, attached to the department of General Hager. His notification, then, to the Department, that in the organization of the brigades of his department I was supernumerary, was without any meaning, except that he desired a new organization and to exclude my counnand from his department. He might have taken a more direct and ingenuous way of getting clear of me, and I would have heartily co-operated with him. Nothing could be more agreeable to me than to be removed from his command to that of General Johnston. Please, then, express to the President my grateful acknowledgment for his order for the change of my command to the Army of the Potomac; and when you tell me that the motive of this order is that General John- ston may assign to me the command of a brigade, thus enabling the Presideiit to retain me in the service without loss of rank in the only manner allowed by law, it relieves me from much oppression of feeling and from all a~)prehension of his censure for my part in the defense of Roanoke Island and I will with alacrity obey his orders and report cheerfully to General Johnston. Indeed, had it been otherwise, and if I had been driven from both rank and command, I would have volun- teered in the ranks rather than have been driven from the service; but I deem it my imperative duty to the country, in justice to the Presi- dent, the War Department, General Huger, and myself to demand a court of inquiry, which I do, as to the defenses of Iloanoke Island, in- volving the conduct thereby of all who are accountable for their con- duct, or at least my own responsibility. By the Presidents late ines- sage to Congress I see that he is awaiting official information respect- ing the humiliating surrender of Roanoke Island. I now, as early as I could, send to you ample official information, and beg you to lay it be- fore him ,,with my request to give it his critical attention. if I have been lagging or lacking in duty let inc be condiguly punished. I leave judgment upon the conduct of all others to the proper authorities and tribunals. I ask only for stern justicecourt of inquiryand am ready to make any more sacrifices which may be required of me for the public defense. For your kind leave of absence for twenty days please accept my thanks. I wish only a few days to l)rotect my family and property from approaching danger, and will at the earliest moment within twenty days report to you in person. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier- General. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. [Thdorsemcnt.] ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE, August 23, 1862. Respectfully forwarded to the Secretary of War for the information of Congress. JASPER S. WHITING, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 166 166 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. NEAR NORFOLK, VA., March 5, 1862. SIR: The inclosed report of Col. II. M. Shaw [No. 25] was lately received, and as soon as copied is forwarded. 1 beg leave to comment upon all the reports so far only as is necessary for explanation and cor- rection. The first re-enforcements sent by me on the 7th were ten companies, numbering about 450 men. They landed on the north end of the island by beaching the barges and wading the men ashore. They did not stop to take their baggage out of the barges. My artillery of the Legion not having reached me, owing to the inter- ruption of my orders to Colonel llenningsen by General finger, I sent to Colonel Shaw the two best artillery officers I had at Nags Head, Captain Schermerhorn and Lieutenant Kinney, who, notwithstanding the modest disclaimer by the former of any particular knowledge on the subject of artillery drill, worked their guns in battle with skill, courage, and great effect. Colonel Shaw says: Among these (the prisoners) are the battalions of Lieutenant-Colonel Green and Major Fry, who reached the island too late to participate in the battle. I regret to be obliged to correct this part of Colonel Shaws report. Both battalions reached Roanoke Island in ample time to have participated for hours in the battle. Colonel Green did not report to me at Nags Head, but had orders to go, as he did, directly to the island. Had he obeyed my first order to move from Wilmington he would have been at the island more than a week before the battle. Had he not stopped his command on the 7th to go and return 20 miles and back before advancing, he would have been at the isfand before 7 oclock on the 8th, and after reaching the island, about 9 oclock, I think he could have reached the battle ground by 10 or 11 a. m. at furthest, if he had not stopped for several hours at the north end of the island to unload his baggage before advancing. He did not reach the island too late, but advanced too late to participate in the battle. Major Fry, with his battalion, was sent over very early in the morn- ing of the 8th, and reached the island, I am confident, by 8 or 8.30 oclock. Instead of beaching his barges and wading to the land, as Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson did, he waited several hours,certainly more than .two hours. for lighters and boats to land hi~ men, and thus failed to get into action. Most of the men who were missing escaped, and were of the Eighth and Thirty-first North Carolina Regiments, chiefly of the latter, and they escaped early in the evening of the 8th. Col. J. V. Jordan did not obey his orders to fight the enemy at the waters edge and to repel their landing, if possible, and his excuse is not satisfactory, except so far as that he had no teams for his artillery pieces, and he was ordered to save them. In his whole regiment there were but 2 (privates) killed and none wounded. The 70 who were miss- ing escaped to me at Nags Head and Currituck Bridge, and were for- warded by my orders to Norfolk. Lieutenant-Colonel Andersons report is confused and inaccurate in that part in which he says: I immediately deployed Captain Wises company (A, Forty-sixth Regiment); Captain Coles company (Forty- sixth Regiment); and Lieutenant Hazletts company (A, Fifty-ninth Regiment), on our left, in the swamp. What he should have said is: I immediately deployed Captain Wises company (A, Forty-sixth Reg- iment); Captain Coles company (Forty-sixth Regiment), to our left, in the marsh, and Lieutenant Hazletts company (A, Fifty-ninth Regi- ment), on our right, in the swamp, & c Page 167 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF IIOANOKE ISLAM), N. C. 167 Major Frys report was written in pencil and underscored as copied. He does not report when he reached the island nor how long it took him to land nor when he reported to Colonel Shaw. His aggregate was more than 150; he had four companies, which averaged at least 45 men each, making his aggregate 180. He took several hours to land, and reached the island in full time to re-enforce our troops had he ad- vanced at once. We had then but one tug and two barges, and he kept them waiting at least two and a half hours to land in lighters and boats, instead of beaching his barges and wading his men ashore. He, too, did not advance iu time, but arrived at the island in full time to be in the battle and at a favorable moment. Major Hills and Captain Taylors reports are clear and intelligible, and show that but three guns of all the batteries located on the island or its sounds could be brought to bear on the enemy. These reports embrace the full official accounts of the surrender of Itoanoke Island. Of the causes of our defeat I have heretofore sent to the Department delailed official vouchers. It is but just to about 400 or 500 of our infantry forces, and to the officers and men in three of the batteries, particularly those at Pork Point, to say that they Ibught firmly, coolly, efficiently, and as long as humanity would allow, without a sufficiency of means of any kind; to Colonel Shaw to say that he acted bravely, and to myself to say that Providence did not permit me to share the fate of my men. I did all that time, weather, sickness, and my superiors would permit in the way of preparations, and none whatever available were made. The conse- quence was a defeat, which I had again and again foretold in vain, and which grieves, but does not hftmihiate or subdue, me. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H.ENI~Y A. WISE, Brigadier- General. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. [IndorBemdnt.] There are some remarks on the report of Brigadier-General Wise, dated March 5, which require explanation from me: First. My artillery of the Legion not having reached me, owing to the interruption of my orders to Colonel Henningsen by General Huger, seems to convey the insinuation that the officious interruption of Gen- eral H. was the cause of the artillery not arriving. My intention was to expedite its arrival not to prevent it, as his paragraph seems to imply. Colonel Henningsen states that he was ordered by General Wise to march with the men and horses of the artillery by a route in- dicated by him (the sea-beach to Nags Head). The guns, caissons, and wagons I am ordered by General Wise to leave in Norfolk, to be transported by water. Now, every tug, barge, and vessel that could be procured was engaged to transport troops, & c., to Itoanoke Island, and if the men and horses were separated from their guns they would l)robably never meet again. I therefore ordered Colonel Henningsen to carry his artillery with him to the nearest point to ltoanoke Island. My object was to get it there; not to detain it. This was on the 29th and 30th of January. Second. The remark that Major Hills and Captain Taylors reports show that only three guns of all the batteries located on the island or its sounds could be brought to bear on the enemy is disingenuous. The enemy selected a position in which only three guns bore on them, an Page 168 168 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [Own. a thepe reports show thtttliese three guns did repel their whole fleet, ad, though the battery was exposed to a heavy fire, no material iixjury was done to the battery~ Third.. The dosing remark, I did all that time, weather, sickness, ad my superiors would permit in the way of preparations, ad none whatever available were made. The War Department ad myself alluded to. We could not controltime,weather, that could be made by his superiors ad refused him I do not know ad they are not stated by him. I intended ad endeavored to do all inmypowertoaldadassisthim adamnotawareinwhatpartjcular he intends to accuse me of thwarllng him. Respectfully submitted. BENJ. HUGEB, Mqjor.O.swraz~ Comssagwu4 WAR DEPARTMENT, 0. 8. A., Wckmoud, Va., March 14, 1862. Brig. Gen. Hunl7 A. Wa, Norfolk, Va: Sn: I received on the 7th instant your letter covering copies of the reports of your subordinate officers of the affair at Roanoke Island ad immediately called on General Huger for the report, which ought reg- ularly to come h him to this Department. In return, I learn m General Hugtthat you have made no report through hun, ad from your letter to hum it seems that youpropose to furnish him also copies of the repons of your subordinates. I am much disappointed at the delay which has occurred. Congress is impatient for these reports, ad the delay is occasioned by the informality of your proceedings, doubtless entirely unintentionaL Under the regulations it is necessary that you should make to General Huger your report of the affair at Boanoke Island, inclosing the original of the reports of your suboMinMes.~. You w~j isdorse on these originals or annex to them any remarks you please. General Huger will then forward to me all the originals2 mending your report, and will indorse on it what- ever remarks he thinks proper, ad thus the Department will be able to communicate to Congress complete information of what is said by all the officers. The originals of all reports belong to the arehives of this office, and when you sent me copies I supposed it was amere measure of precaution after sending the originals through General Huger. Your lettertohim,ofwhichacopyhas beenforwardedtome,disclosesthe fact that you retain the originals, ad that he has never seen either originals or copies. I beg your most prompt attention to the forward- ing now of all the reports in pro form. I have received two calls for them front Congress, ad could not, till I received the last letter of General Huger, comprehend thecause of the delay. Your communication of February 21 was also received by me, but its very great length has prevented my reply. I find, however that it contains a qreat deal which ought to have passed through & eneral Huger for his remarks, ad have therefore sent it to him. Permit me, however, to call your attention to the fact that it is not necessary in a official report to copy into its text documents and let- t~rs. They may be. appended, if necessary. The vast length of your report of the 21st is mainly due to this hot, ad the brief moment Page 169 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 169 allowed for reading reports while the war is pressing on us renders it peculiarly necessary to a.dhere to the rule that a military report is to be a succinct statement of facts. All copies of letters, orders, documents, & c., supposed to be necessary for rendering it intelligible, may be pre- sented in a separate paper or papers as inclosures. I am, resp~ctfu1ly, your obedient servant, J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War. IROLLISTON, NEAR NORFOLK, VA., March 17, 1862. Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War: Sin: Yours of the 14th instant was received late last night. I imme- diately addressed to General Huger a report, and requested him to for- war(l it to you, with the original reports of the surrender of Roanoke Jslan(l. I had made reports previously to him, but they preceded the reports of Colonel Shaw to me. These he may not have regarded as full, and copies have been sent to the Department in mine of the 21st ultimo, sending a detailed report of the causes of the disaster at IRoan- oke Jslau(l. J regret the errors on my part of sending copies instead of originals, and of reporting directly to the Department instead of through. General llnger. They were unintentional, as you do me the justice to suppose. I thought the originals addressed to me were mine, and that as I had been ordered from the department of General huger I was no longer required to report to him. I meant no disrespect to him, and especially regret that wii~t I intended as dispatch should have caused delay from mere informality. I trust my rel)ort now will con- form to your instructions. I forwarded my report to General Huger last night iLuuwiiately on reception of your orders. In my communication of 21st February I intended to give a de- tailed account of the causes of the surrender of iRoanoke Island. I endeavored to do so in the shortest way and in a way to insure the reading of the rt~p rt. To have given a history first and to have ap- pended the vouchers, for the statements, wouldhave increased the vol- ume of the communication. 1 beg you to remember that I am (lemand- ing a court of inquiry, and that I could do no less than state the reasons, and the shortest a d fairest possible mode was to state them in the language and order of official correspondence. Besides this, Congress is calling upon all for information, and I deemed it my duty to furnish the fullest in my possession. The mere delay of read- ing the rel)orts of facts could not excuse the delay or the denial of justice to officials involved in a question of doubt as to their dis- charge of important (luties. The committee of the House of Repre- sentatives has called on me for answers to certain interrogatories, and I have requested them to calj for this report of the 21st February and that of the 5th March to the Department. You say that you have sent that of the 21st ultiuio to General linger for his remarks. In case he makes any remarks upon it, I beg to be furnished with a copy of them. In yours to me of the 23d February you say General Huger notified the Department that in the organization of the brigades of his depart- inent you were supernumerary, & c. I ask for a copy of that notifica- tion by General Huger. I ask also that you will order him to furnish me with copies of his orders to Colommel Wright and others of his sub- ordinates touching my command of the district assigned to me east o Page 170 170 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. the Chowan River in North Carolina. I have respectfully applied to General Huger for these copies in vain, and they involve issues of fact and of responsibility which are important to the public service, to him, and to myself. The leave of absence given me expires in a day or two, and to-morrow or the next day I will report to you in person at Rikmond. I would have reported earlier but for the illness of my wife. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WiSE, Brigadier. General. No. 25. Report of Cot. IL itt. Shaw, Eighth North Carolina Infantry. CURRITUOX COUNTY, N. C., February 24, 1862. GENERAL: I submit the following report of the battles on Iloanoke Island on the 7th and 8th instant between the Confederate forces, under my command, and those of the United States, commanded by General Burnside and Commodore Goldsborongh. I als~ transmit herewith the reports of Colonels Anderson, Jordan, and Green, and Majors Hill and Fry, and Capt. J. S. Taylor, who was on detached service at the batteries: On the morning of the 6th instant the enemy made his appearance, reconnoitering in the neighborhood of the marshes. Four or five steamers could be seen, but the atmosphere was so heavy the exact number could not be made out with certainty. I immediately pushed down two more companies to Ashbys Landing, to support the two pieces of artillery which kad been placed at that point some time be- fore; sent off a dispatch to you, informing you of the enemys move- ment, and then repaired to the lower part of the island to obtain more definite information. Reaching Ashbys Landing, I discovered a large fleet of the enemy apparently at anchor below the marshes, and at a distance of about 8 or 10 miles from Ashbys. With the aid of a glass about sixty steam and sail vessels could be counted. Returning to camp, preparations were made to move the entire effective force to the southern part of the island, in compliance with your orders received in the evening. Having detailed a sufficient number of men to guard my camp and that of Colonel Jordan, the balance was marched down. A part bivouacked near Ashbys and the rest on the lower end of the island, in the immediate vicinity of Pughs Landing. Taking Maj. George Williamson and a strong picket guard I repaired at once to Thighs Landing, where I learned from Captain Pugh that the fleet of the enemy, numbering about seventy vessels, gunboats and transports, was anchored in the sound, about 4 miles from his landing. The fog being very heavy, it was 9 oclock in the morning before the fleet could be seen with any sort of distinctness. At about 10 oclock the movement of the fleet commenced. I remained at Pughs until several of the steamers had passed through the marshes at the main pass, and as there was no indication of an intention on the part of the enemy to effect a landing at that place, I directed Major Williamson to remain with the picket guard to watch the movements of the enemy, and if he should find that no landing would be attempted at that place to return to Ashbys, taking with him the troops and the field piece Page 171 CHAP. XX.] 171 BATTLE OF ROAKOKE ISLAND, N. C. and then, accompanied by Lieutenant Talcott. Provisional Army Con- federate States, who had kindly volmnteered his services to me, I re- paired to Ashbys Landing, and having remained there until it had be- come apparent to my mind that the enemy designed the reduction of Pork Point Battery before attempting to land his troops, and having repeated to Colonel Jordan the order to fight the enemy at the water should he attempt to land, but to fall back to the redoubt should such a movement become necessary to save the field pieces, I proceeded with Lieutenant Talcott to Pork Point Battery, which we reached at 12 m. Soon after the battle had begun Major Hill, who was in immediate command at that fort, having given a detailed account of the battle of that day as well as that of the succeeding day at that fort, in his report, herewith submitted, it is not my purpose to add to it further than to indorse all that he has said in praise of the coolness, courage, and persevering efforts of the officers and men of his command, who seemed to be inspired by the noble example set them by Major Hill, as well also by that of Captain Taylor and Lieutenants Talcott and Loyall, who were present at both battles at that place, having been sent to the island a short time before by General Huger on temporary detached service. At 4.15 oclock, having observed some indications which induced a belief on my part that the enemy designed lauding some troops below the battery for the purpose of making a flank movement upon it by land, and the small-arms of the two companies in the battery having been lost by the destruction of their quarters, I left the battery to rejoin the infantry and send re-enforcements to the battery. Having met Major Williamson, who was hastening- to communicate with me, I ordered him to return and move two companies to Pork Point to be at hand if needed. He did so, taking up Company A, Captain Hinton, and Company G, Captain Vellowley, both of the Eighth Regiment North Carolina 1~oops. Soon after I fell in with Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, having with him portions of the Forty-sixth and Fifty-nin~ Virginia Volunteersabout 400 re-enforceinents sent over by you. Reaching the redoubt across the main road, I found, what Major Williamson had already apprised me of, that Colonel Jordan had withdrawn the artillery from Ashbys without resisting the landing of the enemy and had taken position at the redoubt. He informed me that the enemy had effected a landing above Ahsbys and beyond the reach of the pieces. In his own report you will find his reasons for thus falling back fully set forth. By this time it was night, amid nothing remained but to make a stand at the redoubt. Pickets were put out amid the troops bivouacked on the low and wet ground adjacent to the breastwork, where they passed the tedious hours of a cold and rainy night without a single murmur or complaint. About day reconnoitering party was sent out and informna- tion obtained of the approach of the enemy in large force. I then ordered Colonel Andersomi to put out a part of his command on the left of the breastwork, and Captain Wise being in command of the companies selected for that service, I instructed him to take posi. tion nuder cover of a small piece of swamp on that flank, and to assail the advance guard of the enemy, directing his fire to the artillery, should the enemy attempt to plant any within reach. Soon after I received a message from that officer saying that a position could not be obtained at the point indicated, and I then directed him to take the most favorable position he could. At 7 a. m. the battle commenced, and as soon as the enemy gathere Page 172 1.72 OPFRATIONS IN NORTh CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX~ in force, which was in a very few minutes thereafter, our battery opeued fire. This battery was composed of three piecesone 24-pounder how- itzer, one 18-pounder field piece, and one 0-pounder. For the 18- pounder the ouiy arnmnnition we had was 12-pounder ammunition. The artillery detachments may be said to have been almost totally uninstructed. Having in my command no officers acquainted with that practice save Major Hill, whose duties confined him to Pork Point Battery, I applied to Colonel Richardson, upon his arrival at Nags Head, for some officers to instruct the men. He had none. Upon your reaching that place I made a like application to you. Captain Sch~r- mnerhorn and Lieutenant Kinney were sent. The former disclaimed any particular kn~owledge upon the sub,ject. They were immediately sent to Ashbys; but the enemy made his appearance s~ soon, little tilnG was allowed them to drill the men. Captain Schermerhorn was placed in charge of the 18-pounder, Lieu- tenant Kinney of the 24-pounder, and Lient. W. B. Selden, Engineer De- partmnent, who had patriotically volunteered his services in the line, was assigned to the 6-pounder, and, notwithstanding the men had received so little instruction, these l)ieces were handled in such a way as to pro- duce immense havoc in the enemys ranks; especially that of Lieuten- ant Selden, whose comiduct elicited the unbounded admiration of all who witnessed it. Unhappily at about 11 oclock that gallant officer received a rifle-ball in his head, and he fell without a groan, a willing sacrifice to a cause which he had espoused with all the ardor of his generous nature. In the mean time the fire of the musketry had been kept up from the cominencemnent of the action with unabated vigor by the following com- panies under cover of the breastxvork: Company B, Captain Whitson, Eighth Regiment North Carolina State troops; Company B, Captain Liles, and Company F, Captain Knight, Thirty-first 1~egiment North Carolimia troops; Company E, Captain Dickinson, and Company K, Lieutenant Roy, Fifty-ninth Virginia Volunteers; and Company E, Lieut. J. 11. Murchison, Eighth Regiment North Carolina State troops, whose second lieutenant, N. G. Munro, a promising young officer, fell on his approach near the redoubt. By the gallamut officers and brave men of the above-named companies an unceasing and effective fire was kept up from 7 a. m. until 12.20, when, our artillery ammunition having been exhausted and our right flank having been turmied by an overwhelming force of the enemy, I was com- pelled to yield the place. The entire available force of my counmand, exclusive of the companies on duty at the several batteries, amounted to 1,434, rank and file. Of these 568 were of the Eighth North Carolina State troops, 456 of the Thirty-first North Carolimia troops, and the balance of the Forty-sixth and Fifty-ninth Virginia Volunteers commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, who, together with Major Lawson, was at the redoubt during the most part of the actiomm, amud rendered efficient service. The enemys force amounted to 15,000 men, with several pieces of artillery. With the very great disparity of forces, the moment the redoubt was flanked I considered the island lost. The struggle could have been protracted, and the small body of brave men which had been held in reserve might have been brought up into the open space to receive the fire of the over- whelming force on our flank, which was under cover of trees; l)ut they would have been sacrificed without the smallest hope of a successful result. The mules and horses attached to the artillery had been killed durin Page 173 CI,AP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROAKOKE ISLAND, N. C. 173 the action; the pieces had to be abandoned, and believing it utterly impossible to make a successful stand against such an overwhelming force, I deemed it my duty to surrender. A verified roll of the prisoners has gone to General Huger, through Major Allstbn, Provisional Army Confederate States. The number, I believe, is about 2,500. Among these are the battalions of Colonel Green and Major Fry, who reached the island too late to participate in the battle. Colonel Green, however, had a skirmish with the enemy, an account of which is given in his report. ~The loss on our side in killed,wounded, and missing, is as follows: Killed, 23; wounded, 58; and missing, 62. The loss of the Forty-sixth and Fifty-ninth Virginia Volunteers is 6 killed, 28 wounded, and 19 missing; that of the Eighth, Thirty-first, and Second North Carolina troops is 16 killed~ 30 wounded, and 43 missing; of the Engineer De- partment, Lieutenant Selden was killed. Two companies at Fort Forrest are reported to have blown up the fort and made their escape. A detachment of 17 men, under Lieuten- ant Pulley, of the Thirty-first North Carolina troops, stationed at the battery at Midgetts ilommock, also escaped. In addition to the officers killed, whose names have already been mentioned, the country will deplore the loss of Capt. 0. J. Wise, of the Forty-sixth Virginia Volnnteer~, who fell bravely fighting at the head of his company, and whose last utterances as he was borne from the field were words of encouragement to his fellow-soldiers. Captain Coles, of the same regiment, also proved himself a gallant soldier, and was killed upon the field. While I bear testimony to the bravery and good conduct of the offi- cers and men generally who were under my immediate observation during the long protracted action, it is my duty to express the decided belief that, had an opportunity offered, the officers and men so long held in reserve linder the most trying circumstances would have shown themselves worthy the confidence of the country. The loss of the enemy in killed and wounded was very great. I cannot close this report without giving expression to the deep grief which I feel on account of the disaster which has befallen us, and at the same time expressing the earmiest hope that the Great Being who holds the destinies of nations in the hollow of His hand will soon ena- ble us to retrieve the losses we have sustained. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. M. SHAW, Colonel Eighth North Carolina State Troops. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE, Commanding Fourth Brigade, Department of Norfolk. No. 26. Report of tiapt. James ill. Whitson, Eighth North Caro~ina Infantry. FEBRUARY 6, 18628 p. m. Received orders to-night to muster all the available strength of my company, with one day~s ration, and march to Pughs Landing, distant 9 miles from the camp. At 2 oclock on the following morning we arrived at the church nea Page 174 174 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. (CHAP. XX. the entrance of the road leading to and half a mile from the intended destination of our troops. Here we were halted and ordered to remain till further orders. At the dawn of day orders reached us to resume our march for the landing. Immediately our forces were under arms and wading through the ponds of water that intercepted our~march; but we had not pro- ceeded far when another order from the commanding officer met us, directing us to Thll back again to the spot that we had just left, where we remained till 1 p. m. At 12 oclock the enemys fleet engaged our fort on the shore, and one hour after the cannonading commenced our forces were ordered to gain Ashbys Landing with all possible speed, 3 miles in our rear; but before we reached the landing we were again halted. It was now about 4 oclock, when we saw two or three companies retreating from the landing last mentioned in double-quick time, with two or three field pieces, which I supposed had been previously planted at the landing to prevent the landing of the enemys troops. Again we were ordered to reform and retire to the little intrenchment at, Suples Hill, a point still farther to our rear. By the time we reached this last point, after the reception of a few shot and shell from the enemys fleet, the day had nearly reached its close. While darkness was gathering over us the firmament was becom- ing thickly condensed with cloud, threatening us with storms of rain, which fell incessantly before day. At the battery, while Colonel Shaw, of the Eighth North Carolina State troops, and Colonel Jordan, of the - Thirty-first North Carolina Volunteers, were probably concerting their plans for the defense of the works, our troops were waiting for the next order, and apparently in eager expectation of the arrival of the enemy. At lenath the conclusion came when Colonel Jordan, of the a foresaid volunteers, was left in commanA at the battery. My Company having been detached from its regiment by order of Colonel Shaw, to remain with the forces under Colonel Jordan at the battery, was ordered by the latter (Colonel Jordan) to take position on the right of the battery and to defend it, whereupon I immediately moved my men in position, ordering them to stack their arms for the purpose of executing another order from Colonel Jordan to me relative to overlaying the battery with pine bnshes, which was soon accomplished in good order; but finding the length of the breastwork from the gun and embrasitre on the left of my company to the extreme right totally insufficient to admit my company in two ranks, I applied to Colonel Jordan for - spades, that I might both lengthen and turn the battery to the rear so as to facilitate a disposition against a flank movement of the enemy should they attempt it, but unfortunately the spades could not be had. The night passed, and a dark night it was. The morning came, February 8, and we were all wet with the rain of the previous night, and soon our pickets were driven in and reported they were coIning. Scarcely fifteen minutes had elapsed before the balls were whistling thick and fast about our ranks from the long-range rifles of the invaders. A vast number of shotswere fired at us taking but little effect in our lines, before we answered or returned die fire, with the exception of what firing was done by a few of our skirmishers de- ployed against them. At length an attempt was made by the enemy as if to charge our battery, but it was at this crisis of the action that we poured a deadly fire into them, repulsing them, as we supposed, with considerable loss, as we did on several other subsequent occasions. Finding it impossibl Page 175 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 175 to carry our works by means of charging them in front, the enemy next determined, if possible, to gain the right and left flanks of our line, which they succeeded in doing after a five hours struggle, having to ford a deep, boggy swamp, which compelled them to move very cau- tiously anti very slowly. During the movement through the swamp to our right Colonels Shaw and Jordan, both being in the latter urged me to watch the movement, which I did with the utmost precauiti~n, causing my men to fire on the enemy at every opportunity. Half an hour before the retreat took place, seeing that my company on the right was occupying a critical position, becoming more and more exposed to the fire of the enemy, I passed quickly from my position to Colonel Jordan, informing him of the enemys movements, and hav- ing ~lone this, I passed quickly back to my company. Up to this time I had lost 2 of my men killed and 4 or 5 others wounded. The fire was now becoming intense, the right flank of my company being the most hotly attacked. Believing that a change of position was really necessary, and that in a few monients more we should be swept with an overraking fire, I threw the right wing of company to the rear, in order to diminish its front. I again went to Colonel Shaw and informed him of the position gained against us. About this time a retreat had been determined, Colonel Shaw having informed me that we should have to evacuate the works. A few min- utes more and all our forces were retreating in the direction of the camp. I had not left the battery but a few paces when I received a slight wound from a ball which passed through the leg of my pants, cutting my leg, but very shallow, though it prohibited me from walking for several days. Many of my command, being near their homes and thoroughly ac- quainted and familiar with the vicinity of the island and the region of country arountim succeeded in making their escape from the island after the action was over, and some after the surrender was made, before they could be taken prisonerssome leaving their baggage and others carrying both baggage and guns with them. These men, about 35 or 40 in number, are -liable to do service, and I have instructed several of them that I have seen to report to those officers of my company who were not taken prisoners for duty. Enoch F. Baxter, brevet lieuten- ant, Sergts. Lewis N. Simmons anti Caleb Toler, and four corporals made their escape. The other commissioned officers and sergeants were made prisoners and paroled. Respectfully submitted. JAMES M. WIIITSON, Captain Company B, Eighth Regiment N. C. State Troops. No. 27. Report of (ol. John V. Jordan, Thirty-first North ~Jarolina Tnfantry. STEAMER SPAULDING Februa~ 1862. ry 17, SIR: I herewith submit to you a report of the part taken by my regiment in the late engagement on IRoanoke Island between the forces of the Confederate States and those of the United States. The first appearance of the enemy was on the morning of the 6th instant, about 8 oclock, as seen from Ashby~s Landing by the forces stationed there, consisting of two companies (B and F, infantry) o Page 176 176 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. my regiment, under command of Captains Liles and Knight, with two. pieces of artillery, one 24-pounder navy howitzer, and one 18-ponnder field gun, the whole force, including the artillery, under Captain Liles, he beine the senior officer present. Under an order from you to pro- ceed to Aslibys Landing I arrived there at 12 m. on the 6th, and dis- covered by aid of a glass a large nnmber of the enemys fleet, consist- ing of steam and sail vessels, then apparently lying at anchor at a point 10 miles below the southern point of the island. I left Ashbys at 2 p. m. and met you, in company with Captain Taylor, of the Navy, and re- ported the information 1 had received. Upon your return to the camp I received an order from you to pre- pare one days rations for all the available forces under my command, with the excej~tion of one coin [)any, which was to be left in charge ol the camp, and that portion of Captain Godwins company which was then in qnarters an(l which you ordered to be sent to the western side of the sound, at a poiut called Fort Forrest, then in charge (f Captain Whitty, with instructions to Captain Godwin to support Captain Whitty in protecting that point. The remaining l)Ortion of my available forces, with one days provisions, was ordered to take up the line of march to Ashbys Landino~ oi- that vicinity. On arriving at Suples lull, about a mile and a half above this landing, the forces were ordered to bivouac for the night. At a very early hour on the morning of the 7th myself; in com- pany with Major Yeates, proceeded to the landing, leaving Lieutenant- Colonel Fowle in charge of the forces at Suples Hill, with a view of making further preparation to meet the enemy should a landing be attelnl)ted at that point. About 10 a. m. I perceived that the enemy~s fleet was in motion, ad- vancing up the sound, and at about 11.45 oclock the leading steamer opened fire upon Fort Bartow. About 3 p. in. the engagement became general upon the part of the enemys vessels against F~rt l3artow. At about 4p. m. a small boat, containing about 15 men, left one of the trans- ports of the enemy, apparently with a view of taking soundings at Ham- mon(ls Landing, about half a mile above Ashbys. As the boat ap- proached the land I detailed a force of 25, under command of Captain Liles, to intercept it. The party in the boat had effi~cted a landing, when Captain Liles ordered the men under his command to fire m~pou them, by which fire it has since been ascertained that 3 of the enemy were killed and 1 wounded. The vemainder immediately retreated to the vessel in the sound. About 5 oclock a large steamer and a num- ber of smaller boats, carrying a force estimaLd at 8,000 or 10,000 men, with several pieces of artillery, and under cover of the gunboats in the sound, was seen approaching Hammonds Landing, between which and the point occupied by my forces lay a large marsh impassable by artillery. Having no horses for our artillery, fearing that we might be cut off or at least that the shells from the enemys guns in the sound might confuse and disconcert the men under my command and cause the eventual loss of the field pieces, which you enjoined upon me at all hazards to save,I considered it judicious to order a retreat. The infantry, nuder command of Lieutenant-Colonel Fowle, was placed in rear of the artillery to protect it, and all the forces retire(i in good order to a redoubt thrown across the main road one mile and a quarter above Ashby~5, where the guns were placed in battery, the 18-pounder on the left and the howitzer on the right, under conmman(l of Cap- tam Schermerhorn and Lieutenant Kinney, and a 6-pounder occupying the center, under command of Lieutenant Selden. The gun detach Page 177 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 177 ments were immediately ordered to take position at their pieces. A picket guard was thrown out and a detail ordered from each company present, to mask the battery as effectually as the short time rendered practicable. Soon ~afterward you arrived and took command. At about 12 oclock at night I proceeded to obey yonr order to march all my forces, except those detailed for the support of the battery, in connection with those of Colonel Anderson, to Fort Bartow; but while awaiting at Suples Hill the arrival of Colonel Anderson I received an order, through Major Yeates, revoking your former order and remained there during the rest of the night, awaiting further orders, with the following companies of my regiment: Company C, Captain Betts; Company ID, Captain Manly; Company 0-, Captain Picot; Company II, Captain Jones; Company I, Captain McKay; Company K, Captain Whitty. Early on the morning of the 8th I received orders from you to report myself to you in person at the battery then under your command, which I di(l, leaving the companies above named to act as a reserve, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel [Daniel 0-.] Fowle an(l Major [Jesse J.] Yeates. As you are entirely familiar with the part taken by me and those under my command during tbe action of the 8th ,I deem a further report from me unnecessary. Appended you will find a statement of the number of men of my regiment engaged, killed, wounded, & c.~ I cannot close this report without especially mentioning the acts of coolness and manifest bravery of Captains Liles and Knight, with the officers and men under their command, who were in the fight at the battery. Lieutenant Pipkin, of Company 0-, was in charge of Fort Blanchard, and, with all of his command, evinced a spirit to faithfully and nobly discharge his duty had an opportunity off~red. Lieutenant Pulley, Company H, in charge of Fort , at Midgetts, is sup- posed to have escaped with his command, not having been heard from since our defeat. I doubt not but he remained faithfully at his post, ready to do his duty, till he learned that our battery was flanked by the enemy and a retreat ordered. Respectfully submitted. J. V. JOIRDAK, Colonel Thirty-first Regiment. Col. II. M. SHAW, Commanding Forces Roanoke Island. No. 28. Report of Lient. Col. Wharton J. Green, Second North Carolina Battalion. ON BOARD STEAMER S. H. SPAULDINQ Off Roanoke Island, N. C., February 18, 1862. SIR: I herewith submit a report of the skirmish in which my bat- talion (Second North Carolina) was engaged on Saturday, the 8th instant: In obedience to orders from Adjutant-General Cooper, received on the evening of January 30, I struck camp in the vicinity of Wilmington 12 R RYOL IX * List shows 475 men in action; 2 killed, S wounded, anti 76 missing Page 178 [CHAr. XX. 1178 OPERATK~NS IN NORTh CAROLINA. on the morning of the 1st instant and proceeded hither with all possible dispatch. Owing to the want of transports we were detained two days and upward in Norfolk, leaving that place on Wednesday, the 5th instant, in tow of the canal tug-boat White. On Friday, when about 30 miles distant from the island, continued discharges of artillery informed us of the progress of a fight between the Federal fleet and Confederate batteries. Being entirely ignorant of the topography of the island, and not knowing where or to whom to report, I left our transports about 20 miles hence and came on in the steamer for information. Having obtained which, I returned to my men and crowded them on the smallest number of transports that would contain them and then started. The night was very dark and stormy, with the wind against us, consequently our progress was slow. After beating about until midnight our pilot declared that he had lost his reckoning, and as we had only a fathom and a half of water, thought it safer to wait for daylight. About 2 a. m. Saturday a number of Confederate gunboats passed us from the direction of the island, one of them running into the schooner Beauregard (one of our transports) and seriously injuring her.. In reply to our challenge and statement of our condition, all the answer we could get was that one of the boats was the Beaufort, the other the . Had they stopped in their flight long enough to exchange pilots with us, or even to give ours the necessary instruction as to his course, my battalion would have reached the island in time to have participated in the entire action. Failing to do so, it was 10 a. m. when we reached the island, and 12 & clock before the men, arms, and ammunition could be got on shore, owing to their having to be taken on lighters. Having distributed all of my ammunition I started for the scene of action, but soon met scores of stragglers, who reported everything lost and the Confederate forces entirely dispersed. Notwithsdanding these discouraging reports, my men kept in good spirits and pressed on with animation. On reaching your camp, and having the worst reports confirmed, 1 called upon you for orders, and was told to proceed to a point some mile or two distant, under the guidance of Major Williamson, and take position. After proceeding about half a mile we came suddenly upon a Federal regiment, which I have since learned was the Twenty-first Massachu- setts. The two advanced companies of the respective commands were about 75 paces apart, I being some 20 paces in advance of mine. I gave the command By company into line, when the officer in com- mand of the Federal regiment threw up his hand and cried cut, Stop, stop, colonel; dont fire; you are mistaken! Believing it to be a trick, I repeated my couimand. Thereupon the Federal officer gave the command, Fire. My advanced companies returned the fire, firing at will after the first volley. Finding that there was some confusion, and not knowing the ground, I soon became satisfied that I could not form my men in line of battle to any advantage on the ground that they then occupied, so I ordered them to fall back a short (listance and form behind the log houses occupied by Colonel Jordans regiment as quarters. This they did in good order. The Federals fell back imme- diately after. Immediately after forming behind the houses Lieuten- ant-Colonel Fowle, of the Thirty-first North Carolina, passed by with a white flag, and stated that a surrender had been determined upon. My loss was 3 men killed and 5 wounded, 2 of whom have since died. I am happy to be able to report favorably of the action of both officer Page 179 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. c. 179 and men. The enemys loss, as I learned from themselves, was be- tween 20 and 30. I marched my entire command, with very few exceptions, in good order back to your camp. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WHARTON J. GREEN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Second North Carolina Battalion. Col. H. M. SHAW. No. 29. Report of Jliaj. IL W. Fry, Forty-sixth Virginia Infantry. STEAMSHIP S. R. SPAIJLDING, Off Boanoke Island, N. C., February 18, 1862. In obedience to i.istrnctions received from Col. J. H. Richardson, commanding forces at Nags Head, I proceeded with my command (Companies B, D, G, and K, aggregate 150) to Roanoke Jsland~ landed, and with my command reported to Col. H. M. Shaw, who ordered me to countermarch my command and save them if possible; but on arriving at the point where we had landed there was no transporta- tion, the tng and barge that brought us over having left for Nags Head. Respectfully submitted. H. W. FRY, Commanding Companies B, D, G, and K, 46th Va. Reyt. Col. H. M. SHAW. No. 30. Report of Lient. Col. Frank P. Anderson, Fifty-ninth Virginia Infantry. ON BOARD STEAMER S. R. SPAIJLDING, February 15, 1862. SIR: I herewith inclose you a report of the part taken by the Fifty- ninth Regiment Virginia Volunteers in the engagementof the 8th instant. In obedience, to orders from General H. A. Wise I left Nags Head on the morning of the 7th, and not being able to effect a landing at the wharf, I beached the boats at the north end of the island and there effected a landing, leaving the baggage and most of the ammunition on board the transports. My forceconsisting of two companies of the Forty-sixth Regiment Virginia Volunteers and eight companies of the Fifty-ninth Regiment Virginia Volunteers, amounting in all to about 450 men, officers includedthen proceeded to the earthwork, across the main road,where we arrived about 6p.m., and found that the enemy had effected a landing in force at Ashbys Landing. Colonel Jordan, having fallen back from that point (bringing the artillery back to the earthwork), I immediately sent scouts to discover the position and force of the enemy. The scouts returned in fiftee Page 180 180 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. minutes, having shot one of their advance pickets within 500 yards of the earthwork, and bringing his gnn. I immediately sent out a strong picketlO Rangers, Company A, Fifty-ninth Regiment, and 10 Rich- mond Light Infantry Blues, Company A, Forty-sixth Regiment, Capt. 0. Jennings Wise in command. Nothing occurred during the night. Early in the morning of the 8th I ordered Company A, Fifty-ninth Regiment, Lieutenant Hazlett commandiiig, to proceed iu the direction of the enemy, to relieve Captain Wise and his pickets. In about fifteen minutes they returned, reporting the advance of the enemy in force. I immediately deployed Captain Wises company (A, Forty-sixth Regi- ment), Captain Coles company (Forty-sixth Regiment), and Lieutenant llazletts company (A, Fifty-ninth Regiment) ou onr left, in the swamp, I having been informed by you that our right was impassable, from reports which you had received. The earthwork not being capable of sheltering more than 200 nien, I then marched the rest of my command about 250 yards to the rear, there to be held in reserve. After getting the reserve placed in position I dispatched scouts to the right for the purpose of discovering, if possible, a road by which we might flank the enemy or be flanked by them. They soon returned, reporting a passage impracticable. I then sent them farther to the right, when a messenger arrived from you requesting me to come to the earthwork. Arriving at the earthwork, I dispatched 10 more men to watch and skirmish on onr right flank. Abont 9.30 a. in., the firing being very heavy, I dispatched a mes- senger to Major Lawson to bring three companies to the earthwork to relieve those already engaged. He arrived with Company E, Captain Dickinson, and Company K, Lieutenant Roy, of the Fifty-ninth Regi- ment, and Company , Captain Murchison, Eighth Regiment North Carolina State troops. They arrived under a shower of bullets, Lieu- tenants Miller, Pot tier, and Walker receiving wounds. The engage- ment lasted until 12 oclock, when, our ammunition being expended and our right flank (which had been reported impassable) being turned, I was obliged to leave the earthwork. My regiment retreated in good order. After arriving at your quarters, and while in conversation with your- self, Colonel Green engaged the advance of the enemy. I immediately marched my regiment to the woods near the beach, and there placed them in position to receive the ene~ny. While in this position the report reached me that the white flag had been sent by you to the enemy, and that you had surrendered the forces on the island. 1 sent an officer to you to inquire into the truth of this report; he returned, informing me that the report was correct. I then countermarched my regiment to your encampment and there surrendered them. The following is the list of killed, wounded, and missing from my command: Killed, 2 captains and 4 privates; wounded, 4 lieutenants and 24 privates; missing, 19 privates. Those missing are supposed to have escaped from the island. The officers and privates under my command behaved gallantly against great odds. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, FRANK P. ANDERSON, Lieutenant- Colonel, Fifty-ninth Regiment Virginia Volunteers. Col. II. M. SHAW Commanding Roanoke Island Page 181 LHAP. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 181 No. 31. Report of ]VLaj. ~1. H. Hill, C. S. Army, Commanding Fort Bartow. STEAMER S. IR. SPAULDING~ Groatan Sound, N. 0., February 14. 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the engagement between the enemys fleet and Fort Bartow on the 7th and 8th instant: On the morning of the 7th, while the men under my command were at drill in the fort, we saw that the fleet of the enemy was coming up the sound. I immediately cleared the fort for action and made every preparation in my power to give them a warm reception. About 11.30 oclock their fleet, consisting of about thirty gunboats, advanced within range of the four guns on the left flank of my battery (consisting of No. 6, a 57-cwt. 32-pounder, on a navy carriage in em- brasure; No. 7, a rifled 32-pounder, on navy barbette carriage, and Nos. 8 and 9, 41 and 47 cwt. 32-pounders, on columbiad carriages), and opened fire from about sixty guns, throwing 9,10, and 11 inch shell, with shrapnel, a few round shot, and every variety of rifle projectiles. We answered cautiously and slowly with the four guns that could be brought to bear upon them, and they soon fell back so as to mask gun No. 6, concentrating the fire on the three barbette guns, which now alone bore on them. We fired in all but fourteen shots from gun No. 6 this day. Early in the action a shell exploded on the platform of the rifled gun, destroying a portion of the traverse circle, diminishing its traverse, so that it could be traversed only on those vessels of the fleet that were advanced farthest to the northward. The enemy maintained an unin- terrupted fire for more than six hours, withdrawing at dark. We fired the last shot. The works, however, sustained but little damage. We fired 30 rounds from the rifle gun and 161 rounds from Nos. 8 and 9, making, with the 14 rounds from No.6, a total of 205 rounds expended. The projectiles used by me were principally round shot. Early in the action the quarteis were fired by the enemys shells, and, notwithstanding the streminons efforts of Lieutenant 0-illiam, of Company I, who was sent with a detachment to rescue the property contained in them, nearly the whole of it, including the small-arms of my battalion, was destroyed. While in this service Private Bagley, of Company I, was severely wounded by the explosion of a shell. Private Wilson, of CompariyL, was killed at the battery early in the action, and Private Baily, of same company, was mortally wounded. Sergeant Graves and Private Green, of Company L, were severely wounded at their guns, making the total of casualties 1 killed and 4 wounded. The damage sustained by the work was repaired during the night by the negro laborers, under the direction of Lieutenant Talcott, who vol- unteered his services. An additional supply of ammunition was sent to us from Fort Huger by Captain Taylor, which gave us, including amount on hand, 42 rounds for the rifled gun and 155 rounds for smooth-bore 32-pounders. On Saturday, the 8th, my men were at their post by 5.30 a. m. in flue spirits, expecting a renewal of the attack. At 9 a. m. the enemys fleet attempted an advance up Croatan Sound, with the apparent intent of cutting off our re-enforcements landing on the north end of the island. I opened fire on them with the rifled gu Page 182 182 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. and gun No. 6, checking their advance and bringing on a desultory en- gagement, which continued at intervals until 12.30 oclock, when, re- ceiving the intelligence that our land defenses had been forced and my position consequently turned, I abandoned Fort Bartow, destroying the ammunition and disabling the gnus. During the morning we fired about 20 rounds of rifle charges and 20 more from smooth-bore 32- pounders. In closing, I desire to state that both the officers and men under my command did their duty manfully and with skill and courage. Special commendation is due to Captain Fearing and Lieutenants Elliott and ilinton of Company L, and Lieutenant Gilli m of Company I; also to Ser~eant Graves, Privates Black and Dawson of Company L, and Sergeant Uirrow and Privates Jacocks and Stokes of Company I. I here desire also to acknowledge the great service rendered by Cap- tain Taylor, of the artillery; Lieutenant Loyall, of the Navy, and Lieu- tenant Talcott, also of the artillery. They did great servicecool, calm, and assisting in every way. Their conduct cannot be too highly commended. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. II. HILL, ]IfaJor, C. S. Provisional Army, Commanding Port. Col. II. M. SHAW, Eighth Regt. N. C. Troops, Gomdg. Forces Roanoke Island. No. 32. Report of Capt. John S. Taylor, C. S. Army, in charge of iFijeavy Artillery. ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C., February 9, 1862. SIR: On Friday, the 7th instant, at about noon, the enemys fleet opened fire on our squadron and Fort Bartow. In obedience to your orders I took charge of Forts Huger and Blanchard, and awaited the approach of the enemy; but as they did not come within range of our rifled guns (which I fired eight timnes) and seemed to concentrate their fire on the left flank of Fort Bartow, I immediately rode to that battery, where I remained until the enemy ceased firing, assisting Major Hill, the commanding officer of that post. On the morning of the 8th, about 10 a. in., Fort Bartow fired a shot at the enemys ships, to prevent what seemed to be an attempt to cut off re-enforcements approaching the island from the northward (the other batteries being manned to drive back the enemy should the attempt be persevered iii), when their fleet commenced a desultory fire upon Fort Bartow. I immediately repaired to that post, where I re- mained until the battery was evacuated, in consequence of our land defenses having been forced by the enemys troops. I then returned to Fort Blanchard, thinking the fleet would attempt to pass through Croatan Sound, which, however, they did not. Leaving orders to fire upon them should they attempt to pass or come within range, I went to Fort Huger, where I soon received your order to spike the guns and send the men to your encampment. This was done, the powder destroyed, and the gun-carriages somewhat injured, about 2.30 p. in Page 183 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. I should have entirely dismantled the batteries at Forts Huger and Blanchard but for two reasons: First, because, in doing so, the enemy would have been made aware of it, and would, no doubt, have sent their ships up to take your position in the rear; and, sec ond, because I had not time; for while we were throwing shells into the water a sharp conflict was heard in the direction of the encampment of the Thirty-first Regiment; so I immediately dispatched the companies to go by the beach and through the woods to your support. While on my way to your headquarters I heard that a flag of truce had been sent out, and received orders not to spike the guns; but it was too late. I do not hesitate to say, from the service done by the three barbette guns at Fort Bartow (the only guns brought fully into action), and the little damage sustained by that battery, notwithstanding the incessant and terrible fire kept up against it for more than six hours by per- haps sixty guns, that if all our batteries had been brought into action the enemys fleet would have been destroyed or beaten back. I desire to say that the officers and men brought under fire behaved in a highly creditable manner, and that they seemed to be in better condition the second day, notwithstanding their fatigue and loss of rest, than they were during the first. I would also say that the officers and men at the batteries not engaged evinced a fine spirit; and I have to regret for them, for myself, and for our cause, that they had not an opportunity to illustrate their skill and patriotism against the gunboats of the enemy. I understand that the loss in the enemys fleet was about five times as great as ours in the battery. Ours was 1 killed and 3 wounded. Major Hill will no doubt pay a just tribute to the services of Lieutenant Loyall, of the Navy, and Lieutenant Talcott, of the artillery, which cannot be too highly commended. Allow me to join in the regret and mortification which I know you reel that our cause should have sustained a defeat while in our hands. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN S. TAYLOR, Captain, C. S. Army, in charge Heavy Artillery. Col. H. M. SnAw, Eighth I~egt. N. C. State Troops, Comdg. Forces Roanolce Island. No. 33. Report of the investigating Committee Confederate House of Representa tives. The committee, to whom was referred a resolution of the House of Representatives, instructing them to inquire and report the causes and circumstances of the capitulation of Roanoke Island, have had the same under consideration, and have given all the facts and cir- cumstances connected with the defenses of the said island and its ad- jacent waters and of the capitulation on February 8, a most elaborate investigation. The committee find that on August 21, 1861, Brigadier-General Gat- lin was ordered to the command of the Department of North Carolina and the coast defenses of that State. On September 29 Brig. Gen. D. H. Hill was assigned to duty in North Carolina, and charged with th Page 184 184 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. ~CHAP. XX. defenses of that portion of said State lying between Albemarle Sound and the Neuse River and Pamlico Sonnd, including those waters, and was directed to report to Brigadier-General 0-atlin. On November 16 Brig. C-en. L. OB. Branch was directed to relieve Brigadier-General 1-Till in command of his district in North Carolina. On December 21 that part of North Carolina east of the Chowan River, together with the counties of Washington and Tyrrel, was, at the request of the proper authorities of North Carolina, separated from the remainder and constituted into a military district, under Brig. C-en. II. A. Wise, and attached to the command of, Major-General finger, commanding the Department of Norfolk. At the time, therefore, of the surrender of Roanoke Island, on February 8, 1862, it was within the military district of Brigadier-General Wise an General Huger. , d attached to the command of Major- The military defenses of Roanoke Island and its adjacent waters, on the said February 8, 1862, consisted of Fort Bartow, the most south- ern of the defenses on the west side of the islanda sand fort, well covered with turf having six long 32-pounder guns in embrasure and three 32-pounders en barbette. The next is Fort Blanchard, on the same side of the island, about 2 miles from Fort Bartowa semicircular sand fort, turfed, and mounting four 32-poumiders en barbette. Next, on the same side and about 1,200 yards from Fort Blanchard, is Fort Huger. This is a turfed sand fort, running along the line of the beach, and closed iii the rear by a low breastwork, with a banquette for infantry. It contained eight 32-pounder guns in emnbrasure, two rifled 32-pounders en barbette, and two small 32 pounders en barbette on the right About 3 miles below Fort Bartow, on the east side of the island, was a battery of two 32-pounder guns en barbette, at a point known as Mid- getts Hommock. In the center of the island, about 2 miles from Fort Bartow and a mile from Midgetts Hommock, was a redoubt, or breast. work, thrown across the road, about 70 or 80 feet long, with embrasures for three guns, ou the right of which was a swamp, ou the left a marsh, the redoubt reaching nearly between them and facing to the south. On the Tyrrel side, on the main-land, nearly opposite to Fort Huger, was Fort Forrest, mounting seven 32-pounders. In addition to these defenses on the shore and on the island there was a barrier of piles, extending from the east side of Fulker Shoals toward the island. Its ob~ject was to compel vessels passing on the west of the island to approach within reach of the shore batteries, but up to February 8 there was a span of 1,700 yards open opposite to Fort Bartow. Some vessels had been sunk and piles driven on the we~t side of Fulker Shoals, to obstruct the channel between that shoal and the main-land, which comprise all the defenses either upon the land or in the waters adjacent. The entire military force stationed upon the island prior to and at the time of the late engagement consisted of the Eighth Regiment of North Carolina State troops, under the command of Col. H. M. Shaw; the Thirty-first Regiment of North Carolina Volunteers, und erthe command of Col. J. V Jordan and three companies of the Seventeenth North Carolina troops, under the command of Maj. C-. H. Hill. After manning the several forts on February 7 there were but 1,024 men left, and 200 of them were upon the sick list. On the evening of February 7 Brigadier-General Wise sent from Nags Head, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, a re-enforcement numbering some 450 men. This does not include the commands of Lieutenant- Colonel Green and Major Fry, both of who Page 185 CHAP. XX.) BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 185 marched to the scene of action after the battle was closed. The com- mittee do not think there was any intentional delay in the landing of the commands of Colonel Green and Major Fry. The former (Colonel Green) exhibited great anxiety to get into the fight when lie did land, and acted with great gallantry in the skirmish he did have with the enemy in the vicinity of the campthe whole under the command of Brigadier-General Wise, who, upon February 7 and 8, was at Nags Head, 4 miles distant from the island, confined to a sick bed, and en- tirely disabled from participating in the action in person. The imme- diate command, therefore, devolved upon Col. II. M. Shaw, the senior officer present. On February 6 it was discovered by the companies on picket duty on the south end of the island that the enemys fleet was in Pamlico Sound, south of Iloanoke Island, and apparently intending to attack the forces upon the island. Colonel Shaw immediately communicated the fact to Brigadier-General Wise, aud issned orders for the disposi- tion of his troops preparatory to an engagement. The points at which it was supposed the enemy would attempt to land troops were Ashbys and Pughs Landings. Ashbys is situated on the west side of the island, about 2 miles south of Fort Bartow- side, abont 2 miles south of Ashbys. and Pughs on the same On the night of the 6th, or early in the morning of the 7th, a detach- ment, with one piece of artillery, was sent to Pughs Landing, and one with two pieces of artillery was sent to Ashbys, and the remainder of the forces were stationed in the immediate vicinity of Ashbys. On the morning of th~ 7th the enemys fleet passed by both of the landings and proceeded toward Fort Bartow, and the detachment of infantry stationed at Pughs immediately fell back to the vicinity of Aslibys Landing and joined the detachments there al mand of Col. J. V. Jordan. , 1 under com- In the sound, between IRoanoke Island and the main-land, upon the Tyrrel side Commodore Lynch, with his squadron of seven vessels, had taken position, and at 11 oclock the enemys fleet, consisting of about thirty gunboats and schooners, advanced in two divisions, the rear one having the schooners and transports in tow. The advance and attacking divisioiis again subdivided, one assailing the squadroii and the other firing upon the fort with 9-inch, 10-inch, and 11-inch shell, spherical case, a few round shot, and every variety of rifled pro- jectiles. The fort replied with but four guns (which were all that could be brought to bear), and after striking the foremost vessel several times the fleet fell back so as to mask one of the guns of the fort, leaving but three to reply to the fire of the whole fleet. The bombardment was continued through the day, and the enemy retired at dark. The squadron under the command of Commodore Lynch sustained their position most gallantly, and only retired after exhausting all their amnnmunition and having lost the steamer Curlew and the Forrest disabled. Fort Bartow sustained considerable damage from the fire of the day, but the injuries were partially repaired by the next morn- ing and the fort put in a state of defense. About 3.30 oclock on the morning of the 7th the enemy sent oft from his transports about 25 men in a launch, apparently to take soundings, who were fired upon and retreated; whereupon two large steamers, having iu tow each thirty boats filled with troops, approached the island, under the protection of their gunboats, at a point north of Ashbys Landing, known as Hammonds, and did effect a landing. The poiut selected was out of the reach of the field piece Page 186 [CHAP. XX. 186 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. at Ashbys, and defended by a swamp from the advance of our infantry and protected by the shot arid shell from their gunboats. Our whole force, therefore, withdrew from Ashbys and took position at the redoubt, or breastwork, and placed in battery their field pieces, with necessary artillerymen, nuder the respective commands of Captain Schermerhorn, Lieutenants Kinney and Selden. Two companies of the Eighth and two of the Thirty-first were placed at the redoubt to support the artil- lery. Three companies of the Wise Legion deployed to the right and left as skirmishers; the remainder of the infantry in position 300 yards in the rear of the redoubt as a reserve. The enemy landed some 15,000 men, with artillery, and at 7 a. m. of the 8th opened fire upon the redoubt, which was replied to imme- diately with great spirit, and the action soon became general, and was continued without intermission for more than five hours, when the enemy succeeded in deploying a large force on either side of our line, flanking each wing. The order was then given by Colonel Shaw to spike the guns in the battery and to retreat to the northern end of the island. The guns were spiked and the whole force fell back to the camps. During the engagement at the redoubt the enemys fleet attempted to advance up Croatan Sound, which brought on a desultory engage- ment between Fort Bartow and the fleet, which continued up to 12.30 oclock, when the commanding officer was informed that the land de- fenses had been forced and the position of the fort turned. He there- fore ordered the guns to be disabled and the ainmurntmon destroyed, which was done, ~nd the fort abandoned. The.same thing was done at Forts Blanchard and Huger, and the forces from all the forts were marched in good order to the camps. The enemy took possession of the redoubt and forts immediately, and proceeded in pursuit with great caution toward the northern end of the island in force, deploying so as to surround our forces at the camps. Colonel Shaw, having ar- rived with his whole force at his camp in time to have saved his whole command if transports had been furnished, but none being there, and finding himself surrounded by a greatly superior force upon the open island, with no field works to protect him, and having lost his only three field pieces at the redoubt~ had either to make an idle display of courage in fighting the foe at such immense disadvantage, to the sacri- fice of his command, or to capitulate and surrender as prisoners of war. He wisely determined upon the latter alternative. The loss on our side in killed, wounded, and missing is as follows: Killed, 23; wounded, 58; missing, 62. The loss of the Forty-sixth and Fifty-ninth Virginia Volunteers is, killed, 6; wounded, 28; missing, 19. That of the Eighth, Thirty-first, and Second North Carolina State troops is, killed, 16; wounded, 30; missing, 43. Of the engineers department Lieutenant Selden (killed), who had patriotically volunteered his services in the line, was assigned to the command of the 6-pounder, which he handled with so much skill as to produce immense havoc in the enemy~s ranks and to elicit the un- bounded admiration of all who witnessed it. Unhappily, however, that gallant officer received a rifle-ball in the head and he fell without a groan. The loss of the enemy was in killed and wounded at least 900, and the probability is a much larger number. The foregoing is a brief and concise view of the defenses of Roanoke Island and of the adjacent waters, the number of our troops engaged on February 7 and 8, and the circumstances of the capitulation thereo Page 187 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OP ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 187 on February 8. The committee are satisfied that Colonel Shaw held the possession of that post as long as he could have done without a useless sacrifice of human life; that on the 7th and 8th the officers and men in Fort Bartow displayed great coolness and courage and persevering effort to sustain their position and drive back the enemy~s fleet. In the battle of February 8 at the redoubt the officers and men exhibited a cool and deliberate courage worthy of veterans in the service and sustained their position under an uninterrupted and deadly fire for more thaii five honrs, repulsing the enemy in three separate and distinct charges, and only withdrew from the deadly conflict after exhausting their ammunition for the artillery and being surrounded and flanked by more than ten times their number. In- stead of the result being deeply humiliating it was one of the most brilliant and gallant actions of the war, and in the language of their abseut commanding general, both officers and men fought firmly, coolly, efficiently, and as long as humanity would allow. The committee are satisfied that the whole command did their duty, and they do not feel at liberty to designate any particular acts of coin- panics or individuals. But in simple justice to Colonel Shawupon whom devolved the command by reason of the, extreme illness of his superior, General Wise, and who has been censured for the result the committee take pleasure in stating that there is no foundation for any just reflection upon him. He, upon February 7, after disposing of his infantry force and finding that the enemy did not intend landing, repaired immediately in person to Fort Bartow, wk~re the bombard- ment was progressing, and made his way into the fort amid the most imminent danger from shot and shell, and there remained, encouraging the men and assisting, as far as he was able, until he discovered the enemy inteuded to effect a landing below, when he left the fort under the same dangerous circumstances of the morning, to take command of the infantry in person, and upon the 8th, at the redoubt,~ he com - manded iu person, sharing the dangers of his men for more than five hours with a firmness, coolness, and bravery worthy of the position he occupied. Immediately upon the secession of the State of North Carolina from the Government of the United States and the adoption of the Consti- tution of the Confederate States of America., the authorities of that State commenced the construction of fortifications at Hatteras and Oregon Inlet and other points upon her coast, which were not com- pleted when the State transferred her forts, arsenals, army, navy, and coast defenses to the Confederate Government. Shortly thereafter the attack was made upon Forts Hatteras and Clark, and they were taken, and the fortifications at Oregon Inlet were abandoned, and the arma- ment, stores, and ammunition were removed to IRoanoke Island. The enemy immediately appeared in force in Pamlico Sound, the waters of which are connected with Albemarle and Currituck Sounds by means of the two smaller sounds of Croatan and IRoanoke. The island of IRoanoke being situated between these two latter sounds, commanding the channels of either, became, upon the fall of Hatteras and the aban- donment of Oregon Inlet, only second itt importance to Fort Monroe. That island then became the key which unlocked all Northeastern North Carolina to the enemy, and exposed Portsmouth and Norfolk to a rear approach of the most imminent danger. In the language of Brigadier-General Wis Page 188 188 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. That such is the importance and value, in a military point of view, of Roanoke Island, that it ought to have been defended by all the means in the power of the Govern- ment. It w~s the key to all the rear defenses of Norfolk. It unlocked two sounds (Albemarle and Currituck); eight rivers (the North, West, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Little, Chowan, Roanoke, and Alligator); four canals (the Albemarle and Chesapeake, Dismal Swamp, Northwest, and Suffolk); and two railroads (the Petersburg and Nor- folk and the Seaboard and Roanoke). It gnarded more than four-fifths of all Nor- folks supplies of corn, pork, and forage, and it cut the command of General Huger off from all of its most efficient transportation. It endangers the subsistance of his whole army, threatens the navy-yard at Gosport, and to cut off Norfolk from Richmond, and both from railroad communication with the South. It lodges the enemy in a safe harbor from the storms of Hatteras, gives them a rendezvous, and large, rich range of supplies, and the command of the seaboard from Oregon Inlet to Cape Henry. It should have been defended at the expense of 20,000 men and of many millions of dollars. The committee are of the opinion that the island of iRoanoke was a military post of great importance; that it might have been placed in a state of defense against any reasonable force with the expenditure of money and labor supposed to be within the means of the Government; that the same was not done, and the defenses constrticted were wholly inadeqnate for its protection from an attack either by land or water. And the committee have no difficulty in assigning, as the cause of our disaster and defeat on February 8, the want of the necessary defenses upon the island and the adjacent waters and upon the main-land upow the Tyrrel side; the waht of the necessary field artillery, armament, and ammunition, and the great and unpardonable deficiency of men, together with the entire want of transportation, by which the whole command might have been conveyed from the island after the defeat at the battery. But the committee have had much difficulty in locating the respon- sibility for the neglect of this exceedingly important point, owing to the fact that the command of that island has been transferred so fre- quently from one military commander to another between the time that the Confederate Government became responsible for the coast defenses of North Carolina and the attack upon the island on February 7 1862. That island, upon the fall .of Hatteras, was taken possession of 1y Col- onel Wright, under the instruction from General Huger, and the prin- cipal defenses constructed under the authority and directions of General Huger, who assumed jurisdiction over the island, although it was within the military command of General Gatlin. Afterward Brig. Gen. I). H. Hill was assigned for a short time to the immediate command of that post, who immediately entered upon his duty, made an examination of the defenses in person, and was making active preparations for putting the island in a state of defense, when he was suddenly superseded, and Brigadier-General Branch given the command. It does not appear in evidence that General Branch ever visited the island or made any move toward its defense. He, however, was superseded by Brigadier-G-en- eral Wise, about January 1, 1862, who immediately proceeded to the island in person about January 6, spent several days in a reconnais- sance of the island and its defenses and in examining the adjacent waters, with a view of constructing obstructions in Croatan Sound and to prevent the passage of a hostile fleet, and from that moment up to February 7 the committee are satisfied that General Wise has devoted his whole time in a zealous, energetic, and indefatigable effort to place that island in a state of defense, and has done all and everything in his power, with the means he had at his command, to effect this important object. At Norfolk, on January 2, upon his way to Iloanoke Island, he me Page 189 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF ROANOKE ISLAND, N. C. 189 an express from Colonel Shaw (who was then in the immediate tempo- rary command of the island) to General Huger, itiforming him of the defenseless state of the island, and urging the necessity of strengthen- ing Fort Bartow, by mounting other guns, obstructing Croatan Sound, and making requisitions for ammunition, pile-driver, and other things necessary. General Wise indorsed and approved of the requisition and seconded time demands of Colonel Shaw. General Wise arrived at Roanoke Island upon the 6th and assumed the command at that post upon January 7. After making a reconnaissance of the island and its defenses General Wise, on January 13, informed General Huger that Roanoke Island was in a defenseless condition and in presence of a very formi- dable enemys force. The Burnside expedition is reported to have sailed. Independ- ent of that, the force now at Hatteras Inlet can pass or take Roanoke Island and pardon me for saying that I respectfully differ from the opinion you expressed iuyour orders to-day, that to prevent the enemys gunboats from passing the marshes at the sonth end will also prevent any landirg. Batteries at the marshes are vitally essential to prevent the gunboats from passing into Croaton Sound, but they will not prevent the landing on the south or east end of the island. At least 3,000 infantry are needed on the island, and a considerable force, say 1,500 men, are needed on the beaches, and if the enemy pass Roanoke, 5,000 at least are necessary to fight them on the tongue of laud on the north side of Albemarle Sound. We need on the beach and on the island at least eight field pieces and the carriages and caissons necessary. We require thirty- two horses for the artillery. We need at least six heavy pieces at the south end marshes and two at least at Fleetwood Point. On the same day General Wise ad~iessed the Secretary of War, in which he says that it is very important that my Legion should be forwarded as speedily as possible. The defense of Roanoke Island (which is the key of all the rear defenses of Norfolk and its canals and railroads) is committed to my charge, and I have just returned from a reconnaissance of that point. It is now utterly defenseless. No preparations have been made there at all adequate. General Huger has given me a large authority to do whatever is necessary, and has advised what he deems proper in my command; but we have very limited means, and not half time enough to prepare to meet an enemy, who is now in almost immediate presence in very formidable force. Twice the number of my Legion is necessary, and I beg that the place of my Third Regiment may speedily be filled or that it may be restored. On January 15, 1862, General Wise writes to the Secretary of War: I am sure you will not adjudge me importunate when I inform you that I returned from Roanoke Island to Norfolk last Saturday. I hasten back after a short recon- naissance to apprise headquarters and the Department that there are no defenses there; no adequate preparations whatever to meet the enemy, and to forward all the means in my reach as ~peedily as possible, to make the key of all the rear of Norfolk, with its canals and railroads, safe. Inside of Hatteras Inlet I found twenty-four vessels of light draught, eight of which are steamers, said to carry four guns each. They are at farthest but 30 miles from Roanoke Island, and can reach there any four hours or less, to attack five small gnnboat~, under Captain Lynch, and four small land batteries, wholly inefficient. Any boat drawing 7 feet water or less can pass the Croatan Sound as far off as 11 miles from any battery, and the enemys guns can silence our batteries there in a very short time. Neither battery is casemated, and our men now there are untrained to heavy pieces mounted on navy carriages. The moment the enemy passes Croatan Chai~nel, the North Landing River, North River, Pasquotank, Chowan, Roanoke, Alligator, and Scuppernong Rivers, and the Dismal Swamp, and Albemarle, and Chesapeake Canals will be blockaded effectually, and Norfolk and Portsmouth will be cut off from supplies of corn, pork, and forage. The force at Hatteras is independent of the Burnside expedition. No matter where the latter is, the former is amply sufficient to capture or pass Roanoke Island in any twelve hours. Let me say, then, sir, that if we are to wait for powder from Richmond until we are attacked at that island, that attack will be capture and our defeat will pre- cede our supply of ammunition. The case is too urgent for me to delay speaking this out plainly at once. And in another part of the same letter he says: We want ammunition and men. In a word, almost every preparation has to be made. Delay is defeat now at Roanoke Island, and with present means Captain Lync Page 190 [CHAP. XX. 190 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. and I combined cant guarantee successful defense for a day. I beg, sir, that you will urge this upon the Navy Department, and believe that I am not superserviceable in this urgency. General Wise, finding that his written appeals for aid in the defenses of the island to headquarters at Norfolk and to the Department at Richmond were neglected and treated with indifference, repaired in person to Richmond and called upon the Secretary of War, and urged in the most importunate manner the absolute necessity of strengthen- ing the defenses upon that island with additional men, armament, and ammunition. The Secretary of War replied verbally to his appeals for re-enforcements that he had not the men to spare for his command. General Wise urged upon the Secretary that General Huger had about 15,000 men in front of Norfolk lying idle in camp for eight months, and that a considerable portion of them could be spared for the defense of the rear of Norfolk, and especially as his (General Wises) district supplied Norfolk and his army with nearly or quite all of his corn, pork, and forage; that re-enforcements at Roanoke Island were as absolutely necessary to the defense of Norfolk as forces in its front, and that particular or special posts should not be allowed to monopolize nearly all the men, powder, and supplies. In reply to all his urgent appeals for the means of defense General Wise, on January 22, received the following military order, No. 17: Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, ProvisiQual Army, will immediately proceed to Roanoke Island, North Carolina, and assume command of the Confederate States troops at that place. By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. It is apparent to the committee from [that] the correspondence on file of General Wise with the Secretary of War, General Huger, his superior officer, the Governor of North Carolina, and others, proves that he was fully alive to the importance of Roanoke Island, and has devoted his whole time and energies and means to the defense of that position, and that he is in no way responsible for the unfortunate disaster which be- fell our forces upon that island on February 7 and 8. But the committee cannot say the same in reference to the efforts of the Secretary of War and the commanding officer at Norfolk, General Huger. It is apparent that the island of Roanoke is important for the defense of Norfolk, and that General Huger had under his com- mand at that point upward of 15,000 men, a large supply of armament and ammunition, and could have thrown in a few hours a large re-en- forcement upon Roanoke Island, and that himself and the Secretary of War had timely notice of the entire inadequacy of the defenses, the want of men and munitions of war, and the threatening attitude of the enemy. But General Huger and the Secretary of War paid no prac- tical attention to those urgent appeals of General Wise, sent forward none of his important requisitions, and permitted General Wise and his inconsiderable force to remain to meet at least 15,000 men, well- armed and equipped. If the Secretary of War and the commanding general at Norfolk had not the means to re-enforce General Wise why was he not ordered to abandon his position and save his command ~ But, upon the contrary, he was required to remain and sacrifice his command, with no means in his insulated position to make his escape in case of defeat. The committee, from the testimony, are therefore constrained to re- port, that whatever of blame and responsibility is justly attributabl Page 191 CHAP. XX.] ACTION AT ELIZABETH CITY, N. C. 191 to any one for the defeat of our troops at Roanoke Island on February 8, 1862, should attach to Maj. Gen. B. Huger and the late Secretary of War, J. P. Benjamin. All of which is respectfully submitted. B. S. GAITHEB, Chairman. FEBRUARY 10, 1862.Action at Elizabeth City, N. C. Report of Cot. C. F. Jfenningsen, Fifty-ninth Virginia Infantry. WINTON, N. C., February 12, 186212 p. m. GENERAL: Finding at Currituck Court-House that provision and forage could not be obtained to proceed to Powells Point, or even to remain at the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal any nearer than Eliza- beth City, [we] marched there on the 3d with artillery of Wises Legion and remained there till [the] 7th, breaking horses to fire and harness while waiting orders from General Wise. Received on February 7 one order from General Wise to leave guns and wagons at Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal and proceed with horses and men to Powells Point. Sent quartermaster to make arrangements. Same evening received second dispatch from Brig. Gen. H. A. Wise, dated from Nags Head, informing me that the Federal squadron in great force was advancing up the sound, and ordering me to remain and do the best I could for the defense of Elizabeth City. I found a battery (about 2 miles by water and about 3 by land) with four 32-pounders and 2& rounds of ammunition; battery defective (magazine dangerous, if there had been any ammunition to put in it). General Mann promised to call out the militia, and Colonel Starke en- deavored to do so, but it seems they would not come. I tried to obtain 150 negroes to throw up traverse (three of the guns being enfiladed) and otherwise improve [the] battery, but could only, by 2 a. m. on the 9th, obtain 30 hands, whom I impressed. Early on the morning of the 8th Commodore Lynch, with six steamers, arrived; had fought the day before, exhausting all his ammunition. Proposed to man the battery with crew of the lost steamer Curlew; to place therein additional guns, and moor schooner with two guns alongside battery. Colonel Martin received 200 pounds powder from Norfolk and 100 pounds blasting powder was found and made up into cartridges. On the morning [of the] 9th, Commodore Lynch, having found a few rounds, steamed out with two steamers to reconnoiter enemy. Re- turned, chased by enemys steamers, and determined to land crews and fight battery, expecting Captain Hunter with ammunition. It appeared that the militia would not come out without requisition from seven magistrates. This was obtained on the 9th. The naval officers were of opinion that the enemy would not attempt to pass battery until silenced. I undertook, with promise of a regiment of militia and ex- pectation of a few companies, to prevent its being turned for some time. On the evening of the 9th I moved out four pieces to rear of the battery for that purpose, leaving two pieces and wagons in Elizabeth City ready to move Page 192 192 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. Early on the morning of the 10th the enemys squadron hove in sight, and opened fire on battery, schooner, and steamers, and, as if aware of the helpless condition of all, steamed, after a few minutes, past the battery xight up to the city. Commodore Lynch told me in the battery that he was informed that the enemy had landed below, and a naval officer, galloping up, reporte(l, after I left the battery, that the enemy in large force had lauded and formed about a mile below. There were no militia, no one whatever to support the artillery, who have neither fire-locks of any kind nor side- arms. Two pieces were placed to keep the enemy as long as possible at bay, but in a few minutes the Federal steamers were perceived rap- idly advancing past the battery toward the city, which they reached before the artillery (now ordered back) had got half way. As the enemy, after reaching the wharf, had the town at their mercy, I detached sergeant Scroggs, of Captain MeComas company, with a detail, to aid the citizens in destroying the place by fire, as I had been requested to do by some of the most l)romillent of them. They only partially succeeded, two blocks only having been burned and a few isolated houses in the suburbs. I retreated with the artillery by the old Edenton road, and halted on the night of the 10th at Newbys Bridge, 2 miles from Hertford, accompanied and guarded by General Mann, of the militia. I opened communication with Edenton and llertford and sent for some of the transportation of the Fifty-ninth Virginia Volun- teers, which was unprotected at the former place. The militia had not been embodied at either l)lace, though the next day I received a (us- patch from Colonel Moore, of Edenton, stating that on the requisition of any Confederate general he was ordered to call out his regiment, and could assemble 200 men, armed with muskets and shot-[guns] and with 10 rounds of ammunition each. In this region the militia will not assemble until the enemy is dangerously near. Then it becomes im- possible to assemble them nutil they have attended to the moving of family and property. After that they show a disposition to come out if there is any force to sv~port them. Generally the population appear to be very true; there are, of course, some traitors, but far less disloyalty than in Western Virginia. A painful instance of the latter occurred a few miles from Elizabeth City on our march to Newbys Bridge. A man by the name of Lester delib- erately shot a private who rode into his yard, and then barricaded him- self in the upper rooms of his house, refusing to surrender. Captain Webb, quartermaster of artillery, went up to him unarmed and pledged himself to protect him from violence if he came out. After appearing to consent he suddenly and treacherously attempted to fire at the cap- tain, and did fire afterward several times at the men. I ordered the house to be fired. He was driven by the smoke to the window and shot by one of the artillery. The man shot, Private Bra~nsford, is in a very critical condition. Lester, it appears, was a very violent Union man, and had been waited on a month previous by a vigilance committee. On the morning of the 11th I received a communication from Colouel Wright, of the Third Georgia IRegiment, stating that he was 5 miles from Elizabeth City, with 400 of his regiment at South Mills, that 500 more were expected, and that he would wait to hear from me. I marched on the 11th by what is called the Desert Road to this place with the artillery and a company of the Seventeenth North Carolina Volunteers, which (40 strong), under Lieutenant Lyons, reported to me the preceding night, being part of the force escaped from the naval bat- tery opposite IRoanoke Island Page 193 CHAP. XX.) EXPEDITION TO WINTON, N. C. 193 On reaching Winton I found that Colonel Wright had left for Nor- folk. This day I remained here, taking UJ) positions and opening corn- mnnication with Elizabeth City. The remainder of Colonel Wrights regiment arrived last night, and this afternoon a battery of artillery. I had ordered four companies of Colonel Wrights regiment, with one gun, and was about to make a night reconnaissance of Elizabeth City, when I received the order from Brig. Gen. II. A. Wise to join him at the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, whither I proceeded with the artillery in the morning. At 10 p. m. I received a note from Colonel Wright, informing me that he had arrived at South Mills, and desiring that his companies should not proceed to-night. In consequence of not knowing whether he ranked me or had any special orders from you I have abandoned the reconnais- sance, but send a small party of artillery soldiers, with teams, to bring off, if possible, a wagon and caisson which had stalled in Elizabeth City, but had been dragged off and concealed about a mile on this side. I would beg, respectfully, to call your attention to the case of Ser- geant Scroggs. According to the report of the citizens Scroggs was doubleironed on board a Federal vessel in the river, and the Federal officers talked of trying and hanging him as an incendiary. Sergeant Scroggs, son of a Virginia senator, is a gentleman and a soldier, and was acting in obedience to orders from me, of which I am willing to assume the responsibility. I should have sent a flag of truce to-morrow to the enemy but for the fact of having to march. I leave his case, general, in your hands. Very respectfully, C. F. HENNINGSEN, Colonel Fifty-ninth Regiment Virgini~ Volunteers, Commanding Artillery of Wise Legion. General HUGER, Commanding. P. 5. FEBRUARY 13, 18626 a. m. The artillery detail has returned, bringing back the wagon, with bag- gage. They report only six Federal steamers in the river. The guns in tho battery spiked and carriages burned. [C. F. H.] FEBRUARY 1821, 1862.Expedition to Winton, N. C., and Skirmish February 19. REPORTS. No. LBrig. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, U. S. Army. No. 2.Col. Rush C. Hawkins, Ninth New York Infantry. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. Ambrose B. Burnside, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Roanoke Island, N. 0., February 23, 1862. GENERAL: Since my dispatch of the 20th, of which I inclose a dupli- cate,* the expedition up the Chowan has returned, having reached as * See CorresponJence, etc.Union, post. 13 R RVOL I Page 194 [CHAP. XX. 194 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. far as Winton. On the approach of the gunboat Delaware to the town a negro woman was discovered on the shore motioning the boat to approach. On arriving within 300 yards of the landing a large ambush of from 600 to 1,000 men was discovered, and before the boat could be stopped she was within easy musket range of the men, when they poured a volley into her, literally riddling the wheel-house and the upper joiner work, but fortunately no one was killed; nearly all the men ~ere below. Several of those on deck had ball-holes through their clothes. Captain Rowan, who was on deck, and Colonel ilaw. kins, in the rigging, made most miraculous escapes. The gunboats in the rear immediately hurried up, and by the use of a few shells dis- persed the force, when the Ninth New York, under Colonel Hawkins, was landed. It was ascertained, after landing, that this negro woman had been sent down by her master, one of the captains, for the purpose of deceiving the boats, which was readily done, as it had been reported to the flag-officer and myself that but a few days before 500 loyal people at that place had raised the American flag. It was determined by Captain Rowan and Colonel Hawkins to barn all the military stores that could not be removed, with the store-hon~es and the quarters occu- pied by the troops, which constituted almost the entire town, there not being over twenty houses in the place. In one of the st6re-houses there was a large quantity of bacon, that could not be taken away by our people and it was also burned, together with all the heavy camp equipage, and, in fact, everything that could not be transported by our gunboats. The winds shifting after the fire was started caused the destruction of some few houses not occupied by the soldiers. It was iscertained daring the stay at Winton that the Blackwater, the river ip which the expedition was destined for the purpose of destroying the railroad bridge, had been effectually blockaded by the falling of trees across it at its narrowest parts, thus rendering it almost impass- able. The expedition, therefore, returned, leaving some gunboats at Elizabeth City and at the mouth of the Chowan. I have two expeditions organized in connection with the Navy to move upon Plymouth, at the mouth of the I~oanoke, and Mid(lletown, the outlet of Mattamuskeet Lake, the former commanded by Brigadier- General Foster and the latter by Brigadier-General Parke. They were to have started yesterday morning, but the dense fog that prevails here a greater part of the time prevented the possibility of the vessels mov- ing in the sound. In my next I will send you duplicates of instruc- tions given to these two generals. The enemy is, I learn, very much distracted by these frequent dashes on their coast, and seem to have but little idea where the next blow will be aimed. Before the end of the present week I hope to report to you some important movements, which are dependent upon the arrival of the naval ammunition, which has been hourly expected for several days. The health of the com- mand continues excellent, and the drill and discipline is being per- fected by the commanders of brigades. Our supplies, particularly coal, are not arriving as rapidly as I could desire. Clothing sent to us from Philadelphia is now being issued, and we shall need an additional supply of fully the amount originally sent. The drawers and shirts are said to be very poor. I have the honor to be, general, respectfully, your obedient servant, A. E. BUIINSIDE, Brigadier- General, Corn dy. Departrn en t of North Carolina. Brig. Gen. LouuNzo TuoMAs, Adjatant-General, lhishintito II, 1). 0 Page 195 CHAP. XX.] EXPEDITION TO WINTON, N. C. 195 No. 2. Beport of Gol. Push C. Hawkins, Ninth New York Injantry. STEAMER VIRGINIA, Off Poanoke Island, N. 0., February 21, 1862. SIR: Agreebly to your orders of the 17th instant I called upon Cap- tain Rowan, and made arrangements to embark my regiment on board nf some of the gunboats of his division for the purpose of proceeding up the Blackwater and Nottoway Rivers and destroying the bridges of the Seaboard and Roanoke Railroad. At 12 m. of the 18th instant the regiment embarked and the expe-~ dition got under way, and that night anchored off the month of the Roanoke River, where it remained until 10 a. m. of the 19th instant, and then commenced its journey up the Chowan River. Nothing of importance occurred until about 3.30 p. m. The flag-steamer Dela- ware was about 1 mile ahead of any of the other boats. I was on the cross-trees of the mainmast, where I had been on the lookout for about two hours. The steamer was within 350 yards of the wharf at Winton when I discovered the high bank, which we were nearing very rapidly, was covered with Confederate soldiers. I immediately gave the alarm, but not in time to change our course until the steamer had got within 100 yards of the shore when we received the whole fire of about 700 infantry or more, which continued until we had passed out of range up the river, where we turned around and commenced shell- ing the town, the enemy returning the fire with four pieces of artillery from the shore. In the mean time the gunboat Perry, having come within range, com- menced firing from below. Soon after the enemy was dislodged and retired, when the Delaware returned down the river, receiving four shots as she passed the wharf. The whole fleet came to an anchor about 7 miles below Winton. A consultation was held, and it was agreed to return the next morning and burn the town if found to be occupied by the rebels. About 11.30 a. m. of the 20th instant our gunboats arrived and took their positions, some above, some below, and others opposite to the town, when our guns commenced firing, and in twenty minutes after my regiment landed, acco~npanied by three boat guns, under the com- mand of Lieutenant Flusser, of the gunboat Perry. The guns were placed in positions so as to command the approaches to the town; the regiment drawn up in line awaiting the attack of the enemy. In the mean time parties of observation were sent out in all directions. It was soon ascertained that the enemy had retreated as soon as our force appeared in sight that morning, leaving everything behind except their arms and accouterments. Six companies of my regiment took posses- sion of the main approach to the town, and I commenced making a personal inspection of all the buildings. I found that nearly all of them had been taken possession of and had been occupied by the Con- federate troops as quarters and store-houses (see Exhibits A and B).* I then ordered that every building containing stores for the enemy and occupied by them as quarters should be fired, and placed guards in the others to see that they were not disturbed or destroyed. The property destroyed belonging to the Confederate forces consisted of bacon, corn-meal, flour, sugar, powder, mess-pans, camp-kettles, knap. * Omitted as unimportant Page 196 196 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. sacks, haversacks, canteens, & c., the whole worth not less than $10,000. This, I believe~ is the first instance during the war on our side where fire has accompanied the sword. It is to be regretted that such severe measures have to be adopted; they can only be justilied np~ii two groundsfirst, retaliation for trying to decoy us into a trap at the time of the firing into the Delaware. Evidence of this is that a negress, the property of one of the Confederate officers, was sent down to the wharf by her master to beckon the boat in to the wharf, when we were all to be slaughtered, or in the words of the negress, Dey said dat dey want goin to let anybody lib at all, but was goin to kill ebery one of em. I infer from this that we were to receive no quarter. Secoud, the build- ings fired had been taken possession of by and were in the use of the rebel forces as store-houses and quarters, which forces had been raised, supported, and used by the States in rebellion for the purpose of sul~- verting the Constitution and the laws of th~ United States. From information obtained at Winton we came to the conclusion that it would be impossible for us to accomplish the original object and aim of the expedition, so it had to be abandoned. The forces at Winton, as near as I could ascertain, consisted of the First Battalion North Carolina Volunteers (six companies), under the command of Lient. Col. William T. Williams; one battery of light artil- lery; one company of the Southampton cavalry, and one or two c~m - panies of the North Carolina Militia, the whole under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Williams. I am happy to inform you that none of our forces were injured. The enemy sustained some loss from the fire of our gunboats on the 19th, but I am not able to state how many were either killed or wounded. The troops under my command and the officers and sailors on board of the gunboats behaved exceedingly well, and performed all of their various duties with great promptness and alacrity. I feel greatly indebted to Commodore S. C. Itowan and the lientan- ants of the U. S. Navy, in command of the gunboats, for their kind care and attention to the comforts and wants of my regiment, and also for their hearty co-operation in trying to carry out the object of the expe dition. I am, most faithfully, your obedient servant, RUSH C. HAWKINS, Colonel Ninth Regiment New York Volunteer& . Brig. 0-en. J. 0-. PARKE. D~ARCH 14, 1862.Battle of New Berne, N. C. RI~PORTS, 1i~TC. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, U. S. Army, with congratulatory order and communi ation from the Secretary of War. No. 2.Capt. Robert S. Williamson, U. S. Topographical Engineers. No. 3.Surg. William H. Church, U. S. Army, Medical Director. No. 4.Brig. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade. No. ~.Licut. Col. Albert W. Drake, Tenth Connecticut Infantry. No. 6.Col. John Kurtz, Twenty-third Massa.chnsetts Infantry. No. 7.Col. Thomas G. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 8.Col. Edwin- Upton, Twenty-fifth Massachusctts Infantry Page 197 BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 197 No. 9.Col. Horace C. Lee, Twenty-seventli Massachusetts Infantry. No. 10.Brig. Gen. Jesse L. Reno, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. No. 11.Lient. Col. William$. Clark, Twenty-first Massachusetts Infantry. No. 12.Lient. Col. Charles A. Heckman, Ninth New Jersey Infantry. No. 13.Col. Edward Ferrero, Fifty-first New York Infantry. No. 14.Col. John F. Hartranft, Fifty-first Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 15.Brig. Gen. John G. Parke, U. S. Army, commanding Third Brigade. No. 16.Col. Edward Harland, Eighth Connecticut Infantry. No. 17.Lieut. Col. Charles Mathewson, Eleventh Connecticut Infantry. No. 15.Col. Isaac P. Rodman, Fourth Rhode Island Infantry. No. 19.Maj. John Wright, Fifth Rhode Island Infantry. No. 20.Brig. Gen. L. OB. Branch, C. S. Army. No. 21.Col. Reuben P. Campbell, Seventh North Carolina Infantry. No. 22.Lt. Col. Edw. Graham Haywood, Seventh North Carolina Infantry. No. 23.Col. S. B. Spruill, Nineteenth North Carolina Infantry. No. 24.Col. Zebulon B. Vance, Twenty-sixth North Carolina Infantry. No. 25.Maj. John A. Gilmer, jr., Twenty-seventh North Carolina Infantry. No. 26.Lieut. Col. Robert F. Hoke, Thirty-third North Carolina Infantry. No. 27.Col. James Sinclair, Thirty-fifth North Carolina Infantry. No. 28.Col. Charles C. Lee, Thirty-seventh North Carolina Infantry. No. 29.Lient. Col. William M. Barbour, Thirty-seventh North Carolina Infantry. No. 30.Col. H. J. B. Clark, Special Battalion North Carolina Militia. No. 31.Lient. J. L. Haughton, Macon Mounted Guards. No. 1. B~ports of Brig. Gem. Ambrose B. Burnside, U. S. Army, with comgrat ulatory order and communication from the Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, March 16, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that after embarking the troops with which I intended to attack New Berne, in conjunction with the naval force, on the morning of the 11th, a rendezvous was made at Hatteras Inlet. Flag-Officer Goldsborough having been ordered to Hampton Roads, the naval fleet was left in command of Commodore ILlowan. Early on the morning of the 12th the entire force started for New Berne, and that night anchored off the mouth of Slocums Creek, some 18 miles from New Berne, where I had decided to make a landing. The landing commenced by 7 oclock the next morning under cover of the naval fleet, and was effected with the greatest enthusiasm by the troops. Many, too impatient for the boats, leaped into the water and waded waist-deep to the shore, and then, after a toilsome march through the mud the head of the column arrived within a mile and a half of the enemys stronghold at 8 p. in., a distance of 12 miles from the point of landing, where we bivouacked for the night, the rear of the column coming up with the boat howitzers about 3 oclock next morning, the detention being caused by the shocking condition of the roads, conse- quent upon the heavy rain that had fallen during that day and the whole of that night, the men often wading knee-deep in mud, and re- quiring a whole regiment to drag the eight pieces which had been landed from the Navy and our own vessels. By signals agreed upon, the naval vessels, with the armed vessels of my force, were informed of our progress, and were thereby enabled to assist us much in our march by shelling the road in advance Page 198 198 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [ChAP. XX~ At daylight on the morning of the 14th I ordered an advance of the entire division, which will be understood by the inclosed pencil sketch.* General Fosters brigade was ordered up the main county road to attack the, enemys left, General IReno up the railroad to attack their right and General Parke to follow General Foster and attack the enemy in front, with instructions to support either or both brigades. I must defer for want of time a detailed account of the action. It is enough to say that after an engagement of four hours we succeeded in carrying a continuous line of field work of over a mile in length, pro- tected on the river flank by a battery of thirteen heavy guns and on the opposite flank by a line of redoubts of over a half a mile in length for riflemen and field pieces, in the midst of swamps and dense forests~ which line of works was defended by eight regiments of infantry, 500 cavalry, and three batteries of field artillery of six guns each. The position was finally carried by a most gallant charge of our men, which enabled us to gain the rear of all the batteries between this point and New Berne, which was done by a rapid advance of the entire force up the main road and railroad, the naval fleet meantime pushing its way up the river, throwing their shots into the forts and in front of us. The enemy, after retreating in great confusion (throwing away blankets, knapsacks, arms, & c.) across the railroad bridge and county road bridge, burned the former and destroyed the draw of the latter, thus preventing further pursuit, and causing the detention in occupy- ing the town by our military force, but the naval force had arrived at the wharves and commanded it by their guns. I at once advanced General Fosters brigade to take possession of the town by means of the naval vessels, which Commodore Rowan had kindly volunteered for the purpose. The city was set on fire by the retreating rebels in many places, but owing to the exertions of the naval officers the remaining citizens were induced to aid in extinguishing the flames, so that but little harm has been done. Many of the citizens are now returning, and we are now in quiet possession of the city. We have captured the printing press, and shall at once issue a daily sheet. By this victory our combined force have captured eight batteries containing forty-six heavy guns, three batteries of light artillery of six guns each, making in all sixty-four guns; two steamboats and a number of sailing vessels, wagons, horses, a large quantity of ammu- nition, commissary and quartermaster stores, forage, and the entire camp equipage of the rebel troops, a large quantity of rosin, turpen- tine, cotton, & c., and over 200 prisoners. Our loss thus far ascertained will amount to 91 killed and 466 wounded, many of them mortally.t Among these are some of our most gallant officers and men. The rebel loss is severe, but not so great as our own, being effectually covered by their works. Too much praise cannot be awarded to the officers and men for their untiring exertion and unceasing patience in accomplishing this work. The effecting of the landing and the approach to within a mile and a half of the enemys work on the 13th 1 consider as great a victory as the engagement of the 14th. Owing to the difficult nature of the land- ing our men were forced to wade ashore waist-deep march through mud to a point 12 miles distant, bivonac in low, marshy ground in a rain-storm for the night, engage the enemy at daylight in the morn- ing, fighting them for four hours amid a dense fog, that prevented them Not found. t I3ut see revised statement, p. 211 Page 199 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 199 from seeing the position of the enemy, and finally advancing rapidly over bad roads upon the city. In the midst of all this not a complaint was heard; the men were only eager to accomplish their work. Every brigade, and in fact every regiment, and I can almost say every offi- cer and man of the force landed was in the engagement. The men are all iu good spirits, and under the circumstances are in good health. I beg to say to the General Commanding that I have nuder my command a division that cau be relied upon in any emergency. A more detailed report will be forwarded as soon as I receive the brigade returns. The brigadier-generals, having been in the midst of their regiments whilst under fire, will be able to give me minute accounts. I beg to say to the General Commanding the Army that I have en- deavored to carry out the very minute instructions given me by him before leaving Annapolis, and thus far events have been singularly coincident with his anticipations. I only hope that we ma~y in future be able to carry out in detail the remaining plans of the campaign. The only thing I have to regret is the delay caused by the elements. I desire again to bear testimony to the gallantry of our naval fleet, and to express my thanks to Commodore Rowan and the officers under him for their hearty and cheerful co-operation in this movement. Their assistance was timely and of great service in th ment of our undertaking. e accomplish- I omitted to mention that there was a large arrival of re-enforcements of the enemy in New Berne during the engagement, which retreated with the remainder of the army by the cars and the country roads. I have the honor, general, to be, your obedient servant; A. E. BURNSIDE, Brigadier-General, Commanding Department North Carolina. General LOEENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, March 21, 1862. I have the honor to report the following movements in my depart- ment since my hurried report of the 16th instant. The detailed report of~ the engagement on the 14th is not yet finished, but I hope will be ready to send by the next mail: As I reported, our forces occupied this city and succeeded in restoring it to comparative quietness by midnight on the 14th, and it is now as quiet as a New England village. I appointed General Foster military governor of the city and its vicinity, and he has established a most perfect system of guard and police. Nine-tenths of the depredations on the 14th, after the enemy and citizens fled from the town, were com- mitted by the negroes before our troops reached the city. They seemed to be wild with excitement and delight. They are now a source of very great anxiety to us. The city is being overrun with fugitives from the surrounding towns and plantations. Two have reported themselves who have been in the swamps for five years. It would be utterly impossible, if we were so disposed, to keep them outside of our lines, as they find their way to us through woods and swamps from every side. By my next dispatch I hope t~ report to you a definite policy in reference to this matter, and in the mean time shall be glad to receive any instruc. tions upon the subject which you may be disposed to give Page 200 200 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. General Fosters brigade is still occupying the city and its suburbs, having pushed his advanced pickets on all the roads leading to Kinston between the ~euse and the Trent, some 9 miles out. I have also sent one regiwent of his brigade, in conjunction with a naval force sent by Commodore Rowan, to make a temporary occupation of Washington. Scouting parties from his brigade have visited the country to the north of the Keuse and found everything quiet. Much Union feeling has been expressed, but the people are slow to take the oath of allegiance, evidently from a fear that we will not be able to maintain our position here, in which case they would be driven from their homes. Confidence is being restored, however, to a certain extent, and the people of the city are returning to their homes. I have taken the responsibility, as I did at itoanoke, of issuing pro- visions to tl~e poor, who were and have been for some time suffering for food. In fact, I have had to order issues made in some cases to persons who have but lately been in affluent circumstances, but who- now have nothing but Confederate notes, city shin-plasters, worthless notes of hand, unproductive real estate, and negroes who refuse to acknowledge any debt of servitude. The suffering and anxiety is far beyond anything I had anticipated. It seems strange to me that these people will not perceive that this state of things has been bronght about by their own injudicious and disloyal conduct. General lienos brigade occupy the south side of the Trent, his advanced pickets extending down the railroad as far as Croatan out to the edge of the swamps and up the Trent some 4 miles to the first bridge above the railroad bridge, the draw of which was destroyed by the rebels, but has since been repaired by our men, thus opening com- munication with the city to our supply trains and artillery. I have also established a steam ferry, which runs every fifteen minutes, com- municating with his headquarters. One df his regiments has been sent np the south side of the Trent, to burn all the bridges on the stream. for 30 miles above the one held by us. I have sent General Parkes brigade to invest and, if necessary, besiege Fort Macon. A personal reconnaissance of Slocums Creek demon~trated that the railroad could be reached by our light-draught steamers at ilavelock Station, thus saving more than one-half the march to Morehead City. The small hand cars brought with the expe- dition have been of great service in transporting his baggage, stors, & c. He has reached Morehead City by this time, and I shall go down to-morrow, and hope by the next mail to report considerable progress. His instructions are, first, to demand an unconditional surrender of the place, and in case of refusal to begin his work at once amid reduce it in the shortest possible time. He has, I think, ample force and means to accomplish it, the General Commanding the Army having instructed me to prepare for it before leaving New York. And I now beg to say that, in ordm~r to move upon the interior of the State, I will require considerable re-enforcemnents-a regiment of cav- alry, two more batteries of artillery, and enough regiments of infantry t~ make a division ont of each one of my brioades. I sincerely hope that the Department may deem it for the interest of the public service to promote each of my three brigadier-generals to either the actual or brevet rank of major-general and place them in command of the divis- ions. They are eminently qualified for the position, and have, by their untiring industry, their great skill, and consficuous gallantry under most trying circumstances, earned the right to promnotion. You can scarcely imagine. Mr. Secretary, the amount of patient labo Page 201 (DJIAr. XX.) BATTLE OF ~EW BERNE, N. C. 201 that has been expended in bringing this little command up to this point. If we can have the regiments to make the divisions, we have the material here in the commanders of our regimenrs to command the brigades. I see by a recent act of Congress that commanders of departments are allowed an increase of staff. I inclose herewith some nominations f~r your consideration. I have the honor to be, sir, your very obedient servant, A. E. BURNSIDE, Brigadier- General, Commanding Department North Carolina. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington. P. S.We shall want with the re-enforcements the usual amount of wagons, horses. cloth~nc~ & c. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, April 10, 1862. I have the honor to make the following detailed report of the battle of New Berne, as promised in my hurried report of the 16th ultimo: After embarking my command, ~onsisting of the brigades of Generals Foster, iReno, and Parke, at iRoanoke Island on the morning of the 11th, the transport fleet, in conjunction with the naval fleet, arrived without accident off the mouth of Slocums Creek, in the Neuse River, some 16 miles from New Berne, on the evening of the 12th, where we anchored for the night. Soon after anchoring I called the three general officers in council, and after consultation with Commodore R~waim we decided to land at the mouth of Slocums Creek on the fol- lowing morning under cover of the naval guns, and proceed up the direct road to New Berne, our advance to be designated by signal rockets from the head of the column, thus enabling the Navy and our armed transport vessels to shell the road in advance of us. At 6.30 the following morning I hoisted the preparatory signal. The naval vessels, with the gunboat Picket, moved in toward the mouth of Pie creek and shelled the woods some distance in advance of us. A reconnaissance was made to ascertain the depth of water by the gun- boat Delaware, Captain Quackenbush, and by Mr. H. H. Helper, with the boats crew of the Alice Price. After receiving their reports the signal for landing was hoisted, the light-draught steamers and surf- boats having been previously filled with our men, and in twenty min- utes some three regiments were on shore. The steamers having grounded, the men on them leaped overboard and waded to the shore, holding their cartridge-boxes out ~f the water. The enthusiasm with which this work was accomplished cannot be excelled. As the colors of each regiment were planted on the shore the men rallied to them, and their proper formations were soon made. The steamers and boats returned to the fleet for more troops, and time landing was continued, under the direction of my chief quartermaster, Capt. Herman Biggs, until the whole force detailed for the attack had reached the shore except the field artillery and some of the infantry that had not arrived from Hatteras Inlet. In the mean time I had landed my staff, and detailed Capt. B. S. Williamson, Topographical Engineer, to move on in advance of th Page 202 202 OPERATIONS IN ~NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. column for the purpose of reconnoitering the positions of the enemy. I detailed my aides Lieutenants Fell and Fearing to accompany him, and requested him to call on General Foster for two of his aides, and Lieutenants Strong and Pendleton were detailed to accompany him. The six naval boat howitzers, under command of Lieutenant MeCook, having landed, I ordered a detail of a regiment from General iRenos brigade to assist in hauling them over the road, which was so bad that it was impossible for them to be dragged by the gunners. The Fifty-first Pennsylvania was detailed for this service. I then moved on to the head of the column, and found it had reached the first intrenchment at Otter Creek, some 6 miles up, which had been deserted by the enemy. Captain Williamson, having discovered this fact and previously reported it to General Foster, proceeded on with his party to make a further reconnaissance. After obstructing the railroad at this point, I ordered General Foster to move up the main county road with his brigade and General Heno to move his brigade up the rail- road, leaving orders for General Parke to follow with his brigade up the county road. Soon after starting the columns Captain Williamson reported to me that a line of breastworks, broken by a redan for field pieces, along the bank of the river a mile in advance, had also been deserted by the enemy. I visited this work, accompanied by Generals Foster and iReno, where we communicated with the fleet. Overtaking the head of the colunm, the march was continued until my own staff officers and those of the different brigades who were act- ing as escort to Captain Williamson came in contact with the enemys pickets. It then being nearly 8 oclock, I ordered a halt, and directed General Foster to bivouac, on the right and left of the county road in a line at right angles to it, ordering one regiment to occupy the road leading down to the fortifications on the river. General iRenos bri- gade occupied a corresponding advanced position across the railroad a half mile to the left and General Parke occupied a position immedi- ately in rear of and parallel with General Foster. It rained all night, as it had done during the day, so that our men passed a most cheerless night. The Fifty-first Pennsylvania, with the naval boat howitzers, under Lieutenant McCook, together with two guns landed from the Cossack and Highlander, under Captains Bennett and Dayton, did not reach my headquarters till 3 oclock in the morning. Too much praise cannot be awarded to the officers and men who performed this very arduous service, as these eight pieces constituted our entire artillery force during the engagement of the next day. Soon after leaving the landing I determined not to land the light batteries of Captains Belger and Morris and our wagons at Slocums Creek, and sent an order to Captain Biggs to move up the river and land them at the deserted intrenchment above the mouth of Otter Creek, but the dense fog that prevailed during the afternoon and night made it impossible to land anything, and it was equally impossible to communicate from shore with the fleet by signals, as agreed upon. On the following morning I ordered Captain Williamson to move forward and reconnoiter the position of the enemy, which was known to be not far in advance of our pickets, from information obtained dur- ing the night from negroes and others, to the effect that they were posted behind a long line of intrenchments leading from the river across the county road to the railroad. The brigades were formed and ordered to advance as follows: General Foster to move up the county road and attack the enemys front and left, General IReno to move up the railroad and, if I)ossible, turn the enemys right, and General Park Page 203 CHAP. X.X.J BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 203 to move up the county road as a reserve. I also ordered General Parke to detail the Eleventh Connecticut to relieve the Fifty-first Pennsylvania in dragging up the boat howitzers, and their work was done in an efficient and prompt manner. The head of the columns very soon came within range of the enemys artillery, and the following dispositions were made: General Foster placed the Twenty-fifth Mas- sachusetts, Colonel Upton, and the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts~ Colonel Stevenson, in line of battle on the right of the county road parallel with the enemys intrencliments; the six navy boat howitzers, under Lieutenant McCook, with the howitzers of Captains Dayton and Bennett, across the road, and the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, Colonel Lee, and the Twenty-third Massachusetts, Colonel Kurtz., in line of battle on the left of the road. The enemy then opened fire, both musketry and artillery, upon General Fosters lines. General IReno then, moving briskly forward with his brigade along the railroad, ordered a charge of the right wing of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, Lieutenant-Colonel Clark, on the the brick-kiln, just in the rear of the main line of intrenchments, which was entirely successful. He at the same time ordered the left wing of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, Major Rice; the Fifty-first New York, Colonel Ferrero; the Ninth New Jersey, Colonel Heckman, into line of battle on the left of the railroad, with a view of supporting the Twenty- first Massachusetts, holding the Fifty-first Pennsylvania, Colonel Hart- rauft in reserve; but he soon found that instead of the enemys right being on the railroad it extended to a point some three-quarters of a mile beyond, and they were posted along the whole line in a series of redans separated from him by fallen trees and an almost impassable swamp. He soon found himself engaged along the whole line, and was unable to support Colonel Clark, who was soon after compelled to re- turn from the brick-kiln from the attack of an overwhehning force. General Foster ordered the Tenth Connecticut, Colonel Drake, to inter- line on the left of the Twenty-third Massachusetts. I then ordered General Parkes brigade to take a position in the intermediate space between- General Foster and General IReno, and to support whichever brigade needed it. His brigade was formed in the following order, be- ginning at the left: The Fourth Rhode Island, Colonel Rodman; the Eighth Connecticut, Colonel Harland; the Fifth Rhode Island, Major Wright. The Eleventh Connecticut, which had brought up the boat howitzers, I held as reserve. Soon after this, learning from General Foster tha~t the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts had exhausted its am- munition, I ordered the Eleventh Connecticut, Colonel Mathewson, to report to General Foster for their support. The engagement was now general all along- the whole line. It had been previously ascertained, by the reconnaissance of Captain Williamson, that the enemy had many pieces of field artillery behind their intrench- ments, and on their left flanks tflere was a river battery with four 32- pounders, pivot guns, which enfiladed our lines. Having ordered to General Foster the last of my reserve, 1 sent word to General Parke to push on through the timber and l)~55 the enemys right. I then pro- ceeded to the left of our lines to communicate with General IReno, where I found his brigade very hotly engaged with the enemy. In the mean time Colonel Rodman, of the Fourth Rhode Island, had met Colonel Clark, of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, who informed him that he could get in rear of the enemys intrenchmei~its by charg- ing down the railroad directly upon the brick-kiln, which he at once did, under a galling fire from the rifle pits in front of General Iteno Page 204 204 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CRAP. XX. and was supported by the remainder of the brigade, by order of Gen- ~raI Parke, planting their colors upon the parapet. The brigade then moved rapi(lly down the line of intrenchments, the Fourth Rhode Island leading, clearing it of the enemy as they advanced nd capturing their guns. General Foster, seeing our forces inside of the enemys lines, immediately ordered his brigade to charge, when the whole line of breastwork between the railroad and the river were by this combined movement of the two brigades most gallantly carried, the enemy retreating in the greatest possible confusion. After the cheers of our men had subsided it was discovered from the sharp firing n our left that General IReno was still engaged with the enemy, upon which General Parke moved back. with a view, if possible, of getting in the rear of the enemy~s forces in the intrenchments to the left of the railroad. General Foster also moved foward with one of his regiments farther to the right, with a view to getting in their rear. General Parke, having reached an advantageous position to the right of the brick-kiln and in rear of the redans, by a heavy fire very much staggered the enemy, when General Reno ordered the Fifty-first Pennsylvania, Col- onel llartranft, to charge the enemys line, which charge was supported by the remainder of his brigade, causing the enemy to desert his works in great confusion. At this juncture General Foster appeared in their rear with one of his regiments, thus cutting off their retreat, and received from Colonel Avery an unconditional surrender of himself and over 200 men. The Twenty-first Massachusetts was left in charge of the prisoners. The remaining force at that point moved along the railroad directly for New Berne. In the mean time I had conducted the four regiments of General Fosters brigade on the county road in pursuit of the enemy, and at the crossing of the county road and railroad the column came together, General Fosters brigade consolidated and niove(l on, General Renos brigade following. I ordered General Parkes brigade to fol- low the county road, and if possible save the bridge over the Trent from destruction. I then joined the head of General Fosters brigade, and soon after discovered that the railroad bridge and part of the city were on fire. Upon arriving at the head of the bridge I halted the brigades, and after visiting the city, in company with Generals Foster and Reno and consulting with Commodore Rowan, I ordered General Foster to move across to the city and occupy it. Having discovered that the draw of the county bridge had been destroyed, I sent an order to General Parke to proceed no farther, but to bivouac for the night. Of what has happened since that time I have already sent you detailed accounts. For a more perfect understanding of the exact movements of the different brigades I beg to refer you to the very accurate reports of my biigadier-generals. I also beg to refer you to the report of Captain Williamson and to the accompanying sketch# for a more accurate knowledge of the nature and position of the enemys intrenchments as well as our own position in the battle. The endur- ance and courage displayed by our officers and men from the moment they landed at Slocums Creek until they reached New Berne was be- yond anything I could have expected. The road from the landing to 4Droataim, a distance of 6 miles, was newly cut, and consequently almost impassable, and continually rendered worse by the rain, the march of the troops, apd the wheels of the artillery. I have before mnentionedi that the rear of the colunin, with the artil- Not found Page 205 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BEENE, N. C. 205 lery, did not reach our position in front of the enemys until 3 oclock in the morning. Both officers and men bivouacked in the open fields and swamps in order of battle, catching such rest as they could, the rain falling constantly during the pight. At daylight the next morn- ing the regiments were in line, and? soon the brigades commenced filing off to take their positions closer to the enemys works. When I started from my headquarters for the head of the column I felt that we were going to the fight under most unfavorable circumstances, and expected to find the men fagged and leg-weary, but as I passed regiment after regiment their hearty cheers and firm step convinced me that 1 had underestimated them. On reaching the turn in the road where they Jirst came under fir~ of the enemys cannon the only change I could perceive in their demeanor was an over-anxiety to keep their ranks well closed, and they filed to their positions, under the direction of their brigadier-generals, with all the regularity and steadiness of veteran soldiers. For more than three hours the contest continued, the fog being so dense at times that the position of the enemy could only be ascertained by the rattleof their musketry and the roar of artillery. The result has proved what work they can do under such trying circumstances. Tn the midst of all the privations since we left Fortress Monroe the most marked feature that has been demonstrate(l in the character of these men is their extreme patience. With men of less patience and subordination the work could not have been accomplished. I cannot mention personal instances of gallantry where all have behaved so nobly. To the reports of Generals Foster, Reno, and Parke, who were always with their brigades in the thickest of the fight, as well as to the reports of the colonels of the regiments, who - commanded by example as well as authority, I beg to refer you for details. To them and their brave officers and men the country owes every success which has been obtained during the campaign, and I am sure their services are appreciated. By the inclosed report of Brigade Surg. W. II. Church, our medical director, it will be seen that our loss was overestimated in my hasty report the day after the battle. The accompanying lists show 88 killed and 352 wounded.* Among these names are some of our most valuable officers and men. They are sad losses to us and to their relatives and friends. They nobly gave up their lives in defense of their country, and a debt of gratitude is due from every American citizen to the wives, mothers, and fathers who have laid such sacrifices on the altar of their country. They have my heartfelt sympathy, and I constantly pray that but few more such sacrifices will be required for the breaking up of this unholy rebellion. The memories of the brave dead will ever be green in the hearts of their countrymen and the scars of the wounded will be honorable passports for them through life. As indicated in the beginning of my report, the plan of attack con- templated the co-operation of the Navy, which was most successfully carried out. As we moved along the road their shells fell in advance of ns, and as we approached the rear of each rebel fortification their shells dropped inside the parapets, and by this combined movement the enemy was forced to fly in the greatest confusion. In this instance as well as in every other where it has been needed the most T)erfect understanding and co-operation have existed between the two arms of * But see revised statement, p. 211 Page 206 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. 206 [CHAP. XL the service since we joined the naval fleet at Hatteras Inlet. I need. hardly say that these brave officers and sailors are bound to us by the strongest ties of friendship and companionship in arms. The armed transports of the fleet in this instance, as in every other, have shown that they have been most efficiently managed, and in speak- ing of the services of this command I always include all the transports of the fleet. The gunboat Picket, Capt. T. P. Ives, rendered marked service in this engagement as well as at iRoanoke and elsewhere. The duties of the officers and attendants of the medical staff have been most arduous both during and since the battle and most nobly have they fulfilled their mission, displaying in all instances both skill and courage. Some of the results~ of this battle may be enumerated as follows: The capture of nine forts, with forty-one heavy guns; two miles of intrenchments, with nineteen field pieces; six 32-pounders not in posi- tion; over 300 prisoners; over 1,000 stand of small-arms; tents and barracks for 10,000 troops; a large amount of ammunition and army supplies; an immense amount of naval stores, for which I refer you to Commodore Rowans report; the second commercial city in the State ~f North Carolina; the entire command of the Albemarle and Parnlico Sounds; the capture of Beaufort, Carolina, and Morehead Cities, and the complete investment of Fort Macon, which we hope soon to reduce. The prisoners belonging to this city 1 have released on their parole, together with the sick and wounded. The remainder, some 160, I have sent to New York. I hope my course in releasing the sick and wounded and the citizens of this place will meet the approval of the Department, and I should have been glad to have released them all had the enemy fulfilled their engagement made with me when I released the Koanoke prisoners. I cannot close this report without paying a just tribute of praise to the members of my staff, who have so nobly aided me in every effort in the accomplishment of this work. Dr. Church, after designating the positions for hospitals and performing other duties devolving upon him as medical director, rendered me most efficient service in directing troops and carrying orders. Captain Richmond, my assistant adju- tant-general, and Lieutenants Pell and Fearing accompanied me on the field, where they displayed great gallantry and skill. Capt. Herman Biggs, my chief quartermaster, rendered most impor- tant service in directing the debarkation of troops and the movement of our supply transports. From the organization of this expedition in New York last September his work has been arduous and unremitting, and the fact that no call for anything which appertains to his depart- ment has been unsatisfied is sufficient evidence of the efficiency with which he has performed his work. He has been and was in this instance most nobly seconded by Captains Cutting and Loring. Capt. It. S. Will- iamson, chief topographical engineer, made some most daring recon- naissances, and by his skill and courage has commanded the respect of and endeared himself to the whole command. Capt. E. It. Goodrich, my chief commissary, and Captain DWolf, in this instance as in all others, have shown marked efficiency in the discharge of the duties of their department under the most trying circumstances. Lieutenant Flagler, my chief ordnance officer, has constantly managed his (lepart- ment with great skill, and rendered most important aid in this instance. My private secretaries, Messrs. Lamed and French, here as at Itoanoke, accompanied the army on the field eve required of them. , r ready to perform the dutie Page 207 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 207 I mentioned in my first dispatch that the loss of the enemy was less than our own, but subsequent information has convinced me that it was much greater; that a large number of their killed and wounded were carried off in the cars there is no doubt, but in the absence of accurate information I refrain from making an estimate. It is never a source of pleasure to me to exaggerate the loss on either side, and could the same results have been obtained without the loss of a man it would laave been a source of great gratification. Happily I have the oppor- tunity of decreasing my former estimate of our own loss. I have the honor to be, your very obedient servant, A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding Department North Carolina. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War, Washington. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, No. 17. J New Berne, March 15, 1862. The general commanding congratulates his troops on their brilliant and hard-won victory of the 14th. Their coura~e, their patience, their endurance of fatigue, exposure, and toil cannot be too highly praised. After a tedious march, dragging their howitzers by hand through swamps and thickets~ after a sleepless night, passed in a drenching rain, t,hey met the enermy in his chosen position, found him protected by strong earthworks, mounting many and heavy guns, and although in au open field themselves, they conquered. With such soldiers advance is victory. The general commanding directs with peculiar pride that, as a well- deserved tribut,e to valor in this second victory of the expedition, each regiment engaged shall inscribe on its banner the memorable name, ~ New ~ By command of Brig. Gen. A. E. Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., March 22, 1862. Major-General BURN5IDE: GENERAL: The report of the late brilliant success of the United States forces under your command at New Berne has afforded the high- est satisfaction to the President and to this Department and to the whole nation, and thanks for distinguished service are again tendered to you and to the officers and soldiers of your command. Inclosed I have the pleasure to transmit your commission as a major- general, so gallantly won. IRe-enforcements have been ordered, and it will be the pleasure of the Department to strengthen and support you to the utmost extent within its power. If anything more than you have be needed for the safety of your command, the success of its operations, or the care, comfort, and attendance of the sick and wounded, you will please communicate to this Department, in order that it may be supplied. The Adjutant-General has been instructed to communicate with you fully upon other subjects. Respectfully, yours, & c., EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 208 208 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. X~ No. 2. Report of Capt. Robert S. Williamson, U. S. Topographical Engine rs~ NEW BERNE, N. C., ]lfarch 19, 1862. SiR: In obedience to instructions from the general commanding the Department of North Carolina I have the honor to submit the follow- iing report of the reconnaissances made previous to the battle of March 14, near New Berne, together with a sketch of the defenses of that town: * The fleet arrive(l near the mouth of Slocums Creek, about 16 miles below New Berne, on the evening of the 12th instant, and the troops landed the next day on the northern bank of the creek. At 2 p. in. the whole force was on shore, and I was then directed to go in advance, to ascertain the position of the enemy. No cavalry had landed, but I was furnished with a horse, and Lieutenants Pell and Fearing, aides to General Burnside, being also mounted, were directed to accompany me. Taking a northwesterly direction, we soon came to the county road, which leads to the town, and followed it for five or six miles, when wc reached the first of the enemys works, consisting of a long breastwork at right angles to the road. This we found to be deserted. Passing on, we found at the distance of a quarter of a mile a well-traveled cross road leading to the river, about a half a mile distant. This we ex- amined, and found it to terminate at a house near the river bank, on which was a line of breastworks broken by a redan for field pieces.. This was also deserted, but according to the statement of a negro at the house it had been occupied by the rebel troops with field artillery during the night previous. I then returned to the head of the advanc- ing column, where I found General Foster, to whom I reported, after which I again advanced on the road. At various times I was joined by some of the staff officers of the different brigades, among whom were Lieutenants Pell and Fearing, ~f General Burusides staff; Captain Potter, Lient. Ed. N. Strong, Lient. James II. Strong, and Lieut. James M. Pendleton, of General Fosters staff, and Lieutenant Iteno and Lieutenant Morris, of General Itenos staff. There may have been others whose names I have inadvertently omitted,. but having been but ten days in this department I have not yet learned the names of all the staff officers. Those whom I have mentioned cheerfully assisted in the reconnaissances. At one time, a little before sunset, Lieutenant Iteno and myself rode at a gallop a couple of miles in advance, when suddenly, at a turn of the road, we came within 5G yards of a column of rebels in retreat, upon which we again returned and reported. Finally, when some distance in advance and accompa- nied by several staff officers, we came upon a small rebel advance guardt of 3 or 4 mounted men, who hailed us when we again returned to the head of the column. It being then a?ter dark, the order was given t& bivouac for the night. During the whole day it was cloudy, with rain at frequent intervals. The country traversed was in open pine timber. In the morning there was a dense fog. Shortly after daylight I again went in advance to reconnoiter, accompanied by several stafr officers. After going for a short distance through the pine woods we came to an open place, where the trees had been felled, which gave ns a view of the enemy in force. They were in line behind an intrench- ment perpendicular to the road, and extended as far as I could see on~ either handthat is to say, about a half mile to the left and a quarter *Not forind Page 209 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 209 of a mile to the right. The distance from them, as showil by a subse- quent measurement, was 350 yards. I dismounted and examined them with a glass, but the fog was so dense it was difficult to determine the number of guns in sight, but one brass field piece was plainly to be seen immediately in front, which commanded the road. The number of infantry in sight 1 estimated to be from 3,000 to 4,000. We there- fore turned back, but very soon met General Foster, at the head of the advancing column. In a few minutes General Buruside was on the spot, and immediately arranged for the attack. The firing commenced at about 8 oclock and continued until about 1 p. in., when the intrench- ments were in our possession. During the battle I acted as aide to the generalsparticularly to General Buruside. After the capture of this line of works was no longer to be seen, and in the afternoon our brigade occupied New Berne. Sub- sequently I rode with my assistants, Mr. TI. C. Fillebrown and Mr. E. S. Walters, over the principal portion of the captured works, and pre- pared the accompanying hasty sketch of the defenses. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. S. WILLIAMSON, Captain, U. S. Topographical Engineers. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, A. A. U., Dept. of North Caroljn& No. 3. Report8 of Sarg. William H. Church, U. S. Army, Medical Director. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Nete Berne, N. C., March 16, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the killed and wounded during the action of ,March 14, 1862: I arrived at the rear of the field of action about 8 oclock a. in., and had just located the hospitals when the wounded made their appear- ance. Brigade Surg. J. II. Thompson located his hospital in the wood at the rear of the First Brigade, Actg. Brigade Surg. C. Cutter, of the Second Brigade, his on the left of our line, and Actg. Brigade Surg. II. W. Rivers, of the Third Brigade, established his in an open, well-sheltered wood, just to the right of the First Brigade. From the list of casualties you can well understand that the labor of the medical corps has been very severe, especially after the long march and com- fortless night before the day of action. The conduct of Surg. George Derby and Asst. Surg. S. E. Stone, of the Twenty-third Massachu- setts Volunteers, is deserving of special mention. Before the action opened I located them at a point which proved to be immediately in the range of the enemys fire. They must have remained there two hours before I thought of their position, when I found them quietly perform- ing their operations with the balls falling thick and fast. I immedi- ately ordered Dr. ID. to remove his wounded to a house in a more pro- tected position, where he still remains, in charge of his own and many other wounded. I submit a full list of each regimental surgeons report to their re- spective brigade surgeons. Of the various staff officers I do not hear of any serious injury, although your aide, Lieutenant Fearing, had a narrow escape from a round shot which struck the earth between his horses feet, filling his 14 U KVOL I Page 210 210 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. eyes and face with sand and gravel. Lieut. J. M. Peudleton, of (len- eral Fosters staff, also had a narrow escape from a ball which passed through the sleeve of his coat. The wounded will be immediavely removed to two comfortable hospitals in the city of New Berne. ~5nr- geons Upham, Kneeland, B~tchelder, and Clarke, from Massachusetts, joined us at Hatteras Inlet, and have been of great assistance both in the field and hospital. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. HENRY CHURCH, Brigade Surgeon and Medical Director. 4 0 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, April 9, 1862. GENERAL: I herewith submit a revised and correct list of the killed and wounded at the battle of New Berne, on the 14th of March, 1862, compiled from the reports of the various brigade and regimental sur- geons. Although the casualties are only reduced to 88, I am happy to find that the number wounded is much smaller than was at first sup- posed.* A large number of the.wounded as they improve have been sent home, and those remaining are comfortably cared for in th~ Craver- street Hospital, under the charge of Brigade Surg. J. Bryan, and in the Academy Green Hospital, placed in charge of Surg. George Derby, of the Twenty-third Massachusetts Regiment Yolunteers. The wounds were unusually severe, and there have been several remarkable re- coveries. The labor of the medical corps has been so great that I would once more respectfully urge upon you the absolute necessity for an increase of our surgical force, as, in addition to the sick of the t1~ns- ports, they are obliged to attend the sick of the town and negroes. The latter are now so numerous that it is necessary to open a hospital for their reception. I am, general, very re~ectfally, your obedient servant, WM. HENRY CHURCH, Brigade Surgeon and Medical Director. [Inclosure.] Return of killed and wounded in action at New Berne, March 14, 1862.* * 0 * * * * * RECAPITULATION. be Regiment. be 8th Connecticut 2 4 6 10th Connecticut 7 17 24 Connecticut -. - 21st Massachusetts 16 40 58 23d Massachusetts. . 7 24 31 24th Massachusetts . 10 43 53 25th Massachusetts- . 4 16 20 27th Massachusetts. 9 43 52 9th New Jersey 3 46 49 51st New York.. . 11 60 71 51st Pennsylvania 9 9 4th Rhode Island. . 11 21 32 5th Rhode Island. 2 8 10 Total 88 352 440 * But see revised statement, p. 211 Page 211 BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 211 [Addenda.] Return of casualties in the Department of North Carolina, commanded by Brig. Gen. Am brose E. Buruside, at the battle of Yew Berne, N. C., March 14, 1862. [Compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, & c.J Command. FIRST BRIGADE. Brig. Gen. Jonu G. FOSTER. 23d Massachusetts . 24th Massachu8etts 27th Massachusetts 10th Connecticut Total First Brigade SECOND BRIGADE. Brig. Gen. JESSE L. IlExo. 21st Massachusetts 51st New York 9th NewJersey... 51st Pennsylvania r Total Second Brigade THIRD BIuGADE. Brig. Gen. JoinT G. PARKE. 4th Rhode Island 5th Rhode Island, 1st Battalion. 8th Connecticut 11th Connecticut Total Third Brigade UNASSIGNED Tnoors. 1st New York Marine Artillery, detachment 99th New York, Company B Total nnassigned troops Total Department of North Carolina Killed. 0 1 2 1 I 1 3 6 10 4 8 7 35 14 10 3 27 Wonnded. Captured or missing. S 0 3 4 1 2 2 12 2 6 4 12 21 41 15 41 15 0 133 40 54 54 9 157 31 53 20 52 24 182 71 9 1 10 2 23 36 1 1 8 10 2 1 3 6 1 5 2l~ 27 3 18 3 55 79 8- 2 2 82 1 1 28 1 I 6 1 10 7 1 11 352 1 471 No. 4. Report of Brig. Gen. John U. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade. HEADQUARTERS GENERAL FOSTERS BRIGADE, Department of North Carolina, New Berne, March 20, 1862. I have the honor to report that, in pursuance of the orders of Gen- eral Buruside and in accordance with the plan of operations agreed upon, I proceeded to land my brigade on the 13th instant at Slocums Creek. I took on board the Pilot Boy about 500 men of the Twenty- fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, aIld towing the boats of my brigade, carrying about 600 more, reached the mouth of the creek CHAP. XX. Page 212 212 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. and landed without molestation. I landed with the first detachment, and instructed Captain Messinger to remain on the Pilot Boy and land the balance of my brigade. I had sent orders to form the Twenty- fourth and advance a short distance on the main road, and on landing [took command and moved on, giving the advance to the Twenty-first Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, of General Renos brigade, by order of General Burnside, assigning the advance to General Reno. I left an aide to form the regiments as they landed and to order them to follow. I advanced on the main road, throwing out skirmishers and an ad- vance guard of the Twenty-first Regiment Massachusetts, an data distance of 6 miles I heard from Captain Williamson, of the Topo- graphical Engineers, the result of a daring reconnaissance made by him, accompaiiied by Lieutenants Pell and Fea~ng, of General Burn- sides staff, and by Lieutenants Strong, Pendleton, and Strong, of mine, discovering an abandoned breastwork. I then pushed on and entered the work, accompanied by General Iteno, who had shortly before come up and assumed command of the Twenty-first Massachusetts. The work was found to be a breastwork, well constructed, and running in a straight line from the railroad to the river, a distance of about 1 mile, having a flank facing the railroad and a fort on the river flank. There were four flanking bastions for guns, and the fort was prepared for four guns. None were mounted, however. The troops were halted inside the fort to rest and eat. General Buruside then coming up, 1, agreeably to his orders, advanced my brigade about 3 oclock on the county road, General iReno being ordered to take the railroad track, which ran off to the left of the county road. We marched about 4 miles, halted, and bivouacked for the night near the enemys position. At daylight on the next morning (the 14th instant) I advanced my brigade, by order of General Buruside, nut I came upon the enemys position. General Parke was ordered to the left by General Buruside, and I made the following dispositions: The Twenty-fifth Massachusetts ~was thrown to the extrenie right, followed in order by the Twenty- fourth Massachusetts in line of battle, their left resting on the county road, just on the left of which I placed the howitzer from the High- lander, under command of Captain Dayton, supported in line of battle on the left by the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, and opened fire. On the arrival of the navy boat howitzers, under command of Lieutenant McCook, they were placed in line on the left of Captain Daytons gun, and the Twenty-third was ordered to the left of the Twenty-seventh. The firing was incessant and very severe from the breastwork and within a very short range. General Burnside arriving, I communicated to him the dispositions I had made, which he approved~ sending over to General Parke to push on to the enemys right, and leaving me to hold the point, he rode oft~ to reach General Renos position. The Tenth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, having arrived, were ordered to the left of time Twenty-third, and to support them, if ren- dered necessary by want of ammunition. This being the case, they formed on and to the left of the position of the Twenty-third and opened fire. Hearing from the Twenty-seventh that they were very short of ammunition, I ordered the Eleventh Connecticut, of General Parkes brigade, which had j imst come up, by order of General Burn- side, to their support, and sent one of my aides to conduct them to their position. The Twenty-seventh Massachusetts then retired in good order, with orders to lie in a hollow out of the fire, with fixed bay- onets and wait orders. furthe Page 213 ,HAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 21~ The ammunition of the navy howitzers being nearly exhausted and one piece disabled, the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts were ordered to march by the flank and form so as to support the guns, leaving the Twenty-fourth on the extreme right. About twenty-five minutes from this time the head of General Parkes column, the Fourth Rhode Island, had reached the breastwork at the railroad crossing, and after a brisk fire pushed on and entered the breastwork iu an opening left for the railroad track, and where the enemys fire had much slackened in consequence of the steady and constant fire of the Twenty-third Massachusetts and Tenth Connecticut. This position of affairs being discovered, I ordered an advance along the line, which was promptly obeyed, the enemy retreating with great precipitation. On entering the breastworks sharp firing was still heard to the right of the enemys position, and hearing from General Parke that he was engaged with the enemys forces in their works to the right of the rail- road, I led the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts to his support,and received the surrender of Colonel Avery and 150 men. The breastwork we had entered was similar in construction to the abandoned one, running from Fort Thompson at the river to the rail- road track, a distance of 1~ miles, and from the railroad track rifle pits and detached intrenchments in the form of lunettes and redans fol- lowed each other for the distance of 11 miles a gun battery. nd terminated by a two- Fort Thompson, a flanking bastion, mounted thirteen guns, all 32. l)Ounders (two rifled), four of which were turned so as to bear upon our line. The breastwork was mounted by two complete field batteries, besides several pieces of heavy artillery, and manned by about 0,000 men. The force in men and artillery of the other defenses Jam unable to give, they not coming under my observation. Pressing forward then with iiiy brigade, I reached the railroad bridge at New Berne, which being burned to prevent our following up the flying enemy, I rested the men on a field on the east bank of the Trent. By order of General Buruside, who had continued up with me, I shortly after crossed with my brigade over the river and encamped the regi- ments, with the exception of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, in the camp of the enemy (at the Fair Ground), the enemy having left all his camp equipage, and from appearances must have fled very precipitately, the Twenty-fifth being quartered in the town for police duty. The fatigues and hardships of the march from Slocums Creek I need not mention; the horrible state of the roads, the wearing labor it cost to drag for 12 miles the howitzers, the severity of the storm, and the wet ground of the soldiers bivouac for the night, you well know. I must mention in my brigade, where all behaved bravely, with par- ticular praise the Twenty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers and the Tenth Connecticut Volunteers. The former, under a severe fire from musketry in the front and exposed to a flanking fire of grape and canister from Fort Thompson, unprotected by the trees, behaved with marked coolness and steadiness. The latter advanced close under the enemys fire in line of battle, fired with the most remarkable steadi- ness, and stood steadily up, giving and taking the most severe fire. The naval howitzers, under command of Lieutenant McCook, Acting Masters Daniels and Hammond, Captains Clerk Meeker, Captain Rowans Clerk Gabaudan, Lieutenant Tillotson, Union Coast Guard, and Lieutenant Hughes, Union Coast Guard, were most admirably served during the day, and when the ammunition was exhausted they laid dowu by their pieces rather than to withdraw from their position Page 214 214 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CARQLINA. [CHAP. XX. Captain Dayton volunteered again to land and command the gun from the Highlander. His gun was first in position, and he served it, as before, with steadiness and efficiency. Lieutenant Tillotson, whose gun was disabled, rushed ahead after the action in pursuit with such speed as to be captured by the enemy. From the joy of victory I must turn to mourn the price it cost in the soldiers death of Lieutenant-Colonel Merritt, of the Twenty-third Mas- sachusetts, who fell early in the action whilst urging and cheering the men on bravely and gallantly, and of Lieut. J. W. Lawton, of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, shot dead on the field. Maj. Robert H. Stevenson, of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, was wounded in the leg, but stood up encouraging his men till forced to leave the field. Adjt. W. L. Horton, of the same regiment, was severely wounded by a grape shot in the shoulder whilst in the active performance of his duties, and Lients. Daniel Sargent and James B. Nichols were each slightly wounded. Capt. V. P. Parkhurst, of the Twenty-fifth Massa- chusetts, had his leg fractured. Lients. J. S. Aitchison and J. W. Traf ton, of the Twenty-seventh, were slightly wounded. Capt. B. R. Swift also slightly wounded, and Lient. George Warner had a foot shot off. Capt. Wesley C. Sawyer and William B. Alexander, of the Twenty- third Massachusetts, were both wounded, the former severely in the leg, rendering amputation necessary, and the latter in the hand. Lient. T. W. B. Hughes, of the Union Coast Guard, was also wounded. In- closed I send you a list of the killed and wounded, showing a total of 39 killed and 153 wounded.* It is with much pleasure that I can report all of my staff as unin- jured. They consisted during the day of Brigade Surg. J. H. Thomp- son, who volunteered in the early part of the fight to carry any order for me, and did so, till called elsewhere by his duties, under the hottest fire~ of Capt. Southard Hoffman, assistant adjutant-general; Capt. E. E. Potter, acting commissary of subsistence; Lient. J. F. Anderson, aide-de-camp; Lient. J. M. Pendleton, aide-de-camp; Lient. James H. Strong, aide-de-camp; Lient. Edw. N. Strong, aide-de-camp; and Lients. J. L. Van Buren and B. T. Gordon, of the Signal Corps, who were used by me as aides. I most cordially bear my testimony to the conduct of the above-named gentlemen during the day as most worthy a gallant set of gentlemen. They were indefatigable in carrying orders, urging on men, and in placing the regiments, coolly and correctly obeying every order, and always nuder the heaviest fire. Without drawing any distinctions in the staff, I would take advantage of this opportunity to mention the names of Lients. James M. Pendleton and James H. and Edw. N. Strong as being volunteers who, without com- mission or enrollment, have acted during the entire campaign as aides, and performed every duty zealously and satisfactorily, and whose con- duct during the day I have already spoken of, and to suggest that, under these circumstances, their services deserve a recognition, if not award, from the Government. I also desire to return my thanks to the colonels of my brigade for the able assistance they rendered me during the day in promptly and correctly obeying, with the regiments under their command, my orders during the day. They were Col. Edwin Upton, Twenty-fifth Massa- chusetts Volunteers; Col. Thomas G. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Mas- sachusetts Volunteers; Col. Horace C. Lee, Twenty-seventh Massa- chusetts Volunteers; Col. John Kurtz, Twenty-third Massachusetts Volunteers; Lient. Col. Albert W. Drake Tenth Connecticut Volun * But see revised statement, p. 211 Page 215 CHAP. XX.I BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 215 teers; Lieut. Col. Charles Mathewson, Eleventh Connecticut Volun- teers, and their reports are herewith inclosed. I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, Brigadier-General, II. S. Army. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assi8tant Adjutant- General. No.5. Report of Ji2ieut. Col. Albert W. Drake, Tenth Connecticut Infantry. IIDQRS. TENTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLS., New Berne, N. 0., March 15, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the part taken by the Tenth Regi- ment Connecticut Volunteers in the battle near New Berne of March 14, 1862. At about 7.30 oclock a. m. on the morning of that day we left our bivouac and advanced up the road leading to the city of New Berne. Although the men were chilled and wet from lying in the rain on the wet, cold ground during the previous night, and were much worn-down with fatigue from their march of the previous day, they advanced with alacrity. Arriving withiu about one half a mile from the enemys intrenchments, we encountered a severe fire from their batteries. I immediately filed the regiment through the woods toward the left, and arriving at a spot of low ground halted and waited orders. After some time had elapsed I received orders to form a line of battle and advance and open fire on the enemy. I immediately formed the regi- ment in line of battle, and advanced up the rising ground directly in front of their intrenchments, and, halting a little less than 300 yards, opened fire. For a short time we received in return a brisk fire frem their artillery and infantry, but it was soon silenced. The mens ammunition getting short and the fire of the enemy having nearly ceased, we ceased firing and remained in our position. Shortly after the enemy left their works. I followed on with the remainder of the brigade, and without further difficulty reached the Trent River at about 2.30 p. m. That evening the regiment was trans- ported across the river and quartered in a deserted camp of the enemy near the city. I have to say that all of the officers and men of the regiment did their whole duty during the engagement. Appended is a list of our killed and wounded during the action.* Yours, very respectfully, ALBERT W. DRAKE, Lieutenant-Oolonel, Oomdg. Tenth Regt. Oonn. Vol#. Capt. SOUTHARD llOFFMAN~ Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 6. Report of Gol. John Kurtz, Twenty-third Massachusetts infantry. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-T1~RD MASS. VOLS., New Berne, March 15, 1862. DEAR SIR: I have the honor to report that at 8 oclock in the morn- ing of the 13th instant I received the order to disembark my regiment Embodied in statement on p. 211 Page 216 216 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. and land upon the shore, 16 miles below this post. Having but five small boats, and one of my vessels being 3 or more miles from shore, it was not completed until near 3 oclock in the afternoon. My regiment marched forward with a 12-pounder howitzer as soon as possible after landing, and arrived at the bivouac of this brigade at 8 oclock in the evening, where we slept as comfortably as possible during a night of drenching rain. At 7 oclock on the morning of the 14th I was ordered by General Foster to take up the line of march and follow him. In the course of half an hour I received an order from him to file into the woods and form my regiment in line upon the left of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, in front of the enemys breastwork, and immediately open fire upon him. The order was promptly executed. The fire was incessant for one and a half hours within 150 yards of the enemys work, & c. My ammunition (40 rounds) was expended. I immediately sent word to the general of my position and condition, and was assured that a regiment would be sent to my relief. Accordingly in a few mo- ments the Eleventh Connecticut reported to me. I immediately ordered them to form in front of my line, and I fell back ten paces in good order, fixed bayonets, and lay down ready to support the line in front of me. After remaining in this position about thirty minutes a general charge was made along the whole front, and we had carried the work and our glorious old flag floated over it, and we gave nine rousing cheers. I was immediately ordered by the general to send forward one com- pany as an advance guard, and to follow with my regiment and feel my way toward the enemy, now in full retreat, and to capture all belligerents or enemies. We examined the woods, houses, and forts. We took IDr. West, who reports himself a native of New Itochelle, New York State, and a surgeon in the Confederate Army. I sent him to headquarters. In the course of an hour we joined General Foster with the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts at the railroad, about 2 miles from this post, and marched along the road until we arrived at the bridge across the Trent, which was on fire and entirely destroyed. After a rest of an hour we embarked, crossed the river, and at 5 oclock occu- pied the camp of the chivalry, which appeared to have been left very hastily, and which was being plundered by the negroes. I stopped the plundering, took possession, and made myself as comfortable as pos- sible for the night. The officers and men of my regiment behaved in the most gallant manner, and I take great pleasure in saying that Captains Brewster, Martin, Center, lowland, Whipple, Raymond, Saw- yer, with their officers and men, particularly so Capt. E. 0-. Dayton, of the schooner Highlander, volunteered to command the 12-pounder how- itzer, and the persevering manner in which he and his men drew the gun through the mud, in many places knee-deep, and the very gallant manner in which they served it within a hundred yards of the enemys line, met my warmest approbation. They made every shot tell, and had nearly or quite fired their last charge before they received any support. My adjutant, Lieut. John G. Chambers, rendered me the most efficient aid by the prompt and gallant manner in which he carried and execute& my orders, as well as by the alacrity in which he urged the men at the most necessary points of the line. He comprehends without profuse explanation my commands, and is a very efficient and gallant officer. lt is with the most sinPere regret that I have to report the death of Lieutenant-Colonel Merritt, who was killed early in the engagement while urging his men into the line in the most brave and gallant manner. His loss will be severely felt by the regiment. He was the kindest- hearted man I ever met with, and I am sensibly affected at his loss Page 217 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 217 Captain Sawyer, o~ Company II, had his left leg taken off by a round shot. Major ElweIl behaved in the most gallant manner, and is a most capital and efficient officer, and performs his duty without ostentation7 and can be depended upon. Annexed please find a list of my killed and wounded.* Very respecifully, JOHN KURTZ, Colonel, Commanding Twenty- Third llifassachusetts.. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, A. A. U., First Brig., Coast Division. No. 7. Report of Cot. Thomas U. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts In fantry. CAMP NEAR NEW BERNE, llfarch 16, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to report that on the morning of the 13th instant my regiment was on board the transports Guide and Vedette, which were at anchor in Neuse River, off the mouth of ~ Creek. Early in the morning I received the signal to prepare to land, and in accord- ance with the order of General Foster filled the boats belonging to my transports with a part of my men and fastened them to the stern of the steamer Pilot Boy, which came alongside the Guide and took the com- panies that remained on her. There was no opposition to our landing, and as soon as the men reached the shore I formed them in line of bat- tle. By order of General Foster I then advanced my regiment in rear of the Massachusetts Twenty-first as far as the railroad, when I took the advance on the county road, sending Company E forward as an advance guard. I pushed forward as rapidly as the condition of the road would permit until night-fall, when, in accordance with General Fosters orders, I filed my regiment into the woods on the right of the road and bivouacked for the night. The men were somewhat worn-out by their exhausting march, but made themselves as comfortable for the night as circumstances would permit. I sent forward Companies A, E, K, and F as a picket guard, and we remained undisturbed during the night. Early in the morning of the 14th instant a small party of the enemys cavalry appeared within sight of our pickets and was fired upon, where- upon I immediately ordered my regiment to fall in. By order of Gen- eral Foster I then advanced up the main road, with Company E as an advance guard, until within sight of the enemys intrenchments, and then filed off to the right of the road, where I formed my regiment in line of battle and advanced forward to within about 50 paces of the edge of the woods, where I halted until my advance guard returned from the road. It was at this time the enemy opened fire, wounding 2 of my men. I immediately advanced my regiment out of the woods, where I ordered them to lie down and open fire. The men behaved very well in this position, keeping up incessant and well-directed fire on the enemy for over two hours. Owing to the rain and wet to which the guns had been exposed many of my men experienced great difficulty in firing them, and in many cases had to draw the charges before their guns were of any use. Fort Thompson, on our right, which I supposed to have no guns on the land side, opened on us with grape and canister from their guns as soon as Embodied in statement on p. 211 Page 218 218 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. we got ii*o position. We afterward found that they attempted to bring one of the guns on the water side of the battery to bear on our line but failed, probably from want of time. Finally I noticed the fire of the enemys right slackened, as I supposed from the success and ad- vance of our left. I immediately ordered my own regiment forward, and we had advanced but a short distance when the enemy turned, stopping only to give us one volley of musketry and a round of grape The enemy retreated very precipitately from Fort Thompson as we entered, and I only succeeded in capturing six of them. I immediately raised the American flag on the parapet, to apprise the gunboats of our position. By order of General Foster I left one company in the fort, sele~ting for that purpose Company B, and then marched my regiment forward on the county road to the railroad and up the railroad to the Trent IRiver, where I halted them in a large field on the left. After remain- ing there a short time General Foster ordered my regiment to cross the river in the gunboat Delaware and other boats that he was using for. thatpurpose, and to take possession of the rebel camp in the Fair Ground outside of New Berne. On reaching camp I found my men much ex- hausted by their severe labors since they had landed, but was pleased to find that there were comparatively few stragglers.. It pains me to close my report by informing you that my regiment lost 55 men in killed and wounded during the action, a list of whom I herewith transmit.* THOS. G. STEVENSON, Colonel Twenty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assista~# Adjutant- General. No. 8. Report of Col. Edwin Upton, Twenty-ftfth Massachusetts Infantry. IIDQR S. TWENTY-FIFTH REGIMENT MASS. VOLS., New Berne, N. C.. March 17, 1862. SIR: At about 6 a. m, of Friday, the 14th instant, I was ordered by General Foster to move from the bivouac occupied by my regiments during the night previous, and did so, following the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Regiment. Proceeding along the main road about a mile I was ordered by General Foster to file to the right of the road, take position on the right of the 24th, and advance. The entire regiment had not cleared the road when the enemy opened fire from his artillery. I passed on to the position assigned me and advanced to the front some 4is~ance. Being desirous of ascertaining, if possible, the exact posi- tion of the enemy, I dispatched scouts to the right and front. They soon returned, reporting the enemy~s earthworks in front, wit h what appeared to be a three-gun battery directly on our right. The enemy discovering our position and opening fire, we were exposed to a fire from the front and right, and at the same time a fire of shell was opened on us from the rear, which I supposed came from our own artillery or gunboats. We were thus in danger of being badly cut up, with no opportunity to retaliate. The fact being reported, I was ordered by General Foster to move to the support of the Twenty-sev- enth Massachusetts on the opposite side of the road. Movin gin that * Embodied in statement on p. 211 Page 219 CHAP. XX.1 BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 219 direction we arrived at the road, and were then ordered by General roster to support our battery stationed on the road. Taking our posi- tion in column by division, we remained there until ordered by General Foster to deploy and charge on the enemys works. This was done, General F6ster leading the charge, the enemy leaving at our approach. Passing into the works, the regiment was formed in line of battle, and I was ordered to move along the road in position for street firing. Raving passed the enemys camp, we filed to the left of the road, flank- ing. I was ordered to advance in line cautiously, as General Parkes brigade was expected to be on our left and front and General Reno to be turnin~ the enemys right. We advanced slowly, receiving a fire of musketry, which was at first supposed to come from the other brigades. Deploying two companies as skirmishers~ with orders to proceed with eaution, they soon discovered a body of the enemy and opened fire upon them. The skirmishers having assembled, the regiment advanced, and the enemy, to the number of about 150, surrendered to General Foster. The general ordered them placedin charge of Company H, CaptainMoul- ton, and then ordered me to proceed down the railroad, which I did, arriv- ing in New Berne at about 5 p. m. Herewith is a list of the casualties, showing 4 killed and 16 wounded.* In consequence of illness and exhaustion consequent upon the very fatiguing march of the previous day and the night exposure in the drenching rain I was deprived of the assistance of Major McCafferty and Adjutant Harkuess, the former of whom was obliged to fall behind just before the close of the action, the latter being left by the road side during the march before the enemy was discovered. I would again in the highest terms of praise mention the efficiency and bravery of Lieut. Col. A. B. R. Sprague as fully sustaining his former high reputation. Very respectfully, yours, EDWIN UPTON, Twenty-fifth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. 4apt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, A. A. G., General Fosters Brigade. No. 9. Report of Cot. Horace C. Lee, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infantry. HDQRS. TWENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT MAss. VoLs., In Camp at New Berne, March 15, 1862. I have the honor to submit the following report: On Thursday, March 13, at the stated signal, we commenced landing troops, one company at a time (which was all the boat would accom- modate), from each vesselthe Recruit and Ranger. Major Bartholo- mew was sent forward with the first company, and at 11 oclock, four companies having landed, I went on shore and took command, leaving Lieutenant-Colonel Lyman to come forward with the balance. WQ i~arched up the road nutil night and then bivouacked as ordered and threw out pickets on our left flank, rear and right flank being protected by other regiments of the brigade. Our companies continued to arrive until midnight, when we had about 600 men. At daylight on Friday muorning, hearing a rapid firing of musketry in front, I called in the pick- cts, ordered the men to fall in, and soon after, by order from General Foster, took up the line of march by flank in rear of the 25th. The Embodied in statement on p. 211 Page 220 220 OPERATIONS IN NORTh CAROLINA. [ChAP. XX. first intimation we had that we were near the enemy was from a shell thrown directly up the road, but which passed without injury to the~ right of us. We immediately, by General Fosters orders, formed col- umn by cQmpanies and forward into line, and advanced through the woods on the left of the road until we came in sight of the enemy, strongly intrenched directly in front. As soon as near enough to get a good range I gave fhe order to fire by wing and then by file, and con- tinued in this manner, constantly cautioning the men to take deliberate aim before firing, until from the small amount of ammunition left I thought it best, not wishing to slacken the fire at all, to send to Gen- eral Foster either for more ammunition or to be relieved. This I did by Captain Pendleton, of your staff, who had been with me from the tirst fire, and who rendered me good service in keeping the line un- broken. Not hearing from you, I sent Adjutant Bartlett, as we were then reduced to an average of 4 or 5 rounds, many of the men being out entirely. He returned with orders that we were to be relieved by the Eleventh Connecticut and were then to fall back to the rear. As soon as the Eleventh Connecticut came up and were iii position I ordered the men to cease firing and lie down. We soon after marched in good order to the rear, and had been there but a few moments when we heard cheering, and having formed again to advance, were met by an aide with orders to form in the fort, the enemy having retreated. My intention had been not to fall back, though the word came to me that we were to do so, but to merely continue lying ready for a charge, if necessary; but at the solicitation of several of my officers I did so. Having come up to the fort, we were at once ordered to follow the Twenty- third, which we did until we arrived at the burning bridge at New Berne. We were soon after taken across the river in boats and estab- lished in the camp just vacated by the Seventh North Carolina Regi- ment. From the position we occupied our loss in wounded is quite large, though fortunately but 5 men killed, which I attribute to the fact that the shot from the rifles and cannon of the enemy passed over our heads ;4wo-thirds of the wounds, so far as I can learn, being caused by balls from smooth-bore muskets. I have not received the surgeons report, and cannot say for certain that this is so, but think it must be. I might mention individual cases, as well among men as officers, who displayed unusual bravery and coolness, but where all did so well it is almost impossible, and perhaps impolitic, to do it. I can only say that with very few exceptions I was perfectly satisfied with the manner in which they obeyed my orders and stood up without shrinking to the most terrific fire. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. LEE, Colonel, Corn manding Twenty-seventh Regiment Mass. iTols~ Capt. SOIJTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 10. Report of Brig. Gen. Jesse 19. Beno, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, New Berne, March 16, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in obedience to the orders of General Buruside I landed my brigade at the mouth of Slocum Page 221 HAP. XX.j BATTLE OF NEW BEENE, N~ C. 221 Creek, some 16 miles from New Berne, and proceeded at once to ad- vance toward the railroad, where we expected first to meet the rebels. After a march of about 4 miles we arrived at a long line of deserted intrenchmeuts, the rebels having abandoned them shortly before. Here I met General Foster, and, agreeably to the general command- ings orders, we awaited the arrival of the rest of the division. The general, soon coming up, ordered me to follow the railroad toward New Berne. The advance was continued until about 8p. in., when the troops were ordered to bivouac. I was ordered by the general commanding to advance at daylight and attack the right of the rebel lines, but owing to the severe rain of the previous night I found that many of~ the muskets would not fire, so 11 ordered that all should discharge their load, drawing such as would not fire. After this my brigade moved forward along the railroad in the following order: Twenty-first Massachusetts, Fifty-first New York, Ninth New Jersey, and Fifty-first Pennsylvania. At about a quarter before 8 a. m. I heard General Fosters brigade hotly engaged, and in a few minntes I saw a large number of the enemy ap- 1)arently engaged in getting a gun to bear on the railroad. I ordered the skirmishers to fire upon them, at the same time ordering the Twen- ty-first Massachusetts forward into line. The enemy now opened a brisk fire upon us from near the railroad, the skirmishers in advance replying briskly, and as soon as the right wing of the Twenty-first Massachusetts got into line I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Clark to charge and take the brick-kiln, which was gallantly executed. In the mean time I ordered my aides to bring up the balance of my brigade and form in line to the left of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, placing the Fifty-first Pennsylvania in reserve, supporting the extreme left of my line. Owing to the thick fog it was almost impossible to see the rebels, and not knowing that their line extended beyon4 the rail- road, after having ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Clark to advance along the inside of the enemys intrenchments, I returned across the railroad to bring up the rest of my brigade to his support, but finding the left wing of the Twenty-first Massachusetts and the Fifty-first New York hotly engaged in front and the enemys lines extending far beyond my extreme left, I found it necessary to attack them in front, and as the ground was quite uneven I (lirected the regiments to advance as near as possible under cover of the ridges and pick off the enemy whenever their heads appeared above their line of intrenchments. In the mean time the Ninth New Jersey also canie into line and opened a well-directed fire upon a two-gnu battery only some 200 yards in front of them~ and so accurate was their fire that the enemy could only oc- casionally fire their guns. The battle now became general along our whole line, and raged fiercelyfor about three and a half hours. The Fifty- Iirst Pennsylvania was held in reserve during this time, and although exposed to a severe fire, Colonel llartranft did not allow a single shot to be fired, but directed the men to lie down, and thus saved theni from much loss. It having been reported to me that the regiments engaged had ex- pended nearly all their ammunition, I ordered Colonel Hartranft to send one wing of his regiment to relieve the Fifty-first New York, which had suffered very severely. As soon as they arrived I ordered Lieu- tenant-Colonel Bell to pass the Fifty-first New York, deliver one volley, and then charge upon the enemys intrenchments. At the same time I sent orders to the Ninth New Jersey and the remainder of the Fifty- first Pennsylvania to charge. All this was gallantly executed, and the rebels fled precipitately from all their intrenchments. Sonie 50 pri Page 222 $ 222 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX~ oners were captured in these works, many severely wounded. Upon reaching the rebel intrenchments I was rejoiced to see our flag waving along the entire line of the enemys works, General Parkes brigade having previously stormed and captured their center batteries and General Fosters their left. At the commencement of the action I left Lieutenant-Colonel Clark with his right wing inside of the enemys intrenchments, ordering him to proceed along their lines toward their left, where General Fosters~ brigade was engaged, intending to support him immediately, but owing to circnmstances previously mentioned was unable to do so. I was however, confident that he would be able to extricate his command should he meet overwhelming forces, and most gallantly did he do so; for coming unexpectedly upon a light battery of six pieces he charged and captured the entire battery, but was driven out by an overwhelm- ing force of rebel infantry. I beg leave to refer the general command- ing to his report of this most daring charge. In this severely-contested battle both officers and soldiers behaved with distinguished gallantry and nobly sustained the honor of their respective regiments. It would make my report entirely too long t~ particularize the gallant conduct even of those officers and men wh~ came under my own observation, but I desire that the rel)orts and com- mendations of the regimental commanders be considered as part of my own. It is with the deepest regret that I have to announce the death of First Lieutenant Stearns, acting adjutant of the Twenty-first Massa- chusetts, one of the most accomplished and gallant officers in the Army; of Chaplain Benton, of the Fifty-first New York, who was killed while nobly encouraging the men to do their duty, and of First Lieutenant Allen, of the same regiment, who was shot dead at the head of his com- pany. Also Captain Johnson, mortally wounded, and Lieutenant Walker, of the Ninth New Jersey, who was killed in front of his com- pany. Captain Frazer was wounded and captured in the battery taken by Lieutenant-Colonel Clark, but after it was retaken by the Fourth Rhode Island, and the rebels were retreating with him, he managed to keep in l~he rear, and drawing his revolver captured the three men left to guard him. Lieutenant-Colonel Potter, of the Fifty-first New York, was wounded early in the action, but he most gallantly continued with the regiment during the entire battle and rendered very important service. Major Le Gendre, of the same regiment, displayed most con- spicuous courage until he fell severely wounded. Lieutenants Tryon~ McKee, and Coddington, of the Fifty-first New York, also displayed conspicuous courage, and were all wounded, but not fatally. Of the Ninth New Jersey the following gallant officers were wounded, viz: Captains Middleton, McChesney, and ilufty. I inclose herewith a complete list of the killed and wounded.* in the early part of the battle Lieutenant Reno, one of my aides, made a most daring reconnaissance of the enemys right, and first informed me of the extent of their lines. They had thirteen finished redans and five guns bearing on my brigade, and an almost impassable morass filled with fallen timber had to be passed over before reaching them. Cap- tain Neill, assistant adjutant-general, was always with me when not carrying orders, and displayed conspicuous courage and coolness. Lieutenants IReno and Morris, aides, rendered highly important service and behaved most gallantly. Lieutenants Reed and Marsh, of the Signal Corps, acted as aides and did their duty well. Captain Ilitchie, * Embodied in statement on m 211 Page 223 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 223 acting commissary of subsistence, and Lieutenant Hall, actiag brigade quartermaster, were present in the battle and behaved gallantly. The surgeons and chaplains of the different regiments did their duty nobly on the field of battle. I desire to return my thanks to Lieutenant-Col- onel Clark, commanding the Twenty-first Massachusetts; to Colonel Ferrero, commanding Fifty-first New York; to Colonel lleckman, com- manding Ninth New Jersey, and to Colonel Hartranft, commanding Fifty-first Pennsylvania, for the admirable manner in which they brought their regiments into line and for their gallantry on the field. Eight companies of the Fifty-first Pennsylvania, commanded by Lieu- tenant-Colonel Bell, were detailed to drag up six guns furnished by the Navy, and commanded by Lieutenant McCook, and one from the Cos- sack, commanded by Captain Bennett, who gallantly volunteered to man it. They succeeded in bringing up the guns, arriving in camp about 2 a. m. on the 14th instant. After almost incredible labor the guns were all brought into action and most gallantly served but from ~he nature of the ground they were unable to join my bri~ade, but served with General Foster, who no doubt will do full justice to their gallantry. The total loss in my brigade was 36 killed, 5 mortally wounded, and 160 more or less severely wounded.* I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Brigadier- General, Commanding Second Brigale. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 11. Report of Lieut. Col. William S. Clark, Twenty-first ]Jlassaehusetts In fantry. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIRST MAss. YoLs., Camp Reno, New Berne, N. C., March 16, 1862. CAPTAIN: About 9 oclock on the morning of the 13th instant the Twenty-first Massachusetts Volunteers, 743 strong, landed at the mouth of Slocums Creek, and by order of General Beno advanced about 2 miles through the pine woods along the south bank of the river Neuse to~rard New Berne. Arriving out upon a large open field, the regiment stacked arms, to await the arrival of the general with the rest of the brigade. Company G, under Lieutenant Taylor, formed the advance guard, and discovered a short distance into the woods beyond the cleared space a large number of wooden barracks, which had been evacuated about two hours before by the rebel cavalry, whose equanimity had been dis- turbed by shells from the gunboats. An advance of 4 miles brought the regiment to Croatan, where we found a very extensive earthwork running at right angles to the highway. This being unoccupied by the enemy, the colors of the Twenty-first were placed upon the parapet and heartly cheered by officers and men. Near this work a halt of an hour was made for dinner, during which the pioneers tore up the track of the railroad connecting New Berne with Beaufort. From this point the regiment was ordered to move for- ward upon the railroad track, and Company D, under Lieutenant Bar- ker, was sent forward as advance guard. About a mile of advance brought the regiment to a place where the highway crosses the rail- But see revised statement, p. 211 Page 224 224 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. road, an4 a half a mile to the right of the latter, on the river Neuse, a deserted earthwork was discovered by Lieutenant Iteno, aide-de-camp to the general. Company II, nnder Captain Frazer, with the colors, was detached from the regiment~, and under charge of General iReno visited the work, and waving the Star-Spangled Banner, bearing the honorable inscription Roanoke, February 8, 1862, and the spotless white colors of Massachusetts, with the noble motto, Ense pettt plact- darn sUb libertate quietern, gave three hearty cheers and hastily rejoined the advancing regiment. Proceeding along the railroad about a mile farther, the advance guard came upon a building containing several tents, a complete set of artillery harness, and a few boxes of ammuni- tion for 6 and 12 pounder guns. Lieutenant Barker, with A~jutant Stearns, then made a reconnaissance to the right of the railroad, and found an extensive encampment, also recently evacuated by rebel cav- alry, where were large quantities of clothing, commissary stores, and hospital stores, over which a guard was placed. One mile farther on the regiment bivouacked for the night, throwing out a picket guard of two companies on the front and left, the right being guarded by the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers and the rear by the Fifty- first New York Volunteers. The rain, which commenced to fall about 10 oclock of the 13th instant, continued in showers through the night, and on the morning of the 14th mist and fog enveloped everything. Notwithstanding every precaution on the part of both officers and in~n very many of the rifles were rendered quite unserviceable by the moisture. In some the powder became too wet to ignite, and in very many of the Enfleld rifled muskets the rammers were almost immovable from the swelling of the stocks. It is a great defect in this weapon that the friction of the wood along the whole length of the rammer is relied upon to keep it in place, since it is quite impossible that the ram- umers be well secured when the musket is dry and sufficiently loose for service when wet. It is a noteworthy evidence of discipline and courage on the part of the men that more than 50 went into the battle having only their bayonets to work with, and it was very hard to hear them, in the thickest of the fight, while standing helpless in their l)laees, beg their officers to give them a serviceable musket, and to see them eagerly seize the weapons of their comrades as fast as they fell beneath the leaden storm from the enemys earth works. Private Sheehan, of Coin- pan~ E, left his company to secure the musket of a man whom he saw killed in Company K, and when asked by Major Rice why he did not take the gun of one who had been shot in his own company replied that it was like his own, good for nothing. About 7 oclock a. m. General IReno ordered his brigade forward, the Twenty-first Massachusetts in the van. The advance guard, consistiUg of Company G, was led by Corporal Stratton, who deserves much credit for his coolness and intrepidity in pushing on through swamps and thickets and along the track of the railroad both on the 13th and 14th instant, every moment exposed to be fired upon by a concealed foe. Adjutant Stearns directed the movement of the first two squads of the advance guard in the most admirable manner during the entire march from the place of landing to the field of battle. As it was known that the defenses of the enemy were thrown across the high- way to the right of the railroad, the regiment proceeded cautiously through the woods on the left of the railroad and parallel with it. After advancing about half a mile a locomotive was seen coining down the road, and General Reno at once order~d us to file to the left and ~advance into the forest, which was no longer a level, open pine wood Page 225 ChAr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 225 but the ground was broken into hills separated by deep ravines, and the timber was of oak, white wood, and other deciduous trees, and of the largest description. The First Brigade, under General Foster, having advanced on the highway, came first upon the enemy, and the battle was now raging fiercely upon our right along the whole line of the earthworks from the river to the railroad. The smoke from the rapid firing of more than thirty cannon and several thousand muskets was driven down upon us by the wind, and mingling with the dense fog, so completely shut out the light of day (never more anxiously longed for) that it was impossible to derive any information respecting the position of the rebels ex~ept where it was indicated by the noise of battle. Our skirmishers now reported that we were opposite the right flank of a battery resting at this point on a deep cut in the railroad, and upon several buildings and brick walls in Woods brick-yard, which was across the road from our position a few hundred yards distant. The regiment was at once formed in line of battle facing the railroad, and Company C, Capt. J. N. Richardson, was ordered forward to reconnoiter. As rapidly as the difficult nature of the ground would allow the other companies formed on the right by file into line, and as soon as the remaining companies of the right wing were ready I moved forward with the colors to the support of Company C, who were already engaging the rebel riflemen in the trench upon the opposite side of the deep cut on the railroad. At the moment of their arrival at the cut the enemy were busily engaged in removing ammunition from the cars, which had just come in from New Berne with re-enforcements. At the first volley from Company C the enemy, in great astonishment, fled from the road and the trench to a ravine in the rear of the brick-yard. General Reno now ordered the color-bearer, Sergeant Bates, to plant his flag upon the roof of a building within the enemys intrenchments. He immedi- ately rushed forward several rods in advance of his company, and, amid a perfect shower of Minie balls clambered to the roof and waved the Star-Spangled Banner presented to the regiment by the ladies of Worcester. At this moment the noblest of us all, my brave, efficient, faithful adjutant, First Lieut. F. A. Stearns, Company 1, fell mortally wounded, the first among the 25 patriotic volunteers of the Twenty-first wh~o laid down their lives for their country at the battle of New Berne. As he was cheering on his men to charge upon the enemy across the railroad he was struck by a ball from an Enfleld rifle fired from a redan on the right and rear of the cefitral breastwork, on which we were advancing. The fatal Tuissile entered his left side, and passing through his lungs went out just below the collar-bone on the right breast. Corporal Welch, of Company C, noticing his fall, retnrned and remained with him during the battle. He lived about two and a half hours, nearly unconscious from the loss of blood, and died without a struggle a little before noon. General Reno, with Companies C, A, B, and H, of the right wing, dashed across the railroad, up the steep bank, and over the rifle trench on the top into the brick-yard. Here we were subjected to a most destructive cross-fire from the enemy on both sides of the railroad, and lost a large number of men in a very few minutes. The general, sup- posing we had completely flanked the enemy~s works, returned across 115 R RYOL T Page 226 226 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. ~CHAr XX. the road to bring up the rest of his brigade, but just at this time a tremendous fire of musketry and artillery was opened from the redans, hitherto unseen, and which were nine in number, extending from the railroad more than a mile to the right into the forest. The g~neral, being now obliged to devote his attention to the enemy in front of his brigade, ordered the left wing of the Twenty-first, under command of M~jor Rice, not to cross the railroad, but to continue firing upon the rebel infantry in the first two redans, with whom they were already engaged. These consisted of the Thirty-third North Carolina and the Sixteenth North Carolina Regiments, aiid were the best-armed and fought the most gallantly of any of the enemys forces. Their position was almost impregnable so long as their left flank, resting on the railroad, was defended, and they kept up an incessant fire for three hours, until their ammunition was exhausted and the remainder of the rebel forces had retreated from that portion of their works lying be- tween the river and the railroad. Having been ordered into the brick-yard and left there with my colors and the four companies above named, and fin ding it impossible to remain there without being cut to pieces, I was compelled either to charge upon Captain Brems battery of flying artillery or to retreat without having accomplished anything to compensate for the terri- ble loss sustained in reaching this point. Accordingly I formed my handful of men, about 200 in number, in line, the right resting on the breastwork of the enemy, and commenced firing upon the men and horses of the first piece. Three men and two horses having fallen, and the other gunners showing signs of uneasiness, I gave the com- mand, Charge bayonets, and went in to the first gnu. Reaching it I had the pleasure of mounting upon the 4lrst of the New Berne guns surrendered to the Yankees. It was a 6-pounder field piece, brought from Fort Macon, and marked U. S. Leaving this in the hands of Captain Walcott and Private John Dunn, of Company B, who cut away the horses and attempted to load and turn it upon the enemy, I proceeded to the second gun, some 800 paces from the brick-yard. By this time the three regiments of rebel infantry, who had retreated from the breastwork to a ravine in the rear when we entered the brick- yard, seeing that we were so few and received no support, rallied and advanced upon us. The Thirty-fifth and Thirty-seventh North Caro- lina Regiments, supported by the Seventh North Carolina, came up from the ravine in splendid style with their muskets on the right shoulder and halted. Most fortunately, or rather providentially, for ps, they remained undecided for a minute or two, and then resolved on a movement which saved us from destruction. Instead of giving us a volley at once, they first hesitated and then charged upon us without firing. I instantly commanded my men to spring over the parapet and ditch in front and retreat to the railroad, keeping as close as possible to the ditch. As the enemy could not fire upon us to any advantage until they reached the parapet, nearly all of those who obeyed my order escaped unharmed, though thousands of bullets whistled over us. On the railroad I found Colonel Rodman, with the Fourth Rhode Island, waiting for orders, and informed him of the situation of things in the intrenchments of the enemy, and urged him to advance at once and charge upon their flank, as I had done. Soon after Colonel 1-larland, with the Eighth Connecticut, came up, and then the two regiments advanced along the railroad to the brick-yard and charged by wing. As soon as the enemy saw them within their un s they instantly retired again to the ravine without firing a gun. It is some satisfa Page 227 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BEENE, N. C. 227 tion to those who were obliged to retreat from the battery after once driving the enemy from it that no one of the five brass pieces stationed in this part of their works was ever fired by them ~ifter our charge. Among the incidents of the day perhaps the following may not be out of place here: Capt. J. D. Frazer, of Company H, was wounded in the right arm just before charging, and dropped his sword. He, however, instantly picked it up with his left hand and led on his men with the colors. At the time of the retreat from the battery he was unable to clear the ditch, and fell into the water. As soon as the rebels discovered him they ordered him to get up, took him back over the parapet, and removing his sword, placed a guard of three men over him. When his captors in their turn retreated again he was unable or unwilling to move as rapidly as they, and when lie had detained his guard sufficiently long to permit him to attempt it, he drew his revolver and declared he would shoot the first one who stirred. They surren- dered to him and were delivered over to the Fourth Rhode Island as l)risoners of war. The lieutenant to whom Captain Frazer gave his sword was also captured and the sword returned to its rightful owner. Captain Frazer, before the close of the fight, was again in command of his company. Private J. A. Miller, of Company A, in clambering over the l)arapet in. the retreat, dropped his rifle into the ditch, and rather than leave his pet remained searchimig for it until captured. He was ordered to the rear of the enemy with a guard, and as the bullets were rather numerous in the air, he laid himself down between two logs and forgot to get up when his captors re4i-eated. Sergt. A. J. Weatherby, of Company B, was ordered by me to take care of a prisoner captured in the charge, and when obliged to retreat he did not forsake the rebel, but dragging him by the collar over the parapet and through the ditch, compelled him to double-quick with the ~ and after the battle delivered him over to me in good con dition. As soon as my men could be collected and the charges drawn from the rifles which had been wet in the ditch I returned along the railroad to rejoin the left wing of my regiment, which, after fighting with great steadiness and effect for three hours in front of the first two redans, were just rushing over the fallen timber of the almost impass- able swamp intervening between them and the retreating enemy. The conduct of my entire command, so far as I can learn, during both the march and the engagement, was worthy of great commenda- tion, and has received it in the assurance of our brigadier that he is satisfied with us. Having been ordered to occupy the captured works of the enemy, my regiment has been diligently engaged in collecting the arms, ammu- nition, equipments, clothing, tents, and commissary stores abandoned by them in their precipitate retreat. The prisoners taken by the dif- ferent regiments have been placed on board the propeller Albany, under charge of Company E, Captain Bradford. These are about 260 of the well prisoners, including 12 officers, and about 40 wounded rebels, who are cared for by their own surgeons and nurses. The dead have been carefully collected and buried under the direction of Act- ing Brigade Quartermaster Hall. The killed and mortally wounded of my regiment number 25 and the other casualties 31, be sides many cases of slight injuries and narrow escapes. The corrected list is here- with inclosed.* During the engagement the killed and wounded were rapidly carried to the rear by the members of the band, under direction of Acting Embodied in statement on p. 211 Page 228 228 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. Brigade Surgeon Cutter. The men deserve great credit for their atten- tion to duty while their comrades were falling around them, no one attempting to leave the ranks to assist the wounded. This order they obeyed the more cheerfully, because they were certain that Surgeon Cutter, with his hospital corps, was attending to this duty in their very midst. Assistant Surgeon Warren and Hospital Steward Davis have labored with unceasing zeal to render the wounded comfortable since the battle, and their kind care and skillful treatment will never be for- gotten by the regiment. Hoping this report of the part performed by the Twenty-first Massa- chusetts Volunteers at the memorable battle of New Berne may be sat- isfactory, I am, captain, very respectfully, yours, W. S. CLARK, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Twenty-first Mass. Vols. Capt. EDWARD N. NEILL, Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Brigade. No. 12. Report of Licut. Col. Charles A. Heekman, Ninth Yew Jersey Infantry. HDQRS. NINTH REGIMENT NEW JERSEY VOLS., Camp 1?eno, March 15, 1~862. SIR: I have the honor to report the position and part taken by the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers in the action near New Berne, the 14th instant: At 7 a. m. I received orders from you to form line on the left of the Fifty-first New York Volunteers and follow them up the railroad track toward New Berne. Having arrived within about a mile of the enemy~s works we were ordered to file to the left into the timber and approach them under cover, and by the right flank we proceeded until within about 800 yards of their batteries, when on order I formed the regi ment into line; but not being able, as I believed, to see the whole of the Fifty-first New York Volunteers, and knowing them to be in the advance I threw two companies from right to rear in order to avoid firing into their ranks. With the four remaining companies of the right wing I advanced to within about 500 yards and opened a brisk fire on the redan immediately in front, and on another obliquely to the right, adjoining the railroad track. On discovering a third redan obliquely to the left, supported by rifle pits on its right flank, I threw the left to rear, the right of that wing resting on the colors, to avoid a flank attack. I then ordered the advance and to take ground to the left, and on gaining sufficient ground brought the two right com- panies into line. * The whole line advanced, firing until within about 200 yards of the works, pouring a rapid fire into them, the extreme left gaining ground until upon a direct line. Having been firing a long time (about three hours), I examined several boxes and found the am- munition was getting low. I sent a lieutenant, informing you of the fact, and received an order to charge. We charged, and under diffi- culties (without securing a shot) planted our colors on two redans, cap- turing two officers and several privates, and a rebel flag with this in- scription, Beaufort Plow Boys. It is in a good state of preserva- tion, and will be kept so by the Ninth, if agreeable to you. All of the officers and men having performed their duty it is har Page 229 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 229 for me to particularize. I regret the necessity to add that Lieut. Will- iam L. Walker, of Company II, was killed while faithfully discharging his duties as an officer, and also the loss of the services, which I hope is only for a time, of Captains Middleton, McChesney, and ilufty, who were wounded whilst gallantly cheering their men on P5 victory. In addition to the above I report the loss of 3 privates killed and 55 wounded, making in all 4 killed in action, 58 wounded; making an aggregate of 62. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. A. IIECKMAN Lieutenant Colonel, Comdg. Ninth Regt. New Jersey Vols. General J. L. RENO, Commanding Second Brigade, Department of North Carolina. 0 No. 13. Report of Col. Edward Ferrero, Fifty-first New York Infantry. IIDQRS. SHEPARD ThFLES, FIFTY-FIRST REGT. N. 17 VoLs Near New Berne, N C., ]Iliarch 17, 1862. GENERAL: The regimentundermy command landed fromthe steamers Lancer and Pioneer on the 13th instant about 14 miles below New Berne, N. C. Great difficulty was experienced in landing, on acconnt of the enemys obstructions by driving spiles, & c., and having finally effected it (my color-bearer being the first to plant the Union colors on the shore) I formed the regiment and took up our line of march, when, having pro- ceeded some 8 miles and night coming on, I ordered the regiment to bivonac in the woods on the line of the railroad leading to New Berne. The night was very stormy. Most all of my command, being exposed, were saturated by the rain. At 6 a. m. the following morning (14th) 1 took my line of march up the railroad until within 300 yards of a col- lection of brick-kilns, where Lieutenant iReno brought me an order from you to turn oft~ in the woods to the left and form in rear of the Twenty- first Massachusetts Regiment. Upon arriving at this point I halted my regiment and threw out Company D as skirmishers. Finding that we could not engage the enemy in this position the lieutenant-colonel and myself proceeded to make a reconnaissance in advance, parallel with the railroad, a distance of some hundred yards. The ground here was undulating, forming a number of deep ravines. We discovered the eneftiys batteries and rifle pits extending a distance of a mile and a half, in front of which were deep ravines obstructed by an almost im- passable abatis. Immediately npon the enemy discovering us as we were surveying their works on the brow of the hill they opened a heavy fire upon us, wounding Lieutenant-Colonel Potter. Immediately returned to the position occupied by my regiment and ordered them forward to the summit of the hill, which position we took, firing and lying down in ravine to reload. A continuous lire was then kept up on the enemy, which they returned with great vigor, making sad havoc in our ranks. My loss at this point was very severe, owing to the exposed position of the troops when advancing to fire. The action continued for about three hours, when, we having expended nearly all of our ammunition, I applied for re-enforcements, when the Fifty-first Pennsylvania Reg Page 230 230 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. (OUAP. XX. inent was ordered to our support. They having discharged one volley Ii was ordered to charge, which the mcii executed gallantly, planting the colors on the ramparts. The enemy fled in great contusion toward New Berne. The unflinching courage displayed by all of my command cannot be too highly praised, each one vieing with the other to make our victory sure and complete. To particularize those who behaved with gallantry would be unjust where all did so well. The following officers, however, I cannot avoid noticing: Lient. Col. R. B. Potter, who was wounded in the early part of the action, behaved with great gallantry and coolness. Maj. C. W. Le Gendre, who was dangerously wounded, is deserving of especial notice for his gallantry, contributing no little to our success. Capt. David IR. Johnson, of Company I, who was severely wounded, displayed great bravery. Lieutenants Tryon and McKee, of Companies B aud C, who were wounded, are also deserving of especial notice. The beai~rs of my colors (Sergeants Poppe and Howard) I must also mention, their actions proving them to be possessed of great courage, holding aloft the colors under a very hot fire. Among the dead I cannot overlook the iioble conduct of the 11e~~ 0. N. Benton, my chaplain. In him we have to mourn the loss of a most useful man, one who encouraged my men by word and deed on all occa- sions, and who did not regard his own life while serving his country. Lieut. George D. Allen, of C oinpany I, who was instantly killed, also conducted himself with great gallantry. I received an order to march my regiment to the right of the enemys battery for rest. After remaining there some twenty minutes Lieuten- ant McCook, of the Marine Artillery, having charge of six howitzers (three of them captured from the enemy), with ammunition, which were to be sent to New Berne, I sent the regiment a distance of a quarter of a mile below to bring up cars for their transportation. Having placed them upon the cars they drew them to the bridge, which upon their arrival was found to have been burned by the enemy after fleeing across, as well as a portion of the city, which was still burning. Here I received an order to bivouac in a corn field to the right of the railroad, where I made my men as comfortable as the circumstances would allow. I herewith transmit a list of killed and wounded and missing.* I have the honor to be, general, your very obedient servant, EDWARD FEIRREIRO, Colonel Fifty-first New York Volunteers. General J. L. IRENO, Commanding Second Brigade, Department of North Carolina. ho. 14. Report of Col. John F. Hartranft, Fifty-fir.9t Pennsylvania Infantry. HDQRS. FIFTY-FIRST REGT. PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS, In Cantonment near~New Berne, N C., March 16, 1862. Sin: I have the honor to report for the information of the general commanding the brigade that after landin- three companies of my regiment at Slocums Landing on the 13th instant I was ordered to follow the Ninth New Jersey. Leaving Lient. Col. Thomas S. Bell at Embodi& 1 in statement on P. 211 Page 231 CHAP. YCX.) 231 BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. the place of disembarkation to bring forward the remainder of the regiment as soon as landed, I moved forward after the Ninth up the beach. Finding Captain Bennetts gnn (from the steamer Cossack) manned by an insufficient force, I made a detail of my men, who dragged it to the point where we left the river and there left it, with directions to Captain Bennett to apply to Lieutenant-Colonel Bell for assistance when he came up. I soon after overtook Lieutenant McCook, U. S. Navy, with his siK-gun howitzer battery from the gunboats, and being so ordered by General Burnside detailed a company to assist in bringing it forward. I then pushed on with the brigade, and bivouacked with it on the railroad about 6 p. in. As soon as the remaining seven companies were disembarked they were marched forward by Lieutenant- Colonel Bell. On reaching Captain Bennetts gnu he made the neces- sary detail to bring it on. He soon after overtook Lieutenant MeCooks battery, whose men were very much exhausted, and receiving an order there from General IReno through you to render every assistance in bringing them to the front, took charge of the guns with his seven companies and the one I had left with them. The ground, before reaching the county road, being very miry, and after reaching it exceedingly heavy, the labor was necessarily very severe and their progress slow. He proceeded with the battery and Bennetts gun, which had overtaken him, until 9.30 oclock p. in., when an orderly that he had sent on to General Burnside returned with a message that he might bivouac if he though best, but to have the guns up early in the morning. As the men seemed utterly unable to pro- ceed without some rest, they bivouacked until 1 and 2 oclock a. m. He then moved them forward and reported his arrival with all the guns to Generals Burnside and IReno at their headquarters at 4 a. in. The companies were abain bivouacked until between 6 and 7 a. in., when, in accordance with General lienos order, they united with me on the railroad. The movement on the enemy commenced almost immediately afterward, and in my position I proceeded up the rail- road, and when near the enemys works filed to the left into the woods with the brigade. I received the order to proceed to the extreme left and support the Ninth New Jersey and resist any attack of the enemy from their works on the left. The Ninth was soon engaged, and nuder a very heavy fire I brought my regiment into line, supporting the Ninth with my right wing and with my left covering the approaches from that quarter. My regiment remained in this position for some time, and at this point several of my men were wounded, though I sheltered them as much as possible by causing them to lie down. I sent my skirmishers to my immediate left, with orders not to fire but merely to reconnoiter. They reported to me that the works of the enemy, of the same character as those in our front, extended as far as they could see. The Ninth moving farther to the front, I moved my regiment forward and farther to the left, so as to maintain the interval of about 100 feet between my regiment and the Ninth. I desire to mention here that Lieutenant-Colonel Heckinan, coin- manding the Ninth, was most persever4ing and energetic in the man- agement of his regiment throughout the engagement. While in this position I received the order from General Ileno to send my left wing to the assistance of the Fifty-first New York (engaged near me on the right), whose ammunition was running short. The left wing, under com- mand of Lieutenant-Colonel Bell, ilnine(iiately marched on the double- quick to where the Fifty-first New York was engaged, and was formed in line on the crest of the small hill about 125 yards from the enemy Page 232 232 OPERATIONS IN I~ORTH CAROLINA. [CIIAP. XX. who were firing from behind their breastworks. After delivering a round, which had the effect of causing a slacking of the enemys fire, General Iteno ordered the firing to cease, and directed Lieutenant- Colonel Dell to charge with his companies on the works of the enemy. This was immediately done with loud cheers, and struggling through the abatis and marsh that obstructed the approach through the ravine soon reached the battery and planted their colors inside. The enemy retreated while the charge was being made, leaving the two guns in the battery still loaded. The right wing immediately advanced and joined the left in the battery. The regiment was then formed and marched with the brigade up the railroad and bivouacked for the night. During the engagement 9 of my men were wounded. It is with pleasure that I am able to make particular mention of Lieutenant-Colonel Bell, who so gallantly led the charge of the left wing on the enemy~s works. I also mention with pleasure the services rendered by Lieutenants Fair, Beaver, and Carman, who were very active from the time of landing, and especially during the engagement. They had been previously detailed to act as aides to me. Lieuten- ant Bible, my adjutant, was also very active and efficient. All my officers throughout the trying labors of the day of landing and during the engagement were most efficient, and by their patience, coolness, and gallantry inspired thej1r men with confidence. The conduct of the men in forming and maintaining their line of battle under a heavy cross- fire and their gallantry in unhesitatingly charging the works of the enemy over obstacles deemed to be impassable are worthy of all praise. The band of my regiment, which was acting as an ambulance corps, were very efficient in removing my wounded as well as a number of the wounded of the Fifty-first New York and Ninth New Jersey. In conclusion I may say that I have every reason to be fully satisfied with the conduct and discipline of my regiment. I am, captain, very respectfully, yours, J. F. IIARTIRANFT, Colonel, Comdg. Fifty-ftrst Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. Capt. EDWARD M. KEILL, Asst. Adjt. Gen. SecondBrigade, Coast Division. No. 15. Report of Brig. Gen. John U. Parke, U. S. Army, commanding Third Brigade. IIDQRs. THIRD BRIG., DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, Carolina City, March 22, 1862. CAPTAIN: ]I have the honor respectfully to submit the following report of the operations of the troops under my command from the moment the signal for landing was displayed on the steamer of the commanding general on the morning of the 13th instant to the evening of the 14th, when New Berne was taken: My brigade is made up of the following regiments: Fourth Rhode Island, colonel commanding I. P. Rodmnan; Eighth Connecticut, colo- nel commanding Edward ilarland; Fifth Rhode Island Battalion, major commanding John Wright; Eleventh Connecticut, lieutenant Page 233 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 233 colonel commanding Charles Mathewson. At the signal the light- draught steamer Union, with the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment on board, and the tug-boat Alert, with about twenty small boats in tow with detachments from the other regiments, steamed for the shore at the mouth of Slocum~s. Creek to make a landing at the point indicated by the general commanding in person. Finding obstructions in the mouth of the creek the steamer was unable to reach the bank, and the men were landed in small boats; an operation consuming much time. The men were immediately formed on their respective colors, and as the several regiments were landed they took np their line of march, following for some distance up the right bank of Lhe Neuse River to a point where a company of the enemys cavalry had been posted on advance-guard duty. Here the road leaves the river, and after passing one or two farm-houses in the pine woods it strikes the main county road leading from Beanfort to New Berne. This we followed for a short distance, and .soon came to an extensive line of intrenchments crossing the road and extending to the railroad. This was entirely abandoned by the enemy. Here the railroad crosses the county road at an acute angle, and as the two roads continue on to New Berne in close proximity, the main command was divided. My brigade, by the order of the general commanding, followed General Foster on the county road, while General Reno marched up the railroad. Near night- fall we reached the second crossing of these roads, and as the com- mand continued on in the same order, General Renos brigade occupied the left. The march was kept up until after dark, when orders were received to halt and bivouac for the night. The regiments were then placed in position on the road-side. The roads generally were in bad order, and the men marched in many localities through water and mud. in addition, heavy showers fell at intervals during the day and night, and although the men had their overcoats and blankets the bivouac was extremely trying. On the following morning, the 14th, the brigade was under arms and ready for the march soon after daylight. Before starting I detailed, by order of the general commanding, the Eleventh Connecticut Regiment to relie.ve one of General Renos regiments in bringing up the boat howitzers and guns which had arrived during the night~ Soon the whole command was in motion, my brigade following the guns, which were directly behind General Foster, while General Reno moved up the railroad. It was not long before the advance had engaged the enemy, and it was soon found that in the attack we would be exposed to a flank fire from heavy artillery as well as from field artillery and musketry in our front. The country is generally level and smooth and covered with a growth of pine and occasional clumps of undergrowth, the whole being styled open piney woods. On the field in front of the enemy this character of ground extends from the river to the vicinity of the railroad, where it becomes broken into shallow hollows and drains, crossing the railroad and running off to the left. Owing to the dense f~g that prevailed but little could be seen, although the timber in front of the enemy had all been felled. As before stated, my brigade followed General Fosters up the county road directly in reat of the howitzers. When the head of the column had nearly reached the edge of the woods, and General Fosters brigade was being placed in position and engaging the enemy, the general com- inanding directed me to file to the left and take up a position from which I could support either General Foster pr General Reno when the occasion required. I directed the brigade through the timber, an Page 234 234 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. (CHAP. XX. guided by the fire of the enemy kept a course nearly parallel to his lines. After passing General Fosters left and when the head of the column had approached within a short distance of the railroad I halted the brigade, and being exposed to a fire of both artillery and mnsketry, the regiments were placed in the hollow under as good cover as the ground furnished~ind skirmishers were deployed just on the edge of the plateau to observe the enemy. An aide was then sent to the general command- ing informing him of my position and that the ground ahead appeared very difficult. The drains spread into a swamp and the timber was felled, making the ground almost impassable. Before 1 received a reply from the general commanding the colonel of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment, finding his regiment too much exposed, moved it over to the railroad, the embankment affording good cover. While in this position I found that the fire in our front was in- creasing in intensity, and soon discovered some of our men, a portion of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, of General Renos brigade, were forced to abandon a position they had attained inside the enemys in- trenchments. Lieutenant-Colonel Clark, commanding the Twenty-first Massachusetts, meeting Colonel Rodman, of the Fourth Rhode Island, informed him that he had been in the work, and assured him of the feasibility of again taking the intrenchments. Lieutenant Lydig, one of my aides, then made an examination of the entrance to the intrench- ments by the way of the railroad, and finding it quite practicable, so reported it to Colonel Rodman, who assumed the responsibility and at once prel)ared for the charge. Lieutenant Hill, my other aide, re- ported immediately the state of affairs. Being thus in position to turn the flank of the iiitrenchments resting on the railroad and brick-yard, and having just received orders from the general commanding that we must flank the battery ahead, I apl)roved the course of Colonel Rodman, and at once ordered the Eighth Connecticut and Fifth Rhode Island Regiments to his support. Colonel Rodman reports: I then gave the order to charge. Passing quickly by the rifle pits (redoubts on our left flank), which opened on us with little injury, we entered in rear of their intrenchments, and the regiment in a gallant manner carried gun after gun, until the whole nine brass field pieces of their front were in our possession, with carriages, caissons, horses, & .c., the enemy sullenly retiring, firing only three guns from the front and three others from the fort (Thompson) on their left, which happily passed over onr heads. The Eighth Connecticut and Fifth Rhode Island followed immediately in the rear and in support of the Fourth Rhode Island. We thus broke the enemy~s center and drove him from his intrenched position between the railroad amid the river. These regiments were immediately formed in line, and were soon joined by the Eleventh Connecticut, the remain- ing regiment of the brigade. This regiment, being engaged in bringing up the naval howitzers and guns, became detached from the brigade, and by the order of the general commanding was assigned temporarily to the command of Brigadier-General Foster, commanding the First Brigade, and I respectfully refer you to his report of their operations as well as to that of the lieutenant-colonel commanding. Although now in possession of the entire work qf the enemy between the railroad and river, the heavy firing on our left and beyond the rail- road proved that General Renos brigade was still hotly engaging the enemy. Much of the enemys fire was directed upon us. I ordered the Fifth Rhode Island Battalion and Eighth Connecticut Regiment to ad- vance cautiously and ascertain by skirmishers the ground still occupie Page 235 CHAP. XX.) BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 235 by the enemy. The brigade quartermaster and commissary, Capt. J. N. King, then reported to me that the enemy still occupied rifle pits along- side the railroad and back of the brick-yard and a series of redonbts extending beyond the railroad and in General IRenos front. I then had the Fourth IRhode Island IRegiment brought up, and ordered the colonel to drive the enemy from his position. This order was executed in a most gallant manner. Although exposed to a heavy and severe fire, killing and wounding- most valuable officers and men, the regiment charged the enemy in flank, while a simuhaneous charge was made by General Iteno iu front, thn~s driving the eneny from his last stronghold. The brigade then marched directly up the railroad toward New Berne. As we approached it was soon evident, from the dense columns of smoke that the bridge over the Trent and the city had been fired. By direc- tion of the commanding general I left the railroad at the county-road crossing, and continued up the county road, to secure,if possible, that bridge over the Trent. Before reaching the bridge I received an order to halt the brigade and select grouud for a bivouac. In our immediate vicinity I fouiid three encampments just abandoned by the enemy. They attempted to burn their tents, quarters, and stores, but owing to their hasty retreat they only partially succeeded. The fire was soon checked, and I secured good quarters, tents, and shelter for the entire brigade. Property of different kindsarms, horses, c ai~p equipage, horse equipments, and one caissonwere here captured. I directed the regimental quartermasters to make an inventory of the property and hand it to the brigade quartermaster. Iu concluding this report I take great l)leasure in expressing my thanks to every officer and soldier in the brigade. During the hard and fatiguing march of the 13th and the trying bivouac of that night not a murmur was heard. On the morning of the 14th all seemed as fresh and as ready as if they had just left the most comfortable encamp- ment. All were under fire, and the officers seemed proud of the men they were leading and the men showed they had full confidence in their officers. For thedetails of the movements of the regiments I have respectfully to refer you to the reports of the regimental commanders, to which are appended lists of the killed and wounded. I mourn the loss of the gal- lant dead and the wounded have my heart-felt sympathy. My personal staff; Capt. Charles T. Gardner, assistant adjutant-gen- eral; Capt. John N. King, brigade quartermaster and commissary; and Lieut~. M. Asbury Hill and Philip M. Lydig, jr., volunteer aides, were indefatigable in their exertions and rendered most valuable aid and assistance. They conveyed orders, brought timely reports, and made reconnaissances of the enemy, and although at times greatly exposed, I am happy to report they all escaped untouched. Acting Brigade Sur- geon iRivers entered upon his duties immediately on the commencement of the action and remained on the field throughout the day and night and was unremitting in his care of the wounded. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obediemit servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Brigadier- General Volunteers. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department of North Garolina Page 236 236 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XI. No. 16. Report of Col. Edward iliarland, Eighth Connecticut Infantry. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH CONNECTICUT REGIMENT. CAPTAIN: I herewith submit a report of the movements of the Eighth Regiment of Connecticut Volunteers during the engagement with the forces of the enemy near New Berne on the 14th of March, 1862. At about 7 a. m. the regiment left the woods where they had bivou- acked the night before. In accordance witl~orders from General Parke I conducted the regiment along the road in the direction of the rebel battery, following the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment. After pro- ceeding for about a mile in this direction we turned to the left and approached through the woods the right of the principal battery. On approaching the edge of the woods in front of the intrenchments of the enemy I received orders from General Parke to remain there with the regiment until further orders. Afterward, being ordered to engage the enemy, I threw forward skirmishers preparatory to advancing in line. Our skirmishers being driven in and it being impossible to advance in this direction, I joined the Fourth Rhode Island, who were then on the railroad, and endeavored, if possible, to turn the enemys right. We entered the battery in the rear of the brick-yard and found that the enemy had just abandoned it. I formed the regiment in line between the rebel breastworks and the woods and sent skirmishers into the woods. Finding that a direct advance in that direction would bring the regiment in contact with portions of General Fosters brigade, I so reported to General Parke, who ordered me to move more to the left, to the assistance of the Fifth Rhode Island. I filed through the woods, and when we arrived at the railroad the enemy were in full re- treat in the direction of New Berne. The regiment then moved toward New Berne and occupied barracks on the right bank of the Trent. Con- siderable property was taken that had been abandoned by the enemy, though an attempt, partially successful, had been made to destroy it. Lieutenant Alexander, regimental quartermaster, has furnished Cap- tain King, brigade quartermaster, with an inventory of all the property found. Throughout the day the officers and soldiers of the regiment, though most of them were there under fire for the first time, behaved with com- mendable coolness and bravery.* EDWARD HARLAND, Colonel, Comdg. Eighth Regiment Conn. Vols. Capt. CHARLES T. GARDNER, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Brigade, Dept. of North Carolina. No. 17. Report of Licut. Col. Charles Mathewson, Eleventh Connecticut Infantry. ELEVENTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS. SIR: On the morning of the 13th the Eleventh Regiment Connecti- cut Volunteers landed in small boats from the steamer Louisiana, the * Nominal list of casualties reports 2 men killed and 1 office~ (Capt. Charles L. Upham) and 3 men wounded Page 237 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 237 schooner Eva Bell, and the barges Shrapnel and Grapeshot, and im- mediately began the march toward New Berne, following the troops who had preceded them. They bivouacked at night, and upon the morning of the 14th, according to order, continued the march, drag- ging the guns of the Mariue Artillery. Owing to the narrowness and the bad condition of the road the progress was slow, and the immense number of troops obstructing the passage caused the companies to become somewhat separated. Upon arriving before the enemy the howitzers were brought into battery by the companies having them in charge. In the absence of orders each company, as it left the guns, fell to the tear and reformed, but owing to a delay of fifteen or twenty minutes in bringing up the last guns the companies arriving first fell back and to the left and formed line of battle. Company C coming up last, and unable after leaving their guns to find the regiment, took position to the right of the Marine Artillery and on the left of the Massachu- setts Twenty-fourth. (The denomination of the Massachusetts regi- ment may be incorrect.) When the engagement was somewhat advanced the Eleventh Con- necticut was ordered to relieve the Massachusetts Twenty-seventh. They formed line of battle 30 paces in advance of them and retained the position until the charge which carried the work was made, when they pushed forward, passed the breastworks, and formed in rear of the Connecticut Eighth. Meanwhile Company C, which had not re- joined the regiment, charged with the Massachusetts troops and placed the colors second upon the battery. The regiment resumed the march upon the left of the Rhode Island Fifth, passed up the railroad, and were assigned quarters in the old rebel cavalry quarters upon the right of the Connecticut Eighth. Respectfully, CHARLES MATHEWSON, Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Eleventh Connecticut Regiment. No. 18. Report of Cot. Isaac. P. Rodman, Fourth Rhode Island Infantry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH RHODE ISLAND REGIMENT, Camp near New Berne, March 17, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the Fourth Rhode Island in the battle of New Berne, March 14, 1862: Landed from the steamer Eastern Queen, by the aid of the stern- wheeler Union, at a point some 16 miles below this place, on the south- ern bank of the River Neuse, at 10.30 oclock a. m. Thursday, the 13th instant, and found the regiment on the marsh and woody land. By your orders took up line of march in rear of the Fifty-first Peunsyl- vania, continued on through the day, nothing of importance occurring. We bivouacked for the night, which was wet and stormy. The men, being well supplied with blankets and provisions, did not suffer from the exposure. On the muorning of the 14th, at 6.30 a. in., we were again ready for a start, when you ordered me to follow the rear of General Fosters brigade, which I did, moving off~ on the right of our brigade. The road beiffg every heavy, our marching was slow, when at about 8 oclock a. m. heavy firing was heard ahead and on our left, Genera Page 238 238 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. Foster being engaged with the batteries in front, General iReno having engaged the right of the enemy. Following you by the front of the enemys lines we filed to the left through the wood for some distance nearly to the railroad, when by your orders the regiment halted while you ascertained where we were most needed. Standing in this position, a few minutes Captain Ken- yous company, D, was deployed to the front as skirmishers, and our position being rather exposed, moved the regiment to the railroad and waited for further orders. While here part of the Twenty-first Massa- chusetts, Lieutenant-Colonel Clark~ was driven back from the battery in a charge they had made before we came up. Colonel Clark assuring me of the feasibility of charging the works from my position, and Mr. Lydig, an aide on your staff, urging me to take the responsibility, I told him if Mr. Hill, your other aide, would inform you, I would go on. Mr. Lydig then promptly started to bring up the Eighth Connecticut to support me. I formed the regiment in a partially-protected hollow, the right wing in front, supported by my left wing, the space and posi- tion rendering this, as I judged, the best plan. I then gave the order to charge. Passing quickly by the rifle pits, which opened on us with little injury, we entered in rear of their intrenchinents, and the regi- ment in a gallant manner carried gun after gun, until the whole nine brass field pieces of their front were in our possession, with carriages, caissons, horses, & c., the enemy suddenly retiring, firing only three guns from the front and three at us from the fort on their left, which happily passed over our heads. The enemy forming in the woodsI should judge about the strength of two regimentsI did not think it prudent to attack them. The national flag of the Fourth Rhode Island was planted on the parapet, and the enemy retired from the whole length of their lines on their left flank. I formed the regiment, after resting a few minutes, in rear of the Eighth and Eleventh Connecticut and Fifth Rhode Island. In about ten minutes, by your orders, I prepared to attack the rifle pits on the right of General ~ force, where the firing had been and still continued heavy. Countermarched by the right flank and entered the woods near the brick-works, when the enemy opened on us with a severe fire, killing and wounding some of my best officers and men. Seeing this would not do, I ordered the regiment to charge the pits and railroad embankment, which they did in a flue manner, carrying them in about fifteen minutes. At about the same time General Renos brigade drove the enemy from their front. Collecting the wounded under the care of my surgeons I prepared to move on, when in a short time by your orders we moved forward on the railroad toward New Berne. On arriving at the county road turned off and sent my right company forward as skirmishers9 Marched on without opposition, arriving near New Berne, ~~hen you ordered me to take possession of the deserted camp by the road, lately occupied by Colonel Lees regiment. This I proceeded to do, and took possession of the camp, stores, & c., where my regiment has since remained. The regimental quartermaster, Lieut. C. S. Smith, will render an account of the property found when he has made the in- ventory. For the brave men who so gloriously fell I could not say enongh. They fell gallantly at their postsCaptain [Charles] Tilliughast at the head of his company; Captain [William S.] Chase, severely wounded, leading on his; Lieutenant Curtis also wounded at kis post. Of the living it would be invidious in me to name one officer above anothe Page 239 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BEENE, N. C. 239 when all did so well. Every wish and measure was promptly responded to by the officers of field, staff; and line, and this example the men were proud to follow. Surgeons Rivers, Millar, and Mr. Flanders, the chaplain, were indefatigable in their exertions for the comfort of the men. * * * * * * * All of which is respectfully submitted.* Your obedient servant, I. P. IRODMAN, Colonel, Fourth Rhode Island Volunteers. No. 19. Report of ]JEaj. John Wright, Fifth Rhode Island Infantry. IIDQRS. FIFTH REGIMENT RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS ~Jamp Pierce, New Berne, N. C., March 18, 1862. Sin: I have the honor to snbmit to yon the following report of the operations of the First Battalion of the Fifth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers in the battle of the 14th instant: At the signal given from the brigade flag-ship, on the morning of the 13th of March, 1862, the boats of the steam-transports Curlew and Eagle, in which the battalion was quartered, were cleared away, filled with men, and dispatched to the steamer Eastern Queen at about 8 oclock. That forenoon I lauded with three companies and a half, and with these took my position in line, according to orders, on the left of the Eighth Connecticut. I continued the march until I received orders to halt and bivouac for the night. About 2 the next morning the ad- jutant brought the two remaining companies into camp. At daybreak the 14th I formed the battalion in line, awaiting orders, which soon came, and were to continue to fbllow on the left of the Eighth Connecti- cut. The column moved about 6.30 oclock a. m. and passed slowly along the route followed the day before. Not long acter the firing com- menced in front, and the orders came to keep well closed up. Soon after Captain DWolf came down the line and ordered us to close up, and we commenced the double-quick. After following the main road a short distance farther we turned off to the left and entered the woods. Just after we turned a cannon ball passed over our heads, which showed that we were approaching the battery, anti caused us to press forward more eagerly to support the attack. After passing through a swampy place we came to a halt on the brow of a bluff, where we awaited further orders and the further movements of the Eighth Connecticut. As the bullets flew very thick over our heads we were ordered to lie down. When the Twenty- first Massachusetts was driven from the battery and the enemy made a sally the orders came to fix bayonets and prepare to receive a charge. We formed in line of battle, left in front, but as they were driven back be- fore we saw them, we continued as we were before that. Our orders were still to continue on the left of the Eighth Connecticut. At last the orders came to turn the right flaiik of the enemy. We passed down into the hollow, filed off still farther to the left, and passed over A nominal list of casualties omitted above reports 1 officer and 10 men killed and 2 officers and 23 men woundedtotal 36 Page 240 240 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XI. another elevation, when we came to the railroad, just below the brick- yard. Then, with General Parke at our head, we pushed on, passed in rear of the breastworks of the enemy, and as we came upon the high open ground behind it we came under a raking fire from the rifle pits across the railroad and the brick-yard, where the enemy lay in large force. We pushed on at the double-quick until we came under cover of the trees, where we foimed in line of battle and prepared to charge on the enemy in the battery. As they had retired, I was ordered first to send one company and afterward the whole battalion, and to proceed cau- tiously and find out what the firing was on our left. I sent the adjutant ahead to find out the direction we should take. As it was pointed out by the generals aide, Lieutenant Lydig, we passed down into a hollow t and ascended the left-hand side cautiously until we reached the brow of the elevation, when we came in view of the enemy aiid immediately opened upon them a brisk fire, which immediately had an effect, for their fire slackened and stopped when we ceased firing. We opened upon them two or three times afterward until we were afraid of firing upon the Fourth Rhode Island, who were advancing upon them on our right. When the Fourth charged upon them we ceased firing and awaited orders. It was on this hill that we met with the greater part of our loss. As we had no colors, I was ordered to follow in the rear of the Eighth Connecticut, and le axing a few to take care of the killed and wounded we passed down to the railroad, and at 11 oclock took up our line of march for the city of New Berne. When we reached the main road, which crossed the railroad, we turned to theleft, and continued our march until we received orders to halt and take possession of a rebel camp off to the right from the road which had been occupied by the rebel artillery.* I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN WRIGHT, ilfajor, Comdg. first Bat. P~fth Regt. Rhode Island Vols. CHARLES T. GARDNER, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 20. R~ports of Brig. Gen. 19. OB. Branch, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF PAMLICO, liliarch 15, 1862. GENERAL: On Wednesday (12th) at 4 p. m. it was made known to me that the enemy were ascending Neuse River in force. Under cover of their gunboats they effected a landing of troops in the rear of the Croatan breastwork Thursday morning, they compelling me to evac- uate that position. I instantly threw behind the Fort Thompson breast- work every available man under my command and prepared to wait there the enemys farther advance. On Friday morning, at about 7 oclock, I was assailed by overwhelm- * Nominal list of casualties shows 1 officer (Lient. Henry R. Pierce) and 1 man killed and 8 men wounded Page 241 241 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. ing forces and compelled to yield the breastwork. The evacuation of the river batteries, thus taken in reverse, of course, followed and the enemy is now in possession of New Berne. From the nature of the position my troops were much scattered in the retreat, and I am rapidly concentrating them at this place. I have given orders to my chief engineer, aided by Captain Meade, to make an examination into the best means of defending some point which will check the advance of the enemy to the railroad at Golds- borough. 1 am satisfied that it cannot be done withont a large increase of force. My command is entirely destitute of camp equipage of every de- scription, and can on that account be kept together only with great difficulty. At an early day I will report more in detail the operations of the tw~ days. Yours, very respectfully, L. OB. BRANCH, Brigadier-General, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, In the Field, March 26, 1S62. GENERAL: My report of the battle of the 14th below New Berne has been withheld until I conld get a report from Col. Th P. Campbell, who commanded my right wing on that day. It is now submitted; with reports from the commanders of all the regiments on the field. A brief description of the artificial defenses of New Berne, together with the inclosed sketch, will enable you to comprehend the move- ments of the day, which were few and simple. The defensive works were located and constructed before I assumed command. The troops under my command had performed a large amount of work, but it was ni~inIy on the river defenses, which were not assailed by the enemy. They had been originally planned for a force much larger than any ever placed at my disposal, and I was for six weeks engaged in making the necessary changes to contract them, but the failure of all my efforts to obtain implements and tools with which the troops could carry on the work prevented me from making satisfactory progress. I had circulated handbills over the State, calling on the citizens generally to assist me, and received from two counties a small party of free negroes without implements. I then inserted in the newspaper an advertisement calling on the slave owners to hire their slaves, with implements, for a few days, and I got but a single negro. During all this time I continued the troops at work, and when the enemy came into the river 500 per day were being detailed to construct breastworks, with less than half that number of worn and broken shovels and axes, without picks or grubbing-hoes. If the fate of New Berne shall prevent a similar supineness on the part of citizens, and especially slave owners, elsewhere, it will be fortunate for the country. Ten miles below New Berne, on the south side of the Neuse, is the mouth of Otter Creek. From this creek, 1 mile above its mouth, the Croatan breastwork runs across to an impracticable swamp about three-fourths of a mile. This is a well-planned and well-constructed work, which 2,000 men and two field batteries could hold against a very large force. But from the mouth of Otter Creek to Fort Thompson, the lowest of 16 R UVOL I Page 242 242 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. the river batteries, is a distance of 6 miles of river shore, on any part of which the enemy could land and take the Croatan work in reverse. It is obvious that the breastwork was useless if I had not sufficient force to hold it and at the same time guard 6 miles of river shore. I have at no time been able to place 4,000 men in the field at New Berne, and at the time of the battle had been seriously weakened by the re- enlistment furloughs. Coming up the river from the Croatan work you reach the Fort Thompson breastwork. This had been constructed from Fort Thomp- son to the railroad, about 1 mile, before I assumed command. Finding that from inadequate force, the Croatan work might be of no avail to me, ~l determined to extend the Fort Thompson work about one mile and a fourth and rest its right on a swamp. This is the work I was engaged on when the enemy appeared. In order to make ~he line as short as possible and to avail of a small branch by throwing it in front the line was thrown back about 150 yards on the railroad, and thence a series of small breastworks, conforming to the features of the ground, ran off in the direction of the swamp, making an obtuse angle with the older portion of the line on the other side of the railroad. To guard this gap I directed that the old brick-kiln on the railroad should be loop-holed, and the evening before the battle had ordered two 24- pounder guns to be brought from New Berne and placed in battery there. The enemys skirmishers drove the laborers from the battery when an hour more would have enabled them to get the guns in posi- tion. Of course I lost all the benefit I expected from it. The line of small breastworks from the railroad to the swamp was partially finished for about half the distance. Running parallel to the river and to each other, and crossing the line at right-angles are, first, after leaving the river, the old Beaufort road and then the railroad; still farther on and near the swamp the Weath- ersby Road. The railroad and the Beaufort road intersect about 2 miles behind the breastwork, the former crossing the river on a bridge 1,840 feet long at the town of New Berne and the latter at an indiffer- ent private bridge about one mile and a half above New Berne. Both these bridges are accessible to gunboats, so that when we stood at the Fort Thompson breastwork, fronting the enemy, we had Neuse River on our left, Bryce Creek (an impassable stream) on our right, and the Neuse and Trent in our rear, the only possible mode of escape in case of defeat being~ across the two bridges J have described, 5 miles in our rear. I hope this description, with the aid of the map inclosed, will put you in possession of our situation at the opening of the battle. I omitted to state that the timber had been felled in front of the breastwork for about 350 yards, and the space was swept by ten field pieces, besides three navy 32-pounders, discharging grape and canister from the rear face of Fort Thompson. It is useless to describe the river defenses,on which the largest amount of labor had been bestowed, as the enemy prudently refrained from attacking the batteries in front and the gunboats did not come within range of their guns until they had been silenced from the rear. I now proceed to detail the incidents of the battle. On Wednesday, the 12th, at 4 p. in., the approach of the enemys fleetwasreportedtome,and atdarkllearnedthattwelvevesselshad anchored below the mouth of Otter Creek and about forty-five were ascending the river in their rear. Orders were issued to Colonel Sinclair, Thirty-fifth Regiment, t Page 243 Onir. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 243 proceed immediately ~w ith his regiment to Fishers Landing, which is just above the month of Otter Creek, and to resist any attempt of the enemy to land there. Colonel Avery, Thirty-thfrd Regiment, and Lieutenant-Colonel ilaywood, Seventh Regiment, constituting the re- serve, were ordered to proceed across the river, so as to be in position at the intersection of the Beaufort road and the railroad at daybreak in the morning. Col. R. P. Campbell, commanding my right wing, was instructed to guard the river shore from the mouth of Otter Creek to Fort Thompson, while Col. C. C. Lee, who commanded my left wing, was to guard the remainder of the shore, support the river batteries, and re-enforce Colonel Campbell in case he should be hard pressed. Colonel Campbell was instructed to establish his headquarters at the intersection of the Beaufort road and the breastwork, and to collect his troops around him by daybreak. Both commanders were instructed that, in case it should be necessary to fall back from the river shore to the breastwork, Colonel Campbell should hold that part to the right of the Beaufort road and Colonel Lee that part to the left of it. These orders having been dispatched by 9 p. in., the night was spent by the troops in getting into position and other preparations for the contest. Having given all the necessary directions to staff officers and all others before 3 oclock Thursday morning, and seen all the men and material forwarded from the camp and depot in New Berne, I pro- ceeded to Colonel Campbells headquarters. On the road I met dis- patches from Colonel Sinclair and Capt. P. G. Evans, commanding the pickets, informing me that the enemy were landing troops below the mouth of Otter Creek, and Colonel Fance was directed to send his regiment to Croatan breastwork to occupy it. Railroad trains were on the spot to carry down re-enforcements or to draw off Colonels Vances and Sinclairs regiments and Brems battery, as the case might require. Intelligence was soon brought to me that the enemys gunboats, having driven Colonel Sinclairs regiment from Fishers Landing, were rapidly landing troops at that place, and that Colonel Campbell, seeing that the Croatan breastwork was turned, had ordered Vance, Sinclair, and Brem to fall back to the Fort Thompson breastwork. My force was wholly inadequate to guard the 6 miles of river shore between the mouth of Otter Creek and Fort Thompson. The result was therefore not wholly unexpected but I had hoped that a line of rifle pits I had caused to be made for a mile along the bluffs at and on both sides of Fishers Landing would have enabled me to hold the enemy in check and to inflict on him serious loss at the first moment of his placing his foot on our soil. I was therefore surprised when thepositionwasyieldedwithalossofonly1killedand2wounde~,~~~ three of which casualties occurred in the retreat. After the abandonment of Fishers Landing to the enemy the prompt withdrawal of Vance and Brem could alone save them from being cut off, and the enemy thus caine into possession of my strongest work without having received a single shot from us. The Fort Thompson breastwork now became my sole reliance for resisting his advance, and throughout the remainder of the day and night of Thursday the most active efforts were made to strengthen that unfinished work. Both officers and men executed my orders with unflagging ~nergy. I was particularly indebted to Major Thompson and Captain Meade, of the Engineers, to whom II assigned the duty of disposing of the artil. lery in the most advantageous manner Page 244 244 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CW& r. XX. In the afternoon the gunboats shelled the breastworks heavily from a position they had taken ont of reach of the guns of our batteries. The composure with which all classes of my troops received this attack from an nnseen foe strengthened the confidence I felt in their standing under fire. No damage was inflicted on us by the shells, but the accuracy with which they were thrown over a thick, intervening woodland convinced inc of the necessity of driving traitors and enemies in disguise from all towns and neighborhoods of which we desire to hold military posses- sion. During the day on Thursday the troops were posted behind the in- trenchments, and it was painfully apparent that my force was not sufficient to man them even with a thin line for the finished portions of them. I was compelled to withdraw Lieutenant-Colonel ilaywood of the Seventh Regiment from the reserve and place him on the line. The regiments were posted as follows, commencing on the left: Lieutenant-Colonel Barbour, Thirty-seventh Regiment, and Major Gilmer, Twenty-seventh Regiment, between Fort Thompson and the Beaufort County road. Lieutenant-Colonel Haywood, Seventh, Colonel Sinclair, Thirty-fifth, and Colonel Clark (Militia), between the Beaufort road and the railroad. Colonel Vance, Twenty-sixth Regiment, to the right of the railroad. A few unattached companies were placed between the regiments. My headquarters were about 200 yards in rear of the intrenchment at the railroad and the reserve was about 200 yards in my rear; the cavalry regiment about half a mile to the rear. In this order the troops slept on their arms. At 11 oclock Thursday night Colonel Lee brought inc intelligence that signal rockets had just been seen on our extreme right, from which I inferred that the enemy, having found the Weathersby road, were in front of that portion of my line. Orders were sent to Colonel Vance to extend his regiment so that its right might rest on the Weathersby road, and in an hour a section of Brems battery was moving by a circuitous route to a position on that road. On taking my position Friday morning the center appeared so weak that I dispatched my aide-dc-camp to Colonel Campbell to say to him. that it must be re-enforced if possible. At about 7.30 oclock Friday morning the fire opened along the line from the railroad to the river. I soon received a message from Colonel Lee that the enemy were attempting to turn our left. This proved to be a feint, as I replied to him that I thought it would. The next incident of the battle was the appearance of the enemys skirmishers in front of Vance, and consequently on the prolongation of the line held by the Militia. It was to drive the enemy from that posi- tion that I had directed the 24-pounder battery to be placed there, and supposing it was ready for service, I sent Captain Rodman, with his company, to man it, but they found the guns not mounted, and were ordered into l)osition to act as infantry. The skirmishers of the enemy, finding themselves on the flank of the Militia, fired at them a few shots from their flank files, which caused a portion of them to flee in great disorder. I instantly ordered Colonel Avery to send five companies to dislodge them. He sent them instantly, under Lieutenant-Colonel Moke; but before Colonel iloke had fully got into position, though he moved with the greatest promptness and celerity, I received a message from Colonel Clark, of the Militia, informing me that the enemy were in lin Page 245 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 245 of battle in great force on his right. I instantly ordered up the re- maining five companies of Colonel Averys regiment, and the whole ten opened a terrific fire from their Eufield rifles. The whole Militia, how- ever, had n~w abandoned their positions, and the utmost exertions of myself and my staff could not rally them. Colonel Sinclairs regiment very quickly followed their example, retreating in the utmost disorder. This laid open ilaywoods right and a large portion of the breastwork was left vacant. I had not a man with whom to re-occupy it, and the enemy soon poured in a column along the railroad and through a por- tion of the cut-down ground in front, which marched up behind the breastwork to attack what remained of Campbells command. The brave Seventh met them with the bayonet and drove them head- long over the parapet, inflicting heavy loss upon them as they fled; but soon returning with heavy re-enforcements, not less than five or six regiments, the Seveuth was obliged to yield, falling back slowly and in order. Seeing the enemy behind the breastwork, without a single man to place in the gap throug]~ which he was entering and finding the day lost, my next care was to secure the retreat. This was a critical operation, as the enemy, having pierced our center, had possession of the two shortest roads to the bridges, and besides could approach them at pleasure with their gunboats. Having dispatched two couriers to Colonel Avery and two to Colonel Vance with orders for them to fall back to the bridges I moved to the intersection of the Beaufort road and railroad to rall~ the troops and cover the retreat across the bridges. Here I found a train of cars with the Twenty-eighth Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Lowe, who had arrived too late to reach the battle-field, and formed them to hold the enemy in check until all should pass. Colonel Lee was directed to proceed to New Berne and form all the men he could collect in the upper part of town. The Seventh Regiment, arriving in two different parties, was directed to proceed to the Trent Bridge and hold~t, while I remaine(l with Lieutenant-Colonel Lowe at the intersection fo hold the enemy in check and cover the retreat. Remaining until there were no more stragglers in sight on either road, I directed Colonel Lowe to fall back to the Trent Bridge, which he did, the enemy showing themselves on the road as his rear guard moved off. Proceeding to the Trent Bridge, I placed Colonel Campbell in command of all the forces there, with instructions to hold the bridge as long as possible for the passage of Avery and Vance, and then to move up the Trent road or join me in town, as I might direct after reaching the town, leaving with him to conduct him that gallant gentleman and soldier Capt. Peter G. Evans, whom I had not allowed to leave my person for two days except to bear orders. The railroad bridge was in flames before I left the intersection. Arriving in town, I found it in flames in many places and evacuated. Orders written in the street under the lurid glare of the flames were dispatched in every direction through the town to search for Colonel Lee. At Railroad street I learned that a gunboat had already lauded at one of the lower wharves. Going up Railroad street to see whether Colonel Lee was at the Fair Grounds, I found, on reaching the depot, that the gunboats were already there and the enemy in the Fair Grounds. Colonel Lee, finding himself in no condition to make resistance, had properly drawn off and marched up the Kinston Road. Following on, and directing all, the officers I could overtake to conduct their men to Tuscarora, the nearest railroad depot, I proceeded to that place, and, having made arrangements for the transportation of the troops t Page 246 246 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. Xx:. Kinston by railroad and seen most of them off myself at 11 oclock on Saturday. , reached that place My loss was 64 killed, 101 wounded, and 413 missing; about 200 are prisoners and the remainder at home. The inclosed tabnl~ statement will show you on which regiments and companies the loss fell. The horses of Lathams battery and those of four pieces of Brems battery were killed, and we lost, in consequence, ten pieces of field artillery. There were other pieces at the breastwork, but they were condemned guns from Fort Macon belon~ing to iio company. The ammunition and ordnance stores at New Berne were saved, and the camp equipage and baggage of the regiments would have been saved but we had not the field transportation with which to haul it to the railroad. In five days after the battle I had my brigade in camp in advance of Kinston ready for action and but little demoralized. I had at an early day placed Cols. R. P. Campbell, Seventh Regi- ment, and C. C. Lee, Thirty-seventh Regiment, in command of the two wings of my brigade. All the troops, except the Thirty-third Reg- iment and the cavalry regiment, which were in reserve, fought under their immediate command. I could have taken no better security against any errors and oversights I might commit than 11 did in placing those two trained and experienced officers in immediate command of the troops. I refer to their reports herewith and the reports of commanders of regiments for particulars as to the conduct of individuals under their command. As the Thirty-third Regiment was nuder my own command it is proper for me to say that its conduct was all I could desire. It moved into action with as much promptness and steadiness as I ever saw in its ranks on dress parade and its fire was terrific. It was engaged within 100 yards of my position, and Colonel Avery, Lieutenant-Colo- nel iloke, and ajo~ Lewis did their duty fully against an overwhelm- ing force. Its gallant colonel was captured at his poet; two different couriers, whom I sent to him with orders to withdraxv, having failed to reach him. With the exceptions noted in a former part of the report all the reg- iinents behaved well. The Seventh and Thirty-third are specially named, because on the former fell the brunt of the battle after its flank was exposed by the retreat of the militia and the Thirty-fifth, and the latter had no other commander except myself through whom its con- duct could be made known to you. No troops could have behaved better than the Twenty-sixth, Twenty-seventh, and Thirty-seventh. Lathams battery was new and was only partially equipped. The horses had not been attached to the guns a week before the battle. Its gallantry and devotion on that occasion show it to be worthy of a new outfit. My regular staff, consisting of my aide-de-camp, Mr. W. E. Cannady, and assistant adjutant-general, Lient. Col. W. G. Robinson, rendered me all the assistance I desired. My aide-do-camp in particular bore my orders through the hottest of the fire with unflinching courage and composure. To Captain Meade, of the Engineers, and Lieutenant Burwell, C. S. Army, and Mr. Francis T. Hawks, who tendered their services for the occasion and were placed on my staff, I was greatly indebted, not only for services in bearing orders and rallying troops, but to the first in a Page 247 tmxr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BELINE, N. C. 247 especial manner for counsel and advice. They remained with me throughout the battle and subsequent retreat. The panic alluded to in some of the reports occurred after the troops had left New Berue. It was in advance of me and 1 did not witness it, but the names of officers who contributed to it or participated in it will be reported to you if they can be discovered. It was soon counteracted by the steadiness of Colonel Lee and some other officers. Yours, v cry respectfully, L. OB. BRANCH, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MaJ. Gen. T. II. HoLMEs, Commanding Department of North Carolina. [Addenda.] Return of casualties in the Confederate forces at the battle of New Berne, N. 0., March 14, i86~. Killed. Wounded. 9 a o ~ H0~ 1 14 1 9 8 Command. ~ ~1 0 7th NorthCarolina. .... 6 6 3th North Carolina.. 26th North Carolina. 3 5 t7thNort.hCarolina. . 4 4 28th North Carolina. - 23d North Carolina.. 25th North Carolina. 1 4 5 .27th North Carolina. 1 Brems battery Lathams battery . . . . I 10 10 Independent compa- flies. 7Potal~ 3 97 64 3 11 10 52 Missing and prisoners. Cs H 0 15.. 30 10~ 4~ 68 8....~ 42 1 6 28{ 9 11:1:) 11 2 20 7 101 175 6 a a H 30 72 42 6 144 9 8 7 22 73 a a as 513 51 54 6 204 25 12 16 43 80 413 578 Remarks by compiler. No losses reported. Officers and men not separatelyreported. Do. Do. Do. For reasons stated in remarks the totals of columns headed Officers and Men do not prove the Total columns Page 248 OPERATiONS iN NORTH CAROLINA. [Inclosure.] [Cw~r. XX. HEADQuARTERS, March 28, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to request that the inclosed copies of lettcr~. may be filed with my official re~ort of the battle of the 14th. Yours, very respectfully, L. OB. BRANCH, Brigadier- General, Commanding. General T. H. HOLMES, Commanding, & c. [Inclosure No. 1.] HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF PAMLICO, New Berne, N. C., ]lliarch 12, 18628.30 p. rn. Col. CHARLES C. LEE: COLONEL: The following troops have been ordered to report to you, and I presume are in readiness to obey your orders, to wit: The Thirty- 24 Page 249 Cuir. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 249 seventh North Carolina troops; Sloans regiment; :Brems, Edelins, Whitfords, Mayos, Herrings, Leecrafts, and Snttons companies. Colonel Campbell is instructed to guard the river shore, and if he should be hard pressed you will send him such re-enforcements as you can spare. I will have two regiments in reserve. My headquarters will be on the Beaufort road, in the rear of the batteries. Have all your troops in position by daybreak. If compelled to fall back from the river shore and occupy Fort Thompson breastwork, you will hold so much of it as extends from the old Beaufort road to the river. Very respectfully, [Inclosure No. 2.] HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT or PAMLICO, March 12, 18628.30 p. m. Col. B. P. CAMPBELL, Commanding: It is presumed that the following troops have reported to you, to wit: Colonels Vances and Sinclairs regiments; Captains Lathams, McRaes, Hardings, and Malletts companies, and Colonel Spruills cavalry. Send off couriers to-night, if you have not already done so, and give them orders. Colonel Sinclairs regiment is already at Fishers Landing. That is the only body of troops that I have moved. Colonel Avery and Lieutenant-Colonel Haywood constitute the reserve, and will receive their orders directly from me. You had better gather your force near you before daybreak. If the enemy attempt a landing, as he probably will in the morning, resist him with all the force you can bring to bear. If compelled to fall back, occupy so much of the Fort Thompson breastwork as extends from the Beaufort road to an impassable swamp on the extreme right. Guard well the Beaufort road where it crosses the breastwork. If the enemy attempt to land at Fishers Landing, Sinclair will need strong re-enforce- ment. Explain to your officers that when they fall back they are to rally behind the Fort Thompson breastwork. I have just directed that a cavalry company be sent to you immedi- ately, so that you may have abundant couriers by whom to send your orders. P. 5.My headquarters will be on the Beaufort road, in the rear of the batteries. [Inclosure No. 3.] HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, March 30, 1862. Maj. Gen. T. H. HOLMES, Commanding Department of North Carolina: GENERAL: I omitted, through inadvertence, to state in my official report of the battle of the 14th a very important movement. When, as stated in my report, an officer came to me from Colonel Clark, of the Militia, and informed me that the enemy were in line of battle in force on his right, I directed him to proceed immediately to Colonel Camp- bell with the information, and also sent one of my own couriers to guard against a miscarriage. As soon as the-Militia fled my aide-de-camp was sent to Colonel Lee, on the left, with orders to send his own regiment (the Thirty-seventh) Page 250 250 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. if he could possibly spare it, and in any event to send half of it, to the menaced point. Colonel Leecalling the attention of my aide to the strong body of the enemy along his front with whom he was then engaged, to show how impossible it was for him to send allpromptly disengaged five companies of the Thirty-seventh and ordered them to the right. When they reached there Sinclairs regiment had tied, and they could not retrieve the disaster. I respectfully request that this may be made part of my official report. Yours, very respectfully, L. OB. BRANCH, Brigadier. General, Commanding. No. 21. Report of Cot. Reuben P. Campbell, Seventh North Carolina Infantry. IIDQRS. SEVENTH REST. NORTH CAROLINA TROOPS, iiiiarch 25, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor very respectfully to make the follow- ing report of the late engagement, 14th instant, at Fort Thompson: My command, consisting of the Seventh Regiment North Carolina troops, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel ilaywood; Thirty-fifth Reg- iment North Carolina troops, commanded by Colonel Sinclair; Captain Whitehursts independent company; some Militia, under Colonel Clark, Captain Lathams battery, and two sections of Captain Brems bat- tery, were posted along the breastworks from the county road to the railroad. The Seventh Regiment was posted immediately on the right of the county road; Colonel Sinclairs regiment was posted on its right, and Captain Whitehurst and Colonel Clark on his right, extend- ing near the railroad. The batteries were placed at convenient dis- tances along the line. The battle was commenced by the firing of a Parrott gun belonging to Captain Lathams battery, under command of Lieutenant Wheeler. This shot dispersed a squad of horsemen, who seemed to be recon- noitering under cover of the woods. Immediately after this, about 7.20 oclock, the firing became general ~rom the enemy along the whole of my command. It was replied to by both the batteries and small-arms. Shortly after the firing began the Militia under Colonel Clark gave way and left the field iu a panic. About one hour after the firing commenced Colonel Sinclair came to me, and in much excitement said that the enemy had flanked him and was coming up the trenches which had been vacated by the Militia. I ordered him to leave the treuches for the purpose of charging bayo- nets upon the advancing columns; but he failed to form his men and left the field in confusion. This left the entire space occupied by my eommaud to be defended by the batteries and by the Seventh Regiment North Carolina troops. One section of Brems battery, left without support by Colonel Sinclair, was taken possession of by the enemy, who had continued his advance on the right. I ordered Lieutenant- Colonel ilaywood to have his men, leave the breastwork and charge bayonets upon the enemy, who was advancing in column. The charge was made, and the enemy driven over the breastworks with great slaughter, leaving a number of guns and other things in his retreat, which fell into our hands. We also retook the section of Brems bat. Page 251 CHAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 251 tery which had fallen into the hands of the enemy. With the aid of the Sevelith Regiment and the batteries I then held the works nntil the enemy again appeared on our right with a greatly increased force, some six or eight regiments. The batteries, with the exception of one section, nnder Captain Latham, had been silenced, so that I had only it and the Seventh Regiment at my command. II ordered the troops to fall back, which they did under a very heavy fire, and formed immedi- ately in rear of Colonel Vances encampment. After waiting a short time, and seeing no hope of defeating the enemy or offering further resistance to his approach or advancing our cause by meeting, I retired from the field. The officers and mcii of the Seventh Regiment North Carolina troops and Captains Lathams and Breins batteries behaved with coolness and bravery. I cannot speak of the other troops under my command, a~ they left the field too early in the action for me to say anything ~bont them. From the report of the officers nuder my command the following are the casualties: 13 privates and 1 officer killed, 34 privates and 1 officer wounded, and 34 privates missing.* H. P. CAMPBELL, Colonel Seventh Regiment North Carolina Troops. General L. OB. BRANCH, Kinston, N C. No. 22. Re ort of Lieut. 6~ol. Ed. Graham illaywood, Seventh North Carolina Infantry. IIDQRS. SEVENTH REG-T. NORTH CAROLINA TROOPS, March 25, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor very respectfully to report that my command, the Seventh Regiment North Carolina troops, behaved well in the late engagement at Fort Thompson. The command, with the exception of Company F, Captain Turner, was posted on the right of the county road, behind the breastworks, and ordered to defend them and support the artillery. Company F was posted on the left of the road. They held their positions until flanked on the right by the enemy. They were then ordered to leave the trenches and charge bayonets upon the enemy, which they did, driving him beyond the breastworks with great slaughter and retaking a section of Brems battery which had fallen into the enemys hands. I then held the breastworks until flanked again by the same direction with a greatly increased force, some six or eight regiments, when I fell back into the woods in rear of Colonel Vances camp and there formed. Seeing no hope of defeating the enemy, I then, with the command, retired from the field. Major Hall, with three companies, preceded me. The casualties were 6 men killed, 15 wounded, and 30 missing; among the wounded Capt. W. II. Sanford, regimental commissary. ED. GRAHAM HAYWOOD, Lieut. Col., Comdg. Seventh Regt. North Carolina Troops. General L. OB. BRANCH. * But see addenda to Branchs report, p. 247 Page 252 2~2 OPERATIONS IN NORTh CAROLINA. [ChAP. XX. No. 23. Report of Cot. S. B. Spruilt, Nineteenth North Carotina Infantry~. IIDQRS. NINETEENTH REGIMENT N. C. STATE TROOPS. Kinston, N. C., March , 1862. On Wednesday evening, the 12th instant, I received information that the enemy had made their appearance in the river and to hold my com- mand in readiness to march at a moments warning. On Thursday morning, 13th, I received an order from General Branch to report with my command immediately to the general cominandin g at the crossing of the Beaufort road and railroad, which was promptly obeyed. My command, consisting of Companies D, E, F, II, and K, proceeded down as far as Colonel Vances encampment, near the in- trenchments, and reported myself for duty. I then received orders to fall back to a convenient position, which I occupied, between the Beau- fort road and railroad. About 2 p. m. I received a verbal order to dismount two of my coni- panies that were best armed, leaving a sufficient number of men to guard the horses, and for them to report to Colonel Vance, then on the extreme right, which I obeyed, by ordering Company A, commanded by Captaiu Hays, and Company K, commanded by Lient. William A. Graham, jr., these companies being armed with rifles and carbines. The other companies remained in their same position until about 3 p. in., at which time the enemy were throwing their shells very near us, and I ordered them to move nearer the railroad, and we continued to move until we went a short distance beyond the railroad. There we remained until night, when the firing ceased. During the time I received an order to send two companies to report to Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson, to act as vedettes for the night, which I obeyed, by detailing Company D, commanded by Captain Strange, and Company H, Captain Randolph. These companies were under the command of Major J. W. Woodfin. I then ordered Lieutenant Haughton, of Captain ~ company, ~which had a short time before joined us, to report to Colonel Camp- bell, whose immediate command I was then under, and ask of him per- mission to take my command back to camp for the purpose of feeding my horses. I received in reply to exercise my own discretion. As I had permission to do so, between 9 and 10 oclock I ordered the re- mainder of my command, consisting of two companies, and Captain Evans company, commanded by Lieutenant Evans, taking the horses of the dismounted companies back to camp. Next morning about 4 oclock I ordered the two companies to mount, and take with them the horses of the dismounted companies and hold themselves in readiness to march. Before day I sent Captain Coles company to relieve the two com- panies that had been on duty during the night as vedettes. The two companies relieved returned to camp about 4 a. m. I ordered the commanders of these two companies, together with Company C, com- manded by Lieutenant Wynn, which had arrived from Washington about 2 oclock at night, having made the march during the day and part of the night, a distance of 40 miles, to feed and rest until they were ordered by me to report for duty on the field. When I arrived near the intrenchinents on the Beaufort road I ordered a halt. I then reported myself to Colonel Campbell, with my command, for duty. He ordered me to remain ready for duty. I imm Page 253 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 253 diately returiied to my command, soon after which the enemys vessels opened a heavy fire, at which time I received orders to dismount the remainder of my command and send them to the right and report to 4Dolom~el Vance. I immediately ordered Captain Cole, Company F, and Captain Thomas, Company E, to dismonnt, and Captain Thomas to take command of the two companies, which he did, and marched oft. Soon after Major Woodfin arrived, and I ordered him to proceed ml take charge of the two companies then marching to the intrench- iiwinits, which he promptly obeyed. I immediately dispatched a courier to order the three companies then in camp to report to me at a point on the railroad for duty; bnt before reporting to me I was informed th~tt they were ordered to retreat by Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson. While waiting I perceived that the Militia were giving way and re- treating. I immediately rode back where the horses of my dismounted men were held, and found many of them monnted and being mounted by the infantry. Captain Cole, most of his command, and a p~jtion of Captain Thomas command, succeeded in getting their horses, but Lien- tenant Grahams command was left on foot, except those that had charge of his horses; also a portion of Captain Thoi~nas command, which re- treated in company with Colonel Vances command. I remained a short time, expecting Lieutenant Graham and Captain Thomas to come up, so is to inform them what had become of their horses; but they not arriving, md seeing the infantry retreating from the left of our works, I rode oft and overtook my command at Colonel Lees camp. I immediately pro- eeded to the head of my commftnd in order to make them march over the bridge by file, fearing that it might break down, which I succeeded in doing in good order, some having however passed over before I arrived it the bridge. After remaining on the east side of the bridge until about half of my command had passed over I ordered Major Woodfin to remain until they were all over. I then passed over the bridge for the purpose of terming my battalion on the other side. After passing to the other side I found Lieutenant Baker, who I ordered to assist me in forming it. He then informed me that Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson was there attending to the formation of the battalion. After the whole of my command had passed over, excepting Captain Hays, Company A, I ordered Surgeon Smith to direct Lieutenant Col- onel Robinson to march the battalion on the Kinston road a short dis- tan cc beyond New Berne, and there halt it, and permit the wagons to go on toward Kinston under the directions of the general in command, when a board of officers, composed of the colonels of different regiments, was called, directing us that if we were driven from tbe intrencliments to fall back on New Berne, which was the only order to retreat I ever received up to that time. While at the bridge, in company with Captain Strange and Lieu- tenant Baker, of Company D, Major Barrimiger rode up, and informed me that he was ordered by the commanding general to direct me to recross the bridge and formn my battalion to cover the retreat of the in- fantry. I told him that I had ordered it to New Berne, but informed him that I would obey the order, and immediately rode rapidly off in company with Majom- Barringer to do so. On arriving at New Berne I found my battalion formed and halted on the Kinston road and found Major Woodfiu in command. I inquired of him where Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson was, and he informed me that he had rode into New Berne, upon which information we both rode to the railroad. Upon arriving there Major Gilmer gave the order for all the troops to rally around the depot. Major Boone then ordered m Page 254 254 OPERATIONS ~.IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. to have all the cotton and naval stores in New Berne burned. I asked him by what authority he gave the order. His reply was that it came from headquarters. I then told him it should be executed, and ordered Major Woodfin to make a detail of men to do so, which he promptly did, and left my command for the purpose of executing the same. I remained with my command h Ited until the cars left the depot and the enemy were shelling the town, several shells falling near my battalion. I then ordered a retreat, which was continued until some one in the rear gave the order to Gallop, march. The men then became somewhat excited. I sent back to ascertain who gave th~ order, but could not find out who gave it, but immediately heard that the enemy were pursuing us with 700 cavalry. Captain Randolph rode up to me and informed me that he had heard that we were pursued with cav- alry, and asked me if I did not intend making a stand. I replied that I did intend doing so, and sent him on ahead for the purpose of select- ing a sm.itable place. I was informed there was a bridge some 2 miles ahead, at which place we halted with the intention of giving them battle. Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson then rode up where I was, and I directed him to take his position in the battalion and assist me, as I intended making a stand to resist the 700 cavalry that I understood was in pursuit. He replied that he did not believe that there was any cavalry in pursuit, and that he was ordered to Goldsborough, or had to go to Goldsborough to see C eneral Gatlin. I then told him if he had to go, to go along. He then said to me that I had better form a rear guard to cover the retreat and take command of it myself, and that he should report to General Gatlin that I had done so. He then left. I then ordered 20 men to the bridge and rode along the line and cau- tioned my men to be cool. During our halt at the bridge Captain Hays came up with his coin- mand, and I invited the captains and lieutenants in command of the companies, with Colonel Crossan, to hold a consultation, and their conclusion was that it would be better for us to proceed on to Kinston that night, for fear of the enemy coming up the river and burning the bridge at Kinston, thereby cutting off our retreat. I then ordered Captain Hays to take command of the rear guard and I took command of the front myself. We continued our retreat to Kinston, arriving there between 11 and 12 oclock at night. All the officers under my command, so far as I could discover, obeyed my orders promptly and acted with coolness. I have submitted one report showing the loss of my horses and bag- gage. Since that time I succeeded in recovering several of my horses that were missing. All ofwhich is respectfully submitted. S. B. SPRUILL, Colonel Nineteenth Regiment North Carolina State Troops. Brig. Gen. L. OB. BRANCH, Kinston, N. C. No. 24. Report of 6~ol. Zebulon B. T7ance, Twenty-sixth North Jarolina Infantry. IIDQRS. TWENTY-SIXTH REOT. NORTH CAROLINA VOLS., Kinston, N. C., March 17, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report, in accordance with military usage, the share of my command in the operations of last Friday Page 255 CHAP. XX.] BATT]JE OF N~W BERNE, N. C. 25~ While in temporary command of the post of New Berne, on Thursday, my regiment was ordered to Croatan works, under command of Lieu- tenant-Colonel Burgwyn, to assist Colonel Sinclairs regiment should the enemy land below~ those works. Learning soon after that Colonel Campbell was at his post, I instantly transferred to him my temporary command and proceeded to Croatan to assume command of my regiment. When near there I met Colonel Sinclair retreating, who informed me that the enemy were landing in force at Fishers Landing, and nearer still to the works I met Colonel Campbell, who had just ordered my regiment to take the cars and re- turn to Fort Thompson. Before my return they had been posted by Lieutenant-Colonel Burgwyn in the series of redans constracted by me, on the right of the railroad, in the rear of Bullens Branch, extending from the railroad to the swamp, about 500 yards from the road, by Weathersbys. At this road, as you will remember, I had constructed the night be- fore a breastwork commanding the passage of the swamp, with the assistance of Mr. Hawks, a gentleman whose skill in engineering, untiring energy, and zeal I take pleasure in noticing favorably; and there was placed a section of Captain Brems artillery, lieutenant Will- iams commanding, and Captain McItaes con~any of infantry, with a portion of the companies of Captains Hays and Thomas, Second North Carolina Cavalry, dismounted. About 2 oclock Friday morning, in compliance with orders received,. I pushed companies B, E, and K of my right wing across the small swamp allnded to, so as to make my extreme right rest on the battery at the Weathersby road. This was our position on Friday morning, which remained unchanged during the day, except that two companies of the Thirty-third Regi- ment, under Lieutenant-Colonel Hoke, came to my assistance about ~ oclock, which were placed in the redans vacated by my right com- panies which were thrown beyond the swamp. You will perceive that my forces covered almost as much ground as all the rest of our troops together. Taking my own position near the center, a little nearer t~ the right, under Lieutenant-Colonel Burgwyn, about whose position I was considerably uneasy, owing to the unfinished state of our works there, I placed the lefi5 under the command of Major Carmichael and awaited the engagement. It began on my left wing about 7.50 oclock, extend- ing toward my right by degrees until about 8.30 oclock, when all the troops in my command were engaged so far as the swamp referred to. The severest fighting was on my extreme left, the enemy advancing under shelter of the woods to within easy range of our lines. When- ever they left the woods and entered among the fallen timber of th& swamp in our front they were driven back in confusion by the most deadly and well-directed fire from our lines who, with the greatest cool- ness, watched for their appearance. The fight was kept up until about 12 oclock, when information was brought to me by Capt. J. T. Young, my quartermaster, who barely escaped with life in getting to me, that the enemy in great force had turned my left by the railroad track at Woods brick-yard, had pil- laged my camp, were firing in reverse on my left wing, and were several hundred yards up the railroad between me and New Ber also that all the troops on the field were in full retreat, except my ne, corn- mand. This being so, there was no alternative left me but to order an immediate retreat or be completely surrounded by an overwhelming force. Without hesitation I gave the order. My men jumped out o Page 256 256 OPERATIONS JN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. the trenches, rallied, and formed in the woods without panic or confu- sion, and, having first sent a messenger with an order to Lieutenant- Colonel Burgwyn to follow with the forces on the right, we struck across the Weathersby road for Bryces Creek, with the intention of getting into the Pollocksville road. On arriving at the creek we found only one small boat, capable of carrying only three men, in which to pass over. The creek here is too deep to ford and about 75 yards wide. Some plunged in and swam over, and, swimming over myself, I rode down to Captain Whitfords house, on the Trent, and through the kindness of Mr. Kit Foy, a citizen, procured three more small boats, carrying one on our shoulders from the Trent, with which we hurried up to the crossing. In the mean time Lieutenant-Colonel Burgwyn arrived with the forces of the right wing in excellent condition, and assisted me with the greatest coolness and efficiency in getting the tr~oops across, which after four hours of hard labor and the greatest anxiety we succeeded in doing. Lieutenant-Colonel Bnrgwyn saw the last man over before he entered the boat. I regret to say that three men were drowned in crossing. I must here mention favorably the good conduct of the troops under these trying circumstances, a large Yankee force being drawn up in view of our scouts abou4 1 mile away and their skirmishers appearing just as the rear got over. Musician B. F. Johnson, Company B, deserves particular mention for his exertions, having ferried over the greater portion of the troops himself, assisted by a negro boy. Once over, we were joined by Lieutenant-Colonel iloke, Thirty-third Regiment, with a large portion of his command, and took the road for Trenton. We marched night and day stopping at no time for rest or sleep more than four hours. We arrived at this place safely at noon on the 16th. The loyalty and hospitality of the citizens greatly facilitated our march, furnishing us cheerfully with provisions, wagons, shelter, and guides. I regret to say that many of our men, despairing of the boats at the creek and determined not to be taken, threw away their guns to swim over; a serious loss to our Government, but scarcely blamable under the circumstances. This concludes the narration of the principal matters connected with my command during the engagement and retreat. The number of my killed and wounded has not yet been ascertained. Our baggage, of course, was lost, but our sick were safely brought away. It remains for me to speak of the noble dead we left upon the field. Maj. A. B. Carmichael fell about 11 a. in., by a shot through the head, while gallantly holding his post on the left under a most galling fire. A braver, nobler soldier never fell on field of battle. Generous and open-hearted as he was brave and chivalrous, he was endeared to the whole regiment. Honored be his memory. Soon after Capt. W. P. Martin, of Company II, also fell near the regimental colors. Highly respected as a man, brave and determined as a soldier, he was equally regretted by his command and all who knew him. The Twenty-sixth Regiment are justly proud of their glorious fall. The fate of Captain Rand, of Company D, is yet unknown. When last seen he was almost surrounded by a large force; but, disdaining to fly or surrender, he was fighting desperately with Lieutenant Vinson and a large portion of his company, who refused to leave him. Lieutenant Porter, of Company A, was also left behind wounded. Capt. A. N. McMillan was badly wounded, but got away safely Page 257 CHAr. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW~ BERNE, N. C. 257 In regard to the behavior of my regiment generally, I am scarcely willing to mention particular instances of gallantry where all did their duty. Observing a large portion of the regiment myself, and making diligent inquiry as to the rest, I could learn of but one man in all my command who remembered that he had legs until after the command to retreat was given. They were the last of our troops to leave the field. I cannot conclude this report without mentioning in terms of the highest praise the spirit of determination and power of endurance evinced by the troops during the hardships and sufferings of our march. Drenched with rain, blistered feet, without sleep, many sick and wounded, and almost naked,they toiled on through the day and all the weary watches of the night without murmuring, cheerfully and with subordination, evincing most thoroughly those high qualities in adversity which military men learn to value still more than courage upon the field. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant, Z. B. VANCE, Colonel, Commanding Twenty-sixth North Carolina Vols. General L. OB. BRANCH, Commanding District of Pamlico. No. 25. Report of Maj. John A. Gilmer, Jr., Twenty-seventh North Carolina infantry. KINSTON, N. C., March 16, 1862. SIR: I most respectfully submit the following report of the part borne in the engagement of the 14th instant at the breastworks adjoin. ing Fort Thompson, N. C., by the Twenty-seventh Regiment North Carolina troops, then under my command: On the morning of the 13th, pursuant to orders from your headquar- ters, I marched the Twent~-seventh Regiment to the river bank, about 100 yards above Fort Thompson, arriving about an hour before day- break. Forming the regiment in line of battle at that point I a~Taited orders. About 7 oclock I received orders to retire a short distaneB toward the river, to avoid any shot and shell that might be thrown in the direction of Fort Thompson. The regiment was immediately moved a short distance to the left and rear. While in this position I received orders to march the regiment to the breastworks and line the same on the left near Fort Thompson, which was immediately done. The regiment remained (covering he breastworks, principally in one rank, for the distance of 300 or 400 yards from Fort Thompson) all the day and night of the 13th~ were aroused and placed in position at the works twice during the night. Numbers of shell and shot were thrown from the gunboats of the enemy during the evening of the 13th, most of which, however, passed beyond the works. On the morning of the 14th the regiment was again placed in position to await the approach of the enemy, whom I supposed to be in force in the woods in front of the works. I was informed by Captain Barden, whose company had been sent out the evening before as a portion of 17 R BVOL I Page 258 258 OPERATIONS EN NORTH CAROLINA. [OnAr. XX. the picket guard, that the enemy was advancing on the county road to our right. About 6.30 or 7 a. m. the fire of the enemy began beyond our right and continued vigorously during the entire engagement. The fire was immediately returned by the artillery stationed beyond the right of the Twenty-seventh and continued unabated. I commanded the regi- ment to retain their fire until ordered to fire by me. A short time after the firing began on the right the bombardment again began from the gunboats of the enemy, directed principally to- ward Fort Thompson and the portion of the breastworks behind which the Twenty-seventh was stationed. Thus situated, the regiment manfully and cheerfully sustained the shower of shell and shot from the gunboats for two and a half hours, during which but 1 man was killed and 3 stunned. Between 10 and 11 a. in. I discovered that the troops stationed im- mediately on the right of the Twenty-seventh were falling back, which movement I discovered was being followed by two or three companies of the Twenty-seventh, on the right. I immediately hastened to my right and ordered the two retreating companies back to the trenches. I then gave my entire command the order to fire by fi~le, designating at the same time the direction in which I perceived the enemy advancing in great numbers. I then hastened to meet you, whom I perceived advancing along the lines to the left. You informed me that our right had been turned and I must fall back. I then ordered the regiment to retire, which was done in tolerable order by most of the companies on the left. I ordered those companies which were together to march through Camp Gatlin to the railroad bridge, where the greater part of the right assembled and halted. I hastened then to the left, beyond Camp Fisher, to find out what were the plans of our troops, supposing that a stand was to be made at that point. Finding our forces retreating, I returned to the right and passed with them over the bridge to the railroad depot, where the companies were again formed, agreeably to orders I had received from the assistant adjutant-general. At the depot we were ordered to fall back ~till farther, when I placed the regiment on the march toward Kinston, under command of my senior captaifi. I joined the regiment again where the railroad is crossed by the county road above New Berne, and again joined them at Tuscarora, whence I proceeded with them to Kinston, partly on foot and partly by means of the cars which were sent back to take us up. From the reports of the captains of my command I obtained the fol. lowing particulars. There were in Killed. Wounded. Missing. CompanyA 1 1 CompanyB 1 1 CompanyC 1 2 Company I 2 15 Company F 1 3 22 Company F, all present Company~1 *3 1 Company u - -. - Total 4 . 8 51 * Slightly injured. I Reported. Company 1.The majority of this company followed the captain to Jones County. Company KTwo commanding officers and all the company but 30 supposed to be in Goldshorough Page 259 ChAP. XX.] BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 259 The promptness and cheerfulness with which the officers under my command obeyed every order and the courage with which they took and maintained every position assigned them I cannot too favorably notice. In the retreat I discovered that a few men in each company had either lost or abandoned their guns and cartridge boxes. Very respectfully, J. A. (IILMEIR, JR., Major, Comdg. Twenty-seventh Regt. North Carolina Troops. Col. CHARLES C. LEE, Commanding Brigade, North Carolina Troops. P. S.It is, perhaps, proper for me to add that about 30 of the Twenty-seVenth were detailed to operate Lathams battery in conjunc- tion with Captain Lathams company. These 30 men were in the hottest of the engagement, and several of them seriously injured but none killed. No. 26. Report of Lieut. Cot. Robert F. floke, Thirty-third North Carolina Infantry. IIDQRS. THIRTY-THIRD NORTH CAROLINA REGIMENT, Kinston, N. C., March iS, 1862. SIR: In accordance with your orders I respectfully submit the fol- lowing report concerning our orders received from you and the action of our regiment afterward: After arriving near the breastworks opposite Fort Thompson and taking up camp on Thursday evening (13th) we were ordered by you to remain in that position for further orders. At daylight on the following morning you in person ordered Colonel Avery to take position in a line of battle about 400 yards. to the rear of the brick-yards, with our right wing resting upon the railroad and were to remain in that position for further orders, we constitutin~ the reserve; and soon after we had formed our regiment and had them to take off their knapsacks, in order to be ready to move with quickness to any point we might be ordered, we were ordered to move forward about 100 yards immediately to the rear of your position, which in the opinion of the field officers of our regiment was a very exposed one and one well selected, as from that point the movements of the enemy could best be seen. Shortly after we reached that point an order was received froni you, through Colonel Robinson to Colonel Avery, to send his right wing, in command of Lieutenant-Colonel iloke, composing five companies, to occupy the intrenchments on the right of the railroad. I immediately faced the right wing to the right and moved off at a double-quick, going through the woods and down the ravines, in order to protect the men as much as possible, as a for- ward movement down the railroad would have greatly exposed the command. I halted them in a ravine, ordered four companies to lie down, and intended to place them in the works by company, as I could in that way save the lives of many, as the firing was very hot at that point. After placing Company A (Captain Cowan) in position, and having returned and was placing Captain Parks company in position, Page 260 260 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. (Caes. fl received an order from you to return with the command. I immediately faced Captain Parks' company about, and was returning with the four companies, when I was met by Colonel Avery and Major Lewis with the remaining five companies, which composed the left wing, coming up in line of battle and in fine order, and was ordered by Colonel Avery to face about and join him. I did so, and the regiment moved up to the scene of action in fine style, Colonel Avery in command of the center, I of the right wing, and Major Lewis of the left. Colonel Avery gave the command to fire before we reached the intrencltments, as the enemy were firing upon us and were in full force upon the top of the hill immediately across the swamp. Our fire seemed to have great effect, as the enemy scampered. Major Lewis then moved immediately to the right of the railroad with several companies and engaged the enemy from that time until after 12 o'clock. He behaved most gallantly; was in the hottest part of the whole battle-field. He repulsed the enemy time and again, and twice charged them with detachments of companies, and each time made them flee. Our loss was greater at that point than any other, as he had to fight to his front, right, and left, but still maintained his position, fighting them against greater numbers. No one could have behaved with more coolness, bravery, and determination than he, and he deserves the praise of every true countryman for his actions. He reports his men as having done their duty in every manner. Colonel Avery was in command of the center, on top of the second hill from the railroad, encouraging his men both by actions and words. He was perfectly cool, and never did man act better upon the battlefield than he. His fire was very destructive, and remarked that if he had his regiment together he would charge the rascals over the fallen timber. He received a shot through the top of his cap, and coolly remarked, "Boys, they liked to have gotten me," but heeded it not, and went on cheering his men. I was immediately at his right, and finding the enemy were getting in strong force upon our right and were going to turn our right flank, as there were rio troops between our regiment and the left of Colonel Vance's companies upon the right flank of the whole troops, a distance of a quarter of a mile, I moved quickly with Captain Parks' company, which I had thrown in the woods in a ravine as a reserve to our regiment, with Lieutenant Poteat adjutant, who displayed great coolness during the action, andflnding the enemy in great force did not expose my weakness by firing, but sent a messenger to Colonel Avery for another company. He immediately sent me Captain Kesler's company. I ordered the whole to fire, which did great execution, as the enemy fell andfied, butsoon appeared. again, and again we drove them back, but soon they again appeared in strong force and engaged us, which continued until 12.30 o'clock. At 12.15 o'clock I saw the United States flag flying upon one of our works, but saw Coloffel Avery still fighting, and I, being very busily engaged with the enemy, did not know that Colonel Avery and Major Lewis had fallen back until I saw the enemy upon my left with several regiments(which force caused Colonel Avery arid Major Lewis to fall back, as their left was completely turned aiid the enemy was getting to their rear), and about 50 yards to the rear of the position Colonel Avery had occupied. I then saw for the first time we were driven back, and ordered the men under my command to fall back, but to do so in order. We were hotly fired at when we fell back. I fell back some distance and intended to unite with Colonel Avery and Major Lewis, but found the troops had continued to fall back, so kep Page 261 CHAP. XX.] 261 BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. on and intended to join my regiment at the bridge, bnt found it on fire, so had to cross Bryces Creek; and on getting over learned our troops had made no stand at New Berne; continued the retreat to Trenton, in con- nection with Colonel Vance, who crossed the creek with me, and learn- ing at Trenton our troops were making a stand at Kinston, made a forced march, and readied that point on Sunday morning about 10 oclock, which made a march of 50 miles in about thirty-six hours. Captain Engelliard, quartermaster, Captain Gibson, commissary, and our surgeons, Drs. Baker and Shoffuer, all did their duty very well in- deed. Dr. Shaffuer was of great assistance to me on the Tharch. We entered the field with 614 men, but lost in killed, wounded, and missing 196. Among this number we have reason to believe our loss in killed and wounded is greater than the number taken as prisoners. Our brave colonel is a prisoner. Captain Cowan, Company A, was first ordered into the fight and sus- tained a very heavy loss. His officers acted most bravely, and Private David Phifer is highly spoken of for his bravery before he was killed. He was killed while carrying a message from Major Lewis to Colonel Avery. Private Dolehite is also spoken of in the captains report for having thrown away his clothing in order to swim the creek and save his gun. He is a boy of sixteen years of age. Captain Jenkins, Company B, is reported, as also his officers and men, for having acted well in every particular. Captain Kesler, Company C, and Lieutenant Corzine and men, acted well. Lieutenant Patterson displayed fear. All the officers and men behaved well except Captain Parker, who left the scene of action too soon. Captain McIntyre, in the retreat, ordered his men to go home, and Lieutenant iRayle.did not report himself at all the morning the regi- ment left for the engagement. Sergeant Babb and Private Daniel - Webb are spoken of by Lieutenant Gatling as having acted well. Very respectfully, yours, IR. F. HOKE, Lieutenant- Colonel. General L. OB. BRANCH. No. 27. Report of Cot. James Sinclair, Thirty-fifth North Carolina Infantry. HDQRS. THIRTY-FIFTH IRE~T. NORTH CAROLINA TROOPS, Kinston, N. C., March 19, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that on Wednesday, the 12th instant at 4 p. in., I received orders to march down to Fishers Landing, to oppose the landing of the enemy at that place, reported to be in force with his fleet down the river. I left New Berne, according to orders, at 6.30 p. in., with my command, by railroad, and arrived at the point designated at 8 oclock that iiight about 9 miles below the town. At the time I arrived there was suffi- cient moonlight to enable me to see that the enemy in heavy force was not far distant. I could distinctly hear the music of his bands and even the singing of his men on the fleet. Making Fishers Landing my center, I posted pickets on each side of the landing, extending 3 mile Page 262 262 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. from my center. I posted the balance of my regiment along the rifle pits and breastworks guarding the landing, holding one company in re- serve at the landing proper. During the night a heavy rain set in, thoroughly drenching my men, who were without cover or shelter. Early on the morning of the 13th the enemy commenced landing in heavy force some 2 or 3 miles below my pickets. A company of cav- alry and a regiment which I was promised would support me did not make their appearance; consequently, having had orders to oppose the debarkation of the enemy at Fishers Landing, I was unable to prevent him below. By this means the Croatan breastworks fell into his hands. During the landing of the enemy his gunboats continued shelling the woods. At 10 a. m. he approached Fishers Landing with his boats, throw- ing shell and canister as he came, steaming sufficiently nigh to hear the conversation of his men on board. About this time Colonel Campbell, of the Seventh Regiment, my seiiior officer, made his appearance on the ground (not with his regiment, however), und, having carefully sur- veyed my position and the force of the enemy, ordered me to fall back into the woods beyond reach of the enemys fire,which I did, withmy command in good order, by way of Fishers avenue. In retiring I had 3 of my men wounded by the enemys shells, one of whom has since been reported dead. After forming in the woods near the railroad Colonel Campbell or- dered me to fall back on the Fort Thompson intrenchments, where I was ordered to take position on the right of the Seventh Regiment North Carolina troops. Here, under a heavy rain, we remained all night of the 13th instant, without food, after having been all the night previous exposed to a continuous rain, nearly three hours of the day exposed te the enemys lire, besides marching for several hours,haviug tasted no food from the evening we left New Berne. Posted on my right was the Militia, resting on the railroad by the brick-yard, where the eneniy afterward made his strongest demonstration. According to the disposition made on the morning of the 14th instant before the engagement took place, my command was divided by a sec- tion of Brems battery and Captain Whitehursts iu(lependent company separating my right wing from my center and left wing. On my right a space of about 40 yards intervening [between] the Militia and the railroad was still left vacant; besides, a trench that ran parallel with the railroad of about 60 or 80 yards was unoccupied by our troops. In this condition of affairs the battle opened about 7.30 a. ni. by the firing of a gun from the enemys field batteries planted iii front of the old county road, which fire was replied to by Brems and Lathams batteries. Immediately the enemy opened with musketry from the county road above referred to, which was replied to by my regiment,. with others to the left. The enemy advanced twice upon the breast- works occupied by me, which advances were repelled each time. At 10 a: in. he appeared in force on the railroad and on the right of my position, and, the Militia having retired and the trench above re- ferred to being occupied by him in force, as also were the buildings in the brick-yard, I found my command completely flanked. At this time, however, my second in command, without consulting me, ordered four of my companies on the right wing to fall back, which I rallied and ordered back to their post, which they immediately did, and held it for some time. The fire of the enemy becoming more gall- ing on my right flank, they again retired, by command of my liente Page 263 ~IIAP. XX.] 263 BATTLE OF NEW BERNE, N. C. ant-colonel, who, with one company and portions of other companies at my coniinand, formed in rear of my center. Meantime I had dispatched my adjutant to Colonel Campbell, my commanding officer, to communicate to him the real condition of my regimentexposed to the flanking fire of the enemy. The colone1 having arrived and having surveyed my position, and the section of Breins battery near me having by this time ceased to fire, he ordered me to retire with my command in the following words: You had better take your men out of that as qnick as possible; which order I immediately obeyed. In retiring, however, one of my officers and sev- eral of my men were killed and some wounded. This created some- what of a ~ as the enemy were firing upon us from the railroad and brick-yard; but soon my men rallied and retired in perfect order till we reached that portion of the railroad intersected by the county road, where I formed them into line ready to advance to meet the foe if called upon. Colonel Lanes regiment, having arrived at this time, relieved me, and I fell back upon New Berne by the railroad bridge. I again formed my men at the railroad depot, waiting for orders, where Lieutenant-Colonel Barbour, of the Thirty-seventh, having in charge some fragments of his regiment, informed me that the orders were to fall back by the Kinston road. This I did in perfect order, until some officers who were retiring with speed along the road informed me that the enemys cavalry were in force in the rear. At this junc- ture Company D, of my regiment, volunteered to become the rear guard of the entire force. Colonel Lee, of the Thirty-seventh, kindly volun- teered to command the rear guard, in order to permit me to attend to the balance of my regiment, who were jaded and broken down by ex- posure, fasting, fighting, and marching since the evening of the 12th instant. My presence was demanded with my regiment by the fact that on the first alarm of the enemys cavalry being in close proximity my lieutenant colonel deserted his regiment and sought safety for him- self. The alarm proving false the guard was dismissed, and I con- ducted my regiment to Tuscarora, where I joined portions of the Twenty-seventh and Thirty-seventh IRegimnents amid fragments from the other regiments engaged in the affair of the 14th instant, and took command until the arrival of General Branch. In conclusion I have only to add that, with the exception above re- ferred to, all my officers and men behaved well. Special praise is due to Company D, commanded by Captain Lasa- ter, for the alacrity with which they volunteered to defend our retreat- ing columns when the enemys cavalry was reported to be upon us. 1 am indebted for efficient services to Maj. 0. C. Pettway and Adjt. Thomas J. Gates. Casualties of the battle: 1 officer, Lieutenant Hale, and 4 privates were killed, 11 privates wounded, and 9 missing. I have tLe honor to be, colonel, respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES SINCLAIR, Go lonel, Commanding. No. 28. Report of Cot. Charles C. Lee, Thirty-seventh North Carolina Infantry. MARCH i6~ 1862. GENERAL: In compliance with your orders I herewith submit respect Page 264 264. OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX fully to you a report of the left wing at the battle at Johnstons Cross Roads: On Wednesday afternoon, at about 5 oclock, I received from you notice that the enemy were advancing up the river, and later the same information was received by Captain Herring. I rode down to the batteries and ordered everything in readiness. At 10 p. m. I got notice from you of my command, and immediately issued orders to all to be in readiness and gave them appropriate in- structions. Under these Captain Brem packed up his jaggage and it has been saved. Captain Brem was afterward transferred to Colonel Campbells command, and will report through him. Thursday the enemy spent the day in shelling the woods below, and toward evening some of the men built fires (which were immediately ex- tinguished), when our lines were shelled for about one and a half hours, without injury to any one. About 8 p. m. notice was sent you of signals on our right flank. About 7.30 a. m. on the 14th we fired a 12-pounder gun at the enemy, and a few minutes afterward the battle commenced in earnest. A warm attack was made at the Beaufort road but Captain Lathams artillery was fired with such precision that they made no advance, though they kept up a constant fire here during the whole engagement. The piece on the left hand of th.e Beaufort road was commanded by Captain Latham in person, and after all his men except 3 were either killed or dangerously wounded and rendered unfit for service, the piece was served effect- ively for some twenty minutes, until the day was lost, when he barely escaped. After the attempt on the Beaufort road the foe flanked to the right and moved in heavy column toward our left flank but having given notice to Colonel Crossan of their approach, he opened on them with grape from thiee 32-pounders with such terrible effect that after about six shots they fell back; and though they kept up a constant and warm fire, they made no advance toward Ihe work. Some time after this the firing became hotter, when I received from you an order to send some re-enforcements to Colonel Campbell. I ordered the left wing of my regiment to his support and made further arrangements to cover my own flank. The men of the Twenty-seventh md Thirty seventh Regiments did not fire a shot except a few who were armed with long-range rifles, and this ominous silence was properly ~ppreeiated. The men of these regiments, and also of Fort Thompson, Lppeared always cool and deliberate. While the left wing of the Thirty-seventh moved over to the right they were subjected to a galling fire and suffered to some extent. (See inclosed report of Lieutenant- Colonel Barbour.) Major Gilmer, of the Twenty-seventh, and Lieuten- ant-Colonel Barbour, of the Thirty-sev~nth, moved from place to place within the limits of their respective commands, and by their presence and example encouraged their commands very much. One piecethe right piecein Fort Thompson, which bears on the land, was dismounted, but mounted again by Captain Herring and the carriage properly re- paired. Five men in the fort were wounded; none, I believe, danger- ously. Shortly after the left wing of the Thirty-seventh was sent to Colonel Campbells aid, I observed his regiment moving rapidly to the rear through Colonel Vances camp. I galloped over and demanded where they were going, when I was informed that they were in full retreat. I hastened back and saw the enemy advancing upon our works. Feel- ing assured that the regiments which were retreating could not be rallied, I ordered my command to fall back, and passed on to the batteries t Page 265 CHAP. XX.] BATTJI~E OF NEW BERNE ,N.C. 265 look after them. While in Fort Thompson (two and a half minutes) five shots struck the upper portion of the right flank of the works and two shells fell within the works, without effect. The guns were all spiked, but the enemy pressed so closely that there was not time to blow up the magazine, being within about 30 or 40 yards when we had spiked the guns. I then went to the other batteries and had the guns dis- mounted and the magazines blown up. In blowing up the magazine at Fort Ellis, Captain Mayo was seri- ously (I fear dangerously) wounded, and one other man. All the men of the left wing were saved, and retreated over to New Berne in tolera- ble order. One man of Colonel Sloans Twenty-seventh Regiment was killed. When I crossed over to New I3erne I found some of the regiments had passed beyond, and I was thus prevented frpm carrying out your order to form in the upper part of the town. As Ii advanced up the Trent road to Kinston I overtook Colonel Sinclairs regiment, and a foolish report having got afloat that the enemy had landed cavalry, which were in pursuit, I requested and obtained from Colonel Sinclair a rear guard, which I formed, and we then moved on to the railroad crossing, where it was merged with the regim Tuscarora. - cut, and proceeded up to Lient. C. II. Brown, of Captain Lathams battery, was on several occasions on the left wing, and acted with great coolness; indeed, almost with foolhardiness. Lieutenant Nicholson, my adjutant, and Mr. Noble, who was acting as my aide, also displayed coolness; but no occasion for gallantry presented itself to any one in the left wing. I am, general, respectfully, CHARLES C. LEE. Got. 37th Regt. North Carolina Troops, Gomdg. Left Wing. No. 29. Report of Lieut. Got. William 111. Barbour, Thirty-seventh North Carolina Infantry. , 18G2. I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Thirty-seventh Regiment in the recent engagement near New Berne: Pursuant to orders from Brigadier-General Branch I moved with my command at 3 oclock Thursday- morning and occupied that portion of our line on the left of the old Beanfort road. During the day shells were thrown frequently from the enemys gunboats at our position without any damage to us. On Friday morning about daylight the enemy appeared in full force in front of our lines, partially concealed by the woods, and immediately opened a heavy fire of artillery and musketry upon us. The fire was promptly returned by Captain Lathams battery, stationed in and near the Beaufort road, with great effect. Immediately the enemy attempted a flank movement on our left, for the purpose of storming Fort Thomp- son. This movement was at once defeated by a destructive fire from the laud batteries of Fort Thompson. During the remaining portion of the action the enemy kept up an incessant fire on the position occupied by my command Page 266 266 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. A short time before 12 oclock I was ordered to send five companies of my re~iment to the support of Colonel Campbells brigade, which was at that time hard pressed. I immediately moved the following companies to the designated point: Company D, under Captain Ash- craft; C otupany B, under Lieutenant Cook; Company E, under Lieu- tenant Farthing; Company C, under Lieutenant Gillespie, and Coin - pany K, nuder Captain Ro~se. Great credit is due to these companies for the promptness and bravery with which they moved under a very heavy fire of artillery and infantry for some 400 yards. A short time after they marched to the designated 1)oint our center near the rail- road had given away. After a short and spirited contest these com- panies were ordered by Colonel Campbell to retire, which was done in good order. About this time I observed the forces toward our center retreating, but I considered it my duty to hold my position nutil I was ordered to retreat. Colonel Lee rode toward the center to ascertain the meaning of these movements, and on his return informed me that the center was in full retreat, and directed me at once to fall back. I at once pro- ceeded with my remaining five companies toward the railroad bridge, and at the point where the Beaufort road crosses the railroad I found the five companies which had bean sent to the right drawn up in line of battle and awaiting the arrival of the remaining five companies. I inquired of General Branch what I should do with my regiment, and was directed to cross the railroad bridge and form in New Berne across the track. As soon as I reached that point I found this impracticable, for the reason that the houses in that part of the town were built to the waters edge, and I could only have formed a line of battle some 15 feet in length; 11 therefore moved my regiment to the depot and halted it. I soon afterward saw Colonel Robinson, General Branchs acting assistant adjutant-general, and inquired, where he desired me to move my regiment. He directed me to move toward Kinston. I therefore marched my regiment in good order out of New Berne toward Kinston. When we reached the point where the Kinstomi road intersects the rail- road an alarm was raised by some of the cavalry that the enemys cav- alry were in pursuit. Finding a number of men (iiot in my command) throwing away their guns, I rode to the rear and informued them that it was a false alarm, and begged them to keep the road and act like men. I remained at that point until near sundown, when I proceeded to Tus- carora Depot, 8 miles from New l3ernc. During the night the troops were brought by railroad to Kinstomi. The men undei~ my comumnaud behaved with great coolness and de- liberation during the entire day, retreated in goo(l order, and brought with them all then gumis and amnmunitioii. We conl(l easily have saved our baggaoe ml we had had wagons, but having only two small vehicles, I knew it ~x as useless to attempt it. It was, however, all burned, to prevent it fm om I tiling into the hands of the enemy. When our legiment was ordered to retreat the enemny ha(i e1x)8~ed the breastwoi ks mu the center and in three minutes would have had us completeh ut oft Most of the nns~ing hav~. since been heard from an(l will reFoin the regiment Respeztfuux, yours, WILL. M. BARBOU1{, Lieutenant- Colonel, .Thirty-serenth Regiment, N. C. Troops. Nominal list of casualties omitte(] embodied in tabular statement, p. 247 Page 267 CHAr. XX.] BATTI~ OF NEW BERNE, N. C. 267 No. 30. Report of Gol. if. J. B. Clark, Special Battalion North Carolina Militia. IIDQRS. NORTH CAROLINA MILITIA, SPECIAL BATTALION, Kinston, N. 0., March 17, 1862. SIR: In compliance with your instructions, received at New Berne 9 p. m. March 13, to report to Colonel Campbell at his headquarters, at Fort Thompson breastworks, I respectfully report that I repaired forthwith to that place, accompanied by Maj. Joseph N. Jones, but did not find Colonel Campbell. Major Jones called at Colonel ~ encampment and was informed there that Colonel Campbell had gone in the direction of New Berne. Proceeding thence to New Berne, by way of Colonel Lees encampment~ went to Colonel Campbells encampment, and reported, in his absence~ to Lient. Cot. E. G. Haywood, who directed me to report for duty at the depot of the Atlantic and North Carolina Railroad in New Berne on the following day, 5 a. m. The company was promptly reported and left New Berne at 8 a. in., and arriving at the breastworks was assigned position. On the following morning, March 14, my command was placed in line of battle, numbering 264, 20 having been detailed for hospital dilty and 45 to aid Lieutenant Hawks in mounting cannon on the right of the breastworks. These last were forced from the works by the enemys sharpshooters and came to the ranks after the action commenced. As soon as the firing commenced the ground in front of me was so obscured by smoke that I could see but a short distance, and as firing had commenced on my left with guns of longer range, as soon as I thought the enemy within reach of my guns commenced the fire by file, which order was~ promptly obeyed with coolness and determination. After firing three rounds I commanded the fire to cease. Soon after the smoke cleared away and the enemy were plainly seeii drawi~ up in force on our right, and a company of sharpshooters commenced pouring a fire into our rear, doing considerable execution and causing confusion in my ranks, bu~ an order to rally and take position was promptly obeyed, and calmness restored by the assurance that you would soon send re-enforcements; but the fire was cont.inue(l 011 118 and with redoubled energy, while they (the enemy) crossed the railroad, took possession of the rifle pits on our right and rear, and planted the Stars and Stripes. Previous to this, however, they had fired upon a reconnoitering party I sent in that direction and upon the quartermaster and teamsters I had sent to recover the ammunition. I at one time intended to leave the breastworks and charge upon the enemy, and for this purpose caused bayonets to be fixed; but when I saw the sharpshooters were supported by so large a force of the enemy, concluded that such attempt would result in great loss of life to my command without being able to effect corresponding good to onr cause, and that a failure might have an evil effect on others. At this moment, and just as Colonel Vance poured lmis first fire into the enemy, a panic seized my command and part of them broke ranks. Believing it impossible to reform nuder the fire of these sharpshoot- ers at this moment of confusion I commanded a retreat in order, which was succeeded by a stampede of most of the command. As soon as they had reached a small brush-wood, perhaps GO yards distant, Page 268 268 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. ordered a rally and reformation of the line, in which I was promptly aided by every officer present to my view and for the moment thought I should succeed, but the cry was made that the regulars had retreated; the panic was renewed and increased and my influence as a commander gone. A few, perhaps 20 in all, with their officers, rallied and volunteered to return and obey my orders; but believing it would involve a sacrifice of life to them, being untutored, as we were, in the arts of war, I. de- clined to do so, and in my efforts to rally others to join them became separated from these. In the retreat I joined you at the railroad crossing, when you pro- posed to rally and cover the retreat. There I rallied a squad of the Athens Guards and Cow Creek Volunteers, with most of their officers; but soon the retreating column came on and this joined with them. Leaving you there I went, together with Adjutant Roberts and Lieu- tenant Mitchell, to burn the tents at Colonel Lees encampment. From this point we went to Trent (Clairinont) Bridge and found Major Hall making an effort to reform a regiment, and at his request took position on the bridge, to prevent soldiers passing, and remained there until an officer, said to be Lieutenant Burrows, took charge. At the close of the day I parted with you at Tuscarora, having received orders to rally my command and report at this place. I have made as accurate report to Colonel Campbell of the number of my command in action, of the number killed, wounded, and missing, as I could gather from the commanders of companies. It is believed there were certainly 4 killed and 15 wounded, and there are many missing. Respectfully, II. J. B. CLARK, Colonel, Commanding. Brig. Gen. L. OB. BRANCH, District of Pamlico. No. 31. Report of Lient. J. L. Haughton, Macon Mounted Guards. KINsToN, N. C., March 16, 1862. According to orders from Brigadier-General Branch I left the Thomp- son breastworks at 8.30 p. m. on the 13th instant with 10 of my men, and proceeded to Evans Mill to establish a picket guard, which I did, but did not see anything worth reporting. The next morning a little before day I, with my men, proceeded to the bridge on the road leading from Captain Evans to Croatan Battery. At light we commenced cutting it away, and after clearing it I then sent my men some 300 yards in a bottom. I then set fire to the abut- ment of the bridge and all the plank that would have been of service to the enemy. All the while I was cutting and burning their pickets were firing upon us at a great rate. I encouraged my men all I could, so they stood until I sent them off. After seeing the last of the bridge I then made an attempt to rejoin my company, but was cut off by their picket. I attempted the second time by a new route, but met with like fate. I then made a third trial, and after going for more than a mile I cam Page 269 CHAP. XX.] EXPEDITION TO WASHINGTON, N. C. 269 across a negro, belonging to Dr. Curtis, of.New il3erne, who was trying to make his escape from the enemy, as he was tired of living with them. I stopped to ask him some questions, and he told me not to go any farther or else I should be taken. I then conutermarched my men, and as they turned balls fell around us as fast as hailstones. We retired in perfect order. I had not gone far before we found ourselVes sur- rounded. My only chance theii was to charge upon their pickets. It happened just at that time the firing had ceased at the battery, and the l)icket su~~posing that we were cavalry in pursuit of them, so they ran from us fi~ster than we from them. I then made my escape throngh Trenton, reaching Kinston at sunup Sunday morning completely ex- hausted, both m en and horses. Very respectfully submitted. J. L. HAUGHTON, i~econd Lieutenant Macon Mounted Guards. Capt. P. G. EVANS, Kinston, N. C. MARCH 2021, 1862.Expedition to Washington, N. C. Report of Cot. Thomas G. S tevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts In fantry. NEW BERNE March 23 1862. Agreeably to orders received from General Foster I embarked the Twenty-fourth liegiment Massachusetts Volunteers on the 19th instant on board the steamer Guide, and on the morning of the 20th, at 7 oclock, got under way for Washington. Followed the gunboats Delaware, Lou. isiana, and Commodore Barney. At 7 oclock same evening came to anchor off the mouth of the Pamlico River. The next morning at day- light we again got nnder way, and at 10 oclock arrived at within about ~ miles of Washington, when we discovered their deserted batteries without guns, two on the south bank of the river and the other one on the iiorth. We also discovered here a barricade, consisting of piles cut off about 3 feet below the surface. As I found it would be impos- sible to carry the steamer Guide up to the city even if the barrier was remove~d, on account of her drawing too much water, I went on board the steamer Delaware and conferred with Captain Quackenbush, who kindly offered to take two companies up in his steamer; and as the mayor, who had come down to meet us, assured us that there were no troops in the city and as all signs confirmed this statement, I placed Companies I and G on board the Delaware and steamed up to the city, where we found a large number of persons on the wharves. I landed the two companies and marched to the court-house, where we nailed the Stars and Stripes to a flag-pole which we found in front of the court- house. The band played national airs and the men cheered. We theit marched through some of the principal streets and returned to the boat. While in the city not a man left the ranks or behaved otherwise than as if on drill. I was glad to notice considerable Union sentiment expressed by the inhabitants. From quite a number of houses we were saluted by wav- ing handkerchiefs, and from one the national flag, with the inotto,The Union and the Constitution, was displayed. A large number of the inhabitants expressed a wish that sufficient force could be sent there to protect them against the rebels Page 270 270 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. LOHAP. XX. On returning to the steamer Guide we found that Professor Malle- fert had blown up the barrier, so as to clear a channel some 60 feet wide. At 6 oclock same evening weighed anchor and started for New Berne, where we arrived on the afternoon of the following day (21st instant). Your obedient servant, THOS. G. STEVENSON, Colonel Twenty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. MARCH 23APRIL 26, 1862.Siege of Fort Macon, N. C. REPORTS. No. l.Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Bnrnside, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. John G. Parke, U. S. Army. No. 3.Lient. Daniel W. Flagler, U. S. Ordnance Department. No. 4.Lieut. Merrick F. Pronty, Twenty-fifth Massachnsetts Infantry. No. 5.Capt. Lewis 0. Morris, First U. S. Artillery. No. 6.Col. Isaac P. Rodman, Fourth Rhode Island Infantry. No. 7.Lient. William J. Andrews, Ninth New York Infantry, Acting Signal Officer. No. 8.Col. Moses J. White, C. S. Army. No. 1. Reports of ]lfaj. Gen. Ambrose B. Buruside, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., April 17, 1862. I have the honor to report the following movements in this depart- ment since my last dispatch: Owing to the absence of engines and cars on the railroad and the burning of the bridges by the enemy the work of General Parke at Fort Macon has proved to be exceedingly difficult. The rebuilding of the bridges was necessarily done nuder the protection of a large- guard, and the enemys cavalry made frequent visits to the road, and I have no cavalry to compete with them. Our losses have been but slight during the work, a mounting in all to some 10 or 12 pickets. On the 7th instant Colonel Egloffstein, One hundred and third New York, was ordered to make a reconnaissance up the Trent in the direc- tion of Onslow County, and I afterward ordered him to continue his reconnaissance down the road leading from Trenton to Core Sound, at the mouth of White Oak River, and then to proceed up the shore of Core Sound and communicate with General Parke at Morehead City. This I did with a hope that we might be able to catch a portion of the enemys cavalry, the headquarters of which were at Swausborough, from whence they sent detachments over to the railroad, thus making the duty of guarding the 36 miles of railroad from this place to Caro- lina City very onerous. The colonel started with 200 picked men, two days rations, and no transportation. with instructions to ration his men from supplies found on the route. He yesterday reached Gen- eral Parkes headquarters, having had several skirmishes with th Page 271 CHAP. XX.] SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 271 enemy, in which he captured some 23 prisoners, 80 horses, and qnite a quantity of pistols, sabers, & c. Among the prisoners captured was Colonel Robinson, formerly of our Army, and son-in-law of Captain Macrae. 1 have been thus minute in these details to show you how necessary a regiment of cavalry is to me at this point, and I sincerely hope there will not be a moments delay in sending me a well-organized regiment. General Parke has now succeeded in getting on the banks in rear of Fort Macon with the main body of his command and two mortar bat- teries and one 30-pounder Parrott gun. The enemys pickets have been driven in and all communication with the garrison from the outside cut off. The enemys shots thus far have done us but little harm, wounding only 2 men. There are three naval vessels outside co- operating with us, and I hope to reduce the fort within ten days. The re-enforcements spokeii of have arrived, and 1 have formed the brigades of Generals Foster and IReno into divisions~ which now occupy this place and its suburbs. I am buildii~ just in rear of the town an inclosed bastioned field work capable of holding 1,000 men and mount. ing thirty guns, which work will be finished in a few days, after which I propose to build another small four-gun work for two companies to the right of this first work and near the Keuse. These forts com- pletely comman4 the town and will me to a enable leave it with small fhrce when I move up the country. My advance now on the railroad s at Batchelders Creek, where we are rebuilding the railroad bridge burned by the enemy, and I have made corresponding advances in the (lirection of Kinston, on the Keuse and Trent Rivers, which positions have been maintained, with occasional disturbances in the way of picket firing. On the morning of the 7th some 600 of our men from Roanoke Island were sent to Elizabeth City and succeeded in capturing all the pickets in the neighborhood of that place, amounting to 74 men and 100 stand of arms. Since then the enemys force has been increased at that point to two regiments and a field battery of four guns. I have organi d, in conjunction with Commodore Ilowan, an expedition a gainst t~ at place, and if we succeed in capturing or driving the enemy back we shall move up to South Mills and blow up the lock of the canal, and then l)roceed up to the head of the Currituck Canal and blow in its banks, thus rendering it in~mpossible for the gunboats, which are said to be building at Norfolk, to come into these waters. I hope the expedi- tion will be successful. The reghuents of my original command are much decreas~I by sick. ness and casualties in battle, and the recruiting service having been stopped, I shall not be able to fill them up. My command now consists of twenty regiments, one battalion, and a battery, making an aggregate of about 15,000, distributed as follows: Three regiments at Iloanoke, a half regiment at Hatteras Inlet, three regiments and a battalion with General Parke and on the road, and thirteen and a half regiments with the battery at this place. The engines and cars for which we made requisition immediately after the battle have not yet arrived, and as the re-en rorcements sent inc brought no wagons with them we are absolutely crippled for want of transportation. I sincerely hope there will be no delay in forwarding me the regi. meut of cavalry and two batteries of artillery, together with the engines, cars, and wagons already required for Page 272 272 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. The enemy continues in force at Kinston, but I feel quite sure I can dislodge them after the fall of Fort Macon. I have made the above statement in reference to my forces in order that the Department may know what I have to work with, and if in what I m~y have to do more re-enforcements are necessary they may be sent at once. I have the honor to be, your most obedient servant, A. E. BURNSIDE, Miajor-General, Commanding Department of North Carolina. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. 0., April 20, 1862. I have the honor to state that since my last report I have visited General Parkes force investing Fort Macon and found the work pro- gressing very rapidly, considering the obstructions that have to be overcome. After transporting all the batteries, ammunition, supplies, & c., 36 miles by hand cars, they have to be transported by water some three miles and a half through a tortuous channel, with only 2 feet water at high tide. Flats loaded with supplies are sometimes a day and a half making this short trip. These supplies then have to be loaded on wagons and transported near 4 miles through deep sand to where the trenches are established. The farthest of our batteries, which consists of four 10-inch mortars, is but 1,200 yards from the fort. The battery of 30-pounder Parrott guns and the 8-inch mortar battery are still farther in advance, so that these supplies have all to be transported at night, as the train for a half mile or more would be,if visible, under the direct fire of the fort. The working parties and teams are kept busy every night, and the general has been able to keep some small parties at work during the day under cover of the guad of the trenches, but has had to exercise great care in protecting his men, in which thus far he has been very successful, losing in his whole forcekilled, wounded, and missingbut 9 men, and 1 captain wounded (Sheffield, of Fourth Rhode Island*). Some ninety cannon- shot from the fort and considerable musketry fire, which occurred on one morning, wounded but 2 of our men, while we killed and wounded with our rifles 8 of theirs and drove their pickets inside the fort. On my visit yesterday to the trenches with my staff the ambulance in which we traveled to within a mile of the fort attracted the atten- tion of their lookout on the flag-staff; which caused a battery to open upon us as we passed to and from the batteries, of which I was after- ward very glad, as it demonstrated to me that their firing is very wild. Our batteries ,guns, & c., are now about completed and the pieces in position. The work has been most skillfully conducted under the direction of Captain Williamson, topographical engineer, and Lieu- tenant Flagler, of the Ordnance Corps. I came up for the purpose of carrying down through Core Sound two of our floating batteries, with four 30-pounder rifled Parrott guns mounted thereon, which I propose to anchor, together with the gun- boat Ellis, with an 80-pounder rifled gun, just in front of the fort, opposite the town of Beaufort. The Navy co-operates from the out- Properly, Eighth Connecticut Page 273 CHAP. XX.] SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 27~ side with three steamers and a sailing vessel. I have ordered General Parke to advance some 400 of his best marksmen in front of the land batteries to within some 500 or 600 yards ot~ the fort, to annoy their cannoneers. The reduction of the fort is, I think, only a question of time. I sent General iReno up beyond Elizabeth City~o destroy the locks in the Dismal Swamp Canal, and to use his discretion as to other operations in the direction of Norfolk, and with a view to creating a diversion in favor of McClellan, and II hope to hear of the successful termination of his expedition within two days. General Foster, who is in immediate command here, is pushing his outposts in the direction of Kinston as rapidly as the present force here will admit. fle has also, besides building the railroad bridges across the Trent and Batchelders Creek, fortified this city in the rear, so that it can be held by a small force when we advance up the country or down the coast. Our sick list is not decreasing. I hope the Governors of States from which my regiments have been drawn may be authorized to fill them up to the maximum number of 1,000 men each. With the present strength of the regiments our men are worked very hard. I would again urgently but respectfully request of the Department one good regiment of cavalry, two light batteries of artillery, and the transportation required by my chief quartermaster. The engines, cars, and wagons are absolutely necessary to us here. Captain Cutting, one of my quartermasters, will bear this to you, and explain to you our wants more fully than I can write in this hur- ried way. I have the honor to be, your very obedient servant, A. E. BUItNSIDE, Major-General, Commanding Department of North Carolina~ Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, April 29, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to make the following hasty report of the fall of Fort Macon, on Saturday, the 26th instant. The detailed report of the siege will be made in due time by Brigadier-General Parke who conducted it: I arrived at the straits leading into Beaufort Harbor on the afternoon of the 23d instant, and immediately after sent the inclosed demand for the surrender of the fort to Colonel White, the answer to which is in- closed herewith. On the morning of the 24th I communicated with General Parke, and ascertained that a few more preparations remained to be made in the trenches before the firing commenced. The armament in the trenches consisted of four batteries as follows: Proutys battery, 1,200 yards from the fort, consisting of four 8-inch mortars; Morris battery, 1,300 yards from the fort, consisting of three 30-pounder rifled Parrott guns; Flaglers battery, 1,600 yards from the fort, consisting of four 10-inch mortars; Caswells battery, 1,200 yards from the fort, consist- ing of one 12-pounder Dahllgren rifled boat howitzer. On the afternoon of the 24th I sent an order to General Parke to open fire as soon as possible which he did at 5 oclock on .the morning 18 R RYOL I Page 274 274 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. ~X. of the 25th instant and kept it up until 4 oclock p. in., throwing 1,100 shot and shell, of which 560 struck the fort, dismounting 17 guns, kill- ing 8 men, and wounding 26 others. About 7.30 in the morning the naval vessels came into action, and continued their fire until the high winds made it so rough outside the bar they were compelled to withdraw. I beg to refer you to the report of the commander of the fleet for more definite information, but I will add that their fire was well directed and was of material aid in the reduction of the fort. The intrepidity with which the Vessels were brought within close range of the fort in a sea rolling to a fearful extent commanded the admiration of all who witnessed the sight. In the mean time the officers and men who accompanied me, aided by Lieutenant Franklin and Midshipman Porter, of the Navy, were getting Nichols and Baxters two floating batteries, with four rifled Parrott 30-pounder guns and one Wiard 12-pounder gun into posi- tion, but only one of them was able to participate in the conflict in consequence of the high winds. At 4 oclock p. m. a flag of truce was hoisted on the parapets, when our batteries ceased firing, and a party coming from the fort bearing a white flag was met by a party from the trenches, when it was ascer- tained that Colonel White had sent the flag for the purpose of know- ing upon what terms he could surrender the fort. General Parke was sent for, and upon coming up he informed the bearer of the flag that the surrender must be unconditional. They informed him of the terms I had offered to Colonel White before the fire had opened and requested a cessation of hostilities until I could be communicated with, which was granted by General Parke; and he sent a message to me stating that Colonel White desired to know on what conditions he could sur- render the fort, and without knowing the answer given by him I sent a reply allowing the same conditions I had offered before the firing commenced. There was a very great delay in sending this answer, owing to the fact that it had to be borne part of the way by water, while the wind and tide were so strong that it was almost impossibh~ to move a boat against them. In the mean time General Parke started for my boat, reaching there at 4 a. m. on the 26th. He had met my answer on the way, but de- ferred communicating it to Colonel White until he had seen me. Upoft consultation we agreed that if an unconditional surrender was demanded the enemy would in all probability stand one days more bombardment, thereby occasioning an additional destruction of property in the fort, and inasmuch as I have always intended to release them on their parole if they surrendered, as I 4id the prisoners taken on ILtoanoke Island~, we did not think it wise to allow a technicality in negotiating to pre- vent us from accomplishing the same result in a less time, and thereby prevent an additional destruction of life and property. The answer was communicated to Colonel White early on the morning of the 26th, soon after which he came on board my boat, where he and General Parke arranged the inclosed terms of capitulation. We immediately landed at the fort, went up to the trenches, brought the guard that was in them to the fort, and placed them as a guard o~ the glacis. The garrison of the fort marched out as prisoners of war and stacked their arms on the glacis, after which Colonel White low- ered the rebel flag, which was taken possession of by General Parke, who hoisted in its stead an American flag which was found in the fort. The prisoners then signed their paroles and were embarked on vessels with their private property, such as clothing, bedding, & c., and hav Page 275 CHAP. XX.] SIE~GE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 275 been transportedsome to Wilmington, others to Beaufort, and the remainder to this place. By this snrrender we come into possession of the fort and its arma- ment of 54 gnns, 400 prisoners, a large amount of ammunition, com- missary, and quartermasters stores, some 40 horses with their equip- ments, 500 stand of rifles and muskets with full eqnipments, and a considerable amount of implements incident to the complete equipment of a fort, besides opening one of the best harbors on the Southern coast. Of the skill, courage, and endurance displayed in this siege J will allow General Parke to speak in his detailed report. The result proves that the work was conducted by the right man. I inclose my con- gratulatory order. I beg to make a further explanation of my reasons for determining to release these prisoners whenever the fort should be taken. I am becoming daily more convinced that the release of our prisoners at Itoanoke Island was of material advantage to us; and as a large ma- jority of the men in the fort were from the counties bordering on the sound, which are more strongly Union than any other counties in this State, many of them being Union men themselves and nearly all of them anxious to get to their homes, I felt sure that it would create a much better impression in this community, and thereby strengthen our cause, by releasing them on parole than by sending them to the North. Another important reason for coming to this decision was, the sending them North would deprive me of considerable transportation, which is very valuable to me here now. During the siege and bombardment I have been aided in comnmuni- eating with General Parke not only by my own staff, but by almost every member of the staff of Generals Foster, iReno, and Parke. I am sorry to record the loss of 1 man killed and 2 wounded from our side on the day of the bombardment. The names will be given by General Parke in his detailed report. I have the honor to be, your very obedient servant, A. B. BURNSIDE, Major-General, Commanding Department of North Carolina. Hon. B. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. [Inclosuros.] HnQRs. DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Core Sound, April 23, 1862. Col. MosEs J. WHITE, Commanding Fort Macon: COLONEL: I have arrived here with additional means of attacking your position. General Parke is now ready, but by. my orders there has not been a single shot fired at the fort by the army. I deem it my duty to again summon you to surrender the place in its present condi- tion,in which case you and your garrison will be allowed to return to your homes on parole. This proposition is made with a view to saving human life. Should you not accept these terms, the consequences of an attack and an assault must rest upon you. Capt. Herman Biggs, my chief quartermaster, bears this, and will return with an answer. Lient. B. N. Strong accompanies him. I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General Commanding Page 276 276 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [cHAP. XX. IIEAbQ1JARTERS, Fort Macon, April 23, 1862. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, U. S. A.: SIR: Your letter per flag of truce is received, demanding surrender of Fort Macon. In reply I have to say I decline the surrender. Lieut. Daniel Cogdell will bear this note to you. By order of Col. M. J. White: ROBT. E. WALKER, Acting Adjutant. Terms of Capitulation. The following are the terms of capitulation agreed upon for the sur- render to the forces of the United States of Fort Macon, Bogue Banks, N. C.: ARTICLE 1. The fort, armament, and garrison to be ~urrendered to the forces of th~ United States. ARTiCLE 2. The officers and men of the garrison to be released on their parole of honor not to take up arms against the United States of America until properly exchanged, and to return to their homes, taking with them all their private effects, such as clothing, bedding, books, & c. M. J. WHITE, Colonel, C. S. Army, Commanding Fort Macon. SAML. LOCKWOOD, Commanding U. S. Navy, and Senior Officer. JNO. G. PARKE, Brig. Gem. Vols., Commanding Third Division, Dept. N. C. FORT MACON, N. C., April 26, 1862. GENERAL ORDERS, ( RS. DEPT. OP NORTH CAROLINA, No. 29. Beaufort Harbor, April 26, 1862. The general commanding takes peculiar pleasure in expressing his thankfulness to General Parke and his brave command for the patient labor, fortitude, and courage displayed in the investment and reduction of Fort Macon. Every patriot heart will be filled with gratitude to God for having given to our beloved country such soldiers. The regiments and artillery companies engaged have fairly earned the right to wear upon their colors and guidons the words, Fort Ma- con, April 26, 1862. By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adj~4ant- General. No. 2. Reports of Brig. Gem. John G. Parke, U. S. Army. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG-ABE, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, Carolina City, March 23, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to inform you that I reached this point last evening after a severe march from the landing on Slocums Creek wiih a portion of my conim~nd Page 277 CHAP. XX.] SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 277 Hearing that the enemy had burned the railroad bridge over New- port River I hurried off in order to save the county road bridge. This we succeeded in doing. We also secured some log quarters made for the Seventh Regiment North Carolina troops. This morning I dispatched Captain Gardner and Lieutenant Flagler with a flag of truce to Fort Macon with a demand to surrender; a copy of my letter, together with the reply of the commanding officer, I here- with inclose. We have now but one course to pursue, and that is to invest the place; but with the Newport Bridge destroyed this will be a slow operation. I have ordered Major Wright down to that point to re- build the bridge. This will have to be done before we can bring down the guns. Our supplies can be brought by rail to this poi~it and thence in wagons over a fair road. The county road from Slocums to Newport is in one place very bad; will soon be impassable for heavily-loaded wagons. I have with me about 700 men; the remainder of the Fourth and Eighth are, I presume, now on the way down. I have sent two companies to Morehead City to prevent any com- munication with the fort. At present I have not strength enough to send a force to Beaufort. I believe they communicate with the fort every night. As far as I can learn the garrison of the fort has but little sympathy, or rather the commanding officer has but little, in either Beaufort or Morehead. If possible I would like some of the Navy to come around through Core Sound to interrupt communication between Beaufort and Fort Macon. I have just learned that the officers of the fort communicate with the outer world by running down the beach. My force at present is not sufficient nor have I the means to cut off this communication. I have just taken a flat-boat, with a mail and a lot of corn, on the way from the fort to Swausborough. I will detain the captain. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE. [Inclosures.] IIDQRS. THIRD BRIGADE, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, March 23, 1862. To the Commander of the Garrison of Fort Macon: SIR: In order to save the unnecessary effusion of blood I have the honor to demand the evacuation of the fort and surrender of the forces under your command. having an intimate knowledge of the entire work and an overwhelm- ing force at our command with the means for reducing the work, its fall is inevitable. On condition that no damage is done to the fortification or armament your command will be released as prisoners of war on their parole. Very respectfully, yours, & c., JNO. G. PARKE, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 278 278 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. HEADQUARTERS, Fort Miacon, March 23, 1862. General J. 0-. PARKE, Brigadier-General, Commanding llforehead City, N. C.: Sin: Your request is received, and I have the honor to decline evac- nating Fort Macon. Very respectfully, yours, & c., M. J. WHITE, Colonel, Commanding. HDQRs. THIRD BRIGADE, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, Carolina City, March 24, 186211 p.m. M~ DEAR GENERAL: Pell has just arrived. I will detain him until morning, as I have now a move on foot which is of so great importance that I wish you to be apprised of the result. Since my communication of yesterdays date I have been steadily occupied in cutting off all communication with the fort. I have two companies posted in Morehead City, under ~1ajor Allen, with orders to cut off all communication with the fort and Beanfort. To-day I sent to Beanfort for the town authorities. Captain Gardner met them, and informed them that I required them to stop all comumuni- cation with the fort. They all have a great horror of Colonel White, and fear that if they communicate with us lie will shell their town. However they have determined to hold a town meeting, and I will get their reply to-morrow. At first I had not the means nor provisions to occupy it. My wagon train has now made two trips to Slocums Creek Landing, and I have now supplies until Saturday morning; and if the reply is not satis- factory I will send one company over there. The destruction of the Newport IRiver Bridge is a bad business. I hope Field will soon have it in order, and Flagler and Morris will soon have their guns here. I presume Flagler will inform you of the burning of the hotel at this place, also of the barracks just below here. Last night Colonel White burnt the prize bark lying under the fort. There are two ships at Morehead, one at the wharf and the other in the stream, purporting to be English, and loaded now with turpentine, cotton, & c. They came in last August, and have not been able to escape. I presume the fact of their flying English colors has secured them against Colonel Whites torch. My work for to-night is to send two companies over to the Banks under a good pilot. I send a boat to be carried across the sand hills to the sea, with a letter to the commanding officer of the fleet informing him of my move and requesting his co-operation. My transportation is only sufficient to carry over two companies, but it is so very important to occupy the Banks. We have made two captures, one a schooner load of corn going from the fort to Swausborough, the other a bearer of dispatches from the captain of a picket company on Queens Creek, beyond Swausborough, to Colonel White. I have the captain of the schooner and the dispatch bearer now confined, and will send them to you by the first opportunity. O for some of [the] Navy people. Cant you send one or two boat howitzers and ammunition down by rail so that I can send them over to the Banks ~ One could be mounted on our schooner with all ease. I am informed that the Union could come through Core Sound with some ships launches in tow. These could cut off Beaufort and the fort Page 279 ~AIAP. XX.] SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. 0. 279 Tell the Navy people of these two big ships and cargo. On this county road there are two points where main roads come in from the Swansborough side, and at these I will establish a gnard to protect my wagon train until the railroad is in running order. The enemy may send some cavalry in from that side, but I dont think there is much danger. MARCH 2512.45. Colonel Harland has just reported to me that it is out of the question to get our boats up from Morehead owing to the interference of our old friends the wind, tide, and shoals. I have therefore postponed my trip to the Banks, and it must be all for the best. Now I will Wait for the boat howitzers and their crews and make a lodgment by daylight. Please send them forthwith by rail. In addition to the schooner I can raise four large boats, but only iimne oars. Send some extra ones. Pell will tell you the condition of the bridge, & c. As I have not taken steps toward seizing these ships, let Commodore Bowan send an officer down at once to act in the matter. I will fur- nish him men, and let the howitzers follow as soon as possible. Let Flagler and Morris have a lot of contrabands, with some teams to carry their ordnance to the railroad, so that it can be run down here on the completion of the bridge. The people here are all frightened. What shall I do about the oath Qf allegiance and neutrality? Please send me the forms and instructions about administering them. I have administered but two oaths of neutrality. Please send some blank passes. There are some rabid secessionists about here, but they dont make their appearance. My command is in good health and spirits, excepting the two com- panies in Morehead; they are bivouacking, but have good shelter. We expect to supply ourselves with fish, & c. Very faithfully, yours, JNO. G. PARKE. [General AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE.] P. S.I send the prisoner by Pell, together with the papers found en him. HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, Garolina City, March 26, 1862. GENERAL: Yesterday morning I received a visit from Mr. IRumley and Mr. Chadwick on behalf of the citizens of Beaufort. They ex- pressed the thanks of the citizens for the courtesy and consideration shown_them.Amut wera fcwe~cl tn n~wl~cln-c~ +h~+ +hc~- ~ er of the company over, and to T will detail an officer for tha Page 280 280 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. they would soon hear from me. He informed me that there were no supplies for troops in the town; that they had not more than three months, for themselves, and, as all communication with Hyde County was cut off, they were in a sorry plight. Last night Ii sent Major Allen, with two companies, over to Beaufort, but as yet I have no report from him, nor have we any reports from the fort. I ordered him to seize all boats, and, if possible, surprise any parties that might be there from the fort. I ordered that no passes be granted unless the parties take the oath of allegiance, excepting passes to come and see me. I look to-day for some of our Navy people and a boat howitzer. My two old pilots returned last night from up the Banks. They re- port a rough sea outside. We can see the enemys outposts on the Banks opposite in small squads. I cant learn whether or not they have any small pieces mounted at the salt-works. As that is a good landing I think it possible, and therefore would rather postpone a landing until we can bring at least one howitzer to bear upon them and feel them before we expose too many men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PAT~KE, Brigadier- General Volunteers. General BURNSIDE. HDQRS. THIRD BRIGADE, DEPT. NORTH CAROLINA, Carolina City, March 31, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the complete investment of Fort Macon. Three companies are stationed in Beaufort and two in Morehead City, with instructions to cut off all communications between those points and the fort. The commanding officers at these posts have seized all the boats. On the 29th I sent a reconnoitering party over to the Banks, consist- ing of 20 men, with a commissioned officer. Meeting no resistance, the party remained through the night. During yesterday I sent the remainder of the company over, and to- night I will send over another company. As sooii as the signal officers arrive I will detail an officer for that station and send another to the fleet. Captain Morris has just arrived with the Parrott guns. The New- port Bridge being finished, they were brought through by rail. As soon as the boats come over from Beaufort I will send this bat- tery over to the Banks and commence operations. In my opinion these guns and mortars will be required ultimately, and will do more service on the Banks than they could at Morehead. The railroad embankment at Morehead will serve us a good purpose in mounting and serving the 100-pounder rifle. I have now in confinement Mr. Josiah F. Bell, the collector of Bean- fort. I will send him up to you, together with papers, & c., and a re- port. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. General BURNSIDE Page 281 CHAr. XX.] SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 281 CAROLINA CITY, April 8, 1862noon. GENERAL: I sent a dispatch to you yesterday evening, and as the sergeant has not yet returned I fear lie may have been intercepted by the rebel cayalry between ilavelock and New Berne. In the dispatch I inclose Colonel Wilsons report* of an attack upon his outside pickets by the rebel cavalry, wounding 1 man and probably taking 1 prisoner. This morning he reports that not only 1 but 8 are missing; that he increased the picket last night, but nothing further occurred. To-day he sends out four companies to burn the county-road bridges. This second dispatch I sent you this morn and fearing that the bearer may be waylaid beyond ilavelock, I will send this by Slocums Creek. I am informed that Captain King some two or three days ago, heard some cavalry, I believe two, on a cross-road near the deserted battery, Croatan, and shortly after he saw a rocket. Now this may be mere rumor. Still it behooves ns to look out. I will write King to make a report to you of the circumstances. We sent quite a large mail this morning. I sincerely hope it has not been picked up by the enemy. The balance of the Ninth New Jersey should be sent down to New- port at once. and I think it advisable to have strong pickets posted throughout the railroad; but it is out of the question for me to attend to it from this point. The stern-wheeler cannot reach the Banks, and taking advantage of the tides is a slow progress. Morris company goes over.this evening, the Eighth Connecticut dur- ing the night, and then I will send all the Fourth Rhode Island, except- ing two companies, which I will leave here. The two launches with howitzers are here; these can protect .the retreat of the two companies to the stern-wheeler if forced to retire; this is hardly to be expected. I wish I had some cavalry down here to drive these rebels out of the conutry. I do not believe there are more than two companies of them. In haste, yours, faithfully, JNO. G. PARKE. General BURNSIDE. llnQns. THIRD DIVISION, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, Beaufort, N. (I., .Aliay 9, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor respectfully to submit the following report of the movements and operations of the troops under my com- mand from the date of their embarking at New Berne, March 19, up to the reduction of Fort Macon, April 26: On the 19th the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment, Col. I. P. Rodman commanding, and the Eighth Connecticut Regiment, Col. Edward ilarland commanding, were embarked, and on the 20th we steamed down the Neuse to Slocumns Creek, and, preceded by the gunboat Picket, followed up this latter stream to the lauding place previously determined on by the commanding general. Tbe Fifth Rhode Island Battalion, Maj. John Wright commanding, marched from New Berne down the railroad, and joined u~ at Have- lock Station, a mile and one-half distant from Slocums Creek Landing. See p. 295 Page 282 282 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [ChAP. XX. Capt. Lewis 0. Morris, First United states Artillery, being assigned to duty with the brigade, was placed in charge of the three 30-pounder Parrott guns, and Lieut. D. W. Flagler, of the Ordnance, had charge of the two mortar batteries. From Slocums Creek it was intended to haul the siege train over to the railroad, and thence transport it on cars with horse-power to Carolina City. Immediately on landing at Slocums Creek I was in- formed that the enemy had burned the railroad bridge over Newport River, and fearing that a similar attempt would be made on the county- road bridge, I dispatched a company to guard it, and followed with the available force that had landed. We thus secured this bridge, and had an unobstructed route by the common road to Carolina City, which point we reached on the 22d. The Fifth Rhode Island Pattalion was ordered to the crossing of Newport River, and to the major commanding was intrusted the re- building of the railroad bridge. This was accomplished in a few days. On thd 23d a demand was made for the surrender of the fort and garrison. This being refused, steps were at once taken to completely invest the work and preparations made for besieging the place. Two companies were sent to Morehead City, the terminus of the railway, and three companies to Beaufort, with instructions to the commanding officers at both points to seize all the boats and cut off all supplies for the garrison and stop all communication with the fort. A gunboat served to blockade Core Sound, and by the aid of one or two small boats at Carolina City we were enabled to cut off all com- mnunication through Bogue Sound. From Beaufort a communication was opened with the blockading fleet, a party crossing to Shackelford Banks, and thence in a fishermans boat to the fleet. Having received a ships launch and howitzer from New Berne by the way of Clubfoot Canal, a small party on the 29th of March, under cover, of this gun, effected a landing on the Banks directly opposite Carolina City, thus completely investing the work. The enemy now seemed to be very active in and about the fort. The bark Glen, lying under the guns of the fort, was burned; also the Eliason House. The light-house tower and beacon were overturned, and all the outbuildings were destroyed. All parties of our men cross- ing from Morehead to Beaufort, or anywhere within range of the guns of the fort, were continually fired upon. Fort Macon is situated upon the eastern extremity of Bogne Banks, a narrow sand island stretching off to the westward a distance of about 25 miles, and separated from the main-land by Bogue Sound, in which the depth of the wailer is so slight as to permit no navigation other than that of the lightest-draught flats and small boats. From a point on the island opposite Carolina City to the fort, a distance of about 5 miles, the surface of the island is broken, commencing a short distance from the beach, into irregular knolls of sand. varying in height and extent. Toward the sound these knolls decrease in size until they approach an extensive salt-marsh, through which run nu- merous creeks. Near the head of one of these creeks, Hoop Pole, our permanent camp and depot was located, and to this point it was necessary to transport all the troops, supplies, siege guns, ammuni- tion, & c., in scows and small boats. On account of the intricacy of the channel and the slight depth of the water, even with the boats which we obtained n full tide. , o supplies could be transported excepting upon Finding that a large force was necessary to guard the Newpor Page 283 CHAP. XX.] 283 SIEGE 4?F FORT MACON, N. C. Railroad Bridge, the Ninth New Jersey Regiment, having reported for duty with the brigade, was assigned to that post, with instructions to picket the line of railroad and protect it from encroachments of the enemy from the direction of Swausborough. The Fifth Rhode Island Battalion, being thus relieved, joined me on the 4th of April at Caro- lina City. On the 29th of March the first troops were crossed to the Banks, and from that time to April 10 every available hour of night and day was spent in transporting men, siege train, and supplies. During this period of thirteen days I crossed eight companies of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment; seven companies of the Eighth Con- necticut Regiment; the Fifth Rhode Island Battalion; Company C~ First United States Artillery; Company I, Third New York Artillery, Captain Ammon commanding, who reported for duty at Carolina City, and the siege train. Communication was immediately established with the fleet, a signal officer being placed aboard the vessel of the commanding officer. On the 11th, aided by Captain Williamson, of the Topographical Engineers, Captain Morris, of the Artillery, and Lieutenant Flagler, of the Ordnance, I made a reconnaissance in force in th~ direction ot the fort. Meeting the enemys pickets, they were driven in after a slight skirmish, and we advanced to within a mile of the work, when the guns of the fort opened upon us with shot and shell. The men were placed under cover of the sand hills, while Captains Williamson and Morris and Lieutenant Flagler made a careful examination of the ground in our front, and selected sites for our batteries ranging from 1,300 to 1,700 yards from the fort. The force was then withdrawn, no casualties having occurred from the fire of the enemy. In the recon- naissance we received great assistance from the blockading fleet, Capt. S. S. Prentiss commanding. The gunboats engaged the fort and shelled the beach in our front. For this and other timely aid rendered us I desire to express my acknowledgments and thanks. On the 12th a permanent advance guard of five companies was organ- ized and work on the approaches was commenced. During this day a skfrmish occurred with the enemy, in which Captain Sheffield and a private of the Eighth Connecticut Regiment were wounded. The enemy were driven back, and although more than seventy shot and shell were fired on our advance guard and fatigue parties, not a man was injured by them. From this date the regular work on the ap- proaches, trenches, batteries, and rifle pits was vigorously pushed forward by all our available force both night and day, in spite of the desultory fire kept up by the enemy. The road along the beach being in full view of the lookout on the flag-staff of the fort, it became necessary to transport our guns, mortars, and ammunition to the batteries and magazines under cover of the night. The enemy made two ineffectual attempts at night to dislodge u~ from our advanced position, in one of which Lieutenant Landers and a private of the Fifth Rhode Island Battalion were slightly wounded, and in the other Major Appleman and a private of the Eighth Con- necticut Regiment received severe contusions from a discharge of grape while digging rifle pits within 750 yards of the fort. On the morning of the 24th the two mortar batteries were prepared to open fire, and the Parrott-gun battery was ready, with the exception of the opening of the embrasures, which was delayed until the moment of opening fire was arranged, so that the enemny might not discover our posifion Page 284 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. 284 [CHAP. XX. In selecting sites for our batteries advantage was taken of the sand hills previously spoken of. By cutting down the natural slopes of these hills to a sufficient depth to lay the platforms for our guns and mortars and revetting the interior faces with sand bags excellent epaulements were formed. Embrasures for the Parrott guns were cut directly through the sand hills, and revetted with sods taken from the salt-marsh close at hand. During the night of the 24th the embra- sures of the Parrott-gnn battery were opened, and at 5.40 oclock on the morning of the 25th the first shot was fired upon the fort. Imme- diately all three of our batteries opened, and our fire was vigorously answered. Owing to the high wind and rough sea it was impracticable to coin- municate with the blockading fleet our intention of opening fire on the morning of the 25th. As soon, however, as the commanding officer, Capt. Samuel Lockwood, discovered our movements he brought all his vessels into action, and for a time attracted the enemys attention to such an extent as to greatly facilitate the officers in charge of the mor- tar batteries in correcting their range and length of fuse, but owing to the extreme roughness of the sea the fleet was compelled to withdraw. At 4.30 in the afternoon a white flag was displayed upon the ramparts of the fort and the firing ceased upon both sides. After communicating with the general commanding during the night of the 25th, on the morning of the 26th, at 9.30 oclock, I received the surrender of the fort and garrison. A copy of the terms of capitulation is herewith transmitted.* For the detailed operation of the three batteries I have to refer you to the very interesting reports of Captain Morris and Lieutenant Flagler. The fort and armament bear evidence not only of the great skill with which these batteries were served, but also of the wondertYd effects produced by the introduction of rifled guns into our siege trains. The number of guns disabled and the effect produced upon the scarp-wall, although not exposed to view from our position, are sufficient proof of the great value of the 30-pounder Parrott as a siege gun. In truth, the result of the ten and a half hours firing from our three batteries exceeded my most sanguine expectations, and they reflect the highest credit upon the officers and men engaged in their location and construction, as well as the working of the mortars and guns. To Capt. H. S. Williamson, of the Topographical Engineers, I am under lasting obligations. His bold and daring reconnaissances to within 800 yards of the fort gave us full and complete knowledge of the ground up to the very foot of the glacis. He so located the batteries that the sand hills themselves served as epaulements, render little work necessary to prepare them for the guns and mortars and the construction of the magazines. Captain Morris and Lieutenant Flagler were untiring in their zeal and energy in superintending the construction of the batteries. The work was carried on both Ly day and night under their supervision by the men of Company C, First United States Artillery, and ~ompany I, Third New York Artillery, and such details as could be spared from the infantry force. The Parrott-gnn battery was commanded by Captain Morris, First Unite~l States Artillery, assisted by. Lieutenant Gowan, Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Regiment, and Lieutenant Pollock, First United States Artillery - ~ See p. 276 Page 285 CHAP. XX.J 0 SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 285 The 10-inch mortar battery was commanded by Lieutenant Flagler, of the Ordnance, assisted by Captain Ammon, Third New York Artil- lery, and Captain Pell, aide-de-camp to the general commanding, who volunteered his services. The 8-inch mortar battery was commanded by Lieutenant Prouty, of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Regiment, assisted by Lieutenants Thomas and Kelsey, of the Third New York Artillery. The result shows the efficiency with which the batteries were worked, and I take great pleasure in acknowledging my thanks to these officers. Fiom the time of our first occupying the gronnd immediately in front of the fort very severe and onerous duty was performed by the officers and men of the Fourth Rhode Island, Eighth Connecticut, and Fifth Rhode Island Battalion. Owing to companies being detached from the first two regiments and their otherwise weak condition the tour of duty in the trenches and on advance picket guard returned every third day. This, in connection with a march of 3~ miles through heavy sand to and from camp and occasional fatigue duty, was beginning to tell fearfully on both officers and men; still they bore it all without complaint, and it gives me pleasure to commend them as soldiers of true grit. The Ninth New Jersey Regiment guarded our route of supplies, and rendered most efficient service in completely protecting our line of com- munication from raids of the rebel cavalry, who were constantly prowl- ing about the country. During the investment of the work and active operations of the siege I ~kept up constant communication with my force by means of the officers of the Signal Corps. From favorable positions previously determined upon these officers were enabled to report to the commanding officers of the batteries the effect of their shot and shell. During the action I have to report the following loss: 1 killed and 2 wounded. Killed, Private William R. Dart, Company I, Third New York Artillery. He fell, struck by a round shot, while in the perform- ance of his duty resetting a pointing stake on the parapet of the 10- inch mortar battery. Wounded, Sergeant ilynes and Priyate Bonnet, of Company C, First United States Mtiilery. The reported killed and wounded in the fort is as follows: Killed, 8; wounded, 20. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. G. PARKE, Brigadier- General, Commanding Third Division. Capt. LEWIs RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 3. Report of Lieut. Daniel IV. Flagler, U. S. Ordnance Department. FORT MACON, N. C., April 29; 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit for your information the following report of the disposition made of the siege batteries used in the attack upon Fort Macon: I was detailed for duty with the Third Division in the Department of North Carolina on the 19th of March, and, in accordance with an order from General Parke, turned over a Parrott-guu battery of three rifle Page 286 286 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. 30-pounders to Captain Morris, of the First Artillery, and also loaded a battery of four 10-inch siege mortars upon a bark, holding them in readiness to proceed with the division whenever it should move. When the division arrived at Slocums Creek, as it was not sure there would be occasion to use these batteries, they were left on board the vessels at that point. I came on with the division to Carolina City, and after the general had communicated with the commanding officer of the fort I received an order from him (General Parke) to return immediately and attend to the transportation of the batteries. Fearing we had not artillery enough I went to New Berne and loaded another battery of four 8-inch mortars upon a barge, and Lient. M. F. Prouty, of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Regiment, having reported to me for artillery duty, I left him to bring this battery to Slocums Creek. From the head of this creek to Carolina City the artillery had to be transported by laud. The quartermaster could furnish very little transportation, as nearly all that could be procured was engaged in bringing down baggage and stores for the troops. There were no men with the batteries to unload and move them, and the labor had to be performed by negroes, whom I obtained from Cap- tain King, the division quartermaster. The batteries were hauled to ilavelock Station in quartermasters wagons and there loaded on cars, and hauled to Carolina City with horses and mules. The large quan- tity of heavy shell necessary for the mortar batteries, and the lack of men, wagons, and cars to transport them, must account for the delay of these batteries in reaching Carolina City. At the latter point only one scow could be obtained suitable for car- rying purposes across Bogue Sound to the Banks, and owing to tides and the difficulties of a shallow, intricate channel not more than one trip could be made daily. A magazine was established in a deserted building at the point of landing, and again all the materials had to be hauled a distance of 44 miles alonga sandy beach. On the 12th instant, the day after the enemys pickets were driven into the fort, I went with Captain Williamson, Corps of Topographical Engineers, and selected positions for the batteries. The first of these, the 10-inch mortar battery, was at a distance of 1,680 yards from the fort, and behind a natural sand hill, which was sufficiently high to pro- tect it from the direct fire of the enemys cannon. It was near the marsh, on the left side of the island. Captain Morris battery of Parrott guns was placed about 200 yards in advance of this and a little to the right. The position of the sand hills was such and the strip of available land so narrow that the latter had to be put more nearly in front of the mortars than was desirable in order to distract the enemys fire. The 8-iuch mortars were placed still 200 yards farther in advance, and on the right, near the sea-shore. The work of moving the ordnance, building the mortar batteries, constructing roads, & c., was all performed by details from the regiment. of infantry of the divisiomi and from Captain Ammons company of the Third New York Artillery. The men were often at work before they were rested from the fatigue of twenty-four hours picket duty, the pickets themselves often volunteering to assist, and always with a cheerfulness which evinced their determination to accomplish the end we had in view. While at work the men were often annoyed by artillery firing from the fort, but no one in the batteries was even hurt, the sand hills affording good protection. On the evening of the 23 Page 287 CHAP. XX.I SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 287 instant the batteries, magazines, and roads leading to them were all completed. Wagons had been engaged for several nights previous hauling shells to the mortar batteries, and on the night of the 23d I had the magazines filled with ammunition and reported to General Parke that we were ready to open fire. The following day at 2 oclock I received orders froni him to com- mence firing that afternoon, if possible. I obtained details of men for the mortar batteries from Captain Ammons company of the Third New York Artillery. The men, having a march of 4 miles to the bat- teries, did not arrive there till late in the afternoon. Captain Morris reported that lie would not be able to open fire till the next morning, as he had still some work to do npon the embrasnres. As I was con- fident that the enemy was ignorant of the nature and position of our batteries and as we would be able to fire only a few shells before dark, while obtaining our ranges, I thought it better to wait till morning, keeping the enemy in ignorance till we were ready to open fire upon all the batteries simultaneously and to continue it. The men slept in the batteries that ni~,ht, and all commenced fire shortly after sunrise in the morning. Lieutenant Prouty commanded the 8-inch mortar battery, and I took charge of the 10-inch, and was assisted by Captain Ammon, and by Captain Pell, aide-de-camp to General Burnside. The first few dis- charges were from the Parrott guns, which were followed soon by the mortars, and the fire was continued without interruption till 6 p. m. It was returned from the fort with twenty-one guns, among which were one 8-inch and two 10-inch columbiads and six 32-pounders mounted as mortars. At first the enemys fire was very rapid, principally shells and shrapnel, and the fort was so enveloped in smoke that it was diffi- cult to tell whether our shells were falling within or beyond them. At $~ oclock I received a dispatch from the signal officer at Beaufort, say- ing the mortars were firing too far. The error was corrected imme- diately, and shortly after the enemys fire was somewhat slackened. The smoke cleared away, and I could observe the effect of every shell distinctly. The bolsters of the 10-inch and one of the 8-inch mortar-beds were split during the day. The platforms of the 10-inch mortars were badly injured, as the soil was too light to afford a firm foundation. These were all repaired, stopping fire from one piece at a time for that purpose. During the afternoon we fired very carefully, but slowly, as I wished to reserve ammunition enough for night firing if necessary. After 11 oclock more than five-eighths of the shells fell within the fort. The epaulement of the 10-inch battery was considerably injured by round shot and the explosion of a few 10-inch columbiad shells from the fort. The pointing stakes were several times displaced. At about 5 oclock the enemy hoisted a white flag and we ceased firing. During the night the batteries were completely repaired and the maga- zines replenished. The men slept in the batteries, that they might open fire again if necessary. But one man was killed in my battery and none wounded. I re- ceived most valuable assistance from Captains Pell and Ammon, and I cannot speak in too high terms of the men. The detachments from Captain Ammnons company were without previous knowledge of mor- tar practice except what they had gained from a drill the preceding day, yet they served the pieces efficiently and without accident throughout the day. The gunners detailed from Captain Morris company, Privates 4Darlin, MeKinstry, Reising, and McKenna were invaluable Page 288 288 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX, I take particular pleasure iu calling your attention to the manage- ment of the 8-inch mortar battery. It was under the charge of Lieu- tenant Prouty, who, as a volunteer officer of infantry, has had no prac- tical experience in artillery practice and no knowledge on the subject except what he has gained since he reported to me. His success is the result of his own industry and energy. I inclose his report. I have since examined the fort, and find that of the 1,150 shots fired from our three batteries about 500 took effect within the works of the enemy, not counting the shells that were exploded over the fort. The fire of the Parrott guns was most destructive, these three pieces having dis- abled nineteen of the enemys guns. Only about 3 feet in width along the tops of the scarp-wall of the western face could be reached by their fire, yet in this narrow portion 41 shots had taken effect, some of them penetrating the brick masonry to a depth of 2 feet. Comparing the angle at which the guns were fired with the angle of fall necessary for the shot to reach this wall, I am confident they could not have reached it without having been partially spent by passing through the crest of the glacis. Barricades for the casemates have been formed within the fort by standing bars of railroad iron up against the casemate inside walls. Several traverse circles were blown up by mortar shell, but they did not seem in any other way to have disabled guns. Forty-eight of the same shell exploded in the bottom of the ditch and a large number on the parade. One of the latter broke through into the drain of the fort Th6 choice of the kind and caliber of the artillery used in the attack upon Fort Macon was certainly a good one. The object to be effected with the siege mortars was, at first, by exploding the shells at short distance above the fort, to drive the cannoneers from the guns or pre- vent them from being efficiently served; afterward, by exploding the shells at or after striking, to disable guns. In both respects they were successful. The destructive and accurate fire of the 30-pounder Par- rott guns has shown that the work of dismounting or disabling guns with them is not a matter of chance but of certainty. There was no exposed wall on which to try their breaching power. During the enemys fire since the first commencement of operations I have often had occasion to observe the want of effect in the explosion of their shells. I have examined a few of those left in the fort and find them filled with cannon powder. I have the honor to be, very respectfally, your obedient servant, D. W. FLAGLEIR, First Lieutenant of Ordnance. Capt. CHARLES T. GARDNER, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 4. Report of Lieut. ]Iferrick F. Prouty, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. SIR: I have the honor to report that on Thursday, April 24, 1862, at 1 p. in., I was ordered by you to move to the 8-inch mortar battery of four pieces, which was planted 1,280 yards from Fort Macon, and open fire on the fort. Lieutenants Thomas and Kelsey and 15 men of the Third New York Artillery and 5 men of Captain Morris battery were detailed to ma Page 289 CHAP. XX.] SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 289 the mortars, but owing to the distance of the camp from the batI~ery and hard walking in the loose sand we did not reach there till 3.30 p. in., and before we could open fire I was ordered by you to await further orders before doing so. The men remained in the battery dur- ing the night; and I opened fire, as yon ordered, about 5.30 a. m. The first shells fall short, the charges were increased and a good range was obtained in a short time. A steady and effective fire was kept up from each piece until 11 a. in., when the bolster of No. 4 was broken by the recoil, and that was not worked until about 1 p. in., when, having been iepaired, it was again opened. At 3 p. in. I received an order from you that a reserve of ammunition should be kept for con- tingencies during the night, and from 3.20 p. m. to 5 but two pieces were used. At that time firing was suspended, the enemy showing a white flag. The firing during the afternoon wis very fine, nearly every shell bursting within or over the fort. During the night of the 25th shell and ammunition were brought, and at daylight of the 26tt1 the men were at their posts, and everything in good order to open fire, had it been necessary. Very efficient service was rendered me by Lieutenants Thomas and Kelsey, and the conduct of the men was beyond praise. I am happy to report that no casualties occurred; but two of the enemys shell bursting in or over the battery. Very respectfully, M. F. IRROUTY, Licut. Co. 0, 25th Mass. TTols., (Jomdg. 8-inch Mortar Battery. Lient. D. W. FLAGLER. No. 5. Report of Capt. Lewis 0. Morris, First U. S. Artillery. FORT MACON, N. C., April 28, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of tjie opera. tions of Company C, First Artillery, during the siege and re~1uction of Fort Macon: As you are aware, I was ordered to leave my light battery at New Berue and report to you with three Parrott 30-pounder guns as part of the siege train for the reduction of Fort Macon, and that they did their work well the sequel has proved. After the investment of the fort and a careful reconnaissance it was decided to l)lace m~ battery at a distance of 1,500 yards from the fort, the 10-iuch mortar battery about 200 yards in rear, and the 8-inch mortar battery about 200 yards to the right and front. As these bat- teries were constructed under fire, much of the work was done at night, which, added to the fact that guns, ammunition, and materials were transl)orted through deep sand some 34 miles, will prove that it was no light labor which the men perfornied so cheerfully and so well. The company, having worked all night, completed the battery on the morning of the 25th of April, and at 5.30 1 opened fire on the fort, the first shot striking the parapet. The mortar batteries followed immne- diately, and shot and shell were poured rapidly into the fort, which returned the fire with spirit. For several hours the fire from the fort 19 R RYOL I Page 290 290 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. was rapid and well sustained, and 8 and 10 inch shell and shot, 32- pounder shot and shell, 24-pounder shot and rifled projectiles were ploughing the ground in furrows before the battery, striking the para- pet or exploding in front and rear. After that time they served a less number of gulls. Six 32-pounder shot passed through my ciubrasures, one of which struck the Parrott gun on the left of the battery, but fortunately did not disable it. The piece was struck on the chase and wrought-iron band, carrying away the breech sight. About the same time a 10-inch shell fell upon the wheel of a limber and shattered it. This was all the damage to my battery by the enemys fire. About 9 oclock in the morning the blockading fleet engaged the fort and withdrew after an hours firing. During the afternoon the fire from the batteries was rapid and effective, so much so that about 5 oclock a white flag was displayed from the fort and a proposition to surre?ider was ma(le. The following morning the flag of the Union was floating over another rebel fortification. There was fired during the day from my three guns 450 shot and shell, and the effects of these projectiles are seen.everywhere in disabled guns and broken walls. One shot disabled two guns, 8 and 10 inch columbiads; another passed through a bar of railroad iron and buried itself in the wall. The scarp- wall was protected by the glacis, but occasionally a shot would strike this wall and penetrate over 2 feet. Had this wall been exposed to a direct fire from these guns it could have been breached in a few hours. Nineteen guns were disabled by my fire. From rapid and continued firing the vents of all my guns were enlarged, one of them so much so as to render the gun unserviceable. To the officers and men of uty command I am indebted for the cool- ness and skill with which they served the pieces. First Lieut. G. W. Gowan, Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, attached to my com- pany, and Second Lieut. W. K. Pollock, First Artillery, each had charge of a piece, which they pointed themselves during most of the day and disabled many of the enemys guns. Sergeant Reynolds and Corporal Leahy rendered efficient service as gunners and made some fine shots. Sergeant Thompson did good service in the magazine, filling and fusing she~ll and serving out ammunition. Nine of my men were de- tailed to serve as gunners in the two mortar batteries, which service they performed to the satisfaction of the commanders of these batteries. These men were replaced by nine men from Captain Ammons com- pany, I, Third Regiment New York Volunteer Artillery, who did their duty well. It gives me pleasure to report that during the day only two men, Sergeant Hynes and Private Bonnet, were slightly wounded. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, LEWIS 0. MOIRRIS, Captain, First Artillery, Commanding Company C. Capt. CHARLES T. GARDNER, A. A. C., Third Division. No. 6. Report of Cot. Isaac P. Rodman, Fourth Rhode island Infantry. HDQRS. FOURTH REGIMENT RHODE ISLAND VoLs., DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Beaufort, N. C., May 1, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the action of the Fourth Rhod Page 291 ~~HAP. XX.J SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 291 Island in the reduction of Fort Macon, which surrendered to our forces on the 26th ultimo: After a march, which was necessarily a forced one, the Third Brigade of this department, or a portion of it, arrived and invested Fort Macon on March 26. The Fourth Rhode Island had two companies in Beau- fort, one in Carolina City, and seven on the Banks. The labor of those on the Banks was very arduous, as much so as we could well endure, which was cheerfully performed without flinching. Five companies of the Fourth alternately relieved the Eighth Connecticut and Fifth Rhode Island Battalion in the trenches for fifteen days, exposed through the day to the fire of the enemy, during which time our siege batteries were planted. Not a day passed that the enemy did not open on us, firing from 30 to 50 shells, none of which, I am happy to say, injured any of my regiment. The exposure and fatigue incident to our duty has largely increased our sick list, and we have lost 6 men by death since we arrived. Their names will appear in the adjutants report to General Mauran, which we have at last completed. Our batteries opened on the morning of the 26th, and in. two or three hours told with fearful effect on the enemys works. They held out for about ten hours, when by a flag of truce they requested a cessation of hostilities preparatory to a surrender. General Burnside granted this, and on the morning of the 27th Fort Macon was ours. The Fifth Rhode Island Battalion, being on duty in the trenches, received their arms, and five companies of my regiment relieved Major Wright, guarding the prisoners until they were shipped off. The fort is much damaged by our fire an(l some twenty-six guns were rendered unfit for service. The flag that was flying on the fort General Parke has re- quested General Burnside to send to you. Nine companies of the Fourth are now quartered here, an d we have a fine building for a hospital, where, I do not doubt, our men will rap- idly improve. iDr. Millar assures me that they are better alread -. I hope soon to have the most of them able for duty. All of which is respectfully submitted. I have the honor to remain, your obedient servant, I. P. RODMA1~T, Colonel Fourth Rhode Island Volunteers. Gov. WILLIAM SPRAGUE, Providence, P. 1. No. 7. Report of Licut. William S. Andrews, Ninth New York Infantry, Acting Signal Officer. BEAUFORT, N. C., hay 1, 1862. 1~IAJO~: Fort Macon fell on the 25th of April. I believe that never in the history of warfare have signals been used with more complete success or to greater advantage than during the siege of that place. When operations were commenced against Fort Macon, between fonr and five weeks ago, I was ordered to open a station at this place to columnuicate with General Parkes headquarters via Morehead City and with the blockading squadron. From that time until the 25th instant all orders were sent and received by signals. At times no other com- munication was had with headquarters, it being unsafe for boats t Page 292 292 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. cross the harbor except under cover of the night. From my station (less than 2 miles distant from the fort) I could with the aid of glasses observe distinctly the movements of the enemy, as, for instance, should a force go out to attack our troops at work on the siege l)atteries or any alteration be made in the position or bearing of guns or any movement made important to be immediately known at headquarters, and of which our men could have no knowledge from their position. On my representing this fact to General Parke he ordered a station to be open by day on Bogue Banks, near our batteries, to receive official messages only, having reference to observations made from my station (this station was at different times worked by Lieutenants Marsh, Lyon, and Palmer, and was several times fired upon by the enemy). By this arrangement the enemy were held nuder a complete surveillance dur- ing daylight. I was the only officer on the Beaufort station until the 21st instant, when Lieut. Marvin Wait reported for duty. On the night preceding the bombardment a number of important official messages were sent and received in communication between General Burusides headquarters on board the steamer Alice Price (lying in Core Sound back of Beaufortj and General Parke. The bombardment commenced on the 25th instant at 0 a. m. I had expected to receive special instructions to watch and report the accu- racy of fire; but not receiving them, I determined to act upon my own responsibility. Mv station was at very nearly a right angle with the line of fire, so that I was enabled to ju(lge with accuracy the distance over or short that the shot fell. The 10-inch shell were falling almost without exception more than 300 yards beyond the fort. Lieutenant Wait and myself continued to signal to the officer in charge until the correct range was obtained. The 8-inch shell were falling short; we signaled to the officer in charge of that battery with the same effect. The same was the case with the battery of Parrott guns, which were much elevated. From the position of our batteries it was impossible for the officers in charge of them to see how their shot fell; but owing [to] the observations made by Lieutenant Wait and myself and sig- naled to them from time to time, an accurate range was obtained by all the batteries, and was not lost dnring the day. After 12 m. every shot fired from our batteries fell in or on the fort. The accuracy of fire astonished ourselves equally with the enemy. From that time until 4 P in., when a white flag appeared upon the fort and the firing ceased, a greater amount of execution was done than could have occurred in twenty-four hours further bombardment without the aid of signals. The proposition to surren(ler and the reply, with terms of capitula- tion, were sent to arid from General Buruside through this station by Lieutenant Wait and myself. I saw General Parke immediately after the occupation of Fort Macon by our forces. He spoke in the highest terms of praise of the system of signals used, and ext ended his thanks to the signal officers for the services they had rendered. Constant signaling during a period of over four weeks a~ross a sheet of glaring water has injured my eyes ~omnewhat. * Very respectfully, W. S. ANDIIEWS, Second Lieutenant, Ninth N. Y. Vols., Acting Signal Officer. Maj. ALBERT J. MYER, Signal Officer, U. S. Army. Some personal matter omitte4 Page 293 CHAP. XX.] SIEGE OF FORT MACON, N. C. 293 No. 8. Report of (Jot. Moses J. White, (1. S. Army. GOLDSBOROUGH, N. C., May 4, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the defense of Fort Macon, which you will find to be imperfect. As my adjutant has mysterion~ly disappeared with his papers, I have no means of giving you a full report: A demand w s made for the surrender of Fort Macon on March 23 last by Brigadier-Gener~ 1 Parke, U. S. Army, which demand was re- fused. General Parke then, having collected a large force at Carolina City, took possession of Beaufort and Shackelford Banks, thus cutting us oft from any communication withont the range of our guns. Having established his camp 8 miles from the fort, on Bogue Banks, the enemy drove in our pickets on April 10, and established themselves just without the range of our guns and their pickets within 1 mile of the fort. In retiring before them our l)ickets showed great coolness, and forced the enemy to advance with caution, although flanked by a fire from the sea. The enemy, after fully establishing themselves, coin- mnenced their advance on the fort by means of ditches, using the sand lulls as a covering for their working parties. With their larger force (being well protecte(i by the sand hills) they were able by April 22 to establish their batteries within 1,400 yards of Fort Macon. Only one sortie was made during their advance, which consisted of an attempt made with two companies to drive in their working parties and pickets on April 11, but, they being largely re-enforced from their camp, our companies were forced to retire. Occasional firing took place between our pickets and those of the enemy at night, but with- out any casualties on our side. We could only annoy the enemy by the fire of our artillery, which. fired horizontally, could do them no damage and only force them to keep behind the sand hills. Not having a mor- tar in the fort, we mounted six old 32-pounder carronades, which had been placed in the fort for defending the ditch, with 4Q0 elevation, amid used them for throwing shell behind the enemys coverings. Two 10- inch guns were also used for the same purpose. They were, however, so completely concealed that we could seldom ascertain the position of their working parties, and when driven from them we could not see when they returned, and from scarcity of shell could not keep up a con- tinued fire. Had the fort been built and armed for defense from a land attack the siege might have lasted longer; but as neither was the case, the enemy were able to complete their batteries, completely masked, in a shorter tinie than I had hoped for. During the siege some discon- tent arose among the garrison, which ended in several desertions. Time men complained of their fare, although furnished with full rations, and seemed to be dissatisfied with being shut up in such a small place, so near their relations and friends, but unable to communicate with theni. I am sony to say that the officers did not act in a proper manmier to suppress the difficulty. The health of the troops did not seem to be good, although we lost but one maim by sickness. Nearl one-third were generally on tile sick list. y On April 22 General Buruside arrived with several boats and anch- ored about 4 miles down the sound, but was forced by the fire of a rifled gun to retire and take up a l)ositiOn near Harkers Island Page 294 294 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. On the 23d a demand was made by General Buruside for the sur- render of Fort Macon, which being refused, a request was made that I should meet him in person the next day on Shackelford Banks on very important business. At 8 a. in. on the 24th I met General Burnside, as he requested. He then attempted by persuasion to produce a change in my deter- mination, but was told that the fort would be defended as long as possible. At 6 a. m. on the 25th the enemys land batteries opened upon the fort, and at 6.30 a. m. their vessels, consisting of three war steamers and one sailing vessel, commenced a cross-fire with rifle and 11-inch shell. The fire from both directions was immediately returned, and at 7 a. in. the ships retiredone disabled and two others in a damaged condition. The attack from land was kept up with great vigor, the enemy having immense advantage from their superior force, being able to relieve their men at the guns, while our morniiig reports shoxved only 263 men for duty. Our guns were well managed, but being able to do little damage to water batteries and sieg~ guns, firing through very narrow embrasures. The enemy kept up a very vigorous and ac- curate fire front both rifles and mortars, dismounting guns, disabling men, and tearing the parade, parapet, and walls of the fort. At 6.30 p. in., finding that our loss had been very great, and from the fatigue of our men being unable to keep up the fire with but two guns, a proposition was made to General Parke for the surrender of Fort Macon. General Parke demanded an unconditional surrender, which was refused, and the general informed that the firing would be renewed immediately. He then requested that the firing should cease until the next morning in order that he might consult with General Buruside, and that the general should meet me the next morning at Shackelford Banks. This proposition was accepted. On the 26th, at 7 a. in., I met General Buruside, as proposed, and a surrender was agreed to on terms shown in the inclosed l)aper.* The Southern flag was hauled down at 12 in. and the men left the fort as soon as means could be furnished. A portion crossed to Beaufort. Captain Guions company started for New Berne on the 27th, and on the same day 150 men, consisting of parts of several companies, started for Wilmington on the United States gunboat Chippewa, arriving at Fort Caswell at 7 p. m. on the 28th. Our loss during the fight was 7 killed and 18 wouuded2 danger- ously. Privates Langston and Jewel I was forced to leave in the fort. All other of the wounded were brought off. A nurse was left with the two men. The fort was very much damaged and fifteen guns disabled. Tw~ days more of such firing would have reduced the whole to a mere mass of ruins. Bespeetfully submitted. M. J. WHITE, Maj. Gen. T. H. HOLMES, Army. Commanding Forces North Garolina. Sec inclosures to Burnsi~ies report, P. 276 Page 295 CHAP. XX.] SKIRMISH NEAR NEWPORT, N. C. 295 APRIL 7, 1862.Skirmish near Newport, N. C. REPORTS. No. 1.Lieut. Col. James Wilson, Ninth New Jersey Infantry. No. 2.Capt. John Bootlie, C. S. Army. No. 1. Report of Lieut. Got. James Wilson, Ninth New Jersey infantry. NEWPORT BARRACKS, iN. C., April 7, 18622.30 p. m. GENERAL: I have to inform you that our outside pickets on the Cedar Point road were attacked this noon at about 1 oclock by a force of about 40 cavalry mounted and about 20 on foot, who made a sudden dash upon our post. In skirmishing we had 1 man shot, wounded, and are fearful II made prisoner. This information I have from courier sent in. Our men stood the attack and returned the fire, killing one horse, but are unable to learn any other damage, as the enemy retreated at a rapid rate, but suppose they must have killed or wounded some. I have sent forward another company to strengthen this post, who arrived there soon after the attack. Awaiting your orders, * I remain your most obedient servant, JAMES WILSON, Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Ninth Regiment New Jersey Vols. Maj. Gen. J. G. PARKE. No. 2. Report of Capt. John Boothe, C. S. Army. JONES COUNTY, N. C., April 5, 1862. SIR: According to your instructions I make the following report of my progress since Saturday last: I took my march toward Carteret County on Saturday, and reached Mr. Foscues, on the Beaufort road, 20 miles below Trenton. Sunday I was joined by Captain Hill and 50 of his men and pro. ceeded toward Beaufort. At sunset I halted, and sent forward to ascertain the number and position of the enemys advance reported to be ahead. At 1 oclock in the night my scouts came in, not able to find anything, and I proceeded to Eli Saukders and fed my horses and men. Monday morning I was joined by Lieutenant llumphreys with about 30 men. By agreement with Captaiu Hill and Lieutenant llumphreys I divided the whole force into four platoons of about 30 men each, placing the men with the best arms in the first platoon. This platoon I placcd under command of Lieutenant Eure and sent it forward as an advance down the road from Saunders toward Newport. I followed with the other three platoons and their commanders a short distance behind the advance. After going within 5 miles of Newport the * See Parke to Burnside, April 8, in Correspondence, etc, po8t Page 296 296 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. advance saw a squad of 5 of the enemy and charged them, capturing 3 an(l killing 2. About 200 yards in advance of the first squad there was another squad of 12, which being discovered, Lieutenant Eure rallied his platoon aiid charged them, killing 1 and capturing 6. Most of the enemy fired their muskets without injuring a horse or man on our side. In five minutes after the firing ceased two companies of the enemy caine in sight and fired upon us and fell into the marsh. By their fire the only damage done was the killing of my horse under nie. I ordered the men to retire down the hill, as there was no chance to charge them from a miry causeway. With our 9 prisoners I retraced my steps to this place last night. As the first platoon did the principal work, I deem it sheer justice to say that they behaved with great bravery. I let Lieutenant Humphreys take charge of 3 prisoners, Captain Hill 3, and I send the remainder to you and through you to General Ransom. I am very anxious that you should recall me forthwith, as my horses and men are completely exhausted and tired out. I also send 7 muskets captured from the enemy and Captain Hill took two. The number of the enemy at Newport and stationed at intervals from Newport to the place we eiicountered them is about 600 or 700 from the best information. At and about Morehead City one regiment. All praise is due to Lieutenant Eure and Orderly Jordan, who led the charge of the advance guard. Your obedient servant, JNO. BOOTHE, Ccl. W. U. RoBINsON. Captain, Commanding. P. S.Since writing the above one of my pickets has come in from Haughtons, about 4 miles from Pollocksville, toward Wilmington, saying the enemy had fired upon him and killed or takeu the 2 pickets that were with him, and that there was 500 or 600 of the enemy. APRIL 78, 1862.Expedition to Elizabeth City, N. C. Report of 6~ol. Rush C. Hawkins, Ninth New York ~fantry. HEADQUARTERS ROAKOKE ISLAND, N.C., April 11, 1862. SIR: On the morning of the 7th instant a detachment of 600 men left here on board of the steamers Virginia, Putnam, Ceres, and Eagle for Elizabeth City, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Griffin, of the Sixth New Hampshire Volunteers. At 4 oclock a. in. of the 8th instant they landed two companies of the New York Ninth at the city and four companies of the New Hampshire Sixth 6 miles above the city. They surprised two companies of the enemys forces, who ran without firing a shot. Our forces pursued and succeeded in capturing 73 of the rebels, belonging to the First Brigade of North Carolina Militia, who are now here and await your orders. Unless I hear from you to the contrary I shall release them on their parole and send them back. Our forces killed a noted rebel scout by the name of Tim. Gregor Page 297 CHAP. XX.] SKIRMiSH AT GILLETTS FARM, N. C. 297 and wounded a rebel vedette. These were the only 2 killed or wounded on either side. Fifty stand of arms, 2 drums, 4 horses and saddles, and 1,000 rounds of cartridges were captured and brought away. Trusting that this little transaction will meet with your approval, I am, most faithfully, your obedient servant, liUSH C. HAWKINS, Colonel, Commanding Fourth Brigade and Post. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BUI%NSIDE, Comdg. Dept. of North Carolina, New Berne, N. C. P. S.I have just heard that the enemy are building flats in a creek about 4 miles above Currituck Court-house. If I can get the Navy to co-operate and you will send me the Picket, I will organize a party to break up the rebel forces at the Court-House and at the creek. This can be done without running any great risk. I wish you would let me have the Picket. She would be of very great use here in running about in these shallow waters. APRIL 13, 1862.Skirmish at Gilletts Farm, Pebbly Run, N. C. T~EPORTS, ETC. No. 1.Baron Egloffstein, Colonel One hundred and third New York Infantry. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Robert Ransom, jr., C. S. Army, with letter from General Robert E. Lee. No. 1. Reports of Baron Egloffstein, Colonel One hundred and third New York Infantry. HDQRS. SEWARD INFANTRY, 103n IlEo-T. N. Y. S. V., ffdqrs. 9th N. J. Regt., near Newport, April 15, 1862. SIR: With this I have the honor to report to you the partial success of my expedition against the Second Regiment North Carolina Volun- teers. I brought all the available forces of that regiment to battle last night at Th. Gilletts farm. The regiment was commanded by its colonel, William G. Robinson, formerly of the Regular Army, an old Indian fighter, like myself. I made him ~)L~soner. I coHl(I not recap- ture the Ninth New Jersey boys, they having been transl)orted to Kin- ston before I reached Youngs. Th. Gilletts farm, the battle ground is situated 6 miles south of Youngs, at ~he fork of the Oifslow an(l Carolina City roads. I made many prisoners. The wounded enemies number considerable. I will have the honor to report to you in full on my arrival at New Berne. I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant, BARON EGLOFFSTEIN, C~olonel, kS~eward Infantry, 103d Reyt. N. Y S. T~. Maj. Gemi. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Commanding Department of North Carolina. P. S.Most of my men are mounted on the horses captured from the enemy and beg to serve as cavalry on similar expeditions. The regiment of Col. William U. Robinson was perf~ct1y routed, but owin Page 298 298 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. to the absence of cavalry on my part I could not reap the full advan- tages of the victory gained in pursuing the rebels. IIDQRs. SEWARD INFANTRY, 103D REGT. N. Y. S. V., Camp Burn8ide, New Berne, N. 0., April 19, 1862. April 5.In obedience to Special Orders of Headquarters Second Division, Department of North Carolina, No. 66, a detachment of 141 men left April 5 in order to occupy Evans Mill; distance, 6 miles; course south. April 6.The party, being re-enforced, left Evans Mill at midnight, under command of Colonel Baron Egloffstein, leaving a small garrison to protect both the grist and the lumber mill. April 7.Breakfasted at Tippes plantation. Reached Noah Jack- sons plantation, where we were informed of the presence of pickets, stationed 1 mile farther west, on Christopher Foys farm, the owner of which had been instrumental in carrying away N. Jackson the day be- fore and burning several thousand bales of cotton. Arriving on Chris- topher Foys plantation, the colonel was fired at by the pickets, Foy being reported as taking part in the skirmish. I retaliated by driving the l)ickets off the ground and securing 50 head of cattle for the use of the Government. We captured 3 horses on the premises, and com- menced mounting our infantry, encamped on Foys plantation. The next morning a detachment of 25 men, commanded by Captain Schuck- hart, was sent to Camp Bnrnside in charge of the cattle. Left late in the evening for Haughtons Mill. When near Mill Creek arrested a lone traveler on horseback, who was returning in the direction from Kinston. Through his instrumentality we made the first rebel pris- oner at Haughtons Mill. Major Quentin, with a small detachment, acted as a surprise party with great promptitude. April 8.Encamped at Haughtons residence at 1 oclock at night. Sent out another surprise party to Crooked Run. Two rebels crossing the run at 9 oclock in the morning, one of them was made prisoner; the other, having been shot at, escaped through the woods in a south- erly direction. From Evans Mill we traveled 1 mile south to the fork of the Trenton and Beaufort road; took the Trenton road running west for 10 miles- changed course 2A miles south to Haughtons Mill. Later in the afternoon 6 men (pickets) ran in our trap on Crooked Run, but returned post-haste on the road they came, owing to one of the in- experienced soldiers firing too soon. Left the mill at 10 oclock p. in., having sent the prisoners back to New Berne with a strong escort of - cavalry April 9.After a severe march in rain and storm we arrived at Mr. E. Foys farm before daybreakcourse, west 3 miles, south 2~ miles. Captain Schuckhart rejoined us here, bringing orders for the colonel to return to New Berne for further instructions, Ma.jor Quentin remaining in command under instructions to return on the road we came, but securing his position and retreat by scouting parties to the plantations of Cummings, William and Henry McDaniel, by means of which we were informed that 9 prisoners of the Ninth New Jersey Reg- iment, nuder an escort amounting nearly to 100 men of cavalry, had passed on their way to Kinston. April 11.Colonel Baron Egloffstein returned from New Berne the. next evening. The column moved on to Cummings farm during the night, reaching Jones Mill, whete a picket of 11 rebels was posted. April 12.The column was halted, and Major Quentin marche Page 299 CHAr. XX.] SKIRMISH AT GILLETTS FARM, N. C. 299 stealthily with a small body of men through the swamps surrounding the enemy, who, on discovering our men, sought their safety in flight, taking the Onslow road. The major made 1 rebel prisoner in person. We proceeded to the Jonesestates course south, 7 miles. ~ , uperintended by Thomas Garrock ordered the major to conduct the infantry through the swamps and across White Oak River, guided by an expe- rienced i~egro, to Thomas G-illetts farm, on Pebbly Run. With a view to mislead the enemy I marched the cavalry back to Cummings planta- tion, the fork of the Onslow and iladnot road, marked Youngs on old geographical maps. April 13.To draw the attention of the enemy to the movement of the cavalry I made a number of secessionists prisoners on this road during the night. Marched 6 miles on the iladnot road, course south- east, to Thomas Gilletts farm, where we joined the infantry in the afternoon. Foskes and Bells farms were occupied by our own pickets south ot Pebbly Run, and a strong picket posted north of Gilletts plantation to apprise us of the approach of the enemy. The whole cavalry was sent on picket duty in the immediate neighborhood. At 11 oclock p. m. our northern picket was driven in by the advance guard of the Second Regiment of Cavalry (Nineteenth Regiment North Carolina Volunteers), led by their colonel,. William G. Robinson. Rapid firing on the part of the advancing enemy, chiefly directed to the win- dows of the room occupied by Colonel Baron Egloffstein, rou~e(i our men to prompt action. The inclosures of Gilletts farm were simulta- neously attacked by 300 menwell-mounted cavalry. Gallant conduct was shown on the part of our officers and men. Three charges were repulsed with the greatest firmness, after which the enemy fled in con- fusion and disorder in all directions, leaving 1 dead, their colonel and 2 privates as prisoners in our hands. Twelve horses of the enemy we found dead on the battle-field and 5 more hor8 de combat. Col. William G. Robinson exhibited much boldness, and deserving of being better sustained by his followers. He was wounded in the thigh heading the third attack in person. Two of our ~lites, Captain Languer, Prussian artillery, and Lieutenant Martinez, adjutant to General Garibaldi, wrested the colonel from his command. Our loss was Sergt. Adolph Grossmann, of Company F; Capt. Th. Schuckhart, shot through the heart; Sergt. Henry Bopp, Company B, Captain Muller; Privates Morgenstern, same conipany, and Muhsam, Company F, wounded, and since recovering. In the morning pistols, sabers, and guns were found lying about the fields and along the road to Cummings and several stray horses were captured. The 61itc Geiger was promoted to an honorary lientenancy on the battle-field. Lient. Arthur von Brand rendered valuable services. Capt. Th. Schnckhart proved an efficient officer. Drs. John Kraeuter and Marc Boecking deserve credit for giving prompt medical attention to the wounded. First Sergt. Niemetz von Iiottenberg, Company K, defended the entrance to the inclosure with much energy and coolness and is deserving of promotion. He was well seconded by Corp. Franz Ebner, same company. Sergeant Krauth, of Company E, acted promptly. Sergeant Wettstein and Corporal Schrag, Company F, behaved bravely. Private Burr, of Company K, was bold and cool. Private Polguere, of Company K, remained on guard durin~ the whole t~ngagement like an old soldier. Sergt. Martin Hacker, of Company K, acted well. Elites Bernhard von Schmidt and Louis von Waldeck acted well. Sergt. Valentine Horst was instrumental in securing th Page 300 300 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [ChAP. XX. gates against tlie boldest cavairists, and prevented the disaster which might have followed an early success on the part of th~ enemy. Pri- vates Muhsam, Ohnesorg, Rieke, Glyckherr, and Nagel, of Company F, fought bravely at the same post. Sergeant Leither, same company, exhibited much courage and electrified our men when most needed. Sergeants Zimmermann and Baumaun were active in resisting the main charge directed to the rear of the premises. April 14.For the purpose of delivering Col. William G. Robinson to headquarters without running the risk of another engagement the colonel determined to march without delay to the encampment of the Ninth New Jersey Regiment at Newport. This was accomplished by marching 27 miles our fatigued and brave men. We destroyed the bridge at Jones Mill to prevent the euemy from following close to our heels. We reached Carolina City and reported to General J. G. i~arkc, meeting Capt. ID. A. Pell, aide to General Burnside, who directed the immediate delivery of the prisoner colonel to New l3erne, where Mrs. William G. Robinson had arrived with a flag of truce to welcome him. April 18.By means of railroad and steamer we reached Camp Baruside without further incidents. BARON EGLOFFSTEIN, Colonel 103d Reyt. N. Y. S. V., Seward ibifantry. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. Robert Ransom, Jr., C. S. Army, with letter from General Robert II. Lee. IIDQRS. FIRST Bnrn., A RAY [DIsTRIcT] OF THE PAMLico, April 20, 1862. Sin: In compliance with instructions from General Holmes I have the honor to make the following report of the circumstances attending in attack made by Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson, with a part of the See- and North Carolina Cavalry (Nineteenth North Carolina Volunteers), upon a detachmneimt of the enenmys infantry, near White Oak Ruim, on the night of the 13th instant: Colonel Robinsons command was composed as follows: Company I), Captain Strange, Lieutenants Baker and Williams, 54 men; Company 1, Captain Bryan, Lieutenant Blasingamne, 45 men; Company K, Cap- taimi Turner, Lieutenants Graham, Lockhart, and Moore, 45 men; Coin- ~)any B, Lieutenant Allison, 14 men, Company F, Lieutenant King, about 15 men; Company E, 25 men; Comnpany A~ 4 mnen. Total, 1 lieutenant-colonel, 3 captains, 8 lieutenants, and 202 men. About 2 miles before reaching the house in which the enemy was known to be Colommel Robinson called the three captains together and consulted about a plan of att~- ck. At first it was agreed to dismount two comnpammies, wlmo were to attack in flank and rear wimile the rest were to charge in front. This mode was, for some unexplained cammse, abandoned, and it was determnined to cimarge the premises nmonnted, and the following arrangemnemmt was made: Captain Bryan, with his compammy, and the detached portions of An- drews, Thomas, and Coles (B, E, and F) companies, was to charge down the lane to the front of the house. Strange, with his company, was to throw down the fruce on the left and Turner, with his coat- pammy, was to do the same on the right, mmml each to charge on the flanks and rear. The mnoou was at the full and the night cloudless. A negro belong Page 301 CHAP. XX.] SKIRMISH AT GILLETTS FARM, N. c. 301 ing to the premises was taken, and from him and Lieutenant Nether- cutt, of the Twenty-seventh North Carolina Volnnteers, the exact local- ity of the l)relnises was ascertained and information minute in detail collected. Before getting close an advanced party of 6 privates (4 from Company A and 2 from Company D) was thrown forward to di-aw off any guard protcctiug the front. It was concerted that when this party fired the whole command was to move in the direction indicated, each party taking the route previously determined. Near the mouth of the lane a small guard was found and the sentinel shot by the advance party. The lane is about 100 yards long. Immediately upon hearing the shot Colonel Robinson ordered the charge. The advanced party and Captain Bryan and Lieutenant Blasingame, with a small portion of Bryans company, obeyed, and reached the y~ rd fence while many of the enemy were yet lying down. Being feebly sustained, they, after discharging their pieces, fell back near the mouth of the lane, where by tbr the greater portion of all had halted and were wildly and waste- fully throwing away their fire. No effort up to this time had beeii made by either Captains Turner or Strange to reach the flanks and rear of the house. By some means or other a second charge was made up to the yard gate (which was only about 20 feet from the house), and Captain Bryan and several men state that an officer came out of the house and begged to have the firing cease, offered to surrender, and Captain Bryan gave the order to cease and for an instant it was obeyed; but some person cried out, Shoot the d d rascal!~~ and at once the firing recoin- mence on each side. By this time 2 or 3 of the men had been wounded and 1 or 2 killed, and again the party fell back. Colonel Robinson was all this time try- ing to urge the men up to their work, but in vain. A large number took to the, woods; nearly all hesitated and refused to charge. By dint of personal effort and the assistance of a few others Colonel Robinson threw down the fence on the left, and with about 20 or 30 men (among whom was Captain Strange) charged to the left and rear. Captain Bryan says he joined the party. When nearly in rear of the house the men fell off behind a low hill and left Colonel Robinson almost alone close to the paling. Here lie was wounded an(l fell off his horse. Captain Bryan says he saw and recognized the li: rse and tried to eatQh him. The whole party that had gone into the field toward thie rear now gal- hoped entirely around and passed into the road some 200 or 300 yards in rear of the mouth of the lane. Lieutenant Allison says he was not close to the house~ as his horse run away with liiui. About the time that the secoiid charge was made up the lane Captain Turners horse was seen to turn back and move off with hium. When Colonel Robinson took the field to the left Lieutenants Graham and Moore say that they pulled down the fence on the right, rode into the field, and tried to get their men to follow, but all effort was futile. The whole, except the small pirty who had gone with Colonel Robinson, either remaine(i in the road, took to the woods, or retired by the way they had come. When those who had pretended to follow Colonel Robinson reached the road 11 seemed to have become confused and perfect disorder prevailed for l5 miles. Lieutenant Baker says lie remained with a small number near the mouth of the lane for more than an hour after the rest had gone. At any rate some reached camp two or three hours sooner than others. No effbrt was made by any omie after Colonel Robinson was wounded to rally the men amid renew the fight. It is apparent that Page 302 302 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. success was completely and with scarcely an effort won and afterward lost by folly and cowardice. Captain Turner was found abont 200 yards from the month of the lane, lying wounded and stunned in the road. Some suppose that he was wounded iu the head and thrown by his horse. As I examined the wound I am satisfied all his injuries were caused by the fall from his horse. The casualties are Colonel Robinson and Captain Tnrner wounded; 2 privates killed, 5 wounded, and 5 taken prisonersprobably all wounded. it is impossible to express too harsh terms toward the men for their dastardly behavior, and we can hardly justly [sic] apply his severe dis- approbation to officers who could permit their commander to fall into the hands of the enemy without an effort to rescue him, and who ex- hibited scarcely the first quality which ought to entitle them to coni- mand. It is but right to remark that the enemys numbers have been vari- ously estimated at from 50 to 200. I cannot determiue the real strength, but suppose a mean between the two numbers would be just. To keep such#troops in the presence of the enemy would be useless [and] criminal, and I respectftilly suggest that the officeys and men who have on two occasions covered themselves with shame and our arms with dishonor be debarred the privilege of combatting for our liberties. The officers should be reduced, never to hold commissions; the men should be dismounted and disarmed and placed at hard labor during the war, and the second in command should be made an especial exam- ple for the benefit of our country and its cause. It may, perhaps, ap- pear severethat the few who seemed willing to do their duty should suffer with the multitude of those who failed in all that becomes the officer or soldier, but they are so inextricably mingled that human. ingenuity would fail to make the just discrimination. I respectfully recommend that all but one squadron of the regiment be transferred lo the rear and there be placed in a school of instruc- tion under competent officers. Ignorance, idleness, and incapacity so strongly characterize a large number of the officers that a thorough purging is required. 1 am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. RANSOM, JR., Maj. ARCHER ANDERSON, Brigadier- General. Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of North Carolina. P. S.I inclose a rough map, which will explain the report. [Tndorsements.] HEADQUARTERS, Goldsborough, N. 0., April 21, 1862. This report is respectfully referred to the Secretary of War, with a recommendation that General Ransoms suggestion be complied with. Til. II. HOLMES, Miajor- General. APRIL 23, 1862. Respectfully referred to General Lee. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General Page 303 CHAP. XX.] SKIRMISH AT GILLETTS FARM, N. c. 303 [Inclosurel 1. Route which Strange ought to have taken at first and which was taken by Cob onel Robinson. 2. Route which Turner ought to have taken but did not. 3. Low hill behind which the men skulked. 4. Route taken by Strange and party. 5. Robinson wounded. 6. Bryans retreat and pursuit of Robinsons horse. 7. Turners fall from his horse. S. Road going and returning. HEADQUARTERS, Richmond, Va., Ajprit 25, 1862. Maj. Gen. T. H. HOLMES, Commanding, d~c., Department, & e., Goldsborough, N. C.: GENERAL: The report of Brig. Gen. Ransom of the circumstances attending an attack by Colonel Robinsons command upon the enemy~s infantry, with your indorsement, recommending that the suggestions of General Ransom be complied with as regards the men and officers who have on two occasions covered themselves with shame and our arms with dishonor, has been referred by the Department for my action. While deeply mortified at the conduct of the men, as reported by General R., I cannot see how his suggestions to reduce the officers and disarm the men and condemn them to hard labor can be carried out, unless charbes be properly preferred and the matter submitted for investigation to a court-martial, when it could be ascertained how far they were culpa- ble and what punishment is merited. If in your judgment it is deemed advisable, the whole companies might be disbanded and their arms given to others. But it would appear from the report of the detach- ments engaged that bnt a few men from some of the companies were present. For the bad behavior of a few it would not appear just to punish the whole. I would suggest that these men be stationed at some point, if possible, where their drill could be perfected, as it would seem that their unfortunate behavior was attributable in a great meas- ure to lack of drill and discipline. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. LEE, General Page 304 304 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHar. XE. at Smith Xliii, Gaula Conty~ EQ. REPORTS, ETC. Ne. LMhj. Ga. Ambrose B. Bundle, U. S. Army. No. 9.Brig. Gem. Jesus I.. Demo, U. S. Army. No. 3.CoI. William A. Howard, First New York Maine ArWIery. Ne. 4.Col. Bosh C. Hawkins, Ninth New York Infantry, commanding Fourth Dxl- with resulting oourespondence. Ne. 5.Lient. CoL Thomas S. Bell, Fifty-first Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 6.Lient. Cd. William S. Clark, Twenty-first Massachusetts Infantry. No. 7.--Maj. Edwin Sohali, Fifty-first Pennsylvania Infantry. ho. 8.IN. Gem. Bepjamin Hut, C. S. Army, with communIcatIons from General R.E.Lee. Ho. 1. Report of N.J. Ge... Ambrose B. BuruSMe, U. & Ansg... HEADQUARTERS DEPARTflNT OP NORTH CAROLINA, Yew Berne, April 29, 1862. Sn: I have the honor to Inclose General Benos report of the move- ment made by him, in accordance with my order, for the purpose of acoomplishing certain objects. already indicated in a former dispatch the main one of which was most succesfitily accompliShed. Generai Usnos report gives a detailed account of the movement~ and I need oni add that I feel an increased confidence inthe brave officers and soiLers who accomplished so much in so short a time. Our loss in the engagement was 14 killed and 96 wounded and 2 taken prisoners. The enemys loss must have been much greater as the chaplain of the Ninth New York, left in charge of the wounded, reports having seen on the field 30 killed, besides several wounded, the main body of the wounded having been taken from the field when they retreated. Our forces drove the enemy from the field in a most gaflant style, buried our dead, bivouacked on the field for seven hours, transported all the wounded, except 14 so severely wounded that they could not be moved, but were comfoatably provided for and left in charge of a sur- geon and chaplain. General Beno then, in obedience to orders, returned to his fleet and embarked his met He felt less reluctance in leaving behind these 14 wounded with the surgeon and chaplain from the fact that I had but a few days before released some 80 wounded, with the surgeons, who were left by the enemy in New Berne, and the commanding officer in thit neighborhood would be less than human were he to refuse to release these wounded as soon as they can be transported safely. I beg to incise my congratulatory order with the report of General Reno - also the corresrndence between the general and the command- lug ohicer at South Mills. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, A. B. BUBNSIDE, fljor-GesseraI, (YomsanMng Department of North OaroU.sa Hon. B. K. STANTON, Secretary of War, WeekMutes. But see reviSed statement, p. SW. Page 305 VHAP.XX.] ENGAGEMENT AT SOUTH MILLS, N. C. 305 No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. Jesse Ii. Reno, U. S. A~~ny, with con gratulatory order. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, New Berne, N. 0., April 22, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to the order of Major-General Burnside, I proceeded from New Berne with the Twenty-first Massachusetts and Fifty-first Pennsylvania Regiments to Boanoke, and was there joined by part of the Ninth and Eighty-ninth New York and Sixth New Hampshire. We proceeded directly to Elizabeth City and commenced disem. barking on the 19th instant at midnight, at a point about 3 miles below, on the east side. By 3 p. m. Colonel Hawkins brigade, consisting of the Ninth and Eighty-ninth New York and the Sixth New Hampshire, were landed and ready to move. I ordered Colonel Hawkins to pro- ceed at once with his brigade toward South Mills for the purpose of making a demonstration on Norfolk. I remained to bring up the other two regiments, they having been delayed by their vessels getting aground at the mouth of the river. They came up at daylight and were landed by 7 a. m. I proceeded directly toward South Mills, and about 12 miles out met Colonel Hawkins brigade, who, it seems, lost his way, either by the treachery or incompetency of his guide, he hay. ing marched some 10 miles out of his way. As his men were very much jaded by their long march, I ordered them to follow the Second. Brigade. Proceeding about 4 miles farther, to within a mile and a half of South Mills, the rebels opened upon us with artillery before my advance guard discovered them. I immediately reconnoitered their position, and found that they were posted in an advantageous position in a line perpendicular to the roadtheir infantry in ditches and their artillery commanding all the direct appffoaches, their rear protected by a dense forest. I ordered the Fifty-first Pennsylvania immediately to file to the right and pass over to the edge of the woods to turn their left. I also ordered the Twenty-first Massachusetts to pursue the same course, and when Colonel Hawkins came up with his brigade I sent him with the Ninth and Eighty-ninth New York to their support. The Sixth New Hampshire were formed in line to the left of the road and ordered to support our four pieces of artillery. Owing to the excessive fatigue of the men they could not reach their position for some time. In the jnean time the enemy kept up a brisk artillery fire, which was gallantly responded to by our small pieces under charge of Colonel Howard, of the Coast Guard, who during the entire engagement displayed most conspicuous gallantry and rendered very efficient service both during the action and upon the return, he bringing up the rear. As soon as the Fifty-first Pennsylvania and Twenty-first Massachusetts had succeeded in turning their left they opened a brisk musketry fire, and about the same time the Ninth New York, also coming in range and being too eager to engage, nufortunately charged upon the enemys artillery. It was a most gallant charge, but they were exposed to a most deadly fire of canister, grape, and mus- ketry, and were forced to retire, but rallied immediately upon the Eighty-ninth New York. I then ordered both regiments to f9rm a junction with the Twenty-first Massachusetts. In the mean time the 20 R RYOL 1 Page 306 306 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. Fifty-first Pennsylvania and Twenty~first Massachusetts kept up an incessant fire upon the rebels, who now had withdrawn their artillery and had commenced to retire in good order. The Sixth New Hampshire had stea4ily advanced in line to the left of the road, and when within about 200 yards poured in a most deadly volley, which completely de- moralized the enemy and finished the battle. Our men were so com- pletely fagged out by the intense heat and their long march that we could not pursue them. The men rested under arms in line of battle until about 10 oclock p. in., when I ordered a return to our boats, hav- ing accomplished the principal object of the expedition, conveying the idea that the entire Buruside expedition was marching upon Norfolk. Owing to the want of transportation I was compelled to leave some 16 of our most severely wounded men. Assistant Surgeon Warren, of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, was left with the men. I sent a flag of truce the next day to ask that they might be returned to us, Coin- modore Rowan kindly volunteering to attend to it. We took only i~ few prisoners, some 10 or 15, most of whom belonged to the Third Georgia Ilegiment. The Ninth New York suffered most severely, owing to their prema- ture charge, our total loss in killed and wounded being about 90, some 60 belonging to that regiment.* The officers and men of the several regiments all behaved with their usual gallantry and many are worthy of particular mention, and I pre- sume the brigade and regimental commanders will do justice to their respective commands. 1 will forward their reports as soon as received. The return march was made in perfect order, and few if any strag- glers were left behind. Considering that during the advance the weather was intensely hot and that on the return a severe rain rendered the roads very muddy, and that a portion of the command had to march 45 miles and the other 35 and fight a battle in the meau time, and that all this was accomplished in less than twenty-four hours, I think that the com- mnanding general has every reason to be satisfied with his command. I desire to return my thanks to Commodore Ilowan and the officers and men under him for their untiring energy in disembarking and re-embarking my command, and also to Lieutenant Flusser for the gal- lant manner in which he assisted us by proceeding up the river and driving the enemy out of the woods along the banks. Colonel Haw- kins, commanding the First [Fourth] Brigade, and Lieutenant-Colonel Bell, commanding Second, both displayed conspicuous courage, as did also the regimental commanders. Lieutenant-Colonel Clark commanded the Twenty-first Massachusetts, Major Schall the Fifty-first Pennsyl- vania, Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball the Ninth New York, Colonel Fair- child the Eighty-ninth New York, and Lieutenant-Colonel Griffin the sixth New Hampshire. Captain Fearing, aide-de-camp to General J3urnside, accompanied me as volunteer aide, and rendered efficient and gallant service; also Captain IRitchie, commissary of subsistence, and Lieutenants Gordon and Breed, of the Signal Corps. My own aides Lieutenants IReno and Morris, behaved with their usual gallantry. As soon as the brigade and regimental reports are furnished I will forward them, together with a complete list of killed and wounded. The enemy~s loss was considerable, but they succeeded in carrying ofi most of their wounded. Several, however, were left on the field, one of whom was a captain of the Third Georgia IRegiment. The color- bearer of the Third Georgia IRegiment ~was shot dowmi by the Twenty * But see Addenda Pdlowiuo 0 Page 307 CHAP. XX.] ENGAGEMENT AT SOUTH MILLS, N. C. 301 first Massachusetts while waving defiantly his traitorous flag. The enemy had from six to ten pieces of artillery and from 1,800 to 2,000 men. We approached to within 30 miles of Norfolk, and undoubtedly the defeat of one of their best regiments, the Third Georgia, produced considerable panic at Norfolk. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. L. RENO, Brigadier- General, Commanding Second Division. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Addenda.] Return of casualties in the United States troops in the engagement at South Mills, N. C., April 19, 1562. [Compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, & c.] Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. a a a Command. ~ ~ a ~ o a ~ a ~ a o ~ o ~ 6th New Hampshire Infantry 1 2 1 4 ulst Massachusetts Infantry 1 15 1 17 1st New York Marine Artillery, detachment * 9th New York Infantry 1 7 7 54 6 75 89th New York Infantry 1 3 2 6 51st Pennsylvania Infantry 3 1 18 3 25 Total 1~ 12 9 92 13 127 ~No loss reported. ~IENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, No. 30. April 20, 1862. The general commanding desires to express his high appreciation of the excellent conduct of the forces under command of Brigadier-Gen- eral iReno in the late demonstration upon Yorfolk. He congratulates them as well upon the manly fortitude with which they endured exces- sive heat and extraordinary fatigue on a forced march of 40 miles in twenty-four hours as upon the indomitable courage with which, not- withstanding their exhaustion, they attacked a large body of the enemys best artillery, infantry, and cavalry in their own chosen posi- tion, achieving a complete victory. It is therefore ordered as a deserved tribute to the perseverance, discipline, and bravery exlAbited. by the officers and soldiers of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, Fifty- first Pennsylvania, Ninth New York, Eighty-ninth New York, and Sixth New Hampshire, on the 19th of Aprila day already memorable in the history of our countrythat the above regiments inscribe upon their respective colors the name, Camden, April 19. The general commanding desires to express his approbation of Gen- eral Renos strict observance of orders when the temptation to follow the retreating enemy was so great. By command of Maj. Gen. A. E. Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 308 CHAr. XX. 308 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. No. 3. Report of Got. William A. Howard, First New York Marine Artillery. HEADQUARTERS MARINE ARTILLERY, On Board Steamer Virginia, Groatan Sound, April 20, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that in accordance with your instructions of the morning of the 18th instant I took the schooner Edward Slade, with Professor Maillefert and corps in her, and pro- ceeded to the month of the Pasquotank River and anchored. On the arrival of the gunboats and troop ships I proceeded up the river and anchored with the fleet. Two launches, with boat howitzers and crews, under command of Lieutenants Gerard and Avery, of Marine Artillery- men, landed, and joined the advancing column, under command of Col- onel Hawkins, Ninth (Zonaves) New York Volunteers. The launches were employed landing troops. The steamers Yortherner and Guide, with the Twenty-first Massachusetts and Fifty-first Pennsylvania, not appearing, I dispatched by your orders the steamers Virginia, Ocean Wave, Massasoit, and Phnuix down the river to bring up the troops, which was done about daylight. The troops were landed, also two howitzers (one smooth, one rifled) belonging to the Ninth New York Volunteers, and were attached to the column under your immediate command, Lieutenant Herbert, with a detachment of the Ninth, in charge. By your orders I assumed command of the advance guard and guides and moved into the interior. Having marched several miles, it was observed that a picket of 8 h~rsemen were watching our movements, giving us, however, only one opportunity of firing upon them. We had. marched about 14 miles when dense black smoke was seen to arise from burning buildings, and sweeping across the road concealed the enemy from our sight. On arriving at the line of smoke the advance was ar- rested by the unmasking of a battery of 12-pounders, which opened fire with shell and grape. Having examined their position as far as possible I reported to you, and was directed to bring up the howitzers, which was done. You had previously, however, directed a flanking move- ment made by your column. The column of advance, under Colonel Hawkins, not having made its appearance, it was evident we had been misled by his guide. It became necessary, therefore, to keep the enemy in play until its arrival. In forty-five minutes or thereabouts that bri- gade appeared. The two howitzers and men belonging to the Marine Artillery reported and asked for orders; also Lieutenant Morris, with 15 men of the Ninth New York, to serve with the guns, which were im- mediately run into position, the range and direction given them, when a very hot fire was opened and continued until the enemy withdrew his pieces, which I reported to you. On the near approach, however, of the Ninth New York and Eighty- ninth New York on their left flank their guns were again run into posi- tion, and severe fire of grape and canister opened upon the charging troops. Our battery was immediately advanced and opened with grape and shell and continued until their final retreat. Our forces, having quiet possession of the field, rested. A reconnaissance made by your instructions showed the object of the movement had l)CCu accomplished. Having given the men sufficient rest and food, at 10 oclock we com- menced our return. By your direction I assumed command of the rear guard with two pieces, supported by the Twenty-first Massachusetts and one company of the Fifty-first Pennsylvania. The rain in the even- jughaving made the roadsvery bad, our progress was somewhat retarded Page 309 CHAP. XX.] ENGAGEMENT AT SOUTH MILLS, N. C. 309 but on arriving at our place of landing at 6 oclock, finding our boats ready to receive us, we embarked on board our proper transports, pro- ceeded to this anchorage, landing the detachment belonging to Roauoke, and those destined for New Berne proceeded to their stations. I cannot close this report without bearing testimony to the gallant officers and men under my command. Lieutenants Gerard and Avery, Marine Artillery; Lieutenants Morris and Herbert, Ninth (Zouaves) New York Volunteers, deserve all I can say for their coolness and ceurage. Mr. Albert E. Hand, formerly clerk of this vessel, attached himself to my command, and behaved in the most gallant manner. Cap- tain Child, temporarily on duty in this vessel, S. C. ID., and Mr. Moore, pilot, were indefatigable in landing the troops, piloting the vessel & c. When it is considered that our men marched nearly all night, fou~ht a hard battle of three hours duration, and marched the same distance the second night without sleep through deep mud cheerfully, without a murmur, too much praise cannot be awarded them. Respectfully submitted. W. A. HOWARD, Colonel Marine Artillery. Brigadier-General RENO, U. S. A., New Berne, Department North Carolina. No.4. Reports of Col. Rush C. Hawkins, Ninth New York Infantry, corn - manding Fourth Brigade, with resulting corre~pondence. HEADQUARTERS, Roanoke Island, NI C., April%21, 1862. SIR: In accordance with orders from department headquarters I, on the 18th, at about 11 a. in., embarked on board of the transports about 2,000 men of my brigade from the following regiments: Ninth New York Volunteers, 727; Eighty-ninth New York Volunteers, 625, and Sixth New Hampshire Volunteers, 600. In this force was included two boat guns belonging to Company K, Ninth New York Volunteers. About 11 oclock the same evening my brigade commenced landing at a place opposite Cobbs Point,about4milesbelowElizabethCity, on the Pasquotank River. By 2.30 oclock on the morning of the 19th the landing of my brigade had been completed, including two field pieces from the steamer Vir- ginia; this through the water where it was more than knee-deep, which the men were compelled to wade. At 3 a. in. the whole brigade was on the march, and continued for the next twelye hours on its weary way through a long, circuitous route of 32 miles, beneath the terrible heat of the sun, amid the constantly- rising dust. At about 3 p. m. I succeeded in arriving in sight of the enemys posi- tion with about one-half of the men who had commenced the march, when we were immediately ordered into action, the Sixth New Hamp. shire Volunteers going to the left of the enemys position, the Ninth and Eighty-ninth New York going to the right through the woods to out- flank the enemy on each side. Up to this time the part of a battery from the Ninth New York, worked by Lieutenant Herbert, assisted b Page 310 310 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX. 5 men (the rest having been worn out by fatigue), received and sus- tained the whole fire of the enemys battery. After marching about 2 miles through a swamp covered with thick undergrowth I arrived within about three-eighths of a mile of the enemys position, where they were concealed in the woods. After a short tour of observation I came to the conclusion that it would be im- possible to outflank them on the right the undergrowth and swamp being almost impenetrable. A charge through an open field directly in front of the enemys position was thought to be the only way iu which they could be dislodged. I then returned to where I had left the Ninth New York and found them lying on the ground completely exhausted. I stated to the regiment what I proposed to do, and asked the men if they felt equal to the task. Their answer was, We will try, colonel, and follow wherever you may lead us. Immediately the command, ~ was given, the Ninth New York taking the lead, followed by the Eighty-ninth New York. We had proceeded to within about 200 yards of the enemys concealed position when the Ninth New York received the full and direct fire from the enemys infantry and batteries. This completely staggered the men, who were before completely ex- hausted, and the order was given for the regiment to turn to the right, where it would be partly sheltered from the fire. This order was exe- cuted, but slowly. Soon after the Eighty-ninth New York commenced to move forward, supported by the Ninth New York, when the enemy retreated. When this commenced the Sixth New Hampshire poured a volley into the right wing of the Third IRegiment Georgia Volunteers, which completely cut them to pieces. The troops then bivouacked on the field, where they remained until 10 p. in., when they were ordered to fall in and return to their transports. It is seldom,if ever,that men have been called upon to perform so much in so short a time as those were who composed the Fourth Bri- gade under my command. Marching 50 miles and fighting a battle all in twenty-six hours you will admit is no small undertaking, and yet this was done without a murmur or a complaint. In the charge of the Ninth New York that regiment lost 9 killed and 56 wounded. Among the former was Lieut. Charles A. Gadsden, ad- jutant, who fell at the head of his regiment. He was a kind, consid- erate man and a most excellent soldier, and dies greatly lamented by all of his companions. Colonel Howard, of the steamer Virginia, who was in command of the artillery, has not yet made his report, consequently I am unable to give any particulars concerning his part in the engagement, but belieVe that he behaved with great coolness and bravery, as well as all of the men and officers under him. Soon after the troops had returned to IRoanoke Island the Rev. T. W. Conway, chaplain of the Ninth New York Volunteers,returned, bring- ing with him about 50 stragglers and some of the wounded left behind on the field of battle. He remained to bury the dead and to assist the wounded. On the morning of the 20th he started out to find the rebel pickets, and after going some distance he was informed that the rebels had left the night beforere-enforcements which they had only a few moments before received includedfor Suffolk, thinking that our forcea were by a flank movement getting in their rear to cut them off; re- turned to the hospital by the way of the battle-field, where he counted 30 of the enemys dead. After the dead were buried and the wounded who could not be brought away cared for, all the stragglers who coul Page 311 CHAP. XX.] ENGAGEMENT AT SOUTH MILLS, N. C. 311 be found armed themselves and started for the place of debarkation and arrived here in safety the next morning. in this enterprise you have received another evidence of the courage and enterprise of the troops under your command. Although the re- suits of this expedition may seem disastrous on account of the loss of life, still the reconnaissance cannot fail to be of great value to you when connected with future operations. Injustice to other regiments I cannot say what I should like to about the officers ,and men of my own, consequently would only say that all alike did their duty faithfully and well. I regret to add that, owing to our limited transportation, we were compelled to leave behind 14 of our wounded in care of Dr. Warren, of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, 2 or 3 of which were brought away by the chaplain of the Ninth. I have to-day sent a flag of truce by Major Jardine, who was accompanied by the surgeon, chaplain, and 10 pri. yates, of the Ninth New York, for the purpose of bringing back the wounded and the bodies of Lieutenant Gadsden and our dead who were buried on the field. Herewith you will find a complete list of the killed, wounded, and missing of the Fourth Brigade in the action of the l9th.* Respectfully, your obedient servant, RUSH C. HAWKINS, Colonel, Commanding Fourth Brigade and Post. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Comdg. Dept. of North Carolina, New Berne, N. C. [Indorsement No. 1.] HEADQUARTERS, New Berne, N. C., May 1, 1862. Respectfully referred to General Reno, to whom it should have orig- inally been addressed. By order of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indorsernent No. 2.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, May 2, 1862. I beg to inclose the following indorsement. J. L. RENO, Brigadier- General, Commanding Second Divison. [Indorsement No. 3.] HDQRS. SEcO~~iD DIVISION, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., May 1, 1862. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to indorse upon the report of Colonel R. C. Hawkins, Ninth New York Volunteers, which you this day caused to be referred to me, the following remarks and statements, Viz: In the first place I beg leave to call your attention to the fact that this report was rendered by Colonel Hawkins directly to you instead * Embodied in statement on p. 307 Page 312 CHAP. XX.] ENGAGEMENT AT SOUTH MILLS, N. C. 311 be found armed themselves and started for the place of debarkation and arrived here in safety the next morning. in this enterprise you have received another evidence of the courage and enterprise of the troops under your command. Although the re- sults of this expedition may seem disastrous on account of the loss of life, still the reconnaissance cannot fail to be of great value to you when connected with future operations. Injustice to other regiments I cannot say what I should like to about the officers and men of my own, consequently would only say that all alike did their duty faithfully and well. I regret to add that, owing to our limited transportation, we were compelled to leave behind 14 of our wounded in care of Dr. Warren, of the Twenty-first Massachusetts, 2 or 3 of which were brought away by the chaplain of the Ninth. I have to-day sent a flag of truce by Major Jardine, who was accompanied by the surgeon, chaplain, and 10 pri- vates, of the Ninth New York, for the purpose of bringing back the wounded and the bodies of Lieutenant Gadsden and our dead who were buried on the field. Herewith you will find a complete list of the killed, wounded, and missing of the Fourth Brigade in the action of the l9th.* Respectfully, your obedient servant, RUSH C. HAWKINS, Colonel, Commanding Fourth Brigade and Post. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, ~Jomdg. Dept. of North 6arolina, New Berne, N. C. [IndorBement No. i.] HEADQUARTERS New Berne, N. C., May 1, ~862. Respectfully referred to General Reno, to whom it should have orig inally been addressed. By order of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indorsernent No. 2.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, I beg to inclose the following indorsement. May 2, 1862. J. L. RENO, Brigadier-General, Commanding Second Divison. [Indorsement No. 3.] HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA New Berne, N. C., May 1, 18~32. Capt. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to indorse upon the report of Colonel R. C. Hawkins, Ninth New York Volunteers, which you this day caused to be referred to me, the following remarks and statements, viz: In the first place I beg leave to call your attention to the fact that this report was rendered by Colonel Hawkins directly to you instead * Embodied in statement on p. 307 Page 313 312 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAr. XX. of to me, his immediate commanding officer, wliich is in violation of the Army Ilegulations and iRules of Service, as also that the spirit of the report indicates a disposition to ignore me, the commanding officer of the expedition, as well as the rest of my command not embraced in Colonel Hawkins brigade. No mention is made by Colonel Hawkins in his report of the orders received on the march and during the en- gagement from me personally and through my aides. He gives no explanation of the way in which my orders were carried out, nor why some of the orders given him were not obeyed. To be more explicit, I will state in detail that the whole force nnder my command, consist- ing of the Sixth New Hampshire, Ninth and Eighty-ninth New York Volunteers (which three regiments composed the brigade of Colonel Hawkins), the Fifty-first Pennsylvania, and Twenty-first Massachu- setts, set sail from iRoanoke Island by my orders, and debarked near Elizabeth City by my order and under my personal direction, and that the march toward South Mills was executed by though not according to my express orders, as Colonel Hawkins took his brigade by a most circuitous route. The orders I gave Colonel Hawkins on landing were to proceed directly to the bridge across the Pasquotank, about a mile this side of South Mills, and to occupy it. This order he did not obey promptly, and I sent two aides in succession to order him to proceed, and finally was obliged to go in person to force obedience to my order. Fourhoursafterthis~landedwiththeremainingtworegiments,which had been delayed in disembarking by the steamers Northerner and Gnide getting aground at the mouth of the river. We passed Colonel Hawkins brigade about 12 miles out and before he had got upon the direct road, he having marched some 10 or 12 miles out of the way. The road to South Mills was open, plain, and perfectly direct, known to every resident in the country, and nothing but design or negligence could have caused him to miss the road. With respect to the statement in Colonel Hawkins report to you that at ab& ut 3 p. m. I succeeded in arriving in sight of the enemys position with about one-half of the men who had commenced the march, when we were immediately ordered into action, the Sixth New Hampshire Volunteers going to the left of the enemys position, the Ninth and Eighty-ninth New York VolunteePs going to the right through the woods to outflank the enemy on each side, I have to state that at about 1 oclock I arrived with my whole com- mand in front of the enemys position, the Fifty-first Pennsylvania Vol- unteers, followed by the Twenty-first Massachasetts Volunteers, with Colonel Howards artillery, being in advance, the brigade-under Colonel Hawkins following. I immediately sent the Fifty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers and Twenty-first Massachusett~ Volunteers to the right with orders to turn the enemys left, and at once sent orders to Colonel Hawkins to move forward with his whole brigade. This order not being promptly obeyed, I went back and found that he had halted his command and had not prepared to move. I immediately ordered him forward, with directions to follow (with two regiments) the Twenty- first Massachusetts Volunteers and Fifty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, to aid in turning the enemys left. I then went forward and placed the two latter regiments in proper position, and, returning, met Colonel Hawkins, and again giving the orders above named, I pointed out to him the position of the Twenty-first Massachusetts and Fifty-first Pennsyl- vania Volunteers. The way was through an open pine wood, which had already been passed over by the above-named regiments. It is thus shown that the time at which the engagement commenced was before the time which the said report would lead one to suppose, an Page 314 314 OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA. [CHAP. XX~ Eighty-ninth New York Volunteers, 625, and Sixth New Hampshire Volunteers, 600. In this force was included two boat guns belonging to Company K, Ninth New York Volunteers. About 11 p. m. the same evening my brigade commenced landing at a place opposite Cobbs Point, about 4 miles below Elizabeth City, on the Pasquotank River. By 2.30 oclock on the morning of the 19th the landing of my bri- gade had been completed, including two field pieces from the steamer Virginia; this through the water where it was more than knee-deep, which the men were compelled to wade. At 3 a. m. the whole brigade was on the march, ai~d continued for the next twelve hours on its weary way through a long, circuitous route of 32 miles, beneath the terrible heat of the sun, amid the con- stantly-rising dust. At abont 3 p. m. I succeeded in arriving in sight of the enemy~s position with about one-half of the men who had commenced the march, when we were inimediately ordered by yourself into action, the Sixth New Hampshire Volunteers going to the left of the enemys position, the Ninth and Eighty-ninth New York going to the right through the woods to outflank the enemy on each side. lJp to this time the part of a battery from the Ninth New York, worked by Lieu- tenant Herbert, assisted by 5 men (the rest having been worn out by fatigue), received and sustained the whole fire of the enemys battery. After marching about 2 miles through a swamp covered with thick undergrowth I arrived within about three-eighths of a mile of the euemy~s position where they were concealed in the woods. After a short tour of observation I came to the conclusion that it would be impossible to outflank them on the right, the undergrowth and swamp being almost impenetrable. A charge through an open field in front of the enemys position was thought to be the only way in which they could be dislodged. I then returned to where I had left the Ninth New York, and found them lying on the ground completely exhausted. I stated to the regiment what I proposed to do, and asked the men if they felt equal to the task. Their answer was, We will try, colonel, and follow wherever you may lead us. Immediately the command forward was given, the Ninth New York taking the lead, followed by the Eighty-ninth New York. We had proceeded to within about 200 yards of the enemys concealed position when the Ninth New York received the full, direct, right-oblique, and left-oblique fires from the enemys infantry and batteries. This completely staggered the men, who were before quite exhausted. The order was then given for the regiment to turn to the right, where it would be partly sheltered from the fire. This order was executed, but slowly. Soon after the Eighty- ninth New York commenced to move forward, supported by the Ninth New York, when the enemy retreated. When this commenced the the Sixth New Hampshire poured a volley into the right wing of tIme Third Georgia Volunteer Regiment, which completely cut them into pieces. The troops then bivouacked on the field, where they remained until 10 p. in., when they were ordered to fall in and return to their transports. It is seldom, if ever, that men have been called upon to perform so much in so short a time as those were who composed the Fourth Bri- gade, under my command. Marching 50 miles and fighting a battle all in twenty-six hours you will admit is ito small undertaking, and yet this was done without a murmur or complaint. In the charge of the Ninth New York that regiment lost 9 killed an Page 315 CHAP. XX.] ENGAGEMENT AT SOUTH MILLS, N. C. 31L~ 60 wounded. Among the former was Lieut. Charles A. Gadsden, adju- tant, who fell at the head of his regiment. He was a kind, consid- erate man and a most excellent soldier, and