TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 18 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, 1887 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 REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL I~ECO]RDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PREPARED, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR, BY Lieut, Ool. ROBERT N. SOOTT, Third U. S. Artillery, AND PUBLISHED PURSUANT TO ACT OF CONGRESS APPROVED JUNE 16, iSSO. SERIES IVOLUME XVIII. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1887 Page R002 ~ C 4~ ~UN IV E :~y~ TV Y\ LIBRARY Page R003 PREFACE. By an act approved June 23, 1874, Congressmade 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 approve(l June 16, 1880, has provided for the printing and binding, nnder direction of the Secretary of War, of ten thousand copies of a compilation of the Official Records (Union and Confederate) of the War of the Rebellion, so far as the same may be ready for publication, during the fiscal year; and that of said num- ber, seven thousand copies shall be for the nse of the ilonse of Repre- sentatives, two thousand copies for the use of the Senate, and one thousand copies for the use of the Executive Departineuts2 * This compilation will be the first general 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. * Volumes IV 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 each 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 they 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 voinmes 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 sent. (III Page R004 Iv PREFACE. The publication will present the records in the following order of arrangement: The First 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 aJI(l several theaters of operations (in the chronological order of the events), ~md 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 Coifedcrate) in chronological order. The Second Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns, Union and Confederate, relating to prisoners of war, a~~cl (so far as the military authorities were concerned) to State or I)olitical prisoners. The Third Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns of the Union authorities (embracing their correspoi~dence 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 CO~l)5 and departments; the calls for troops, and the correspondence between the National and the several State authorities. The Fourth 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, ]Jliajor Tkird Art., and Bvt. Lieut. Col. WAR DEPARTMENT, August 23, 1880. Approved: ALEX. RAMSEY, iSecretary of War Table of Contents Page R005 CONTENTS. CHAPTER XXX. Operations in North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia. August 20, 1862 rage. June 3, 1863 11104 (v Page R006 Special Index Page R007 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME I. CHAPTER L Page. Operations In Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. December 20, 1860-April 14, 1861 ... 1417 CHAPTER II. The secession of Georgia. January 3-26, 1861 . 318325 CHAPTER IlL The secession of Alabama and Mississippi. January 420, 1861 326430 CHAPTER TV. Operations in Florida. January 6-August 31, 1861 . 331473 CHAPTER V lingo. The secession of North Carolina. Jams. ary 9-May 20, 186l....~. 474488 CHAPTER VI. The secession of Louisiana. January 10- February 19,1861 .... 489-501 CHAPTER VII. Operations in Texas and New Mexico. February 1-June 11, 1861 502636 CHAPTER VIII. Operations in Arkansas, the Indian Tern. tory, and Missouri. February 7-May 9, 1861 637691 VOLUME H. CHAPTER IX. Page. Operations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. April 16-July 31, 1861. 1-1012 VOLUME III. CHAPTER K Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. May 10-November 19, 1861. 1-7~9 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, 1861-Janu. CHAPTER XII ary 11, 1862... 566721 Operations in Kentucky and Tennessee. July 1-November 19, 1861 175565 VOLUME V. CHAPTER XIV. Page Operations In Maryland1 Northern Virginia, and West Virginia. August 1,1861-March 17,1862. 11106 VOLUME VI. CHAPTER XV. Operations on the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia, and Middle and East Florida. August 21, 1861April 11, 1862. Page. CHAPTER XVL Page. Operations in West Florida, Sontheru Al. abama, Southern Mississippi, and Lou. 1415 isiana. September 1,1861May 12, 1862. 416894 VOLUME VII. CHAPTER XVII. Page. Operations In Kentucky, Tennessee, N. Alabama, and S. W. Virginia. Nov.19, 1861Mar. 4,1862. 1-946 (VII Page R008 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME VIII. CHAPTER XVIII. Page. Operations in Missouri, Ark~tnsas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. Nov. 19,1861April 10, 1862. 1834 VOLUME IX. CHAPTER XIX Page. CHAPTER XXI. Page. Operations in SoutheasternVirginia. Jan- Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and nary 11March 17, 1862 171 Arizona. February 1September 20, 1862 481736 CHAPTER XX. Operations in North Carolina. January UAugust 20, 1862 72480 VOLUME XIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXIL Operations in Kentucky, Tennessee, North Mississippi, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. March 4June 10, 1802. Page. 1927 1642 Part iReports Part IlCorrespondence, etc VOLUME XIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XXIII. The Peninsular Campaign, Virgiuia. March 17September 2,1862. Page. 11073 1998 1691 Part IReports, March 17-June 24 Part IlReports, June 25-September 2... ran IllCorrespondence, etc VOLUME XIIIN THREE PARTS. CHAPTER XXIV. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. March 17September 2,1862. Page. 1818 1820 1966 Part IReports, March 17-June 25 Part lIReports, June 26-September 2.... Part IllCorrespondence, etc. VOLUME XIII. CHAPTER XXV. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, the Indian Territory, and the Department of the Northwest. April 10November 20, 1862 1981 VOLUME XIV. CHAPTER XXVL Operations on the coasts of South Carolina, Geor,,ia, and Middle and East Florida. April 12, 1862June 11, 1863 VOLUME XV. CHAPTER XXVII. Page~ Operations in West Florida, Southern Alabama, Southern Mississippi (embracing all operations against Vicksburg, May 18July 27, 1862), and Louisiana, May 12, 1862May 14, 1861; and oper- ations in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, September 20, 1862May 14, 1863 11135 Page. 1102 Page R009 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. IX VOLUME XVI. CHAPTER XXVIII. Operations in Kentucky, Middle and East Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. June 10October 31, 1862. Page. Part 1Reports 1-1168 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 11017 VOLUME XVII. CHAPTER XXIX. Operations in West Tennessee and Northern Mississippi. June 10, 1862-January 20, 1863. Page. Part IReports 1-807 Part lICorrespondence, etc 1-91 Page R010 Page 1 CHAPTER XXX. OPERATIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA AND SOUTHEAST~ ERN VIRGINIA. AUGUST 20, 1862.-JUNE 3, 1863. SUMMARY OF TII]1~ PRINCIPAL E~VENTS.* Aug. 20Sept. 10, 1862.Army of the Potomac embarks for Aquia Creek and Alex- andria, Va. t 30, 1862.Maj. Gen. Gustavus W. Smith, C. S. Army, assumes command of the defenses of Richmond, etc. Skirmish near Plymouth, N. C. 31, 1862.Skirmish at Franklin, Va. Sept. 2- 3, 1862.Expedition from Suffolk, Va. 6, 1862.Attack on Washington, N. C. 9, 1862.Skirmish at Williamsburg, Va. 1720, 1862.Operations at and about Shiloh, N. C. 19, 1862.The Confederate Department of North Carolina and Southern Virginia (Departmeut of Virginia and North Carolina) consti- tuted, under command of MaJ. Gen. Gustavus W. Smith. Oct. 3,1862.Skirmish on the Blackwater, near Franklin, Va. Affair on the Blackwater. near Zuni, Va. 15, 1862.Skirmish iear Carrsville, Va. 25, 1862.Skirmish near Zuni, Va. 29, 1862.Skirmish on the Blackwater, Va. 31, 1862.Skirmish at Franklin, Va. Nov. 112,1862.Expedition from New Berne, N. C., including skirmishes (2d) at Little Creek arid Rawles Mill. 8, 1862.Brig. Gen. W. H. C. Whiting, C. S. Army, assigned to command of the defenses of Cape Fear River, N. C. 11, 1862.Demonstration on New Berne, N. C. 1214, 1862.Operations about Suffolk, Va., including skirmishes (12th) at Providence Church and (14th) at Blackwater Bridge, and Zuni, Va. 16, 1862.Skirmish at Gloucester Point, Va. 17, 1862.Affair near Carrsville, Va. 18, 1862.Skirmish at Franklin, Va. Skirmish at Core Creek, N. C. 22, 1862.Destruction of Salt-Works in Matthews County, Va. 1 T~ R-.-yOL XYIIJ Of some of the minor conflicts mentioned in t}~s Summar~ no circumstantial reports are on file. tSee Series I, Vols. XI and XIX Page 2 2 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. B. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Nov. 22, 1862.Reconnaissance from Williamsburg, Va. 25, 1862.Capture of the United States steamer Ellis, New River, N. C. Dec. 1, 1862.Skirmish at Beaver Dam Church, Va. 2, 1862.Skirmish on the Blackwater, near Franklin, Va. 812, 1862. Reconnaissances from Suffolk to the Blackwater and skirmishes at and about Zuni,Va. 10, 1862.Attack on Plymouth, N. C. 1115, 1862.Reconnaissance from Yorktown to Gloucester, Matthews, King and Queen, and Middlesex Counties, Va. 1120, 1862.Expedition from New Berne to Goldsborough, N. C. 12, 1862.Maj. Gen. Arnold Elzey, C. S. Army, assigned to command of the Richmond defenses, etc. 17, 1862.Reconnaissance to Diascund Bridge and Burnt Ordinary, Va. 22, 1862.Skirmishes near Windsor and at Joyners Ferry, on the Black- water, Va. 24, 1862.The Eighteenth Army Corps constituted, under command of Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army. 27, 1862.Skirmish at Elizabeth City, N. C. 28, 1862.Skirmishes near Suffolk and at Providence Church, Va. Jan. 7 9, 1863.Expedition from Yorktown to West Point and White llouse, Va. 8-10, 1863.Expedition from Suffolk toward the Blackwater, Va. 9, 1863.Skirmish near Providence Church, Va. 13, 1863.Expedition from Yorktown to West Point, Va. 1721, 1863.Reconnaissance from New Berne to Pollocksville, Trenton, Youngs Cross-Roads, and Onslow, N. C., and skirmishes (19th) at White Oak Creek and (20th) near Jacksonville. 19, 1863.Scout from Williamsburg and skirmish at Burnt Ordinary, Va. 27-28, 1863.Reconnaissances on the Neuse, Dover, and Trent Roads, N. C. 30, 186g.Engagement at Deserted House, or Kellys Store, near Suffolk, Va. Feb. 110, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Plymouth, N. C. 2, 1863.Destruction of Salt-Works at Wales Head, Currituck Beach, N. C. 5, 1863~ Skirmish near Olive Branch Church, Va. 6-21, 1863.The Ninth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. William F. Smith, U. S. Army, commanding, transferred from Army of the Potomac to Newport News, Va. 7, 1863.Skirmish at Olive Branch Church; Va. Skirmish near Edenton, N. C. 10, 1863.Skirmish at Batchelders Creek, N. C. 1213, 1863.Expedition from Batchelders Creek and skirmish (13th) at Sandy Ridge, N. C. 13, 1863.Skirmish near Washington, N. C. 17, 1863.Maj. Gen. Samuel G. French, C. S. Army, temporarily in coin- mand of the Department of North Carolina and Southern Vir- gima. 18, 1863.Two divisions of Longstreets corps ordered from Army of North- ern Virginia to defense of Richmond. 23, 1863.Engagement at Fort Caswell, N. C.* 25, 1863.Ma Gen. Daniel H. lull, C. S. Army, assumes command of troops in North Carolina. 26, 1863.Lient. Gen. James Longstreet, C. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of Virginia and North Carolina. Mar. 1 6, 1863.ExpedItion from New Berne to Swan Quarter, N. C., and skir- mishes (34 and 4th) near Fairficid and Swan Qnartcr. The United States steamers Dacotab an(l Monticello, engaged. 8cc Annual Rej~~o4 ef the 8ecretar~r of the Navy~ December 7; 1t363 Page 3 CHAr. XXX.] SUMMARY OF THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. 3 Mar. 6- 8, 1863.Demonstration on Kinston, N. C., including skirmishes (7th) at Core Creek and near Dover. 610, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Trenton, Pollocksville, Youngs Cross.Roads, and Swausborough, N. C. 7 9, 1863.Reconnaissance from Suffolk and skirmish (9th) near Windsor, Va. 710, 1863.Expedition froiji Newport Barracks to Cedar Point, N. C. 714, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Mattamuskeet Lake, N. C. 816, 1863.Expedition against New Berne, N. C., including skirmishes (13th 14th) at Deep Gully and attack (14th) on Fort Anderson. 1013, 1863.Demonstration on Plymouth, N. C. 1316, 1863.The Third Division, Ninth Army Corps, transferred from Newport News to Suffolk, Va. 17, 1863.Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Ninth Army Corps. Skirmish near Franklin, Va. 19-26, 1863.The First and Second Divisions, Ninth Army Corps, embark at Newport News for the Department of the Ohio. 23, 1863.Skirmish at Winfield, N. C. 24, 18~3.Skfrmish at Rocky Hock Creek, N. C. 25, 1863.Affair at Norfolk, Va. 29, 1863.Skirmish at Williamsburg, Va. 30, 1863.Skirmish near Deep Gully, N. C. 30-April 20, 1863.Siege of Washington, N. C., and pursuit of the Confed. erate forces. April 1,1863.Lieutenant-General Longstreets command reorganized, to con- sist of the Department of North Carolina (Maj. Gen. D. H. Hill commanding), Department of Southern Virginia (Maj. Gen. S. G. French commanding), and Department of Richmond (Maj. Gen. ArnoldEizey commanding). Expedition from Yorktown to Smiths and ByrdsPlantations, Ware River, Va. 6, 1863.Maj. Gen. E. D. Keyes, U. S. Army, temporarily in command of the Department of Virginia. Skirmish at Nixonton, N. C. 7, 186~.Expedition from Gloucester Point to Gloucester Court-House, Va. 914,1863.Operations against Gloucester Point, Va. 11, 1863.Skirmish at Williamsburg, Va. 11May 4,1863.Siege of Suffolk, Va. 12, 1863.Reconnaissance from Gloucester Point to the vicinity of Hickory Forks, Va. 16,1863.Affair on the Pamunkey River, near West Point, Va. 27,1863.Expedition from Yorktown beyond Hickory Forks, Va. 27-May 1,1863.Expedition from New Berne toward Kinston, N. C., and skirmish (28th) at Wises Cross.Roads. May 3,1863.Skirmishes at Ashland and Hanover Station, Va.* 4 5, 1863.Skirmishes at Hungary Station, Tunstalls Station, Ilanovertown Ferry, and Ayletts, Va.* 5, 1863.Skirmish at Peletiers Mill, N. C. 7, 1863.West Point, Va., occupied by the Union forces. 1226, 1863.Operations on the Seaboard and Roanoke Railroad and skirmishes (lSthl6th) near Carrsville, Va. 15, 1863.Capture of the steamers Emily and Arrow. Expedition from West Point to Robinsons Plantation, King and Queen Coniuity, Va. * Incidents of raid from Army of the Potomac. See Series I, Vol. XXV Page 4 ICHAP. XXX. 4 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. May 1528, 1863.Operations on the Norfolk and Petersburg Railroad and skir- mishes (17th) near Providence Church and (23d) at Antioch Church and Barbers Cross-Roads, Va. 1922, 1863.Expedition from Gloucester Point into Matthews County, Va. 2023, 1863.Demonstration on Kinston and skirmishes (22d) at Gum Swamp and (23d) at Batchelders Cr~ek, N. C. 28, 1863.The Confederate Department of North Carolina extended to em- brace Petersburg, Va., and the Appomattox River. 31June 1, 1863.West Point, Va., evacuated by the Union forces. SEPTEMBER 2-3, 1862.Expedition from Suffolk, Va. Report of Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. ~S. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Virginia. FORT MONROE, VA., September 4, 1862. On the evening of the 2d instant General Mansfield sent two com- panies of Dodges cavalry, under Major Wheelan, to cut off a company of rebel recruits on their way to Richmond. The expedition was com- pletely successful, the whole force, consisting of 2 officers, 65 soldiers, and 44 white men, with 28 wagons and carts and 25 negroes, were brought into Suffolk last night. The negroes were tied when the party were captured. JOHN A. DIX, Major-General. HALLECK Major-General General-in-Chief. SEPTEMBER 6, 1862.Attack on Washington, N. 0. REPORTS.* No. 1.Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of North Carolina. No. 2.Lieut. Col. Edward E. Potter, First North Carolina Infantry (Union). No. 3.Lient. Col. John Mix, Third New York Cavalry. No. 4.Maj. Gen. Samuel G. French, C. S. Army. No. 1. Reports of Itfaj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding the De partment of North Carolina. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., September 7, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that I have just received a communi- cation from Colonel Potter, First Regiment North Carolina Union Vol- unteers, commanding at Washington, N. C., that the rebels attacked that town ~resterday morning with about 1 ,OQO infantry, six companies * For reports of Actg. Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee and Actg. Vol. Lient. R. T. Renshaw, U. S. Navy, see Annual Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 1, 1862 Page 5 CRAP. XXX.] ATTACK-ON WASHINGTON, N. C. 5 of cavalry, and one battery of artillery. Colonel Potter was at the time about leaving, in obedience to my orders, for Plymouth, N. C., with Colonel Mix, in command of five companies of cavalry and one battery of artillery, to co-operate with the Navy in attacking Hamilton, on IRoanoke River. The attack of the rebels was made suddenly, and it appears they surprised the outer line of pickets, killing and wounding them, and, dashing into town, surprised the company of foot artillery iu the barracks, stationed for garrison at the new field wom~ks, capturing from them four old brass 6-pounders, that were captured by us at New Berne. Colonel Mix and Colonel Potter, hearing the firing, halted, and im- mediately returned into town, attacking the rebels vigorously, and after two and a half hours hard fighting drove them from the town and beyond Tranters Creek, 8 miles from town, taking 20 prisoners, many muskets, and about 30 horses. The rebels left 12 dead and 12 wounded in the streets, carrying off many killed and wounded, some of which they had to leave by the road- side. It is reported that 30 dead bodies have been found up to time of last dispatch. Our loss was 7 killed and 47 wounded, most of them slightly. Lieu- tenant Everett, adjutant of the cavalry, was shot in the knee. Colonel Potter had his horse shot under him. An unfortunate disaster happened to the army gunboat Picket, caus- ing her destruction. Just as the men were called to quarters the maga- zine blew up, undoubtedly from carelessness or accident, tearing the boat to pieces, instantly killing Capt. [Sylvester ID.] Nicoll, the commander, and 19 men, and wounding 6 others. The gunboat Louisiana, Captain Renshaw, U. S. Navy, rendered most efficient aid, throwing her shells with great precision, and clearing the streets through which her guns had range. Our whole force in the fight at the time of the attack consisted of four companies of infantry, two of artillery, and five of cavalry, and was considerably outnumbered by the enemy. I shall leave for Washington immediately to take such measures as may be necessary, and will send detailed list ofthe killed and wounded on my return. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. C-. FOSTER, Major-General HALLECK, Major- General, Volunteers. Gommander-in-Uhief, U. S. Army, Washington, D. G. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA New Berne, N. 0., September 12, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to state, iu addition to my brief report of the 7th of the attack on Washington, N. C .,that, upon careful inves- tigation of the circumstances and of the reports, that the affair, although undeniably a surprise at the outset, proves to have terminated in a very creditable display of gallantry by our troops. I find that all the men, infantry, cavalry, and artillery, recovering from their first surprise, drove the enemy from the town and 8 miles beyond. We have knowledge of the loss of the enemy of 33 killed and about three times that number wounded. Our loss was 8 killed, 36 wounded Page 6 6 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. and 112 missing (as will be seen by list appended *), exclusive of those lost by the unfortunate blowing up of the army gunboat Picket. Owing to the death of the captain of the Picket, who was the only officer attached to the vessel, the list of killed and wounded has not been as yet made out. I find that the explosion of the magazine of the Picket will not even- tuate in the total loss of the vessel. The guns have already been re- covered; the machinery can certainly be saved, and possibly the hull raised and repaired. If this be found impossible the machinery can be transferred to a canal-barge, and fit up a second gunboat as effective as the Picket. The five companies of the Third New York Cavalry, and Battery II, Third New York Artillery, were very effective in driving the enemy from the streets. The two companies of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers and two companies of the First North Carolina Union Vol- unteers, under command of Col. E. E. Potter, First North Carolina, fooght well and held their position. I shall have the honor, in my next communication, to solicit the medal of honor for three most gallant men of the rank and file. I have the honor to remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER Major- General of Volunteers, Commanding- Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLEOK, General-in-Chief, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. No. 2. Report of Lient. Col. Edward F. Potter, First North Carolina Infantry (Union). HEADQUARTERS, Wa8hington, September 5 [6], 186212 m. SIR: I have the honor to report that this town was attacked this morn- ing at 4 oclock by a force consisting, according to the reports of pris- oners, of from 600 to 1,000 infantry, six companies of cavalry, and one battery of artillery. I had just started with Colonel Mix and his com- mand for Plymouth, when the attack was made. A halt was ordered and we moved back into the town. A heavy firing of musketry was going on at the upper end of the town. As we turned into the main street some of the enemys cavalry came charging down, using sabers and pistols freely. Some of them were knocked over and others turned back. The artillery was placed at the intersection of the streets, with the cavalry supporting it. I advanced up the main street with one piece of artillery and a squadron of cavalry to the infantry quarters, where a desultory firing was going on. The enemy had surprised the artillerymen at their quarters in the school-house, at the corner of Second and Bridge streets, and were there in very strong force. I placed the 12-pounder at the intersection of Main and Bridge. All the infantry, North Carolina and Massachusetts, supported the artillery. The firing here was very sharp. Nothing but a small lot separated our men from theirs, each firing from behind fencet~. Our piece did good execution, but the gunners were all shot, and I had to withdraw the gun and the Nominal list omitted Page 7 CHAr. XXX. I ATTACK ON WASHINGTON, N. C. 7 infantry to give the Louisianas guns a chance. The Louisiana opened at once, at my request, and did excellent service. Cavalry skirmishing was going on in the mean time oii the outskirts and in different streets. The enemy after a time began to retreat, taking with them, I am sorry to say, the four brass pieces which were in the yard of the academy. The cavalry pursued them several miles, but did not come up with them. The most unfortunate event connected with the affair w~s the loss of the gunboat Picket. According to the report of the engineer her mag- azine exploded just as Captain NicolL had ordered the men to quarters. It must have arisen from carelessness in opening the magazine. Cap- tain Nicoll and 119 meu were killed and 6 wounded. Our loss in the affair is as follows: Company B, First North Carolina, Lieutenant Lyon: Two killed and 7 wollnde(l. Company ID, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts: Two wounded. Company B, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts: Four wounded. Company C-, Third New York Artillery: Two killed, 2 wounded, 4 missing. Third New York Cavalry: Two killed and 25 wounded, slightly. Company II, Third New York Artillery: One killed and 7 wounded. The rebels left behind 12 killed and as many wounded, several mor- tally. We have also som~ 20 prisoners, and have taken several horses and a good many muskets. The conduct of the men was generally good. In this hurried report I can make no mention of individual good conduct. Colonel Mix, with his cavalry, did excellently. Lieutenant Garrard made a very handsome charge. Lieutenant Lyon, of the north Carolina Volunteers, displayed great courage. Lieutenants Pendleton and Strong were with Colonel Mix during the fight. No casualties occurred among the officers, with the exception of Adjutant Everett, of the cavalry, shot in the knee. Several horses were shot from under their riders, among them my own. Captain Murphy has returned after pursuing the enemy to Trauters Creek. He reports that they carried off many dead and wounded. They have left some at a short distance from town. I shall make proper dis. position for the defense of the town to-night. The Plymouth expedi- tion is postponed. Your obedient servant, EDWARD E. POTTER, Gommanding Post. Capt. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 3. Report of Lieut. Gol. John ]Iliix, Third ~ew York Gavatry. SIR: 1 have the honor to report, for the information of the general commanding, time operations of my command on the 4th, 5th, and 6th instant: In compliance with my instructions I shipped, on the 4th, one com- pany (ID) of the Third New York Cavalry and one battery (H) of the Third New York Artillery. They left this post at 11 p. m. and de Page 8 8 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. IL VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. barked at Washington, N. C., at3p. m. on the 5th. At4a.m.on the 6th a command, consisting of Companies D,G, I ,and L, Third New York Cavalry, and Battery II, Third New York Artillery, with an aggregate of 263 men, formed for the expedition I had been ordered to make, and at 4.15 broke into column. Scarcely were the troops in colnmu, the head of it having just reached the outskirts of t~ie town, on the Plymouth road, when a rapid and continuous firing was heard to our left and rear. The column was counter-marched at the gallop, an4 the cavalry, in col- umn of eights, ordered to charge and clear the different streets, which were now apparently full of small parties of the enemys cavalry. The night was intensely dark, and between the darkness, fog, and dust it was impossible in many cases to distinguish friend from foe at half a dozen paces. The order to clear the streets was in each case most gallantly obeyed. Company L, Captain Garrard, charged First street, driving back a considerable body of cavalry to Bridge street, where he came upon a large body of infantry, and was compelled to retire; in doing this he cleared the cross-streets to his left. Company ID, Captain Murphy, performed the same operation on Second street. Company U, Captain Hall, charged the length of Third street, driving back several small parties of cavalry, and, upon reaching the fence around the acad- emy, found a large force of the enemy~s infa1~try in position unfavorable to attack. Company H, Captain Willson, whi~ch was not to accompany the expedition, and consequently not out at the commencement of the fight, turned out and was in saddle and ready for action in an incredi. bly short space of time. The captain, hearing firing and loud cheers in direction of the academy, promptly proceeded with his company to ascertain the cause thereof, aud found a large force of the enemy in possession of four brass guns, which had been left in park near the hos- pital, and over which accidental capture the rebels were giving vent to their exuberance of spirits in loud, continuous cheers and demoniac yells of Death to the damned Yankees; No prisoners; No quarters, & c. The captain, nothing daunted by these friendly salutations, made a most gallant but unsuccessful attempt to recover the guns; dismounted a number of his men, under a severe fire, within 60 yards of the enemy, and attempted to tear down a fence to enable him to charge them, but could not succeed in making a sufficient opening for that purpose. Com- pany I, Captain Jo~knick, in the mean time had succeeded in driving a number of detached and very troublesome parties of enemys cavalry from Third and Fourth streets, and had gone to the support of one of the guns of Battery H. During the first hour of the m~h~e the convalescents and sick men turned out largely, considering the number in hospitals. These were united with small scattering parties, who had become temporarily de- tached from their companies, by officers who were without commands, and did good service in clearing the cross-streets. Lieutenant Everett, acting adjutant, while conveying an ordQr to a distant part of the com- mand, encountered alone a party of the enemys infantry on a side street, dashed past them, emptying, as he did so, the contents of his pistol among them. He was, in turn, fired into, receiving a serious wound in his right leg. The guns of Battery H, Captain Riggs, were promptly placed in position upon several cross-streets, and held in readiness to fire the moment that the enemy could be distinguished from among the confused mass in every direction. And I would here mention as an ex- traordinary fact, and as due entirely to the coolness and intrepidity of the officers and men. of this battery, that in no instance did occur th Page 9 CHAr. XXX.] MPTACIt O~ WAShINGtON, N. 0. 9 mistake of firing upon our own people, and that in order to prevent such fatal mistake the enemy were allowed at times to approach withiii a few I~et of the muzzles of the guns; then, when amid the dust, smoke, and fog the gray coats could be seen, the death-dealing contents of the pieces were hurled among them with such precision and effect as told them, plainer than could words have done, that Yankee guns, when manned, asked no quarter, but give unasked a (w)hole. Our situation now began to assume a more tangible appearance. The river street and most of the cross-streets f I bree blocks, had been, by means of rapid ~or a distance of two or and successive cavalry charges, cleared entirely of the midnight assassins. Their cavalry had congregated upon the edge of the town and reformed for the attack. Their infantry had concentrated in two columns, one of which, with the assistance of one 6-pounder brass piece and a 3-pounder rifled gun, was endeavoring to turn our left flank, with the evident desire of getting between our forces and the gunboats. They were met at this point, and their object most completely foiled, by our infantry, consisting of two companies of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, two companies of the First I~orth Carolina, one 12-pounder brass piece (Lieutenant ONeiI), and 20 cavalry, under Lieutenant Gouraud (which had been (letailed as a provost guard for the expedition), all commanded in per- son by Colonel Potter, First North Carolina. At this point the fight was most severe, and continued without cessation for two hours and a half Two sets of gunners having been shot away from the gun, it became nec- essary to haul it oft, which was done without further loss. Our infantry in the mean time did good service with their rifles. The situatioft of Lieutenant Gouraud and his handful of mounted men at this point was aggravating in the extreme. Necessarily within supporting distance of the gun, he was greatly exposed to the raking fire of the enemy, and unable, from the inconsiderable numbers of his command and the posi- tion and strength of the enemy, to operate upon him. In this trying position the men evinced a most commendable degree of fortitude. One-fourth of their number having fallen victims to the enemys mis- siles, the remaining few increased their enthusiasm for the charge, and made several effective dashes. The enemy~s second column of attack had advanced upon our cen- ter, and was composed of artillery and infantry, preceded by a squad- ron of cavalry. Their approach being observed, Company L, Captain Garrard, advanced boldly, and in close column, to the attack. His shout of Come on, as he placed himself at the head of his men, was responded to by his daring followers with a yell and a rapid gallop that showed no want of confidence in their leader and themselves, and no fear of the solid column opposed to them. He met the enemy with a shock that told upon his columns, received the fire from their pistols, and vigorously responded with his sabers until finding that he was being surrounded by the enemys infantry and in danger of being cut off he commanded his men to retire, which they did, gallantly cutting their way through the infantrywho were now in the rear of them having had a brilliant hand-to-hand conflict with vastly-superior num- bers, in which the horses of all the officers of the company had been shot and 9 men and 14 horses wounded, promptly retiring behind the gun commanded by Lieutenant Nercer, leaving the street clear for the operation of the piece, which opened a destructive fire upon the enemy, who had brought a 6-pounder to bear upon him. An interesting can- non duel now ensued, but soon terminated by the withdrawal of th Page 10 10 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. 6-pounder and the disappearance of the enemy from that street. Thus the enemy had been thrice foiled. First, his attempt to surprise and massacre us was foiled by the existence of the expedition, and, subse- qnently, when in position, his attack upon our left and center was obsti- nately met, and, though not without difficulty and hard fighting, suc- cessfully repulsed. Upon the first intimation of the retreat of the enemy our cavalry, which had necessarily been much scattered, was concentiated and sent in pursuit, and moving rapidly out upon the Greenville road, soon en- countered a flag of truce with a rebel surgeon, who desired the privi- lege of attending to his wounded. This flag was a well-calculated sub- terfuge, under which the enemy gained considerable in their retreat, as the officer commanding the pursuing party felt it his duty to sus- pend operations until he could communicate with the commanding offi- cer, who was at the rear. After disposing of this flag of truce our cav- alry pushed out 9 miles on the Greenville road, encountering only a surgeons flag over a party of 18 of the ~nemy~s wounded, and upon returning discovered two ambulances in the road, which he captured. The dismounted men of the detachment of cavalry were under standing orders, in the event of an attack, to report to Lieutenant Cliesebmougli, who was temporarily disabled for mounted duty. These mcii arrived, with the Colts revolving rifles, and were stationed in ambush, for the purpose of preventing the entrance of the enemys cavalry upon the upper end of Main street, and were most successful. In conclusion, sir, too much cannot be said in praise of the coolness of the officers and men of my command, who fought full three times or more their number four hours, under the most trying circumstances. Battery II, Third New York Artillery, did most creditably, and the result of this first meeting with the enemy promises them a brilliant future. I would especially commend to the notice of the commanding general, in consequence of most gallant conduct, Corpl. James R. Nicoll, Company I, Third New York Cavalry, and Corpl. William Smith, Bat- tery II, Third New York Artillery (the latter since lost his leg, by am- putation, in consequence of wounds), and would respectfully suggest that medals of honor, recently ordered by Congress, be presented to these two men. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. MIX, Lieutenant- Colonel, Third New York Cavalry. Maj. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General, Dept. of North Carolina. No. 4. Report of Maj. Gen. Samuel U. French, C. ~ Army. PETERSBURG, VA., September 7, 1862. General Martin telegraphs me our troops had a sharp fight of three hours at Washington, N. C., this morning (6th), but could not hold the town. Our i055 heavy. We brought out three brass field guns. S. G. FRENCH. General S. COOPER Page 11 CHAP. XXX.] SKIRMISII AT WILLIAMSBURG, VA. 11 SEPTEMBER 9, 1862.Skirmish at Williamsburg, Va. Reports of ]Jfaj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Virginia, and resulting correspondence and orders. YORKTOWN, VA., September 9, 1862. Colonel Campbell, of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, was attacked this morning at Williamsburg and disgraceftully beaten, partly by bad management and partly by the cowardly conduct of some of his men. I am glad to say that others behaved with proper spirit. The colonel and some 6 or 7 other officers are prisoners. I have not yet been able to ascertain the extent of the loss. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General, Commanding. Major-General HALLECK. FORT MONROE, VA., September 10, 18626.30 p. m. The loss yesterday in the attack on the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry was the colonel, 2 majors, and S other officers and 29 men captured; 1 officer and 55 men missing; 7 killed and 13 wounded. We took 2 prisoners, from whom I learu that the attacking party consisted of a mixed force of Georgians, South Carolinians, and Virginians, certainly not exceeding 300 men. One of the majors ran away, and if a court cannot be found who have courage enongli to shoot him he should be dismissed the service. I will report on his case especially. What re- mains of the regiment, about 430 men in all, are at Williamsburg, the rebels having retired. JOHN A. DIX, Mi4jor- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECE, General-in-Chief. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 10, 1862. Order immediately a court-martial on the cowards of Williamsburg. If no one has courage to have them shot report them here, so that we can ask the President to cashier them.* H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe, Va. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, September 11, 1862. Order a court if yon have officers suitable. If not, get the facts in relation to the bad conduct of the officers and I will ask the President to cashier them. What is the object of holding Williamsburg ~ Why not withdraw the garrison to Yorktown l See Dix to Halleck, September 12, in Correspondence, etc., ro8t Page 12 12 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. ix~ Colonel Williams cavalry was sent to General Burnside when he ha~ none for reconnoitering the enemy. I have none here to send you at present. II. W. IIAIJLECK General-in-Chief. Major-General DIX, Fort Monroe, Va. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 19. f Fort Monroe, Va., September 25, 1862. I. Before a g-eneral court-martial, of which Maj. Gen. John J. Peck is president, convened at Yorktown, Va., pursuant to Paragraph III, Special Orders, No. 97, current series, from these headquarters, of Sep. tember 11, 1862, was arraigned and tried Maj. JACOB P. WILSON, Fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Cavalry, npou the following charges and specifications: CHARGE 1.Misbehavior before the enemy. Speeifteation.Jn this: That he, Jacob P. Wilson, a major in the Fifth Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, in the service of the United States, while on duty with his regiment at or near Williams- burg, Va., did misbehave himself before the enemy, and did shamefully abandon his post and command and run away. This at or near said Williamsburg, and between said Williamsburg and Yorktown, Va., on or about the 9th day of September, 1862. CHARGE 11.Speaking words inducing others to misbehave themselves before the enemy and to run away and to shamefully abandon the post which he or they were commanded to defend. Speciftcation.Jn this: That he, said Jacob P. Wilson, major as afore- said, being stationed with his regiment at or near said Williamsburg, which pdst he and. they were commanded to defend, did speak words inducing members of his regiment, or some of them, to misbehave them- selves before the enemy, to shamefully abandon said post, and to run away. This at or near Williamsburg, on or about September 9, 1862. CHARGE 111.Cowardice. S,pec~ftcation.Jn this: That said Jacob P. Wilson, major as afore- said, while stationed with his regiment at or near said Williamsburg, and before the enemy, did, in a cowardly manner, misbehave, abandon his post and command, and run away. This at or near Williamsburg, Va., on or about the 9th day of September, 1862. PLEA.Not guilty. FINDING OF THE CORUT. I. UpQn careful consideration the court finds the accused, Maj. Jacob P. Wilson, Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, Not guilty, of each and all of the charges and specifications, and thereupon acquits him. II. The proceedings and finding of the court are approved. Major Wilson will resume his sword and return to duty. The encounter at Williamsburg, on which the charges against Major Wilson are founded, was, under all its aspects, most disgraceful to the regiment to which he belonged. The force of the enemy was certainly not superior to ours. The commanding officer had full notice of th Page 13 CuIAr. XXX.] SHLLOH, N. C. 13 intended attack and chose his own ground. The men were misman- aged; wrong words of command were given, and, although some of the officers and men behaved with becoming gallantry, the regiment broke, most of them ran away, some of them as far as Yorktown, 13 miles from their camp. The colonel, 6 other officers, and nearly 60 enlisted men were taken prisoners; the camp was partially destroyed; they were not rallied until the enemy had retired; and the whole affair ex- hibited a want of organization and discipline utterly discreditable to the principal officers, who are responsible for the condition of the reg- iment. It can never regain its standing until this stain on its character is effaced by worthier conduct in the face of the enemy. While the commanding general approves the finding of the court in acquitting Major Wilson of the charge of cowardice, the testimony shows that he might with propriety be brought before another court, on less serious charges of misconduct, and, if it is not thought advisa- ble to do so, it is only for the reason that so many others are as deeply involved as himself in the general delinquency. III. The general court-martial, of which Maj. Gen. John J. Peck is president, is dissolved. By command of Major-General iDix: iD. T. YAK BUREX, Assistant Adjutant-General. SEPTEMBER 1720, 1862.Operations at and about Shuloh, N. C. REPQfl~TS. No. 1.Capt. Enos C. Sanders, First North Carolina Infantry (Union), of affair at Shuloh, N. C., September 17, 1862. No. 2.Capt. William B. Avery, commanding U. S. gunboat Lancer, of affair near Shulob, N. C., September 20, 1862. No. 1. Report of Capt. Enos C. Sanders, First North Carolina Infantry (Union), of affair at Shiloh, N. C., September 17, 1862. HEADQUARTERS, Shiloh, N. C., September 18, 1862. SIR: Last night we were attacked, as we had all the force over to Pasquotank holding a meeting, and stopped overnight, except the guns crew, which we sent back, all except 16 menthem we had with us. We got word this morning, and with about 30 men have landed 6 miles below Shiloh. There are 3 men killed, 3 wounded, and 5 or 6 taken prisoners, and they have taken all the arms and ammunition we had and stores and provisions. They were completely surprised. The men that got away think their force was about 50 strong. Please send us a gunboat and men immediately; send two howitzers and ammuni- tion for the same. We can intercept them at the upper end of the county. It is necessary to have a chance to get a re-enforcement a Page 14 14 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Pasquotank. They got our guns and all our private property. We have the names of some of the rebels. Joseph Forbes was one of the leaders. E. 0. SANDERS, Captain, First North Carolina Infantry. Col. W. A. HOWARD. No. 2. Report of Capt. William B. Avery, commanding U. S. gunboat Lancer, of affair near Shiloh, N. C., September 20, 1862. UNITED STATES GUNBOAT LANCER, September 21, 1862. SIR: I reached Shiloh at 4 p. m. Friday, 19th, at dark. I landed 60 men, taking with me Lieutenants Fowler and Moore, and leaving the vessel in charge of Acting Master Allen. Being joined by the two lieu- tenants [and] Sanders with 20 men, we started at 9.30 p. m. for the place where the rebels were last heard of; reached that place to learn they were last heard of 4 miles off, in a swamp near the lake, as they term a sort of pond. The men were two-thirds of them in carts, and so, by changing, the 12 miles already passed did not fatigue them much. We left for the lakes at 4.30 a. in., so our hopes of surprising them before light were dispelled. In the swamp we found the men had gone one way that morning, half an hour previous, and the things had been sent another the night previous, toward the house of one Willis Will- iams. We had been told that it was there they had been encamped; so I decided to push on after the things, expecting to find a portion of their force with them. After 3 miles more march we reached it to find no one there, and to learn that the things had been sent there the night before and they would not receive them, and they were taken back. The first house from the school-house we learned that the carts had some men without arms, and one man lying down apparently hurt. We knew they must be the prisoners, and I immediately took Lient. Enos C. Sanders and 20 of the best men and gave chase after them. They had two and a half hours the start, and we had been traveling all night. By following their tracks we knew the road they took, and by inquiring learned that we were gaining on them. We went across the battle-field and over the bridges across the river and canal. About 1~ miles beyond the river we came on them just as they were halting for dinner. The road was straight for half a mile to them, and through a swamp, so we could not avoid being discovered by the guard, which numbered some 15 men, I am told. We made a dash for them, and without firing a shot they took their guns and fled to the swamp across a corn field, leaving the muskets and prisoners in our hands. I immediately returned and reached the main body of the men at 2 p. in., having gone 18 miles in four hours. We then started for Shiloh, distant 12 miles, and reached it 6.30 p. in., and at 8 p. m. all were on board, having been gone twenty-four hours. Besides the 7 prisoners from Shiloh they had 2 of my men who had straggled behind and met the rebels, who had come into the road. I went down some twenty minutes after. Had I been half hour later I should have met them. Had I been one hour earlier I should have sur- prised them before they started. Had I been so fortunate I should hav Page 15 CHAr. XXX.] SKIRMISH ON THE BLACKWATER. 15 saved some 40 or 50 miles travel for myself and 20 of the men with Lieu- tenant Sanders. As to the howitzer I have heard of it in two or three places by report. The most probable one is that it is up in Currituck County, somewhere in a swamp. Until I had started after them I did not know they did not have it with them to take it to Richmond. if Lieutenant Sanders fol- lows my advice and takes time by the forelock he camfind that gun and the tents. He claims to have 50 or 60 fighting men, and with two- thirds of that number he can scour the whole country. I am, sir, very respectfully, WM. B. AVERY, Captain, Commanding Lancer. Col. WILLIAM A. HOWARD, Gommanding Marine Artillery and Post, Roanoke Island. OCTOBER 3, 1862.Skirmish on the Blackwater, near Franklin, Va. REPO:R~TS.* No. 1.Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of Virginia. No. 2.Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army, commanding at Suffolk, including affair near Zuni. No. 3.Col. J. K. Marshall, Fifty-second North Carolina Infantry. No. 1. Reports of Miaj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Virginia. FORT MONROE, VA., October 3,18629.30 p. in. Last night General Peck, by my order and direction, sent a force of nearly 2,000 cavalry, artillery, and infantry from Suffolk to Franklin, on the Blackwater, intending to attack the enemy at that point this morning early, and if possible cripple the floating bridge he has thrown across the river. Between 2 and 3 this morning two scoundrels from New York belonging to Dodges Mounted Rifles, one of them an orderly at General Pecks headquarters, deserted to the enemy and were seen riding rapidly through our lines. Couriers were sent out to recall the troops and a strong force was dispatched to support them. I have not yet heard of their return. We have reconnoitered the enemy closely several times with no loss, except one horse killed and one man shot through the hand. Suffolk has been put in good condition, and we have n~ concern of attack. Two of the four new regiments you promised have arrived. They are very raw, but when I get the other two I shall feel entirely at ease at nil points. JOHN A. DIX Major. General. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief. For reports of Actg. Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee, Commander H. K. Davenport, Lient. Commander C. W. Flusser, Acting Vol. Lient. E. R. Colhoun, and Actg. Master C. A. Ircpch, V. 8. Nav~r, see Annual Re~o~t of the secretary of the Navy, December 1, l86~ Page 16 16 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CaM. XXX. FORT MONROE, VA., October 5,186212.40 p. m. 1 planned an expeditio~,as I advi~e~ you, to destroy the floating bridge the enemy had thrown over the Blackwater at Franklin. We were to have had the co-operation of the gunboats from Albemarle Sound by or- der of Admiral Lee, but I think they must have met with obstructions, as they did not come. Our troops, less than 2,000 in number, under Colonel Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, held-the enemy, greatly, superior in force, at bay at the river for several hours waiting for the gunboats. They behaved with great coolness, and, as we think, killed and wounded from 70 to 100 of the enemy. Our loss was I killed and 6 wounded and missing. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. General HALLEcK, General-in- Chief. FORT MONROE, VA., October 7, 1862. Major-General Peck telegraphs me as follows: Our affair at Franklin was of more importance than we judged. From an examina- tion of several persons who were on the other side of the Blackwater I ]earn that the enemys loss was over 200. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. No. 2. Reports of ]ifaj. Gea. John J. Peck U S Army, commanding at Suffolk, including a~air near Zuni. SUFFOLK, October 4, 1862. The gunboats were about 10 or 15 miles below Franklin yesterday. They fired a good many shots, bnt did not appear during the day. Had they not met obstru~tions they would have come up. They heard the enemys guns doubtless, as I did. They have three heavy guns, one a 32-pounder, commanding the swinging bridge. Colonel Spear reports not less than 8,000 up and down the river. Yesterday they were massed near Zuni. Knowing the boats were on the way they will expect our concert and may mask Franklin. There is great uncertainty in opera- tions with gunboats. Had they waited until the 9th our risk would have been much less. Now the move is advenfured to Weldon and Petersburg it looks risky. The bridge can be rebuilt in a few hours, and the fords are low. I will carry out your instructions if you will send them. JOHN J. PECK, Ililiajor- General. Major-General DIX. SUFFOLK, October 4, 1862. Have been out on the advance nearly all day. Troops all in. Spear had a nice fight. Loss, 1 killed and some 6 wounded and missing. After full inquiry as to the affair I judge 70 to 100 of the enemy wer Page 17 CHAP. XXX.] SKIRMISH ON THE BLACKWATER. 17 injured. Within a day or two the enemy has been disposed to hold our pickets away from the river. Yesterday he occupied Windsor with about 800 cavalry and some infantry. At dawn I pushed Dodges cav- alry in there, and to-day we have recovered nearly all the territory. JOHN J. PECK, Major- Ge~wrat. General Dix. SUFFOLK, October 4, 1862. My troops are, in, but they have had service, being out two nights and a day, and need rest. Colonel Spear left the vicinity of Franklin after midnight. No firing has been heard to-day, and I conclude boats did not reach that place. My last telegram may give some informatioh not at hand when your last was received, and I wait your reply. JOHN J. PECK, Major- GeneraL General Dix. HEADQUARTERS, Suffolk, Va., October 9, 1862. COLONEL: On the 2d instant I was advised that the rebel pickets had been advanced nearly to Carrsville at points some 4 or 5 miles from the Blackwater. This information, in connection wit~zi the possibility of the appearance of our gunboats, in consequence of certain proposi- tions made by Major-General Dix, but not perfected, induced me to dis- patch Col. S. P. Spear, of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, with a section of Folletts battery and about 1,700 men, in the night to Carrs- ville, with instructions to make a thorough reconnaissance in the direc- tion of Franklin and the Blackwater. He moved at 9 p. m. and reached Carrsville before daylight. Early on the 3d he commenced his advance and soon met the enemys pickets. Some skirmishing ensued, the rebels falling back upon their support with a view of checking his advance. This was of no avail, and pickets and supports were all driven confusedly down to the bank and over the river. Colonel Spear advanced cautiously, and was soon opened upon by a 32-pounder and other heavy guns in battery across the stream. After looking to the immediate safety of his command the colonel made a careful examination of the position, placed Whitneys section and two small howitzers in action at favorable points with proper supports, and sent out parties for observation on his flanks. A furious cannonade continued for an hour, when the enewy ceased his fire a~nd fell back to a new position where he could act in concert with newly-arrived and fresh troops. At this juncture Grahams celebrated Petersburg battery and a rocket battery arrived, and the action was renewed on his part with great vigor. Shot, shell, grape, and rockets were fired in great profusion, but with little or no damage to our well-posted troops. The Thirteenth Indiana Regiment, under Lieutenant-Colonel Dobbs, was moved down to the bank on the right, where it opened so sharp and close a fire upon the rebels that they terminated the action by falling back out of range. On learning that Colonel Spear had proceeded with less than 1,300 men, instead of 1,700, and that his ammunition was nearly exhausted, that the river could not be crossed, and the object of the expedition 2 H HVOL XVII Page 18 [CHAP. XXX. 18 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA having been fully attained, I directed him to return, which he did with- out any disturbance from the enemy. Particular mention is made of the gallantry and good conduct of Lieutenant-Colonels Stetzel, Dobbs, Maxwell, and Gray, and of Lieu- tenant Whitney. Colonel Spear has added to his former high reputa- tion by his coolness and good management on this occasion. The force consisted of detachments from the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, Ninety-sixth New York Volunteers, One hundred and third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Thirteenth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and a section of Folletts artillery, and the commander speaks in the highest terms of all his officers and men. The loss was 2 killed, 5 wounded, and 1 missing, which was extremely small, in view of the great superiority of the enemy in numbers. The rebel loss has been reported from 75 to 200. On the 3d instant several hnndred of the enemy crossed the river in the vicinity of Zuni and occupied Windsor, having among other de- signs that of tearing up the Petersburg Railroad. At dawn of the 4th Colonel Dodge, a meritorious officer, was advanced with a portion of the New York First Mounted Rifles, who promptly occupied the place, and during the day forced the enemy across the Blackwater. Characterized by that earnestness which is an essential element of success, these affairs are very gratifying, and fortify the confidence already reposed in the troops. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN J. PECK, Major- General, Commanding. Col. D. T. VAN BUREN, Assistant Adjittant- General, Seventh Corps. No.3. Report of Col. J. K. Marshall, Fifty-second North Carolina Ii~fantry. HEADQUARTERS, Franklin, Va., October 4, 1862. GENERAL: After having rested the night before at~ ~ew South Quay the enemy steamed up the river in their gunboats yesterday morning and commenced pouring shot and shell upon us at daybeak. They brought with them three boats, two of which were small, carrying two guns each; theoth er large, carrying four, one a 64-pounder. Soon after the shelling commenced I dispatched Licut. [John M.] Alexander (coin- manding Company A, Fifty-second Regiment North Carolina Troops) with orders to commence firing upon them at ~rumpler~s Bluff so soon as the last boat should have passed. In obedience to orders he com- menced a well-directed and effective fire upon them, and succeeded in silencing their guns for a short while, but they quickened their time and succeeded in reaching a point of the river edged on both sides by an apparently impassable marsh. Here they recommenced their work of throwing shot and shell in every direction, and in the mean time mov- ing up by degrees in the direction of Franklin. Pending this condition of things I sent Capts. [John C.] MeCain [and Eric] Erson, and Lient. [James M.] Kincaid, of the Fifty-second Regiment, together with Capt. [James T.] Mitchell, of the Fifty-ninth Regiment, pickets, holding thei Page 19 ChAP. XXX.] SKIRMISH NEAR ZUNI, VA. 19 respective commands, to the neighboring bluffs with instructions to meet the boats on their return. (Jol. [D. D.j Ferebee with a large portion of his command took position along the road, first, where the old wharf formerly stood, and Capt. [William] Sharps company, of the same corn- mand, was sent to meet and fire upon the boats from any point they could suitable for such work, but they penetrated the marsh, which was very (leep, and drove in between 60 and 80 ~harpshoofers which had been thrown out from the gunboats. Now a general fire commenced on both sides,, in which Colonel Ferebee and his command took [part] to a very considerable extent, but the boats found the work too hot for them and were forced to recede, and continued to move back, though con- tinually throwing out an occasional shell. As they passed the bluffs every man who showed himself on deck or at the port-holes was cut down. As they passed down the river Captain Norfieet with his men pursued them, killing all who could be seen. Here I will state that the Pilot was hid from view and sand-bags were placed along the decks of the boats. As I stated before, the shelling commenced at daybreak and the boats remained in the river until 10.30 a. m. Our loss is 2 wounded, viz, Private Stroup, of the Fifty-second IRegi- ment, and Private Parker, of the Fifty-ninth Regiment. About 1 p. m. a large force appeared across the river, consisting of four full regiments of infantry, one regiment of cavalry, and six pieces of artillery, with one or two sections of rocket guns. One of Captain Grahams pieces (rifle) was placed at the depot and the other carried to the bridge. For about two hours Captain Graham with hi~ rifle piece at the depot and Lieutenant Britton at the bridge entertained them handsomely. At 3.30 or 4 oclock they retired, leaving on the field a few overcoats an(l one horse. The enemy must have lost a large number on their boats and lost some on the field, but how many I cannot say. One yawl-boat was left in the river iz~ar one of the blnft~. The force brought in the afternoon was intended to co-op& ate with the gunboats, but caine too late. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. K. MARSHALL, General ~. G. FRENCH, Colonel, commanding at Franklin. Commanding Department of North Carolina. OCTOBER 25, 1862.Skirmish near Zuni, Va. Report of Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. ~. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Virginia. FORT MONROE, VA., October 27, 1862. An expedition was sent from Suffolk on Saturday night to the Black- water., It took a wrong road and did not arrive till noon, instead of daybreak, on Sunday. The cavalry swam the river, and some howitzers were sent over in canoes. The enemy were cleared from the bank of the river by our infantry. Much valuable information was obtained. Lieut. William Wheelan, of the Mounted Rifles, a very meritorious officci, was killed; our only casualty. We captured a serg-eant and Page 20 [CHAP. XXX. 20 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. men of a Georgia cavalry regiment. I have directed Major-General Peck to keep a part of his force in motion constantly, so as to accustom them to marching instead of rusting in camp. JOHN A. DIX, Major- GeneraL Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief. OCTOBER 3l~ 1862.Skirmish at Franklin, Va. Report of Maj. Gen. John S. Peck, U. ~. Army. SUFFOLK, VA., November 2, 1862. SIR: On Friday night, October 31, we surprised the enemy at Frank- lin about 4 a. in., and shelled him with 75 projectiles before he opened. As ordered, the command at once moved away and reconnoitered as far as Zuni, Isle of Wight, & c. After withdrawing Folletts battery the enemy opened and kept up a fire on the woods until nearly 11 a. in., supposing we were there. Colonel Spear was in command of the advance, and thinks the execution was great. He reports five regiments there, one at Ivor, and a force at Wakefield, but numbers unknown; others scattered along the river. No accident on our side. Ferry was in command. Wessells is ill. Longstreet has been at Petersbnrg and may be at Wakefield, from which he cau move to any threatened point. JOHN .~. PECK, Major- General. General JOHN A. DIX, Fort Monroe. NOVEMBER 112, 1862.Expedition from New Berne, N. C., including skirmishes (2d) at Little Creek and Rawles MilL REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of North Carolina. No. 2.Col. Thomas G. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry, command- ing brigade, of skirmishes at Little Creek and Rawles Mill. No. 3.Capt. Job Arnold, Fifth Rhode Island Infantry, of skirmishes at Little Creek and Rawles Mill. No. 1. Report of JAaj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. ~. Army, commanding the De partment of North Carolina. HEADQIJARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, iLWew Berne, N. C., November 12, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, agreeably to my letter of the 30th ultimo informing you of my intention to make an expedition through the eastern counties of this State and stating the object of the move, I left this post on the 31st ultimo, and have just arrived here on my return Page 21 CHAP. XXX.] EXPEDITION FROM NEW BERNE, N. C. 21 I am happy to inform you that although the original plan for the cap- ture of the three regiments foraging in that section was, owing to the condition of the roads, frustrated, the expedition will be of great service to our cause in this department. The First Brigade, under the command of Col. T. J. C. Amory, together with the artillery, cavalry, and wagon train, was marched from this point across the country to Washington. The balance of my forces, including the Second Brigade, Colonel Stevenson, and the Third Brigade, Colonel Lee, were embarked on transports and landed at Washington, where they were joined by Colonel Amorys command on Saturday evenilig, the 1st instant. On Sunday (the 2d) all the forces, amounting to 5,000 men, inchid- ing twenty-one pieces of artillery, left Washington under my command for Wilhiamston. On the evening of the same day we encountered the enemy, posted in a strong position at a small creek, called Little Creek. I imnle(liately ordered Colonel Stevenson, comnmandiiio- the Second Brigade, who was then in the advance, to make all haste in driving them from the Opl)Osite side of the creek, and push on at once. The engagement lasted for one hour, when the enemy, being driven from their rifle-pits by the effective fire of Belgers lihode island battery, retired to Rawles Mill, 1 mile farther on, where they made another stand in a recently-constructed field work. Belgers battery and two batteries of the Third New York Artillery were imnlne(liately ordered into position, and, after a spirited engagement of half an hour, suc- ceeded in driving the enemy from their works and across a bridge, which they burned. That night, while the pioneers rebuilt the burned bridge, the forces bivouacked on the field and proceeded the next morning to Williamston, where we arrived about noon. We started from there, after a short rest, in pursuit of the enemy, bivouacking about 5 miles from that l)lace. On the following day we reached and occupied the fortifications at Rainbow Banks, 3 miles below Hamilton, and then pushed on to Ham- ilton. Here we expected to find some iron-clad boats said to be in process of construction at Hamilton, but (liscovered nothing of the kind. On the 6th left Hamilton in pursuit of the enemy toward Tarborough, and encamped on the same night within 10 miles of that place. It was my intention to pursue the enemy to Tarborough, but the exhausted condition of my men, most of whom had been sick during the last two months and had not yet recovered their strength, and the provisions being emitirely exhausted so that I had to subsist time command by for- aging, as well as the fact that the enemy were being largely re-enforced by railroad, changed my plans, and on the following morning (the 7th instant) I countermarched the column, reaching hamilton the same ni gli t, where we remained until the next morning, when we marched for Williamston in the midst of a severe snow-storm. At Wilhiamston we remained a day in order to give the men an opportunity to rest. At daylight the next day (10th instant) we started for Plymouth, where we arrived that night. The following day the troops were all re-enibarked for New Berne. During the engagement at Rawles Mill and at Hamilton we captured 5 prisoners, who were paroled at Wihliamston. The loss on our side con- sisted of 6 killed and 8 wounded. The expedition was instrumental in saving the town and forces at Plymouth from destruction and capture, as I found upon my arrival at the place that the enemys forces while lying in the vicinity, beside Page 22 [CHAP. XXX. 22 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. being engaged in foraging, had reconstructed a bridge over the creek, 3 miles outside the town, for the transportation of their artillery to the opposite bank. I also learned from information gathered on the spot that an immediate attack was to have been made on the place, but upon hearing of my advance from Washington and seeing the danger of their capture they beat a precipitate and hasty retreat. The navy, under command of Commander H. K. Davenport, senior officer, cooperated heartily with me during the whole time by sending five gunboats to Hamilton, and there placing four boat howitzers with their crews at my disposal. I desire to mention particularly the efficient conduct of Colonel Ste- venson, commanding the Second Brigade, and Colonel Potter, of the First North Carolina Union Folunteers. I recommend that Colonel Stevenson, for his efficient services on this march and in the affair of Little Creek and ~ Mill, as well as pre- vious services at the battles of iRoanoke and New Berne, be promoted to the rank of brigadier-general, to date from Nox~em her 3, 1862. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, Major- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Genera~.in-Chief, U. S. Army, Washington, D. 0. No. 2. Report of Gol. Thomas G. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts in- fantry, commanding brigade, of skirmishes at Little Creek and Rawles Mill. UDQES. SECOND BRIGADE, DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, November 15, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the following as the result of the skirmishes in which my brigade was engaged on Sunday night, No- vember 2, 1862: At about dusk, as the advance guard, composed of the Marine Artil- lery, a company of the Tenth Connecticut, and a portion of cavalry, were crossing Little Creek, on the road from Washington to Williamston, they were su(ldenly fired upon by the enemy from the opposite side of the creek, concealed in the woods on the right of the road. The cav- alry and infantry retired, the Marine Artillery opening fire. Two com- panies of the Forty-fourth were then ordered to deploy on the other side of the creek. In crossing, the enemy opened a brisk fire on them which was immediately returned with good effect, but their ammunition get- ting wet they were ordered to retire, which was done in good order, with a loss of 1 killed and 6 wounded. In the mean time Captain Bel - gers battery had taken position in a corn field on the left of the road an(l opened fire, the enemy returning with musketry and artillery, which the well-directed fire of Captain Belgers battery soon silenced. Two companies of the Forty-fourth Massachusetts were then ordered to the front, but the enemy again opened fire, killing 1 and wounding 1. I then ordered them to fall back. Captain Belger opened fire once more on the enemy and in a short time caused them to retreat Page 23 CHAP. XXX.J EXPEDITION FROM NEW BERNE, N. 0. 23 The bolumu then moved forward slowly, the road being blocked up by trees cut by the retreating enemy to retard our advance which for two hours was very slow. A breastwork was found on our left which had the appearance of having been hastily deserted. The advance, ct)mI)osed of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, soon came upon a bridge burning over the creek by liawles Mill. The Twenty-fourth, whilst ex- tin guishing the flames, were fired upon by the enemy, with both mus- ketry and artillery, in position on theopposite side of thecreek parallel with the main road, the Twenty-fourth losing 1 killed and 2 wounded. Captain Belger soon got his battery in position, when he opened fire and completely routed the enemy. Too much praise cannot be awarded Captain Belger and his command for the masterly manner in which his gnus were maneuvered, and for the coolness and discipline displayed by all. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, THOS. G. STEVENSON, Golonel, Commanding Second Brigade. Maj. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 3. Report of Capt. Job Arnold, Pifth Rhode Island Infantry, of skirmishes at Little Creek and Ii~awle~s Mill, N. C. IIDQRS. FIFTH REGT. RHODE ISLAND VOLUNTEERS, Camp Anthony, New Berne, N. 6g., Fovember 13, 1862. SIR: I beg leave to submit to you the following report of the part taken by the Fifth Rhode Island in skirmishes of Sunday, November 2, 1862: At the commencement of the action we received orders to support Belgers Rhode Island battery. We formed in line to the right and rear of the battery, in the corn field to the right of the road. When the battery moved to take its position we filed down the road and formed a line about 20 paces in the rear of the battery in the field to the left of the road, our right resting toward the road, and there re- mained till ordered to follow the battery across the ford. We had nearly reached the road when we were ordered to remain to support a section of Belgers battery, left in its former position. We then formed in linein rear of a rail fence to the left and rear of the pieces, our left resting on the woods. As soon as the battery was ordered forward we joined the main column, and, crossing the ford, pro- ceeded with it up the road to the rifle-pits this side of Rawles Mill, and remained within supporting distance of the battery while it was engaged in shelling the enemy. At about 1 oclock we entered the rifle-pits and there remained until daylight. At one time the regiment was under quite heavy fire, and it gives me much pleasure to state that both offi- cers and men, without exception, behaved with the most perfect coolness. JOB ARNOLD, Col. THOMAS G. STEVENSON, Captain, Commanding. (iomdg. Second Brig., First Div., Dept. of North Carolina Page 24 NORTh CAROLINA AND ~. E. VJPOINIA. NOVEMBER 11, 1862.Demonstration on New Berne, N. C. I~EPORTS. No. l.CGl. Thomas J. C. Amory, Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry, commanding Brigade. No. 2.Capt. J. Waldo Denny, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 3.Lient. James M. Drennan, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 4.Lient. Henry M. Ricliter, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 5.Capt. John F. ~loschel1, Third New York Cavalry. No. 1. Report of Gol. Thomas J. C. Amory, ~Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry, eommandsng Brigade. IIEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIG-ADE, FIRST DIVISION, New Berne, N. 0., November 12, 1862. MAJOR: I have the honor to state, for the information of the general commanding, that on yesterday evening a report reached me that a force of the enemy, composed of infantry, artillery, and cavalry, estimated as being a brigade of at least four or five regiments, had made its appear- ance in front of our pickets on the Trent road, about Jackson~s house, and was gradually advancing as our pickets retired in this direction, their supposed intention being an attack on New Berne during the tem- porary absence of a portion of our forces. I had return4l from Plymouth with a portion of my brigade only a few hours previous, and Colonel Kurtz, Twenty-third Massachusetts, supposing himself still in command o~ the post, failed to communicate immediately to me the information he had received of the enemy~s advance, but meanwhile, as he afterward reported to me, took the precaution to warn the gunboats and troops here to be in readiness. Major Garrard, Third New York Cavalry, with the two mountaiu howitzers, had also been sent out on the INeuse road. Toward 9 oclock p. m. Colonel Kurtz, by my order, reported to me, and at the same time Lieutenant-Colonel Mix, commanding Third New York Cavalry, gave me an account of the disposition already made of our forces, and confirmed the information I had previously receive(l as to the force of the enemy. At this time the only regiments which had returned from Plymouth were the Seventeenth, Twenty-fourth, part of the Twenty-third, and about 150 men of the Forty-fourth Massachusetts. None of the artil- lery had yet arrived. To make the best possible disposition according to my judgment of the small force then at my disposal, I withdrew all the pickets on the Trent road, picketing the line of the edge of woods in front of Fort Tot- ten, extending the line from the Trent to the Nense River, keeping mounted patrols on the Neuse road as far as the cross-road to railroad, withdrawing the remainder of cavalry with mounted howitzers. I was unaware at this time that the railroad monitor was with the two com- panies of infantry at the bridge, 9 miles from town. As soon as possi- ble I seut orders for this force to fall back, but in the mean time the enemy had got between them and New Berne, haviug cut them off by the cross-road from Trent road past the red house. At about 2 oclock a. m. these companies were attacked, 1 man killed and 2 wounded of the Twenty fourth Massachusetts, and the enemy dispersed bya shell thrown from the monitor Page 25 CHAP. XXXJ DEMONSTRATION ON NEW BERNE, N. 0. 25 II recalled the company of the Seventeenth Massachusetts, stationed at Evans Mill, 8 miles from here. They arrived this morning at the camp of the Seventeenth Massachusetts and have since then returned. I dispatched a locomotive and train at 1.30 a. m. for Captain Lees bat- tery (Rocket Battalion) and all the available force, consisting of four companies infantry and about 30 cavalry at Newport Barracks. They arrived at 8 oclock this morning. The infantry and cavahy returned by the morning train; the battery remains waiting further orders. The Ninth New Jersey, Fifth Rhode Island, and Belgers battery having arrived during the night with the gunboat Hunchback, I posted these troops at various points as reserves to the line of pickets with or- ders to the infantry in case of an attack to occupy the rifle-pits extend- ing across the peninsula. At daylight this morning I ordered out forces on the different roads to reconnoiter the pQsition of the enemy, still supposing him to be in force somewhere in our front. The whole cavalry force under Lieuten- ant-Colonel Mix was ordered to scout the Neuse road as far as Batchel- ders Creek. The Twenty-third Massachusetts, under command of Major Chambers, advanced along the railroad as far as the bridge, and leaving one com- pany to re-enforce those in charge of the monitor, returned this evening without having seen the enemy. From all the information I have been able to obtain I am inclined to believe that the force of the enemy which came down upon our pickets was much smaller than at first supposed, perhaps not over 300 men, infantry and cavalry. Whether or not a larger force remained in their rear I have not been able to learn with certainty. Our regular pickets have since been re-established, those on the Trent road, consisting of four companies Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, extend- ing out as far as Jacksons. The enemy burned the negro houses oppo- site Jacksons house. I think if one or two light howitzers could be posted with the reserves of this force it would be well. I would also beg leave to call the attention of the general command- ing to the fact that none of the block-houses are yet armed with guns. The earthwork at the head of county bridge, on Trent River, was manned partly by a platoon of the Seventeenth Massachusetts. A permanent guard well drilled at the heavy guns would be an ad- vantage. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, - THOS. J. C. AMOBY, First Division, New Berne, N. C. Maj. SOUTRARD HOFFMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Division, New Borne, Y C. No. 2. Report of Capt. J. Waldo Denny, Twenty-fifth Massachnsetts Infantry. HEADQUARTERS CAMP HARKNESs, November 14, 1862. Sii~: On the morning of Tuesday, the 11th instant, by your permi~- sion I ordered a party of 50 men, under command of Lient. J. IVI. Dren- nan, of Company F, of my command, to Proceed by an indicated ronte to the red house, and thence to the Treat -oad, at a point near th Page 26 26 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. lOHAL~. XXX. Grapevine House, so called, near the Deep Gully, and from that point to return to this camp. The report of that scout by Lieutenant IDrenuan is inclosed herein and made a part of this report; also report of Licut. H. M. Richter, officer of the day, who rendered efficient service with a small force of pickets in defending our lines from the attack of the enemy. Upon learning of the attack upon our lines at about 4 oclock p. m. I mi mediately caused my command at this campCompanies F, (}, and K, of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Regimentto fall in, and followed your command of cavalry to the scene of action, dispatching orders to Company H, encamped 1 mile below this camp, to follow with all haste. Upon reaching the corner of the road going to the rear of Frenchs house I met a private of your command riding his horse back from the engagement npon a run. He cried Qut to me to halt, as the enemy were (~~Ifl1flo down fast and in force. Supposing the order came from you I halted my command and proceeded on the road alone, being mounted, until I reached Lieutenant Tew with a reserve infantry force, being those who in part composed the scouting party. This officer stated that his men were exhausted, and that my companies could be of serv- ice. I immediately ordered my command foi~ward and approached the Rocky Run under a fire of shell from the enemy, and turned to the right from the Trent road to the rear of the position held by you with your command. I reported to you at this point, and immediately after ordered Captain Wageley, of Company G, to take up position on the left of the Trent road so as to cover the bridge by his fire. After remaining in our position for fifteen minutes, upon information that the enemy were attempting to flank us on our right, I withdrew my command to the road in rear of Frenchs house, holding position in the narrow belt of timber upon that road and. the right of Trent road, when we were joined by your command, taking position on the road in our real. I sent a messenger to Captain Wageley informing him of our change of position and ordering him to join us in case of any strong attack upon him from the front or any appearance of an attack upon oni flanks. At this point Lieutenant Foster, in command of Company H, Twenty- fifth Massachusetts Regiment, reported to inc with his command. Hold- ing this position for some time we finally retired from it, with your ap. l)roval, to gain a stronger position near the wood west of Mr. Eubanks house. This was a strong position, where I flanked two companies upon each side of the road, guarding the position so we could not be lianked on either side without our knowledge. Very soon, however, Major Garrard, of your regiment, who had arrived and assumed corn- niand, ordered me to retire with my command to our camp, where he ordered inc to place two companies iii the clearing at Mr. Whitfords house, on the other side of I3lakelys Branch, to support a howitzer lilaced in the road at that point. TIe also ordered me to place two com- l)anies in the yard of the flarrisoim house, both of which orders were executed. In about thirty minutes Major (larraid informed me he had orders from Colonel Kurtz, in command at New Berne, to retire to that city, and ordered me to retire with my command, taking such valuables as we could carry. We withdrew in order and marched as far as the belt of woods on the Trent road, next to Fort Totten, where I was or- dered to deploy my detachment, which I did. In a short time I received orders from Major Garrard to withdraw to the city with my command, which I did, taking quarters for the night at Camp Oliver. The next morning, upon orders from Colonel Amory, commanding brigade, I returned to this camp, finding the tents numolested Page 27 CHAP. XXX.] DEMONSTRATION ON NEW BERNE, N~. C. 27 Only two of my command were slightly wounded, one in the face and another in the left hand. I desire to call attention particularly to the coolness arid bravery of Lieutenant Drennan and the men under his command, who twice (hove back aii overpowering force of the enemy and held them in check fbr nearly or quite an hour and a half. I think the advance of the enemy woul(1 have been disastrous to us had it not been for the brave conduct of Lieutenant Drennan. All the officers and men of my command behaved themselves gallantly under fire. Respectfully, yours, J. W. DENNY, Captain, 25th 1Iia~sachusetts, Commanding Detachment. Captain 1W OSOHELL, Third New York Cavalry, Commanding Post. [Indorsement.] Received November 15, 1862, 10 a. in., and approved. Forwarded to Colonel Amory, Seventeenth Massachusetts. JNO. F. MOSOHELL, Captain, Commanding Outpost. No. 3. Report of Lieut. James M. Drennan, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. CAMP HARKNEsS, November , 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that on Tnesday morning I caused to be detailed by your orders from the three companies in this camp a force of 50 men, 3 corporals, and 3 sergeants, with Lieutenant Tew, and started on a foraging expedition, traveling as near as possible the route indicated by you. We met with little success until we arrived near the red house, where we came onto cattle and swine. We soon shot (lowli and dressed what we wanted and started for camp, taking the road nearest to l)eep Gully. Being in the enemys lines we advanced with caution. Soon, or about 3 oclock p. in., my advance guard reported a force of cavalry, which I discovered as the enemys. I deployed part of my command as skirmishers in the woods, on both sides of the road, with the remainder under Lieutenant Tew as a reserve, and advanced immediately on the place we last saw them. I gave orders not to fire unless fired on. As we came out on the Trent road the enemy were leaving the house at the grapevine, near the gully, and made all speed for the latter place. I did not deem it prudent to follow them, for many reasons, but started for camp, throwing out an advance and rear guard. After stopping about fifteen or twenty minutes to rest about 1 mile this side, we resumed our march for camp, and had barely time to get- inside our vedettes when they attacked in force, driving in the outpost. I immediately ordered onr wagons to camp, and with 6 men went to the front to give them check. My men labored under the disadvantage of having the bright sun in their eyes and on their pieces, but we drove them from the open field into the woods. They rallied. I sent for the remainder of the first platoon and deployed them as skirmishers. Page 28 28 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. brisk fire was kept up for some time l)y 1)0th Iarties until the enemy gave way and ran for the woods again. We followed them, driving them back in the woods out of sight (but not out of hearing, as much abusive language passed back and forth). We occupied the ground held by them for about ten minutes. I judged their game was to draw us on. I had previously heard the rumbling of artillery back of them, and I fell back on the rise of ground to my first position in close order. They charged down the road to the position they had occupied and I had just left, and deployed again, I doing the same behind the fence in my position. In this relative position the firing was brisk on both sides. The enemy opened with two pieces of artillery and a heavy line of skirmishers, throwing out a force on both my flanks. I remained as long as I deemed it prudent, then fell back in good order on the Jackson house, and finally crossed the creek and took up a position just this side removing the planks from the bridge, & c. I remained in this last position until Captain Moschells cavalry com- pany came up and Lieutenant Richter, with the reserve pickets; also your own command. My force kept the enemy in check about one hour and a half in the fight and I think three hours from the time we first saw them. The men of my command behaved splendidly under fire and deserved much credit. You knowing so well the lay of the land I have not appended a dia- gram. Respectfully submitted. J. M. DRENNAN, Lieut. Oomdg. Oo. F, Twenty-fifth Regiment Mass. Vols. Capt. J. W. DENNY, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. Ko. 4. Report of Lieut. Henry ]Jf. Richter, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. CAMP NEAR HARRISONS HOUSE, November 12, 1862. SIR: Yesterday afternoon at about 3 oclock I heard firing in front of the outpost while I was visiting the pickets. I supposed the firing came from the foraging p~mrty which had left camp in the morning at 8 oclock, under command of Lieutenant Drennarm, so I rode slowly back, waiting for an increase or continuation of the firing. About a mile this side of Jacksons house I heard heavy musketry, and was informed by a messenger that the outpost was attacked by infantry, cavalry, and artillery, while Lieutenant Drennan held the Jackson house with his fatigue party. I at once dispatched all my pickets double-quick to the bridge about 50 paces this side of Jacksons house, where I relieved Lieutenant Drennan, who took the reserve, deploying my men 16 strong as skirmishers and holding bridge and creek. The enemy in front of me was infantry, covered by an elevation of the ground, so that I had no object to fire on. The fire of the enemy had no effect whatever, as my men laid low and were covered by trees. We only fired a few shots at the enemy when he showed himself, with what effect I cannot say Page 29 CRAP. XXX.] DEMONSTRATION ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 29 Lieutei*int Ebbs, of the Third New York Cavalry, informed me that the rebels were trying to flank me by the way of Taylors house in strong force. I kept the creek about ten minutes longer, and as II could not see any re- enforcernents on our side (the cavalry having taken another position not known by me) I went slowly in retreat across the field toward the roads, the enemy charging in line of battle at my former position, their shots having no effect on my men. At the same time the right of the enemy charged the bridge with cavalry, and placIng a howitzer on a bluff on the right of the road they sent a few shells over us without doing any damage. At Frenchs gate I formed my squad in line on one side of the road to give you a chance to pass down with your fresh command, which was approaching me. As my men were tired out by running up to the place of action I took position in your rear, throwing out pickets to the right of the road toward Frenchs house, which road leads to Taylors, Lieu- tenant Drennan doing the same on the left of the road leading to the mill near Jaeksomis house. There I rej)orted to you when the battaliou fell back, and dismissed my pickets to their respective companies. I am, sir, your obedient servant HENRY M. RICHTER, First Licut. Twenty-fifth Regt. ]Jfass. Vols., Officer of the Day. Capt. J. W. DENNY, Commanding Battalion. No. 5. Reports of Capt. John F. ]lfosehell, Third New York Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS OUTPOST ON TRENT ROAD, Harrisons House, November 13, 1862. On the 11th instant I authorized Lieutenant Drennan and Lieutenant Tew, of Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, to go out near the red house to get some fresh meat, they having failed to supply us any from the sub. sistence department at New Berne. On the way back they caine across a force of rebels, with three cannon, some cavalry, and infantry. They kept them at bay from 2.30 p. m. until 3.30, and fell back to my cavalry ve(lettes; they fired at them, and, the infantry assisting them, kept them back until word was sent to me at this place. I immediately went to their assistance with the balance of my force. I also sent word down to the commanding officer at New Berne, Colonel Kurtz; he sent Major Garrard out with three more companies of cavalry and the two mount- am howitzers belonging to the regiment, when I was relieved from corn- iiiammd by him. He ordered my forces to fall back to camp and after- ward to New Berne, leaving all the Government and private property belonging to the command. Fortunately the rebels did not come down any further than the Jackson house. As far as 1 could ascertain the enemys force consisted of two com- panies of artillery, four of cavalry, and three or four regiments of in- fantry. It is reported they are out about 8 miles from New Berne, on time Trent road, now. - Respectfully reported. I have the honor to be, yours, & c., JNO. F. MOSCHELL, tJaptain, Third New York Cavalry, Comdg. Outpost. Major-General FOSTER Page 30 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. ViRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. HEADQUARTERS OUTPOST AT HARIUSONs hOUSE. On Trent Road, N. (I., Nov~~~~ber 13, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to make the Ibhiowing report for the in- formation of the commanding general: On Tuesday, the 11th instant, I gave Captain Denny permission to send Lieutenants Drennan and Tew, with 50 men, out beyond the lines toward the red house to get some fresh meat (the~subsistence depart- ment having failed to supply them any for some time) for his detach- ment. On their way back they came across a force of the enemy which they drove back toward the Deep Gnlly about 3 oclock p. m. Lieutenant Brennan then came on toward camp, and when he arrived at our outpost, or vedettes, they were followed by the enemys cavalry and some artillery, which they posted near, and fired a couple of shot with a 6-pounder. Lieutenant Brennan made a stand, together with our cavalry, and fired several rounds, but finally falling back to the Jackson Creek Bridge. One of the cavalry vedettes (Henry Rancier) was wounded in the calf of his leg (flesh wound). Information being sent me that we were attacked on the outpost by cavalry, artillery, and infantry, I immediately proceeded with my corn- puny, and, ordering Captain Denny with his infantry detachment to lollow, I arrived at the creek bridge just as Lientenamit Drennan had crossed, and a shot from the cannon striking near did not deem it prw- dent to take my whole force across. Lieutenant Ebbs and a couple of my company went across to see what position they were in. I had four men tear up the planks of the bridge to make it impassable for the artillery to cross. 1 formed my men on the right of the road and sent Lieutenant Ebbs with two or three men behind Mr. Frenchs house to the road leading to the red house, and a couple to the road leading toward Taylors to prevent a flank movement. I also ordered Lieutenant Drennan to fall back a little, for his men and himself were completely jaded out. When Lieutenant IRicliter caine imp with a squad I ordered him to deploy on my right as skirmishers. Then I withdrew a little more on accoumut of the enemy coining up in full force with infantry and forming in front of us, and their cavalry on their left, with a piece of artillery. A piece of artillery at the Jackson house was worked with shell, which exploded over the left flank of my company. At this time (it getting quite dark) I ordered Captain Wageley and his company (G) on the left of the road to watch the bridge and to l)revent their crossing at the mill, ann. ordnred Captain Denny with the balance of the infantry to fall back to the junction of the road leuding from Trent road to the red house this side Mr. Frenchs house and afterward fall back with my com- pany to the house known as Ben. Ansleys, this side Fremuchs, but leav- ing mime mounted vedettes at three points (three in each place). At this place Sergeant Middaugh, in charge of Major 0-arrards advance guard, came up. I ordered Captain Denny and the infantry to fall back and form on the right and left of the road at the 5-mile post, and ordered Lien- tenant Ebbs to form my company in rear of them behind a skirt of pine timber. At this time Lieutenant Chamberlain came up and (lehivered a message from Major Garrard for me to have the imifantry fall back to camp, and after the infantry fell back to camp to have my company fall back and cover their retreat. I posted at six different places with three mounted vedettes in a place, and after visiting them went back and re- ported to Major Garrard Page 31 CHAP. XXX.] OPERATIONS ABOUT SUFFOLdK, VA. 1~1ajor Garrard immediately ordered inc to call iii all my vedette~, which I immediately did. One of the vedettes lost his revolving rifle in falling back; the strap broke and in the dark could not find it. The men behaved well in every instance. Lieutenant Ebbs saw three regimental colors and three cannons drawn by mules, and four guidons. I have the honor, colonel, to be, very respectfully, yours, & c., JNO. F. MOSOHELL, Captain, Third New York Cavalry, Commanding Outpost. Col. JOHN Mit, Commanding Third New York Cavalry. NOVEMBER 1214, 1862.Operations about Suffolk, Va., including skir- mishes (12th) at Providence Church and (14th) at Blackwater Bridge and Zuni, Va. Report of Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. ~. Army, commanding at Sufflilk. SUFFOLK, November 14, 1862. About 11 oclock p. m. on the 12th Colonel Claiborne, with 300 men, attacked our picket of New York Mounted iLtifles at Providence Church,. and was repulsed, retiring to the Blackwater. Last evening the same picket was fired upon again. Colonel Dodge was sent out to recon- noiter, and reached Windsor about midnight. At dawn he moved for Blackwater Bridge; had a brisk skirmish; drove their guard over; crossed a few men; captured three tents complete, canteens, camp ket- ties, two muskets, and all the camp equipage of the guard of 30 men. Strong breastworks were discovered a short distance back from the ford. He then moved up to Joyner~5 Ford, which was barricaded- Next to Zuni, where a strong guard offered much resistance. After bringing up his howitzers they fell back. They have strong rifle-pits there, from which they kept up a sharp fire upon our dismounted skir- mishers. All their cooking utensils, seven rifi& ~s, cartridge-boxes, a sword, and many other things, with two of the guard, fell into our hands. The loss of the enemy was much greater than ours, which is 5 wounded. These affairs are very handsome, and follow close upon the two late ones near Zuni and Franklin. I trust these operations will meet your approval. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General Dix, Commanding Department of Virginia Page 32 82 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. B. YIRG1NIA. [Qua. XIS. NOVNNDfl 16, 186t-ZSklruudsh at (Ilousester Point, Vs. REPORTS. No LBrIg. (3m. Hairy IL Naglee, U. S. Army, commaiding at Yorktown. No 3.Col. Wifliam W. K Davis, One hundred and fourth Penaylvanla Infantry. Ilol. Report of Brig. (Is. Hers K. NqIee~ U.S. Army, cernsaesdiag at York. Ma H.uADQunTns, Yorktown, V., Xoveusber 16, 1862. Cowan: I would respectfully report that at S o~clock this morning a dash was made upon the picket line at Gloucester Point, and 1 man of the One hundred and fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers was killed, 3 were wounded, and 3 made prisoners. The picket was an advanced one of 12 persons, made by Colonel Davis, beyond supporting distance from the main picket line, within the last four days, and wuthoutmy knowledge; and that, although ad- vised at lip, in., Ave hours in advance, that the enemy were lurking upon the road, no proper order was given tq support the advance picket or to withdraw it. This attack was made after Captain Hall had pm. over the same road at midnight, as reported to you by this mail, and nothing was seen or known by either of the movements of the other. Very mPectthillI~ ~ HENRY ILNtGLEE, Bripdwr.Ge~s.r4 Ccl. D. T. Va Buns leaf etust A*.MutdeusertJ, Ibreree. Kesroej flu. No.2. Report of GeL William V. B. lkw*, One hundred awl fourth .Pennayl. ,an~ Iwf.ntry. HzADQuaTns, (Iloueeeter Foist, Va., November 16,1862. OApnnr: I have the honor to report that last night about 11 oclock I receivedinformation througha contraband that a force of rebelcavalry, said to be 600 stron;, was on the road to Gloucester, 2 miles in front of my picket lines. I immediately sent two companies to strengthen the pickets, and wrote a note to Major Hail, who with his force was still within the lines, giving the information to him. He had left, however, before my messenger reached his camp, and ditinot get the information which might have proved valuable to him. Things remainedquietuntil about 4 oclock this morning, when a picket stationed on the Gloucesterroad discovered a party of cavalry approach- ing them. When challenged they answered first, Federals, and then One hundred and sevbnth Pennsylvania bavalry, and immediately poured two volleys into the pickets drawn up in the road. Our loss is 1 killed, 3 wounded, adS missing. Itis M ~po~vhether any loss was Page 33 CHAP. XXX.] 33 SKIRMISH AT FRANKLIN, VA. sustained by the enemy, but a colored man who was near by thinks some of them were hurt. The man who was killed was first made prisoner, but was shot because he refused to mount behind a cavalryman. His body was left lying in the road, but was recovered and brought into camp this morning. A. negro came to the lines this morning and states that the enemy was about 75 strong, and was concealed near the Hook store waiting for our cavalry to pass out. A corporal who lately deserted from the One hun. dredth New York Ilegiment was with the party of the enemy and direct. ing their movements. The point where the attack was made is about a third of a mile outside the picket lines, and the men, 1.2 in number, were thrown out as an advance post. I am informed that when the enemy left the ground they announced that they intended to return to King and Queen County. If I learn anything additional I will immediately communicate it to you. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. W. H. DAVIS, Colonel One hundred and fourth Pennsylvania Vols., Gomdg. Capt. GEORGE H. JOHNSTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. NOVEMBER 17, 1862.Affair near Carrsville, Va. Report of ]1li~. Gen. John J. Peck, U. AS~. Army. SUFFOLK, November 17, 1862. GENERAL: At noon Major Wetherill with 150 men caine upon 400 cavalry half-way between Hollands Corners and Carrsville. lie re- l)Orte(l fighting and retiring slowly. From not hearing from him I in- Pr that he is all right. My expedition left at 1 oclock to:day and I hope for results. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General DIX. NOVEMBER 18, 1862.Skirmish at Franklin, Va. h~eports of ~kj~ Con. John J. Peek, U. ~. Army, commanding at iS~afflilk. SUFFOLK, November 18, 18621 p. iii. General Wessells rel)orts that the enemy has beeii re.enforced at Franklin in infantry and artillery, and that he is strong there. The fords have been blocked, the al)prOaches closed, and the crossing is bad. A smart skirmish at the river, with only a horse wounded. It; Ioiks like rain. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. General DIX, Fort Monroe. R HVOL XVII Page 34 34 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. SUFFOLK, VA., November 18, 1862. GENERAL: I advised YOU this afternoon of the reports from Wessells. The boats broke last night en route, and they were not able to make the bridge support the artillery. During the morning the enemy were in order of battle back from where he proposed to cross. He has shelled their camps. About noon he moved down in front of Franklin and was shelling the place. They are superior in numbers, and he thinks have from eight to twelve pieces. Only one wounded. Have advised him to move in near the Deserted House and come in to-morrow. A larger infantry force is needed for this position to enable us to cross that river in the presence of the force there, arid the supports that may be sent by two railways. They could easily have re-enforced from Weldon during the day or from Wakefield or Ivor. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General DIX, Fort Monroe. NOVEMBER 22, 1862.Reconnaissance from Williamsburg, Va. Report of Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Virginia. FORT MONROE, VA., November 23, 1862. A reconnaissance was made from Williamsburg yesterday toward the Chickahominy. Killed 2 and captured 6 of the enemy and took 11 horses. No loss on our side. JOHN A. DiX, Major- General. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief. NOVEMBER 25, 1862.Capture of the United States steamer Ellis, New River, N. C. Report of Brig. Gen. W~ II. (1. Whiting, C. S. Army, commanding Defenses of Cape Fear River.* HEADQUARTERS, Wilmington, N. C., November 28, 1862. GENERAL: I have the pleasure of reporting that Captain Newkirk, of the cavalry, and Captain Ndams, with a section of a field battery, have destroyed a steam gunboat of the enemy on New River. Her crexv escaped. Her armament, ammunition, small-arms, and many ar- tides of value will be saved. The enemy attempted to fire her, but being of iron but little damabe was done. Great credit is due to Cap- tains Newkirk and Adams and their officers and men. Very respectfully, W. II. C. WHITING Brigadier- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. GUSTAVUS W. SMITH, Commanding, & c., Richmond, Va. * For reports of Commander H. K. Davenport and Lieiit. WiHiani 13. Cushing, U. ~, Navy, See Aunual Repon of the Secretary of the Navy, December 1, 156? Page 35 SKIRMISH ON THE BLACKWATER. CHAr. XXX.] 35 DECEMBER 2, 1862.Skirmish on the Blackwater, near Franklin, Va. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of Virginia. No. 2.Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gem John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Virginia. FORT MONROE, VA., December 2, 1862. An expedition sent out from Suffolk yesterday by Major-General Peck captured to-day the celebrated Petersburg Rocket Battery, which was taken from our army, and drove the enemy across the Blackwater at Franklin. We have thirty odd prisoners, and are picking up more in the woods. Many of the enemy killed and wounded; our loss trifling. I will furnish details by mail. JOHN A. DIX, Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLEcK, Major-General. General-in- Chief. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS, Fort ]J/Jionroe, Va., December 4, 1862. GENERAL: I sent you a message the day before yesterday, by tele- graph, in regard to an action near the Blackwater between a party of the enemy and a portion of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, sent out from Suffolk by Major-General Peck the previous day. Colonel Spear, of that regiment, who commanded the expedition, returned last night, bringing back his entire force, consisting, in addition to a part of his own regiment, of portions of the Thirty-ninth Illinois, Colonel Os- born; Sixty-second Ohio, Colonel Pond; One hundred and thirtieth iNew York, Colonel Gibbs; Sixth Massachusetts, Colonel Follansbee; One hundred and third Pennsylvania, Lieutenant-Colonel Maxwell; two sections of Davis Massachusetts Light Battery and one section of How- ~irds battery, Fourth U. S. Artillery; in all, about 3,100 men. The cx- l)edition was sent out in pursuance of the object, heretofore explained to you, of keeping a part of my force in constant motion, and also to as- certain the truth of informatIon reported to Major-General Peck in regard to the movement of the enemy in the vicinity of Franklin. While Colonel Spears force was breakfasting his pickets were driven in, and a charge was made by about 500 of the enemys cavalry, with a section of a rocket battery. It was gallantly met by Colonel Spear, at the head of 300 of his regiment, and the enemy, thrown into confusion by his impetuous attack, recoiled, and was driven over his floating bridge at Franklin, which is protected by a battery of heavy guns. Ten or 12 of the enemy were killed and 20 were taken prisoners. We also captured 14 houses, a quantity of harness, 7 saddles, 42 rifles, 70 rockets of 12 and 15 pounds, and other minor articles. We sustained no loss either in men or horses. General Peck speaks in high terms of the gallantry of Colonel Spear, who has distinguished himself on more than one occasion by his prompt aJid spirited movements; and the colonel mentions with comnziendatioi Page 36 36 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. CHAP. XXX. Major Stratton and Lieutenants Buttz and Roper, of his regiment. The enemy retreated so suddenly that our artillery and infantry were not brought into action. The enemys floating bridge swings from one bank of the Blackwater, which is very narrow, to the other, and is withdrawn from our side as soon as his forces cross. Ccl. J. ii. Griffin and Major Boggs cominamled the insurgents. Gen- eral H. A. Pryor has just taken command at Franklin. With the means of crossing, the enemys positiomi at Franklin might easily have been attacked, and in all probability carried. I am, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, JOHN A. DiX, Major- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. No. 2. Reports of M~j. Ger& . John J. Peck, U. S. Army. SUFFOLK, December 2, 1862. Our expedition, of which I advised you yesterday, has been a great success. Spies were sent in and a trap was sprung, but the rebels were caught. They attacked the advance this morning beyond Carrsville. We repulsed them, capturing the famous Petersburg Rocket Battery, and drove the whole force over the river. We are now shelling Frank- lin, having no means of crossing. General Roger A. Pryor in command at Franklin; Col. Joel R. Griffin commanding the cavalry and Major Boggs the artillery; thirty odd prisoners now, more being found in thc woods; many of the enemy killed and wouuded. Our loss trifling. Colonel Spear led his cavalry most gallantly upon the enemys ad- vance. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General DIX, Fort Monroe. SUFFOLK, December 2, 1862. In view of operations elsewhere, and. of the fact that Spear has no means of crossing except with much loss and some risk of failure, 11 have directed him to hold on and shell the place, coming in to-night. TIme victory is now complete, but a repulse in crossing would take oft the edge. The rebels have been tearing up the rails, so that we are not able to-day to use more than 8 or 10 miles. Parties are out at work. Will we get any pontoons ~ JOHN J. PECK, Ai~jor- General. Major- General DIX, Fort Monroe. SUFFOLK, VA., December 3, 1862. On the morning of the 1st, contrabands reported that the rebels were throwing up works near the railway, 4: miles this side of Franhlin, Page 37 L1IIAP. k~l IRMISffi~ MI? AND AI3O1IJT ZtYNI, VA. or(lered Colonel Spear to proceed there (hirnig the night with portions of the rfhjltynifltll Illinois, Colonel Osborn; Sixt~y~secoi~d Ohio, Colonel Pond; One hundred and thirtieth New York, Colonel Gibbs; Sixth Massachusetts, Colonel Follanshee; One hundred an(l third Pennsyl- vania, Lie ut en ant-Colonel Maxwell; two sections of Davis, one of Howards artillery, and a portion of his cavalryin all 3,100 for infor- mation, and to drive off any force that he found there. No works were found, but while breakfasting his pickets were driven iii and a furious charge was made by some 500 cavalry, with a section of a rocket battery. Colonel Spear took 300 of his cavalry and gallantly led them upon the head of the column, which recoiled under this impetuous attack. Confusion ensued; many jumped off and fled into tne woods, while others put about for Franklin. The cannoneers and horses being disabled, the gallant Pennsylvanians made quick work with the battery, and chased the Georgian sqnadrons to their floating bridge nuder the guns of Franklin. I3esides driving the enemy over the river and capturing his section, 10 or 12 were killed and 20 made prisoners. Fourteen horses, harness, 7 saddles, 42 rifles, 70 rockets of 12 and 15 pound, and other minor articles fell into our hands. No portion of the artillery or infantry was called npon, and I am happy to say that no loss of mcii or horses was sustained. Col. J. ZR. Griffin and Major Boggs commanded. General ZR. A. Pryor had just assumed command and was making his reconnaissance toward Suffolk. This brilliant affair entitles Colonel Spear to great credit and adds to his already high reputation. He mentions fhvorably Major Stratton and Lieutenants T3uttz and Roper. Very respectfully, JOhN J. PECK, Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, ]tft~or-General. Commanding Department of Virginia, & c. DECEMBER 812, 1862.Reconnaissances from Suffolk to the Blackwater and skirmishes at and about Zuni, Va. T~EPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of virginia. No. 2.Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army, commanding at Snffolk, Va. No. 3.Capt. J. II. Sikes, Company D, Seventh Confcdcratc States Cavalry. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen~ John A. Dix, U. S. Army, eommandinq the Depart ment of Virginia. FORT MONROE, VA., Deccoiber 5, 1862. The troops in this department will be ready to move at short notice. Ranks expedition, which caine here wanting large amounts of quarter- master, coin missary, and ordnance stores, has drawn us very low, but fresh supplies have been ordered. In furtherance of Fosters move Page 38 38 NORTH OAROILINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CuAr. XXX. inent a cavalry force from Suffolk was thrown down upon the Chowan, near the mouth of the Blackwater, to-day. At midnight to-night South Quay camp will be shelled. On Thursday a dash will be made on Ivor, near Zuni. All this with a view to keep the enemy busy and to draw off his attention, and, if possible, his troops from Weldon, & c. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. Major-General HALLEOK, General-in- Chief. FORT MONROE, VA., December 12, 1862. Some of our cavalry got across the Blackwater; captured a captain, a sergeant, and 11 privates and killed a considerable number of the en- emy. Our loss, 1 killed and 11 wounded. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS, Port llilionroe, Va., December 13, 1862. GENERAL: The demonstrations were made as promised. On Mon- day we had a considerable force near the mouth of the Blackwater, or its junction with Chowan. On Tuesday we shelled South Quay. On Thursday we were to have been at Zuni, but from the badness of the roads General Ferry did not get there till yesterday morning (Friday). There was sharp fighting during the day, but we did not succeed in crossing, except with a small part of our cavalry. We killed a considerable number of the enemy, captured a captain, a sergeant, and 11 men, and drew a large force therepart, as we sup- pose, from Weldon. We had 1 man killed and 11 wounded. I heard from General Peck last night, and he supposed the object of the demonstration accomplished. There was an article in the Northern papers, which went to Richmond, of course, stating that General Emory had sailed from this post to re-enforce you, and I fear this false report - has induced the enemy to strengthen himself in your front. Hoping to hear favorable news from you, I am, respectfully and truly, general, yours, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER, Commanding Department of North Carolina. No. 2. Reports of Maj. Gen. John J. Peek, U. S. Army, commanding at Sm~olk, Va. SUFFOLK, VA., December 8, 1862. Besides giving Foster Wessells old brigade I proposed making a se- ries of demonstrations toward Blackwater for his benefit, if practicable Page 39 CHAP.XXX.] SKIRMISHES AT AND ABOUT ZUNI, VA. 39 Accordingly Colonel Dodge will be on the Chowan at iYoou this day, at Nannys Ferry, and give the impression that he is lookin~ for a cross- ing. Only 14 miles from railway but 20 from Suffolk. Abont midnight South Quay camp will be shelled. Thnrsday night dash at Ivor or Franklin. Had Wessells old troops remained, proposed making clean thing of Franklin; but J am weaker than before. These new men do not know their facings, and their hearts are not in warfare, judging from their desertions. Can you loan me two old regiments for four or five days, to arrive light on Wednesday ~ We must not fail if we attempt on Franklin. Nottoway Bridge being done brings Weldon within two honrs time. JOHN J. PECK, ill ajor- General. 1~1aj. Gen. JOHN A. IDix, Fort Monroe. SUFFOLK, December 8, 1862. I alluded to the arrival of two regiments at Franklin this morning. This is confirmed; also that a third one was sent down on Friday to Wakefield and marched across to Franklin. I have a man who left Petersburg on Friday. He says all the approaches are being fortified; that infantry and artillery were sent to Wakefield; that Jacksons in- fantry was falling back to mchinond. He was told that a brigade of Stuarts cavalry was coming to the Blackwater; that the troops of General French had been ordered this w~. He heard that 5,000 had gone from here to Carolina. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. General Dix. SUFFOLK, December 9, 1862. We shelled the rebel camps about midnight at South Quay. Has been very cold; ice thick enough to bear a horse. JOHN J. PECK, Major-General Dix. j General. SUFFOLK, December 9, 1862. We threw seventy odd shells into the South Quay camps with effect. Found the Chowan strongly picketed and watche(l. A brigade and 500 cavalry on the Lower Blackwater, below Franklin. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General Dix. SUFFOLK, VA., December 12, 1862. Ferrys command was all night on the route, in consequence of the numerous detentions, and had no sleep. The demonstrations since Non- (lay having been very successful in drawing the very marked attention of the enemy, I have directed the return to-morrow of the commands. One captain, 1 sergeant, and 11 privates were captured on the othe Page 40 40 NORTh CAROLINA ANb ~3. 1~. VIRGINIA. [cHAP. xxx. bauk iu the rifle-pits. Some of our horse got over. The river was high, not fordable, and filled with obstructions, so that they could not bridge it under fire. Our loss, 1 killed and 11 wounded. Enemys loss considerable. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General Dix. SUFFOLK, VA., December 12, 1862. General Ferrys demonstration is having the effect of drawing troops in that quarter, so that on the whole line we shall greatly benefit Gen- eral Foster. TIe reports the river all blocked with trees and other ob- structions; long lines of rifle-pits heavily lined with sharpshooters. Brigade of cavalry has arrived at Ivor. This last was reported to me by a man I have, and is confirmed. Has not crossed. Sharp firing now. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General Dix. SUFFOLK, VA., December 12, 1862. Franklin has been heavily re-enforced. Pryor was at Carrsville on Tuesday, and remained with 5,000 infantry, with his advance near Hol- lands Corners. Spear is at- Carrsville watching the flank of Ferry. This corroborates my information sent you from deserters and contra- bands. Firing in direction of Zuni. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Major-General Dix. [Addenda.] Memorandum of understanding between Gaptain Flusser and General Fos ter, December 6, 1862. 1st. Captain Flusser to furnish pilots for the Chowan River to the army transports. 2d. On the 11th to be in the Upper Chowan with one or two gunboats; more gunboats if he can furnish them. These are to be re-enforced by two or more army gunboats, to be under Captain Flussers command. 3d. To communicate with Major-General Peck, commanding at Suffolk, by means of parties sent from Winfield. The letter to be so writteu that if it falls into the hands of the enemy he will think that the at- tack is to be made on the Blackwater in earnest instead of being a demonstration. The word co-operate will express this idea to Gen- eral Peqk in speaking of your assistance. This letter must be sent at once. The general iml)ression to be given to those who may coinmuni- cate to the enenry is that a - serious attack is to be made on the Black- water. 4th. The coal-schooner to be brought up by Captain Graves is to be sent back to Hoanoke Island as soon as the immediate wants of the gunboats are satisfied Page 41 cHAP. XX2C.1 SRIRMJSHES AT AND ABOUT ZIJNI, VA. 41 5th. The demonstration on the I3lackwater is to continue for one week from the 11th, unless Captain Flusser hears from General Foster to the contrary, and even then the strong show of force is to continue for a few days longer, and even until General Foster sends to inform him that the main attack is completed. The force then is to make some hostile demonstration on the 11th, to keep it up until the 19th, and then to maintain a hostile attitude until he hears from General. Foster. 6th. General Foster will write to General Peck through the canal, but this is not to prevent Captain Flusser sending a letter Mso. The rough draught of a suitable letter is inclosed. C. W. FLUSSER, Lieutenant- Commander. J. G. FOSTER, ilfajor- General, Commanding. Memorandum of understanding between Major- General Peek and General Foster, December 2, 1862. 1. Wessells brigade to be at the landing on the Chowan, near Gates- ville, some time during the day or night of the 6th (weather permitting), the transports being there to receive them. JOhN J. PECK, Major- General. C) It is probable that a movement will commence as follows, viz: ~. Get down at night to mouth of North River, Albernarle Sound. 4. Start themthe transportsto the Chowan. 5. Arrive at mouth of river (Chowan). 6. Come up river. 7. Embark. 8. Start for W. 9. Arrive at W. 10. Prepare for march. 11. Start out 8 miles. 12. March to K. 13. Attack K. 14. March toward G. 15. Make preliminary attack. 1(5. Forcible attack. 17.) 18. ~ Pretty sure of being before G. 19.) J. G. FOSTER, Major- General, Commanding. SUFFOLK, VA., December 12, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. G. Fo~TE1~: Yours of the 11th just received.* My troops left yesterday, an(l are fighting now. Captain Flusser has misunderstood the tenor of my message. My intention was to release him from co-operation on F. [Franklin], as Not found Page 42 42 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINiA. [cHAP. XXX. that was not the point I had decided to strike. Lest the courier should be captured I could not specify the place on the Blackwater. A copy of my communication of this date is inclosed, which will more frilly inform you. In haste, JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. SUFFOLK, December 12, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER, Commanding Department of North Carolina: The brigade of Wessells was ahead of time and reached you in good order and will do good service. My pontoons did not arrive. I found the enemy re-enforcing F. after we took the Rocket Battery from him, and I resolved to strike else- where, and communicated to Captain Flusser my intentions. Accordingly, on Monday, I sent parties to the Chowan to look for crossings, & c.; on Tuesday morning shelled South Quay, & c. These operations, as intended, brought additional force to F. and the lower river line. At noon yesterday all my available force left for the demonstrations on the river. The command should have been across Blackwater at daylight, but has been, delayed by the terrible condition of the roads, five hours having been required to move 4 miles. At this hour (11 a. in.) firing is heard from the vicinity of Zuni, where the Petersburg Railroad crosses the Blackwater. Unless we draw very heavily from Weldon and Petersburg by rail some results should attend in addition to aiding your operations, the success of which I have much at heart. Your favors of the 5th and 8th arrived at noon yesterday. In haste, very truly, JOHN J. PECK, iMiajor- General. P. S.Three thousand were reported in F. on the 2d, and now 12,000 at F. and vicinity. Heavy additions have been made all along the river up to Zuni. SUFFOLK, VA., December 12, 1862. Major-General FOSTER, New Berne, N. C.: Have sent communications to you via Norfolk and Winfleld, giving you some details of my series of demonstrations. When we parted the enemy had in Franklin about 3,000, and perhaps as many more in the vicinity, and I was inclined to strike there. Finding the river wide and deep below and no pontoons to be obtained, and re-enforcements arriv- ing there, I was compelled to change my point of attack, and accord- ingly released Captain Flusser from his co-operation. Fearing capture of the messengers, I did not tell the captain where I should make the demonstrations. On Monday I sent cavalry and artillery to the Chowan, at Mannys Ferry, with a view to draw the enemys attention in that quarter, which was entirely successful. About 1 a. m. ou Tuesday the camp in the vicinity of South Quay was shelled Page 43 CHAP. XXX.) SRIRMISHES AT AND AflOUT ZUNI, VA. Yesterday I sent a large force, cavalry and artillery, in the vicinity of Carrsville and Franklin, and from Colonel Spear, commanding, I learn that some 12,000 men are in that immediate locality. His force is still in that quarter. Besides the movement toward Franklin I sent yesterday noon every available man to demonstrate near the crossing of the Petersburg Rail- way and the Blackwater River. The command is still in that direction and has occupied the attention of the enemy very much, who have been re-enforcing by railway, & c., all day. Truly, yours, JOHN J. PECK, ]Jfajor- General. No. 3. Ji~eport of Capt. J. H. Sikes, ?Jompany D, Seventh Confederate States Cavalry. Sin: According to your order I have the honor to transmit to you a repQrt of the engagement my command had with the enemy at Joyners Ford, Blackwater River. Virginia, on December 12: I was ordered by Uol [W. C.] Claiborne to leave Ivor on the 10th and repair to Joyners (distant 6 miles) with my company and take com- mand at that place. About 1 oclock on the morning of the 12th I re- ceived information that the enemy were moving in the direction of the ford in considerable force and to prepare for an early attack. My camp was about 1 mile west of the ford. I ordered my men into line. After inspection I marched to Joyners house, 200 yards west of the ford. I there halted, dispatched to the gnard (who were in the rifle-pit) the in- formation I had received and that I had arrived at the house. After light sufficient had appeared we discovered the enemy had taken posi. tion in~ our front, and for 200 yards above and below the ford, behind trees, stuml)s, and logs, of which there are an abundance, it being a cypress swamp. Their artillery were in position on an eminence in a field some 400 yards from the river. I divided my company, taking 15 men with me in the rifle-pit (which was rudely and hastily constructed) and ordered Lieut. [P. A. S.] Morris [Company ID], with 12 or 15 men, to deploy down the river below the ford to watch the enemy and report to me if they attempted to cross. I found 9 picket guard in the rifle. pit (Capt. [F. B.] Burke, of the same regiment). Immediately on my entering the rifle-pit the enemy opened upon us a heavy fire of small- arms. We replied with equally as good will, and, am proud to say, with a great deal better effect. After receiving their fire for some time and discovering snperior numbers, I dispatched to Colonel Claiborne my condition. After an almost incessant fire for more than an hour from their infantry, and failing to dislodge us, they ceased firing for a short time for the purpose, as the New York Heralds correspondent states, of a novel cavalry charge. He states General Peck ordered two com- l)anies of infantry to be mounted behind two of cavalry, charge across the river, dismount the infantry, drive us from our position or force us to surrender. They formed in a field to our left and came down the public road (which runs at right angles with the river until within 200 yards of the ford, when it turns to the left and runs nearly parallel with the stream) in columns of fours in beautiful and almost perfect order. When they arrived opposite the rifle-pits and were in the act of forming platoons (as they could have crossed in columns of platoons Page 44 44 NORTh CAROLINA ANP S. II ViIWiNiA. the ford being sufficiently wide) we opened a volley 111)011 them which had the effect Qf emptying a number of saddles and throwing the whole into disorder. While attempting to refizrm we tlre(l so rapidly UJ)O1l them that without orders, so far as we could hear (and we were suffi- ciently near to hear every order distinctly, the river not being over 30 yards wide), they right-about and made the quickest possible time to get into the thick woods. After the retreat of the cavalry the enemy, who were posted behind trees and stumps, poured a perfect volley of oaths and imprecations upon ns, expressive alike of their cowardice and degradation. They soon renewed the attack with both infantry and artillery, and proving unsuc- cessftil from their position, they moved two howitzers down the road within 100 yards of the rifle-pit and opened with shell and canister, which they kept playing, I suppose, for more than an hour, during which time we took chances and fired occasionally. About this time, fearing they would make another charge under the protection of their artillery, I dispatched 3 men to camps to secure our horses, as I was determined to hold the pass to the last extremity. I dispatched 2 also up the river to watch their movements. They soon returned with the infor- mation that the enemy were crossing above the ford. I immediately moyed up the iiver with all my force except 3 men, whom I left in the rifle-pit with orders to fire as rapidly as possible. My object was to prevent their crossing until re-enforcements could arrive, which I was momentarily expecting. The stream divides just above the ford and forms a small island. They had only crossed one branch and had halted on tile island and discovering our movements returned in their boats. While I was preparing to meet them above they had effected a cross- ing below the ford by means of pontoon boats at a deep bend of the river under the cover of dense thicket. As soon as I discovered they had landed we started in double-quick for Joyners house, as that was our only chance to make a stand, they having lauded ten to our one. They discovered our design and rushed to cut us off, and succeeded in doing so. Our only chance for defense then was a rail fence diagonally to our right. The labor and exposure we had been subject to for eight or ten hours had very much exhausted us. We were nearly surrounded before arriving at the fence. The enemy halted and fired (one company). Tile result was one of my men was instantly killed. I receiyed a severe wound in the muscles of the right shoulder. I also received a wound in tile hand while in the rifle-pit, which caused considerable loss of blood. I fell on receiving the wound in the shoulder and my men halted around me, and in a few moments we were surrounded by three companies of the Thirteenth Indiana Regiment. We were immediately taken over the river and hurried in the direction of Suffolk. Soon after we had crossed the river our artillery came up and opened upon the enemy, which had the effect to hasten their move toward Suffolk. Our loss was as follows: KilledPrivate Thomas Barker; danger- ously wounded Corpl. W. II .Green; taken prisonersPrivates William II. Dean, G. XV. Gafford, Thomas J. Hasty, Chandler Smith, M. B. Smith, Jackson C. Spinks, George W. Baily, A. M. Brady, Jeff. Whitehead, and W. B. Whitehead. Lieutenant Morris men were so posted down the river as only to bring 3 of his men in the action. My whole force in the rifiepit did not at any time exceed 24, making a total of only 27 actually engaged with the enemy. Before our cap- ture my forces were greatly reduced by sending couriers and men to secure horses, & c Page 45 CHAP. XXX.] ATTACK ON PLYMOUTH, N. C. 45 I feel it but just to state here that more resolute and (letermined bravery could not have been shown than that which was exhibited by our little band in defending the ford for more than four hours against an enemy of an overwhelming force. Their forces cannot be accurately stated, but from their own l)UblishCd accounts they had at and near the ford eight regiments of infantry, two regiments of cavalry, and one bat- tery of artillery. They report men killed and wonuded out of five dif- ferent regiments. The enemys loss has been varionsly estimated by citizens living on their side of the river. Some say they lost over 100 in killed and wounded. We may safely say from what we saw and heard while we were prisoners that their loss was all of 50 men killed and wounded. The object of the enemy was very apparent from the fact they had a large train of wagons, fifteen or twenty pontoon-boats (a portion of which they burned on their retreat), quite a number of ambulances, and every- thing necessary for the advance of a well-appointed army. Before closing this report I feel it dne the officers in whose hands we fell to mention that we received every kindness we could expect. We lacked nothing for our comfort they could reasonably supply. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. II. SIKES, Captain Company D, Seventh C. S. Cavalry. Maj. Gen. S. G. FRENCH, Commanding Department. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS, Petersburg, Va., March 14, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. This is a record of a very successful skirmish on the 13la~k~vater, in which Captain Sikes and his men greatly distin- guished themselves. S. U. FRENCH, - Major- General, Commanaing. DECEMBER 10, 1862.Attack on Plymouth, N. C. T~~POT~TS. * No. 1.Capt. Barnabas Ewer, jr., Third Massachu~ctts Infantry. No. 2.First Lient. Jonathan T. Mizell, Company C, First North Carolina Jni~ntry (Union). No. 3.Maj. Gen. Samuel U. French, C. S. Army. No. 1. Reports of Capt. Barnabas Jiiwer, Jr., Third Massach~sctts lifantry. PLYMOUTH, N. C., December 10, 1862. Sin: At 4.30 oclock this morning our pickets wei~e driven in by a force (as near as we can estimate) of four companies of infantry and one of cavalry and four pieces of artillery. They came in immediately, driv- ing all before them. Our forces (some 200 men), after making all the For reports of Lieut. Commander Flnsser and Acting Yolnnteer Lieutenant Behm, U. S. Navy, see Annnal Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 7, 1863 Page 46 [CHAP. XXX. 46 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. resistance possible, took refuge in the custom-house. The artillery was planted so as to fire upon us there, by which means considerable damage was done. The town was fired in many places, and this morning is pretty much destroyed, including the building used for headquarters and all things therein. At the third discharge of the enemys artillery the gunboat Southfield received a shot through the boiler, which disabled her, but her captain kept up as brisk firing as his crippled condition woftld allow. The gun- boat Commodore Perry hearing the firing came to our assistance, but was too late, as the enemy had left. At roll-call this morning some 30 men were missing; several are wounded, one dangerously. I am in hopes some of the missing will come in, but some are no doubt prisoners. A number of the enemy are known to have been shot, as they were seen to fall, but were carried away by their comrades. - Farther particulars will be forwarded as soon as we can obtain theih. Respectfully, your obedient servant, B. EWER, JR Gaptain, CommandingPost. General FOSTER. HEADQUARTERS, Plymouth, N. C., December 11, 18627 p. m. SIR: I send this in addition to my first (yesterdays) report of the attack upon this place. The attack was made by cavalry, infantry, and artillery, their combined force being greatly superior to our own. By their artillery they were enabled to cripple the only gunboat (Southfield) then near the town, and to inflict considerable injury upon the custom- house, where the greater part of our forces had taken refuge. After the Southfield had drifted a short distance down the river she was met by the Commodore Perry, who towed her up, and the two boats now lie opposite the town. The rebels had already left after having been here over an hour. The town is more than half burned. All the principal buildings on the street where the hotel was situated are gone. Everything in head- quarters was burned, including the record of those who had taken the oath of allegiance, and some muster and pay rolls which were to be for- warded to other garrisons iu this part of the State. Company I lost 15 missing, 1 of whom is doubtless killed, and 2 wounded, 1 dangerously. All this day they have been stationed just outside the town, their pickets being within a mile of the river. We have not sufficient force to warrant an attack upon them, being simply able to perform guard and picket duty, and even this comes so often that it is seriously affect- ing the health of the men, and in my judgment the necessity of sending more men to assist in that duty is quit~ apparent, and if we are ex- pected to do anything more than simply to stand watch over the site of the town a much larger force seems indispensable. The citizens are pretty generally fleeing, and not much besides negroes will soon be left. The gunboats are ready, however, and by their assistance we will try to give the rebels a reception worthy of the cause, should they again become the attacking party. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, B. EWER, JR., (aptain, 6Yornrnandin~y Post. General FOSTEU Page 47 CHAP. XXX.~ ATTACK ON PLYMOUTH, N. C. 47 [Indorsenient.] Write to Captain Flusser, asking for a statement of the way the troops behaved, & cA~ J. G. F. HEADQUARTERS, Plymouth, N. C., December 30, 1862. SIR: I have to report that on the morning of December 10, a little before 5 oclock, our pickets were driven in by a force consisting (as near as we can learn from apparently reliable sources) of at least 600 men, composed of infantry, cavalry, and artillery. After making all possible resistance our forces, of not more than 150 men in line, mostly infantry, retreated to the custom-house. This movement was made in accordance with the plan of defense which has always contemplated the firing by the gunboats upon the town if attacked by a large force. The artillery was planted so as to fire upon the gunboat. Only one boat (Southileld, Captain Behm) was here (although there are generally two and frequently more), and she arrived the day before. The captain was not acquainted with the avenues of approach to the town. The third shot from the artillery passed through the boiler of the boat, letting the steam out and crippling her. She slowly drifted down the stream, firing as she went. The enemy proceeded to set fire to the town, and after an hour thns sl)ent, during which our men annoyed them as they could, they hur- riedly withdrew. Three of Company I were wounded (one of whom has since died) and 13 are missing, one of whom is supposed to be dead and the others l)risoners. I herewith transmit Lieutenant Fogertys report of his loss. I also send estimates of the loss sustained by each company.t Several of the enemy were seen to fall, and loud calls were made for their ambulances. Several deserters have since arrived, who report that seven companies of the Seventeenth North Carolina Regiment corn- l)osed the infantry. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. EWER, JR., Colonel RICHMOND. Captain, Gommandin~q Post. [Inelosure.] PLYMOUTH, December 30, 1862. DEAR SIR: In obedience to your order I send y~n the correct list of the men wounded and taken prisoners in my company at the attack on Plymouth the night of the 10th. We had 1 man wounded, 3 taken pris- oners, and none killed. This is a correct statement of the attack. Your obedient servant, THOMAS J. FOGERTY, First Lieutenant, 6~omdg. First North Carolina Cavalry. Captain EWER. See Addenda, p. 48. tNet fonini Page 48 [CHAr. XXX. 48 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [Addenda.] UNITED STATES STEAMER COMMODORE PERRY, Plymouth, N. C., Decernbei 80, 1862. Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER, Corndg. Dept. of North Carolina, New Berne, N. C.: DEAR GENERAL: Admiral Lee wishes nie to remove the ~-uns from Cobbs Point and further demolish the battery, if you have no objection. Concerning the behavior of the troops here the other day, Ii hear that Sergeant Clift and some of the North Carolinians behaved ~vell. I found some of the Massachusetts men and some of the North Carolinians at the custom-house when I arrived. Captain Ewer was on board the Soutlifield, 1~ miles down the miver. I asked where his mcii were, and he said he did not know, but hoped imiost of them were in the swamp. The fact is, so soon as the Southfield fell back (which she ought maybe not to have done) Ewer got fright- ened, left his men, and went on board. The whole affair was disgrace- ful, and the more so, as it has since been ascertained that the attacking party, those who entered the town, did not exceed 200 men. I shall write you again to-morrow. Kind regards to your staff. Sincerely, yonrs, C. ~. FLUSSER, Lieutenant- Commander. No. 2. Report of First Licut. Jonathan T. Mizell, Company C, First North Car olina Infantry (Union). PLYMOUTH, N. C., December 16, 1862. SIn: 1 resume my seat for the purpose of informing you of the attack the rebels made upon our little village, and I should judge from all the information I can gather and from what I saw they numbered some 450 strong300 infantry, 3 pieces of artillery, and 70 cavalry. About 4.30 oclock they drove our pickets in with a volley from their infantry, and in fifteen minutes our company was in line, an(l as the odds were too great for our little force I deemed it most prudent to fall back in the rear of the custom-house, and before we could all get in the build- ing they had planted their pieces of artillery on the wharf and had Iired some three rounds at the Southileld, and the third fire disabled her boiler. After they found she was disabled and dropped down the river they moved their field pieces on the corner opposite headquarters, but not without loss of some men. They commenced to shell the ens- tom-house, and as they passed down the street in small groups our mcii would let the lead fly at them to the best advantage, and 1 do assure you our little North Carolina volunteers behaved most nobly. q7hey were calm and collected, much more so than I expected. Sergeant Clift was informed that the rebels lost 15 killed and 3(V wounded, sonic mortally amid some slightly, and the information, he got yesterday cor- roborates the other statements we received. I heard they had tour wagon loads of killed and wounded. Our men never receive(l a scratch. The North Carolina cavalry lost 3 men l)risoners and 1 wounded. Coin- pany I, of Massachusetts, lost 14 prisoners, 1 wounded, and 1 missing. One man on the Sonthfield lost a leg. We sustained considerable loss from lire. The best and most of the principal part of the town ar Page 49 CIL& r. XXX.] RECONNAISSANCE I~ROM YORKTOWN, ETC. 49 burned up. The families of our m~n were left without a change of clothing, and they are in a distressed condition. Besides, we have lost all of our books, pay and muster rolls, a.nd a quantity of clothing be- longing to the men; some ammunition. They captured nothing from the Government, but pillaged private dwellings, & c. I believe I have given all of the particulars that I can think of at present. 1 must speak of something else in your last communication. You wrote to send the names of the twelve men that are to be transferred to the cavalry company, and inclosed you will find them on a piece of paper, and when you write to me I would be glad if you will send me the orig- inal muster-roll, so we can get the time of enlistment of them, as all of ours were destroyed by fire in Sergeant Clifts house, with all of his property. Also please send me a morning-report book; monthly and weekly reports also. I should be glad to have a descriptive and com- pany clothing book; and by complying you will greatly oblige. Yours, respectfully, & c., J. T. MIZELL, First Lient., Oomdg. Gon~pany C, First N. C. Infantry. Col. E. E POTTER. P. S.IDEAR SIR: We have not yet received our equipments that were left at Roanoke Island, and as soon as I can make it convenient I shall dispatch Sergeant Clift for them. Please answer soon. No. 3. Report of Maj. Gen. Samuet G. French, C. S. Army. PETERSBURG, VA., December 12, 1862. Plymouth, N. C., was attacked by our forces under Lient. Col. [John C.] Lamb, of the Seventeenth North Carolina Regiment, and captured on the 10th instant at 5 a. m. The enemys loss severe; 25 prisoners and 75 negroes taken. Town reduced to ashes. We had 1 captain and 6 men wounded; none killed. The gunboat protecting the town was driven away disabled. S. G. FRENCH, General S. COOPER. Major-General. DECEMBER 1115, 1862.Reconnaissance from Yorktown to Gloucester, Matthews, King and Queen, and Middlesex Counties Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Henry M. Naglee, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE Yorktown, Va., December 16, 1862. COLONEL: I would respectfully report that, being in command dur- ing the absence of General Keyes and believing a little active employ- ment would be of service to the men, on the 11th instant, at 6.30 a. in., I ordered the Fifty-second Pennsylvania, Colonel Dodge; Eleventh Maine, Colonel Plaisted; the One hundredth New York, Colonel J~andy; the Fifty-sixth New York, Major Wheeler; Battery H, First New York, 4R RVOLXYII Page 50 [CHAP. XXX. 50 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. Lieutenant Mink, and two squadrons of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Major McCandless, to proceed to Gloucester Court-House, where I fol- lowed and arrived at 6 p. m. The Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry were thrown out at 1 a. in. of the 12th to the Noi~th End Mill, on the Piankatank River road, preparatory to the landing a few hours later of Captain Hall, with 90 of the Sixth New York Cavalry, below Matthews Court-House, where he had been conveyed and landed in an admirable manner by Capt. Foxhall Parker, under the protection of the crew and gnus of the Mahaska, assisted by one company of the Independent Battalion of New York, Colonel Coin fort. The 6nly opposition here made was by some 40 rangers, who immedi- ately fell back, and continued to do so as Captain Hall approached, re- peatedly dispersing into the woods and swamps whenever he charged upon them and as often reassembling. After the cavalry arrived and reported to me, on the afternoon of the 12th instant, the Fifth was ordered to Woods Cross-Roads and found the picket of the J~ing and Queen Cavalry advanced to that place. The main road to Scuffietown was, on the morning of the 13th, thoroughly examined beyond that place,, and after finding no enemy in force in that direction, with 40 of the Sixth New York and the cavalry of Major Mc- Candless I pushed the reconnaissance in the direction of Buena Vista, the headquarters of the King and Queen Cavalry. At 2 miles from that place the Fifth Pennsylvania were held in reserve, and Captain Hall, with 30 men, was sent to feel the position of the King and Queen Cav- alry. He soon came in contact with their pickets, but they gave way; he got within 300 yards of their main force, but they would not stand. After repeated attempts he got within 150 yards and dismounted; fired a volley, which wounding several, they again retreated. Hall mounted and pnrsned and ran them through their encampment and 2 miles be- yond it to Centreville. I then directed the barracks, stables, and all of their commissary stores to be burned and some arms found on the premises to be brought away. It being now late in the afternoon, the One hundredth New York, Colonel Dandy, was ordered forward to Woods Cross-Roads and the cavalry to bivouac for the night at that place. On the following day, at 6 a. in., Major MeCandless cavalry and those of Captain Hall were sent into Middlesex County, some 6 miles beyond the Dragon Ordinary, to destroy a large tannery, which was manufact- uring a large quantity of leather for the use of the rebel army, the ma- chinery, buildings, and 2,000 taniied hides being destroyed. Several wagon loads of finished leather were brought away, with the proprietors of the establishment, whom, I would reconnuend, should take the oath not to aid the rebel army in future. On the night of the 14th the One hundredth New York, followed by the SIxth New York Cavalry, retired from Woods Cross-Ro~1ds, by the way of Belle Roy, while the rest of the command marched (llrectly to Gloucester Point, followed by Major McCandless, and by 4 p. ni. of the 15th instant, with the exception of the cavalry, all had returiie(l to their eimcampments at Yorktown, without the loss of a man or an animal. We found irregular cavalry (rangers) formed in Matthews, Gloucester, King and Queen, and Middlesex. The most of them were not in uni- form, and were engaged in catching runaway negroes and in forward- ing supplies to Richmond. As soon as they were attacked they scat- tered~ and it was impossible to pursue them. The only means I could advise to meet the difficulty was to take horses and arms from the cit Page 51 CUAI. XXX.] RECONNAISSANCE FROM YORKTOWN, ETC. 51 zeus, which, from the effect immediately apparent, I believe the most effectual. I found several large herds of hogs and sheep on the road to the commissariat at Richmond, and I did not hesitate to turn their direc- tion toward our lines. With almost equal want of hesitation I j.irected my quartermaster to take horses, cattle, sheep, and cows from those who had an abundance, and report to me an accurate account of every. thing taken, and from whom taken, that a proper record be kept to meet any demands hereafter. Among some 15 or 20 prisoners taken, one-half of them were of the army. I found Captain Seawell, a prominent citizen of the counties named that dragged Virginia into secession, and who I found engaged iu forming new companies of rangers. JtakegreatpleasureinreferringtotheconductofCaptainHall,who charged and ran five times his number of the King and Queen Cavalry through their encampment. His command marched over 90 miles, and performed their duties to my entire satisfaction. Major McCandless deserves special notice, but I regret that I cannot include his command, some of whom procured whisky by threatening the families of private residences. To Colonel Plaisted and his regiment I return unqualified thanks for the unexceptionable manner they performed every duty. The military conduct of the rest of the command was good, but much censure is due to the officers and their men for petty thieving practiced upon the people of the country. The conduct of the Fifty-sixth New York was disgraceful in this respect, and I have arrested the command- ing officer and shall prefer charges against him. In conclusion I would report that the four days reconnaissance to Matthews, Gloucester, King and Queen, and Middlesex was entirely successful, and that the objects for which it was made have been fully accomplished. Very respectfully, & c., HENRY N. NAG-LEE, Brigadier-General. Licut. Col. D. T. VAN BUREN, As8istant Adjutant- General, Department of Virginia Page 52 52 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. DECEMBER 1120,1862.Expedition froni New Berne to Go1dsboroug1~, N. C. SUMMAR~Y OF TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. Dec. 1112, 1862.Skirmishes on the Kinston Road. 1215, 1862.Naval operations on the Neuse River. 1314, 1862.Skirmishes at Southwest Creek. 14, 1862.Engagement at Kinston. 15, 1862.Affair at White Hall Bridge. 16, 1862.Engagement at White Hall. Affairs at Mount Olive Station and Goshen Swamp. 17, 1862.Raid on Dudley Station. Engagement at Goldsborough Bridge. Skirmish at Thompsons Bridge. REPORTS.* No. 1.Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of North Carolina. No. 2.Return of Casualties in the Union forces. No. 3.Capt. David A. Taylor, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief Signal Officer. No. 4.Col. James H. Ledlie, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief of Artillery, commanding Artillery Brigade, of operations December 1117. No. 5.Capt. Edwin S. Jenney, Battery F, Third New York Light Artillery, of en- gagements at Kinston and White Hall, December 14 and 16. No. 6.Maj.Chas. Fitz Simmons, ThirdNewYork Cavalry, of operationsDec. iSand 17. No. 7.Maj. Jcptha Garrard, Third New York Cavalry, of operations Dec. 1517. No. 8.Capt. John F. Moschell, Third New York Cavalry, of operations Dec. 1116. No. 9.Capt. Newton Hall, Third New York Cavalry, of operations December 1216. No. 10.Capt. Ferris Jacobs, jr., Third New York Cavalry, of operations Dec. 1314. No. 11.Capt. George W. Cole, Third New York Cavalry, of operations Dec. 1216. No. 12.Col. Thomas J. C. Amory, Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry, commanding First Brigade, First Division, of engagements at Kinston, White Hall, and Goldsborough Bridge, December 14, 16, and 17. No. 13.Licut. Col. John F. Fellows, Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry, of engage. ments at Kinston, White Hall, and Goldsborough Bridge, Dec. 14, 16, and 17. No. 14.Maj. John G. Chambers, Twenty.third Massachusetts Infantry, of operations December 1116. No. 15.Col. Charles L. Holbrook, Forty-third Massachusetts Infantry. No. 16.Col. Charles IR. Codman, Forty~fifth Massachusetts Infantry, of engagements at Kinston and White Hall, December 14 and 16. No. 17.Col. Augustus B. R. Sprague, Fifty-first Massachusetts Infantry. No. 18.Col. Thomas G. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry, coin- manding Second Brigale, of engagements at Kinston, White Hall, and Goldsborough Bridge, December 14, 16, and 17. No. 19.Licut. Col. Robert Leggett, Tenth Connecticut Infantry, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. No. 20.Col. Horace C. Lee, Twcnty-seventh Massach~lsetts Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. No. 21.Maj. Josiah Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 22.Lient. Col. William S. Shurtleff, Forty-sixth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 23.Col. Charles A. Hcckman, Ninth New Jersey Infantry, First Brigade, Second Division. * For report of Commander A. Murray, U. S.. Navy, see Annual Repoxt~ oX tb~ ~ecre- t~ry of the Navy, ]~ecexnber 7~ 1863 Page 53 No. 24.Maj. Abram Zabriskie, Ninth New Jersey Infantry. No. 25.Brig. Gen. HenryW. Wessells, U. S. Army, commanding Third Brigade, Pecks Division, of operations December 521. No. 26.Lieut. Col. Abijali J. Weilman, Eighty-fifth New York Infantry, of engage- ment at Kinston, December 14. No. 27.Col. Lewis C. Hunt, Ninety-second New York Infantry, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. No. 28.Capt. George W. Hinds, Ninety-sixth New York Infantry, of~engagement at Kinston, December 14. No. 29.Col. Joshua B. Howell, Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations December 1317. No. 30.Maj. Alexander W. Taylor. One hundred and first Pennsylvania Infantry, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. No. 31.Lient. Col. Wilson C. Maxwell, One hundred and third Pennsylvania In- fantry, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. No. 32.Lient. Col. Horace A. Manchester, First New York Marine Artillery, of naval operations on the Nense River, December 1215. No. 33.Maj. Gen. GustavnsW. Smith, C. S. Army, commanding Department of North Carolina and Southern Virginia, of operations December 1318. No. 34.Lient. Col. Walter H. Stevens, C. S. Engineers, of operations December 1617. No. 35.Brig. Gen. Nathan G. Evans, C. S. Army, commanding Brigade, of operations December 1317. No. 36.Col. Peter Mallett, North Carolina Battalion, of engagement at Kinston, De- cember 14. No. 37.Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Clingman, C. S. Army, commanding Brigade, of en- gagement at Goldsborough Bridge, December 17. No. 38.Lieut. Col. Stephen D. Pool, C. S. Artillery, of engagement at Goldsborongh Bridge, December 17. No. 39.Brig. Gen. Beverly H. Ro& ertson, C. S. Army, commanding Brigade, of en- gagement at White Hall, December 16. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gem. John U. Foster, U. AS. Army, commanding the De partment of North Carolina. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Kinston, December 14, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that I left New Berne for this place on the 11th, but that owing to the bad roads and consequent delays to train, & c., I did not reach Southwest Creek (5 miles from this town) till the afternoon of the 13th. The enemy were posted there, but by a heavy artillery fire in front and vigorous infantry attack on either flank I succeeded in forcing a passage and without much, loss. This morning I advanced on this town and found the enemy strongly posted at a defile through a marsh bordering a creek. The positioii was so well chosen that very little of our artillery could be bronolit in play. The main attack therefore was made by the infantry, assisted by a few guns pushed forward on the roads. We succeeded, after five hours hard fight, in driving the enemy from their position. We fol- lowed them rapidly to the river; the bridge over the Neuse at this point was prepared for firing and was fired in six places, but we were so close behind thenii that we saved the bridge. The enemy retreated precipi- tately by the Goldsborough and roads. Their force was about 6,000 men, with twenty pieces of artillery. The result is we have taken Kinston, captured eleven pieces of artillery, taken 400 or 500 prisoners Page 54 54 NOUTII CAROLINA ANII~ S E. VIRGINIA. [ChAr. XXX. and found a large amount of quartermaster~s and commissary stores. Our loss will not l)robably exceed 200 killed and wounded. I march to-morrow at daylight on Goldsborougb. From that point I return to New Berne, whence I will make a more detailed report. I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER. Major-General HALLECK. hEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., December 20, 1862. GENERAL: iReferring to mine of the 14th instant, from Kinston, I have the honor to inform you that I sncceeded in reaching Goldsborongh and in burning the railroad bridge of the Weldon and Wilmington Railroad at that point. The bridge at Mount Olive I also destroyed, and about 4 miles of track. I encountered and defeated the enemy at Kinston, White Hall, Thompsons Bridge, and Goldsborough. My loss in killed, wounded, and missing will not exceed 400.* The enemys loss I have not ascertained. I have taken nine pieces of artil- lery, about 500 prisoners, and destroyed some quartermasters and com- missary stores. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., December 27, 1862. GENERAL: Referring to my letters of December 10, 14, and 20, I have the honor to report that I left this town a~ 8 a. m. of the 11th with the following forces: General Wessells brigade of General Pecks division (kindly loaned to me), Colonel Amorys brigade, Colonel Stevensons brigade, Colonel Lees brigadein all, about 10,000 infantry; six batteries Third New York Artillery, 30 guns; Beigers battery First Rhode Island Artillery, 6 guns; section of Twenty-fourth New York Independent Battery, 2 gans; section of Twenty-third New York Independent Battery, 2 gunstotal, 40 guns; the Third New York Cavalry, about 640 men. We marched the first day on the main Kinston road about 14 miles, when, fin ding the road obstructed by felled trees for half a mile and over, I bivouacked for the night, and had the obstructions removed during the night by the pioneers. I pushed on the next morning at daylight. My cavalry advance en- countered the enemy when about 4 miles from the bivouac of the pre. vions night, and after a sharp but brief skirmish the enemy were routed with sorim loss. On arriving at the Vine Swamp road I ordered Captain Hall, with three companies of cavalry, to push on up the main Kiuston road as a demonstration, while the main column proceeded by the Vine Swamp road to the left, thereby avoiding the obstructions and the emmmy on the main road. Captain Hall encountered the enemy in some force, but after a severe fight whipped them, taking 18 prisoners and killing a number. The march of the main column was somewhat delayed by the bridge over Beaver Creek being destroyed. This was rebuilt, and I pushed on, leaving a regiment (Fifty-first Massachusetts) and a sec- tion of artillery (Twenty-third New York) at the bridge to hold it and to protect the intersection of the main road and the ioad I was on, to But see revised statement, p. 60 Page 55 ChAP. ~txX.j NI~W BEPNE TO ~OLtSflOROtYGn. 55 support ( iptaiii hail, and to prevent any force driving him back an(1 oceupYilig the cross-roads in the rear. The main column I)ushed on 8hOut 4 miles an(I bivouacked for the night. There was some cavalry skirmishing during the day. On Saturday, the 13th, we again started, leaving the second main roa(l, the one I was on, to the right, and leaving at this intersection the Forty~sixth Massachusetts and one section of artillery (Twenty-fourth ~ew York) to hold the position andf reache(l Southwest Creek eint on the second main road. We the bridge over which was destroyed, and the enemy posted on the opposite bank, some 400 strong, with three pieces of artillery. The creek w~s not fordable, and ran at the foot of a dee p ravine, making a very bad position for us. I ordered a battery in as good a position as could be obtained, and nuder their fire the Ninth New Jersey, which had the advance, pushed gallantly across the creek l)y swimming, by fragments of the bridge and by a mill-dam, and 4. ~oi med on the opposite bank. At the same time the Eighty -fifth Penn- sylvania, of General Wessells brigade, forced a passage by the felling of trees and fording about half a mile below the bridge, and engaged the enemys left, who thereupon retired and deserted his breastworks. I lIa(l ordered the Twenty-third Massachusetts, of Colonel Ainorys brigade, to cross at the mill to support the Ninth New Jersey, and also crossed the remainder of General Wessells brigade. Colonel heck- man, with the Ninth New Jersey, advanced and was fired upon, when al)Out I mile from the creek, with canister and musketry. The req-i- b ment charged at double-quick, drove the enemy, took some prisoners, and captured a 6-pounder gun, caisson, & c., complete. General Wes- sells bivouacked on the farther side of the creek with the Ninth in time advance. The balance of the command, with the artillery, remained Qn this suk of the creek. The Ninth New Jersey; Company K, Third New York Cavalry, and Morrisons battery Third New York Artillery, had quite a skirmish with the enemy, but drove him sand encamped for the night. From the south side of the creek I sent a company of cavalry to strike and i)roceed up the Kinston road, No. 2 (II was on No. 3). The company l)roceeded up the road toward Kinston, and found the enemy l)osted by a bridge, wimich was prepared to be destroyed. The company charged them, and they retired with some loss, destroying the bridge. The enemys force at this place was estimated at one regiment and four pieces of artillery. Major Garrard, with three companies of cavalry and one gun of Allis section of artillery, procee(led on a reconnaissance on a road leading to White Hall. After following this road about 10 miles, and Imaving met with no opposition, they rejoined the main column. Summday, the 14th instant, I advanced the column, and when about I mile from Kinston encountered the enemy in strong force. They were posted in strong position in the wood, taking advantage of the ground, which formed a natural breastwork. Their position was secured omi their right by a deep swamp and their left was partially protected by the river. The Ninth New Jersey was deployed as skirmishers, and General Wessells brigade, with Morrisons battery Third New York Artillery, was ordered to advance to the right and left of the road, the battery beimig sent to our extreme right supported by one of General Wessells regiments. Colonel Amorys brigade was then advanced, the Seven- teenth Massachusetts Volunteers being sent to support Colonel Heck- man on the right, an(l two regiments (Twenty-third and Forty-fifth Massachusetts) advanced up the road. My artillery (three batteries) I posted in a large field on the right of the road and about three-fourths of a mile iu rear of our line of attack, the only position they could b Page 56 NORTII CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. x~X~ placed in. I then ordered Colonel Stevensons brigade, with Belgers Rhode Island battery. forward. The Twenty-fourth Massachusetts sup- ported this battery, and the Fifth Rhode Island, Tenth Connecticut, and Forty-fourth Massachusetts were ordered forward, the two former on the left of the road and the latter on the right, to snpport the regiments there in pushing the enemy and turning that flank. The Tenth Connecticut advanced steadily to the extreme front, re- lieving two of ~ brigade, which were short of ammunition, and after receiving a terrible fire for some twenty minutes made a most gal- lant charge in conjunction with the Ninety~sixth Regiment New York Volunteers of General ~ brigade, which, with the advance al- ready made (slowly, but surely) of the entire line, forced the enemy to retreat precipitately for the, bridge over the Neuse, which they crossed, firing the bridge, which had been prepared for that purpose. Several regiments were so close, however, that about 400 prisoners were taken from the enemy. A line was formed to the river and the fire extin- guished before great damage was done. The Ninth New Jersey and Seventeenth Massachusetts Regiments and General Wessells brigade were at once crossed, pushed into the town, and halted. I ordered the bridge to be at once repaired for the crossing of cavalry and artillery. General Evans retired about 2 miles from town with his command and formed line of battle. I sent a flag of trace to inquire whether he proposed to surrender. He declined. I immediately prepared to at- tack him, but knowing that he had three light batteries and one section to start with, was unwilling to sacrifice my men, and waited for my ar- tillery to cross. I ordered Batteries E and I, Third New York Artillery, to shell the enemy with their 20-pounder Parrotts (four in number) from the opposite bank, and crossed Colonel Amorys brigade with all dis- patch; but before I could attack the enemy they had retired, and it being by this time night I was unable to pursue; moreover, my object was accomplished. The troops bivouacked in the field beyond the town that night; a provost guard was established for the protection of the town and all necessary precautions were taken. I sent Captain Cole, Company K, Third Regiment New York Cavalry, down the east bank of the Neuse to a work commanding the river. He reported it deserted, with six guns. in position, and the work to be of great strength. I sent the company back with teams to bring up the guns and blow up the magazine. Captain Cole being unable to remove the two heavy guns, one 8-inch columbiad and one 32-pounder, destroyed them, and brought back four field pieces complete. These, with two others deserted by the enemy and the one taken by the Ninth New Jersey, I sent to New Berne, un- der escort of Captain Coles company (K) Third New York Cavalry. The next morning, the 15th, I recrossed the river and took the river road for Goldsborough. I left a strong guard of cavalry in the town, under Major Fitz Simmons, to make a demonstration on the Goldsbor- ough road on that side of the river. Colonel Ledlie, Third New York Artillery, remained to destroy commissary and quartermasters stores and burn the bridge. Major Fitz Simmons advanced some 9 miles in the direction of Goldsborough, when, hearing the whistle of a locomo- tive, he fired three shots in the direction of the sound, upon which the train immediately returned in the direction of Goldsborough. Colonel Ledlie, before leaving Kinston, destroyed a locomotive, a railroad mon- itor, & c. I advanced without opposition to within 3~ miles of White Hall,~ where I halted for the night. I sent Major Garrard with three coin Page 57 tHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSI3OROUGn. 57 panies of cavalry to make a reconnaissance to White Hall. lie found one regiment arid four guns on our side of the bridge over the Kense, but they quickly retreated as he approached, firing the bridge effect- ually. The next morning (16th) I ordered Major Garrard, with five compa- nies Third New York Cavalry and one section of artillery Twenty-third New York, to proceed to Mount Olive, a station on the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad, 14 miles below Goldsborough. In passing White Hall en route for Mount Olive his command was fired upon from the opposite side of the river. He placed his guns in position and returned the fire until the main column arrived, when he limbered up and pro- ceeded toward Mount Olive, which point he reached without opposition. Here he destroyed the railroad track for about a mile. He then pro- ceeded along the line of the railroad for 4 miles and destroyed the bridge over Goshen Swamp. The track between Mount Olive and the Goshen Swamp Bridge was torn up and burned in five places. The column having arrived at White Hall and finding the bridge burned and the enemy in some force, with infantry and artillery on the other side, and this being the direct road to Goldsborough, I determined to make a strong feint, as if to rebuild and cross. The Ninth New Jersey and Colonel Amorys brigade were sent forward and posted on the bank of the river to engage the enemy. I then ordered up several bat- teries and posted them on ahill overlooking the enemys intrenchments. They opened on and silenced, after an hours firing, the enemys guns. The enemy still maintained their admirable position with sharpshooters, but deeming my object accomplished I moved my command forward toward Goldsborough, leaving sharpshooters in rear to continue the fight. We bivouacked that night 8 miles from Goldsborough, encoun- tering no further opposition. Ou the morning of the 17th I advanced on Goldsborough. I ordered Major Fitz Simmons, with two companies of oavalry, to make a feint in the direction of Dudley Station and Everettsville. They scattered a small force of the enemy there in every direction, burned two trestle- work culverts, destroyed a train of four railroad cars, water-station, depot, & c., as well as some small-arms, which they were not able to carry off, and captured a flag of the enemy. They then returned by a short cut to the main column. I also ordered Major (larrard, with four corn- l)anies of cavalry and one section of artillery, to make a feint in the direction of, a bridge over the Neuse, on our right, called Thompsons Bridge. He found the enemy in force, s~ipposed to be one regiment of infantry and four pieces of artillery, and the bridge already burned. I then directed, in order to make the feint more complete and to further distract the enemy, one regiment (Forty-third Massachusetts) and An- gels battery Third New York Artillery to the support of the cavalry and engage the enemy, which they did, silencing, after an hours brisk engagement, the enemys fire. Colonel Lees brigade was in advance of the main column and caine upon the enemy in small force on the edge of the wood lining the rail- road track. Riggs battery Third New York Artillery was placed ip position and 5pened on them, when the enemy retired. The Ninth New Jersey and Seventeenth Massachusetts were ordered to strike the rail road track and follow it up direct to the bridge, which they were to burn Three regiments of Colonel Lees brigade were ordered to their support (the Twenty-fifth, Twenty-seventh, and Third Massachusetts); the re- maining regiment was thrown on the left to protect our flank in that quarter. General Wessells brigade was advanced and formed on the hill overlooking the track, & c.; three regiments were thrown to the left Page 58 58 NOl~TIt OAROtINA ANP S. I~2. VII INIA. [cHAP. X5~. and the remaining regiments in lines, to be available at any point. My artillery was brought forward and placed in position, firing to the front and left, principally at the bridge. The enemy replied with artillery from the other side of the river. Colonel Heckman advanced steadily up the track, fighting the enemys infantry posted at the bridge and receiving a fire from the artillery in a monitor-ear on the track of the bridge. After two hours he reached the bridge, and under a heavy fire Lieutenant Graham, Twenty-third New York Battery, acting as aide- (lecamp to Colonel lleckman, fired the bridge. All who had previously attelnl)t.ed it were picked off, as was wounded Lient. B. N. Mann, Sev- eiiteenth Massachusetts, who accompanied him. I brou~ht all my artillery to bear to prevent any effort to save the bridge, and, when the fire was doing its work, ordered a countermarch for New Berne, leaving Colonel Lee to form the rear guard. Colonel Lee was forming his brigade to leave the field, deeming the fight over, when three regimental colors were seen across the railroad track, the men i)rotected by the embankment on which the track was laid. Colonel Lee l)laced Morrisons battery in position and recalled his regiments in line. The enemy advanced with cheers across the railroad, steadily in 1 lime, upon Colonel Lees brigade. Morrisons battery opened on the ad- vancing line with spherical case and with good effect, but thc.y advanced steadily until within 300 yards of the battery, when, unable to stand the fearful loss they were sustaining from the battery, they broke and retreated. Their retreat was unexpectedly covered by a masked bat- tery in the woods on our left. Belgers Rhode Island battery, which had been brought back, opened in reply to the battery and on two regi- meats which came in view, supporting their guns. Riggs battery Third New York Artillery was placed on an eminence on our left and in line with the enemy, thus bringing a cross-fire to bear. They were thereby forced to retire, as was also a regiment in the woods on our right. Colonel Lee, having orders not to attempt any further move, again formued his brigade and batteries and proceeded to join the column, which I had halted on hearing the firing from Colonel Lee. This was a bold attempt of the enemy to entrap and secure Colonel Lees brigade and Morrisons battery. Owing to the efficiency of Colonel Lee and Morrisons battery it was a disastrous failure. With a strong cavalry rear guard 11 then started on my return by the direct road, took and transported my sick and wounded men from White ll~ill and Kin- ston, carrying them all safely to this point. On the 13th a fleet of small boats left New Berne, under Commander Murray, lIT. S. Navy, to attack the works on the river at Kinston, but owing to the lowness of the water in the river only one small boat, the Allison, under Colonel Manchester, Marine Artillery, was brought into action. The works being too strong she, after a gallant resistance, was obliged to retire, having, however, effected a good purpose by mysti- fyhig General Evans as to where the attack was to conic from, and in- duced him to retain several regiments on the Kinston side of the Neuse, thus diminishing the force opposed to us. In conclusion I take great pleasure in reporting on the conduct of the officers and men under my command. It was most excellent, and main- tamed fully their high reputation. General Wessells brigade, of General Pecks division, behaved like veterans, and reflected, by their drill, discipline, and steadiness under lire, the qualities of their commanding officer. Colonel lieckmuan, of the Ninth New Jersey, wad, with his admirable regiment, always in advance,, and displayed the greatest courage and efficiency Page 59 cHAP. XX~j NEW 1~ERNE TO ~OLDSBO1IOTJc411. 59 The Tenth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, under Lieutenant- Colonel Leggett (as they always have done), behaved in the most gal- lant ~nd dashing manner, making a charge under a fire which in twenty minutes killed and wounded 90 men out of 340. Colonel Potter, of the First North Carolina Volunteers, acted on my staff; and was of the greatest aid and assistance to me by his coolness and observation. I must particularly mention the conduct of Lient. George W. Gra- ham, Twenty-third New York Battery, acting as aide to Colonel heck- man. ThroHghont the entire march he was conspicuous for his venture- some courage, and at Goldsborough, in company with Lieut. B. N. Mann, Seventeenth Massachusetts Volunteers, advanced and fired the bridge under the fire of the enemys infantry and artillery. He only escaped capture by jumping from the bridge down the bank. Lieutenant Mann was wounded. The artillery force, under Col~nel Ledlie, was well placed and well served, and the commanding officer nud the batteries, without excep- tion, did most excellent service. The Third New York Cavalry, though not acting as a regiment, were in all cases prompt, brave, and efficient, as shown in the body of my report. Much credit is due to Mr. H. W. Wilson, engineer, who, in charge of the pioneers and a force of contrabands, did most excellent service in building bridges, repairing roads, & c. I inclose to General E. A. Hitchcock the lists of paroled prisoners, numbering 496.* I herewith inclose lists of the killed, wounded, and missing, showing an aggregate of 90 killed, 478 wounded, and 9 missing.t Among the killed I must mourn Colonel Gray, of the Ninety-sixth New York Regiment. He was killed at the head of hi~ regiment at the Kinston Bridge. Though but a few days in this department he had already won the high esteem of all here. In the charge of the Tenth Connecticut they lost Capt. II. A. Wells and Lients. W. W. Perkins, T. ID. Hill, and J. C. Coffing, all good arid excellent officers, who died doing a gallant duty. For many details of distinguished services of individual officers I beg to refer to the brigade and regimental reports herewith inclosed. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, ]Jfojor- General, Commanding Department. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief, U. ~. Army, Washington, D. C. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, No. 81. f New Berne, December 26, 1862. The commanding general desires to thank the troops under his com- mand for the new l)roof of their courage and stea(liness afforded by the recent expedition. The veteran brigade of General Wessells and the troops of this department alike did their duty as soldiers well. By order of Maj. Gen. J. G. Foster: SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. * Omitted. I But see revised statement, p. 60 Page 60 NORTII CAROLINA AND ~. E. VIROINIA. [~IIAP. ~ GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. EIGIITEENTII ARMY CORPS, No. 18. f New Borne, January 15, 1863. In consideration of and as a reward for their brave deeds at Kinston, White Hall, and Gold sborough, the commanding general directs that the regiments and batteries which accompanied the expedition to Golds- borough inscribe upon their banners those three victories: Kinston, December 14, 1862. White Hall, December 16, 1862. Goldsborough, December 17, 1862. The commanding general hopes that all future fields will be so fought that the record of them may be kept by inscription on the banners of the regiments engaged. By command of Maj. Gen. J. G. Foster: [SOUTHARD HOFFMAN,] Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 2. Return of Casualties in the Union forces. * LCompiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, etc.] Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. a a a Command. cc ~ uS ~ s-c -~ F-c F. -c-c Q Q ~ -~ a ~u ~ . ..c 0 . ~ .~ ~ ,~ 0 r~ o 0 ~ 10th Connecticut 3 8 0 83 100 3d Massachusetts 2 2 5th Massachusetts 17th Massachusetts 1 4 25 -... . - 2 32 23d Massachusetts 12 2 53 67 24th Massachusetts 1 7 8 25th Massachusetts 1 3 1 5 27th MassachusettS - 1 2 3 43d Massachusetts 2 1 1 4 44th Massachusetts 8 13 21 45th Massachusetts 18 1 58 77 40th Massachusetts 1 3 4 51st Massachusetts 2 2 9th New Jersey 5 1 85 4 ~5 3d NewYorkCavalry I 0 4 10 3d New York Light Artillery, Batteries B, B, F, H, 5 2 25 32 I, and K. New York Light Artillery, 24th Battery (section) 1 1 New York Marine Artillery 1 2 3 85th New York 15 19 WA New York I 7 96th New York 1 ...... 85th Pennsylvania 1 ...-- 8 9 103d Pennsylvania 10 1 52 69 1st Rhode Islausi Light Artillery, Battery F 2 5 7 Sthlthode Island 1 3 ____ Total 4 88 19 468 12 591 Officers killed: Capt. Henry A. Wells, Lients. William W. Perkins and Theron D Hill, Tenth Con- necticut, and Col. Charles 0. Gray. Ninety-sixth Now York, at Kinston, December 14. o ers mertelly wounded: Liouls. John C. Coffing and John M. Simins, Tenth Connecticut. * Embraces losses in skirmishes on the Kinston road, December 11 and 12; skis-- mishes at Southwest Creek, December 1314; engagement at Kinston, December 14; engagement at White Hall, December 16; skirmish at Thompsons Bridge and en- gagement at Goldsborough Bridge, December 17 Page 61 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 61 No. 3. Report of Capt. David A. Taylor, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief & gnal, Officer. IIIJQRS. SIGNAL DETACHMENT, DEPT. c~ N. C., New Berne, December 22, 1862. SIR: Supplementary to the report already made out (but which I was unable to forward before this time), I forward the following report of the proceedings of the detachment under my command: On the 11th day of December, 1862, I accompanied Maj. Gen. J. G. Foster on an expedition to Goldsborough, taking with me the following- named officers with their men, viz: Joseph Fricker, first lieutenant, Eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and acting signal officer; F. Schiach- ter, first lieutenant, Eleventh Connecticut Volunteers, and acting signal officer; Henry T. Merrill, second lieutenant, Seventeenth Massachusetts Volunteers, and acting signal officer; C. C. F. Keith, second lieutenant, Twenty-third New York Volunteer Artillery; Edward S. Moffatt, second lieutenant, Ninth New Jersey Volunteers, and acting signal officer; and N. S. Barstow, second lieutenant, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volun- teers, and acting signal officer. Unfortunately Lieutenants Merrill and Barstow were taken sick soon after the expedition marched, and consequently were unable to take an active part in any of the battles which were fought on this march. On Sunday, the 14th instant, the battle of Kinston was fought. As the battle was fought in a thick swamp there was no possible oppor- tunity for signaling until just at the close of the action, after the en- emy was driven into the open ground and across the Neuse River Bridge, when I saw a favorable opportunity to charge upon and cap- ture two regiments of rebels, and accordingly I signaled back to Gen- ~ral Foster to send forward a light battery and the cavalry which were already across the bridge; but the general instead sent up a flag of truce and asked them to surrender, which of course they did not do, but suc- ceeded in escaping, as before treating they demanded and obtained a half hours time, during which time the Union forces should remain halted at Kinston. I was most of the time occupied in carrying orders and placing troops in position and was with my fiagmen a fourth of a mile in advance of the leading regiment. At night I accompanied a company of cavalry to the rebel batteries, 4 miles below Kinston, and assisted in bringing off four field pieces and destroying an 8-inch columbiad and a 32-pounder siege gun, which were in position in the batteries, and with which the enemy had in the early part of the day driven off our gunboats. On the 16th instant General Foster fought the battle of White Hall, on the Neuse River. As soon as the battle commence(l I placed my officers in the most prominent positions on the field, and accompanied by Private Jacob A. Reed, Company I, Third New York Artillery, went in with the leading regiment and examined the position of the enemy. After obtaining a close and accurate survey of their works and l)OsitiOn, I opened a station under a severe fire of musketry and called for some field guns to be sent to me, which General Foster im- nmediately forwarded. Upon their arrival I placed them in position and twice sighted the guns myself. The fire of the guns was very effectual Page 62 62 [011K!?. XXX. NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. driving the enemy out of the works they occupied; also completely rid- dling a half-finished gunboat which the enemy had on the stocks upon the opposite side of the river, and were occupying as a rifle-work at the time. While sending the message for the guns I was hit by a musket-~1iot on the index finger of the right hand, but fortunately was not much hurt. My flag received three shots through it. Private Reed behaved with great coolness all through the engagement. Toward the close of the action I was ordered by General Foster to withdraw the artillery and pick out and post as many sharpshooters as would cover the en- emys position, which I accordingly did, under one of the severest musketry fires I have ever seen. On the 17th iustar~t General Foster fought the battle of Goldsborough. The object of the action was ~to gain possession of the railroad bridge over the Keuse River. The action was a double one, the first being in the morning, the second in the evening. In the morning the rebels, after a little skirmishing, retreated across the railroad bridge, but kept up a sharp fire of musketry and artillery on our advance. I went un- mediately on to the railroad, placing Lieutenant Schlachter with Gen- eral Foster and other officers with different brigadiers and artillery. After getting on the railroad I went immediately forward of the skir- mishers, and at every favorable point made close observations of the enemys position, and finding it impossible to cross the bridge I called for artillery, which immediately came forward, took position, and com- menced shelling the enem~~ with very decided effect. After the bridge was carried and burned and our batteries had silenced the enemys fire, General Foster drew off his forces, supposing the bat- tie was over; but after about three hours the enemy came on with two brigades of infantry and one battery from some crossing of the river above the bridge and commenced an attack upon our rear, of which Lieutenant Keith immediately informed me by signal and I informed the general. The battle now renewed was soon ended, with very severe loss to the enemy and very slight loss to us. On account of the exceedingly difficult nature of the country and the inexperience of my officers less signaling was done than otherwise would have been. Both officers and men behaved as became soldiers amid gentlemen, and when this detachment shall have had sufficient field practice they will compare favorably with any that I am acquainted with. I take this occasion to recommend to your favorable considera- tion Lients. C. C. F. Keith, E. S. Moffatt, F. Schlachter, and Joseph Fricker as capable and efficient officers; and Privates Jacob A. Reed, Company I, Third New York Artillery; Samuel N. Rogers, Company A, Twenty-fl st Massachusetts Volunteers; William N. Baker, Company ID, Eighth Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps; Pulaski Hindes, Company G, Ninth New Jersey Volunteers, and William J. Lindsay, First Pennsylvania Rifles, as cool, brave, energetic men, always ready - - for any undertaking, however desperate, attentive to their duties, intel- ligent and capable, precisely the men needed in this corps, and I take pleasure in recommending them to the department, and hope they will receive a suitable promotion. Although somewhat foreign to this report, I cannot refrain from mcii- tioning the conduct of Pfivates II. P. Baker, Company E, Third New York Artillery, and Lucius D. Craft, Company ID, Eighth Pemnisylvania Rifles Volunteer Corps, who, just at the close of the battle of Kinstoim, rode a mile or so to Ihe left of the line of battle and captured an Page 63 ChAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 63 bronglit iii a major, a captain, and some 30 non conitnissioned officers and privates. An act of rash bravery rarely equaled. All which is respectfully snbmitted. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, DAViD A. TAYLOlI, Captain and Chief Acting signal Officer, Dept. of N. C. Maj. ALBERT J. MYER, KSigflal Officer, U. /~. Army. No.4. Report qf Cot. James II. Ledlic, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief of Artillery, commanding Artillery Brigade. HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY BRIGADE New Berne, N. C., December 24, 1862. SIR: I have the hoiior to snbmit the following report of the operations of this brigade in connection with the recent expedition: The artillery under my command consisted of Batteries B, B, F, II, I, and Ii, Third New York Artillery; Battery F, First iThode Island Artillery, and a section each of the Twenty-third and Twenty-fourth New York Independent Batteries. Leaving New Berne December 11, at 7 a. in., marched 14 miles, Abont 5 p. in., December 12, the Twenty-third New York Independent Battery, Captain Ransom, was left, with the Fifty-first Massachusetts Volunteers, to guard the bridge over Beaver Creek, 13 miles from Kins- ton. Captain Itansom remained there until the 14th, when he inoved~ toward Kinston, and, supported by a company of the Fifth Massachu- setts Volunteers, was assigned to the defense of a bridge near there. On the 15th he rejoined the main column. About 9 a. in. December 13 the right section of Battery B, Third New York Artillery, under Lieutenant Day, which had been sent in advance of the main column with a squadron of cavalry, engaged a force of the enemy at Southwest Creek and shelled an earthwork commanding the bridge. The remaining two sections of Battery B, under Captain Mor- rison, were shortly after brought up and flre(l about 40 rounds. Bat- teries B, F, II, and K, TI~ird New York Artillery, were brought into l)ositlon on the center and left of our line, but did not Open fire. December 14, the skirmishers of the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers having engaged the enemy, the right section of Battery B, rfhird New York Artillery, under Lieutenant Day, was sent torwar(1 and took posi- tion in the road leading to the river bridge. The remaining sections of the battery, under Captain Morrison, were 1)ostcd in an opei~ field on the right of the road and shelled the woods. Battery F, Third New York Artillery, Captain Jenney, came into battery on the left of the road, 200 yards in rear, and fired at the bridge at the distance of 1~ miles, the direction and distance being given by a guide. Batteries B and I, Third New York Artillery, were ordered to the support of Cap- tain Morrison, and a section of Captain Jenneys battery, under Lieu- tenant Birchmeyer, was then ordered to the support of Colonel Heck. man, Ninth New Jersey, on the extreme right, and opened on the enemy with great effect. The reiiiainirig two sections of the battery were soon aft~r sent to the snj)port of Colonel Lleckinan, and, moving (lown withi Page 64 64 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. a short distance of the bridge, opened a destructive fire upon the enemy attempting to cross, effectually cutting off their retreat. Under cover of this fire a part of the cannoneers of Battery F, assisted by a few of the Tenth Connecticut, extinguished the fires which the enemy had kindled on the bridge. Battery B, Third New York Artillery, which was now moved forward and posted on the left, opened with canister on the woods, and Batteries B and I, Third New York Artillery, took position in a field on the right. At this time 41 privates and 2 commissioned officers, belonging to the enemy, surrendered as prisoners to Captain Morrison, of Battery B, who sent them to the rear under guard. About one hour later Batteries E and I moved forward to the bank of the river and shelled the enemy over the town. Action closed about 1 p. m. Loss in artillery brigade at Kinston: Battery B, Third New York Artillery, 1 man wounded; Battery F, Third New York Artillery, 3 men wounded. Loss in horses quite heavy. The Twenty-fourth New York Independent Battery, Capt. Lee, which had been ordered, IDecember 13, up the main road to a point 7 miles from Kinston, encamped there with the Forty-sixth Massachusetts Yolun- teers. On the morning of the 14th one piece, under Lieutenant Cady, was sent up the road with a detachment of cavalry, and opened on the enemy, who were behind intrenchments, with two pieces of artillery, at a point where Southwest Creek crosses the direct road to Kinston. The enemy retired after a brisk engagement of three-quarters of an hour, and after the battle of Kinston the Twenty-fourth Battery rejoined our main column, December 16. The affair at White Hall, Tuesday, December 16, commenced about 9.30 a. m. by a skirmish between a detachment of the Third New York Cavalry, accompanied by the Twenty-third New York Independent Bat- tery, Captain Ransom, and the enemys sharpshooters. This skirmish lasted but a few minutes, after which the cavalry and battery moved forward past the enemys position. Shortly after, the Seventeenth Mas- sachusetts, Lieutenant-Colonel Fellows, having engaged the enemy, Battery F, Captain Jenney, Third New York Artillery, was posted on the hill-side directly opposite the enemys works and opened fire. One gun of this battery burst at about the twentieth round. At 10.30 a. m. Battery K, Captain Angel, Third New York Artillery, was sent to the support of Captain Jenney and posted on his right. The right section of Captain Jenneys battery, under command of Lieut. J. F. Dennis,was then sent forward and posted on the left of the bridge, across the river. Battery B, Third New York Artillery, Lieutenant Ashby commanding, and Battery F, First Rhode Island Artillery, Cap- tain Belger, were shortly afterward put in position on the hill above Batteries F and K, Third New York Artillery, and opened fire. The Twenty-fourth New York Battery, Captain Lee, was then posted in the swamp on the right of our line. Battery I, Third New York Artillery, Lieutenant Thomas, was sent forward to the left of the bxidge, and a section of Battery K, Third New York Artillery, under Lieutenant Mer- serean, was also brought up to that point. Battery II, Third New York Artillery, Captain Riggs, was now placed at about the center of our line, on the bank of the river, and, together with Captain Belgers bat- tery, which had been posted on the right of the bridge, opened upon the enemy at a point-blank range. The action terminated a little aftem 12 in., the enemys batteries having been completely silenced. I desire particularly to mention the gallant conduct of Lient. J. F. Dennis, commanding the advanced section of Battery F, Third Ne Page 65 CHAP. XXX.1 NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 65 York Artillery, who maintained his position until his ammunition was exhausted, under a very severe lire from the enemys sharpshooters, and worked at his guns himself after a large number of his men had been shot down. The Twenty-third New York Independent Battery, Captain Ransom, after passing White Hall on the morning of the 16th, marched with the cavalry command of Major Garrard to Mount Olive, o~n the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad, and assisted in tearing up the Failroad track, burning the trestle-work, and destroying the telegraph at that poiht. Thence, on the morning of the 17th, marched to Thompsons Bridge, on the Neuse, 9 miles below Goldsborough. At that point a brisk en- gagement ensued, during which two sections of Battery K, Third New York Artillery, Captain Angel, came to Captain Ransoms support. After thirty minutes the combined efforts of these batteries completely silenced the enemys fire, both of musketry and artillery. About mid- night they rejoined the main column. Loss in artillery brigade at White Hall: Battery E, Third New York Artillery, 3 men wounded; Battery F, Third New York Artillery, 5 men wounded; Battery I, Third New York Artillery, 1 man wounded; Battery K, Third New York Artillery, 2 men killed, 5 men wounded; Battery F, First Rhode Island Artillery, 2 men killed, 2 men wounded; Twenty-fourth New York Independent Battery, 1 man killed. Loss in horses very heavy. About 11 a. m. Wednesday, December 17, the skirmishers of the Seventeenth Massachusetts Volunteers and Ninth New Jersey Volun- teers having engaged the enemy, Battery II, Third New York Artillery, Captain Riggs, was ordered to the front and posted on an elevation over- looking the railroad track. A few rounds of spherical case scattered the enemy, who took refuge in the woods. Battery B, Third New York Artillery, was then brought into position on the right of and close to the railroad track, and opened upon the bridge, which was visible at about 200 yards distance. Batteries E and I, Third New York A~til- lery, Maj. T. J. Kennedy commanding, now moved forward, opening upon the railroad monitor and the enemys battery on the other side of the bridge. The effect of this conceiitrated fire was very destructive. The railroad bridge, which had been fired by Lieutenant Graham, aide- de-camp to Colonel Heckman, was torn down in about half an hour and the enemys battery and monitor completely silenced. The bat- teries then retired, Captain Morrison taking position on an elevation commanding the whole open field. Between 3 and 4 p. in., after our forces, with the exception of Colonel Lees brigade, had taken up the line of march, two regiments of the enemys infantry formed across the railroad track, cheering and waving their colors, and charged upon Captain Morrisons battery. He opened upon them first with spherical case and then with double canister with deadly effect, literally mowing them down. Belgers Rhode Island battery was ordered up and opened fire to the left, where the woods were lined with rebel infantry. The enemy then opened a well-directed fire upon us from a concealed bat- tery. Battery II, Third New York Artillery, Captain Riggs, was or- dered to the support of Captain Belger and posted on his left, opposite the enemys right flank. After an hours vigorous cannonading the enemys fire, both of musketry and artillery, was completely silenced by Captains Belger and Riggs, and, as night was closing in, orders were received to retire, which was done in the best order. One section of Battery H, under Lieutenant Clark, was left with the rear guard. Loss in artillery brigade at Goldsborough: Battery B, Third New 5 R RYOL XVII Page 66 [CHAP. XXX. 6 NURTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. York Artillery, 2 men wounded; Battery K, Third New York Artillery, 1 man wounded; Battery F, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, 3 men wounded. Loss in horses slight. The officers of the various batteries, without exception, handled their commands with coolness and skill, and when all did so well it is diffi- cult to particularize. I desire to mention Majors Stone and Kennedy, who commanded Pie reserve artillery, for the prompt manner in which they brought their batteries into action, and the efficiency with, which they were served; also the members of my personal staff, Lieut. Alexander H. Davis, Lieut. E. P. Peters, and Chaplain William Hart, volunteer aides-de- camp, who were constantly under fire during the engagements, for the promptness displayed by them in performing the various duties assigned them. Lient. Frederick W. Prince, acting brigade quartermaster, was also indefatigable in his exertions. JAMES H. LEDLIE, Col., Comdg. Arty. Brig. and Chief of Arty., Dept. of N. C. Maj. SOUTIIARD HOFFMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gem., Department of North Carolina. No. 5. Report of Capt. Edwin ~3. Jenney, Battery F, Third New York Light Ar tillery, of engagements at Kinston and White Hall, December 14 and 16. HDQRS. BATTERY F, THIRD NEW YORK VOL. ARTILLERY, New Berne, N. C., December 21, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that in accordance with your order my battery joined the First Brigade, commanded by Colonel Amory, and marched from New Berne Thursday, the 11th instant. On the 14th instant we arrived within 2 miles of Kinston, without anything occurring except the usual casualties of a march in an enemy~s country. By your order my battery then came into battery in an opening on the left of the road for the purpose of shelling Kinston. After expending about 120 rounds of ammunition I ceased firing, by order of Major-Gen- eral Foster, and sent my left section4 commanded by Lieutenant Birch- meyer, to sU1)pOlt Colonel Heckmans position, on our right flank, and, by your order, posted my other two sections about half a mile nearer Kinston, in a field on the right-hand side the road. Lieutenant Birch- meyers position was about 600 yards in front of the rebel battery, which was upon the opposite side of the river, and which was defended by breastworks, the river and an open field being between. He held this position alone, and did fine execution, until his fuse-shells were ex- pended, when the rest of my battery, by your order proceeded into the same position. After shelling the rebel battery for a short time the enemy retreated from that place, and Colonel Heckman commenced a flank movement toward the bridge. The infantry marched directly across the field, while my battery, by order of Colonel Amory, crossed to the left, nearer the bridge, and commenced a vigorous fire of canister and shell upon the retreating enemy. About four rounds had been discharged when I observed the rebels were firing the bridge. I immediately moved my battery to the end of the bridge, arriving there before any other troopsby this move Page 67 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BEENE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 67 ment cutting off the retreat of some of the enemy, who were yet upon this side of the river. Lieutenant Birchmeyer, commanding left section, and First Sergeant Van Heusen, commanding center section, brought forward their cannoneers with watering buckets, and, assisted by a very few volunteers from the Tenth Connecticut, extinguished the fire upon the bridge, Lieutenant Dennis supporting them by a rapid fire of canister from his section. My loss at this place was as follows: Three men woundedJames II. Dunlap, guidon, in the thigh; Alexander Ful- lerton, corporal, in the arm; Charles Baughman, private, in the breast; and 5 horses killed. We encamped in Kinston, and the next morning we resumed our march. In the afternoon Lieutenant Dennis, with his section, was or- dered forward with the cavalry to White Hall, where he opened fire upon a rebel gunboat in process of construction and succeeded in par- tially destroying it, when he returned to the battery, which was en- camped with the division. On the 16th instant we resumed the march, my battery being in the advance. When near White Hall I was ordered forward and opened fire upon a rebel battery, situated on the opposite side of the river, about 1,000 yards distant. My right section was posted upon the bank of the river, where the bridge had been burned, about 200 yards distant from the enemys battery. I kept up a continuous fire until my ammu- nition was exhausted, when I retired by your order. During the hot- test of the fire one of my guns burst, injuring no one. My losses at this place are as follows: Six men wounded and 8 horses ikilled.* Immediately after the engagement we moved on with the column. Our ammunition being exhausted we did not participate in the en- gagement near Goldsborough. We arrived at our camp on the 20th instant. My total casualties are as follows: kline men wounded; 13 horses killed. I desire to call your attention to the meritorious conduct of First Sergt. Stephen Van Heusen, who commanded my center section, and behaved gallantly both at Kinston and White Hall. I beg leave to recommend him for promotion to a lientenancy. My non-commissioned officers and privates fought bravely, and it would be difficult to dis- criminate between them. I am, colonel, your very obedient servant, EDWIN S. JENNEY, Gaptain, Gorndg. Battery F, Third New York FOl. Artillery. Col. JAi~n~s H. LEDLIE, Commanding Artillery Brigade. No. 6. Reports of lIIaj. Okarles Fitz & mmons, Third New York Cavalry, of operatians December 15 and 17. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 15th instant I proceeded along the Goldsborough road from Kinston with * Nominal loss omitted. Casualties embodied in revised statement, p. 60 Page 68 [CHAP. XXX~ 68 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. Companies B, E, and II, and one of Allis mountain howitzers, all of this~ regiment. My instructions were to simply make a feint toward Golds- borough and to capture any of the stragglers that might be found. I was~ also cautioned not to delay any longer than it was necessary to allow the main column to recross the bridge at Kinston; then to countermarch and act as rear guard. After going 6 miles my advance, commanded by Lieutenant Greig, Company II, came up with 12 mounted vedettes ot the enemy. After a brisk chase of 3 miles they got a~way; not, however, before one of them was wounded by the lieutenant. About 800 yards distant from the spot where I concluded the farther chase to be fruit- less I imagined I heard the noise of an engine; and, as I thought the feint would be more effective if cannon shots were fired, I ordered the howitzer in position and fired five rounds of spherical case-shot. After the third discharge the engine whistled and went toward Goldsborough. I sent some men forward, under Captain Willsou, of Company II, to re- connoiter. They took 2 prisoners, South Carolinians, who refused to~ gi~re any information further than that the train came down from Golds- borough that morning with troops, and had retired upon finding us ad-~ vancing. I returned to Kinston without further casualties and joined the maint column. All of which is respectfully submitted- CHAS. FITZ SIMMONS, Major, Third New York Cavalry. Lient. Col. JOHN Mix, Commanding Third New York Cavalry. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that on December 17, instants. I was detached from the main column of General Fosters army, then en: route to Goldsborough Bridge, with Company B, Captain Moschell, and Company C, Lieutenant Mayes, for the purpose of destroying the rail- road at Dudley Station, a point 5 miles distant from Goldsborongh Bridge, on the GoldsborQugh and Wilmington Railroad. Upon enter- ing the town the enemys pickets, some 20 in number, scattered right. and left in the direction of Mount Olive and Goldsborough. I in pur- suance of orders proceeded to tear up the track, destroying the rails. by piling up and interspersing them with dry lumber found at the sta- tion. I also burned two trestle-work culverts, a train of four railroad cars, water-station, depot, and storehouse. In the storehouse were some 50 muskets and 10 sabers, of no great value, and having no means of transportation I threw them into the flames. With the arms was a rebel flag, the Stars and Bars, which I took away with me. Having remained at Dudley two hours, to be sure that no attempt which might be made to save the railroad would be successful, I re- turned by a short cut to the main column, which I found engaged witb the enemy at Goldsborough Bridge. All of which is respectfully submitted. CHAS. FITZ SIMMONS, Major, Third New York Cavalry. Lient. Col. JOHN Mix, tJommanding Third New York Cara ~rq Page 69 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 69 No. 7. Reports of llJiaj. Jeptha Garrard, Third New York Cavalry, of ~perations December 1517. Sin: I have the honor to report that in obedience to orders from Maj. Gen. J. G. Foster I took three companies of the Third New York ~Cavalry and one section of Jenneys battery Third New York Artillery on the evening of December 15 and marched to White ilall, on the Neuse River. No enemy was found on the south side of the river. The artillery threw eight or ten shells into a skeleton gunboat on the opposite side. Private Butler, of Company C, Third New York Cavalry, volunteered to swim the river and set fire to the boat. He did swim ~over, though shot at three times, and returned safely. The command then marched to camp. Very respectfully, JEPTHA GARRARD, Lient. Col. JOHN Mix, lhfajor, Third New York Cavalry. Gommanding Third New York Cavalry. Sin: I have the honor to report that in obedience to orders from 1~Iaj. Gen. J. G. Foster I marched, on December 16, with two guns of Ransoms battery Twenty-third New York Artillery and fiv~e companies of Third New York Cavalry, to Mount Olive Station, on the Golds- borough and Wilmington Railroad, 14 miles below Goldsborough. The railroad was destroyed at this point for about 1 mile. Four miles be- yond this point, toward Wilmington, a bridge over the Goshen Swamp was destroyed, and between Mount Olive Station and this bridge the road was torn up and burned in five places. The object of the march being fully accomplished the command re- turned to camp. Very respectfully, JEPTHA GARRARD, Lieut. Col. JOHN Mix, Major, Third New York Cavalry. Commanding Third New York Cavalry. SIR: I have the honor to report that on December 17, in obedience to orders from Maj. Gen. J. G. Foster, I marched, with four companies Third New York Cavalry and two guns of Ransoms battery Twenty. third New York Artillery, to Thompsons Bridge to burn said bridge. The bridge was found to be already burned by the enemy. The enemy was found to be in force (artillery and infantry) on the opposite side. Re-enforcements of four guns of Angels battery Third New York Ar- tillery and Forty-third Regiment Massachusetts, Colonel Holbrook, wern sent to hold the place until further orders. At 8 oclock next morning the command rejoined the army. I wish to mention Captain Jacobs, Company E, Third New York Cavalry, for good conduct in charging down to the bridge under fire. Very respectfully, JEPTHA GARRARD, Major, Third New York Cavalry. Lieut. Col. JOHN Mix Page 70 70 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. ECHAP. XXX No. 8. Reports of Gapt. John F. ]Lrosehell, Third New York Cavalry, of opera- tions December 1116. HDQRS. COMPANY B, THIRD NEW YORK CAVALRY, New Berne, N. 0., December 20, 1862. COLONEL: On the morning of the 11th instant I,in command of Companies A and B, of the Third New York Cavalry, as the advance guard, proceeded on the Trent road as far as the Deep Gully (some 9~ miles) and halted for further orders. Orders coming, I went on some 5 or 6 miles farther, capturing one of the enemys pickets without firing a shot, and found the road so blockaded as to impede the farther ad. vance of the column until the obstructions were removed. Sending Lieutenant Chamberlin and 30 men of Company A, dismounted, in the~ woods as skirmishers they captured a man and horse of the enemy. While waiting to have the pioneers remove the obstructions we were- sent, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Mix, to make a reconnais- sance to the left of the main road about a mile. Returning we biv- ouacked for the night. On the morning of the 12th I proceeded on the main road as far as. the junction of the Kinston road, where Companies B and K, Third New York Cavalry, and two companies of the Ninth New Jersey formed the advance guard. We proceeded on the Kinston road some 3 miles- and encountered a force of the enemy~s cavalry about 100 strong, as the prisoners reported. I charged on them with Company B for about 1{ miles, when, coming upon an ambush of some 150 infantry behind a ditch and rail fence in the pine wood, I ordered a retreat, and rallied a quarter of a mile this side of the ambush, at the corner of a road leading to a house on the right of the road. I found 2 men woundedPrivate Butler, slightly in the thigh with buck-shot (subsequently cut out by Surgeons Palmer and Douglas), and Private Kingsley, severely wounded in the thigh with a musket- balland 4 men missing, viz, Privates Brightman, Coon, Goodspeed (wounded), and Hart, said Butlers horse being killed and 9 horses missing. The cause of so many horses missing was a deep ditch filled with water, where the horses fell, throwing their riders, and recovering. ran away into the enemy~s lines. We captured 1 lieutenant, 9 men, and 2 horses. We also killed 1 cap- tain and 4 men, wounding 1 colonel (Baker) and several men. Great credit is due to both officers and men, who showed personal bravery and efficiency in the charge. I cannot close this report with- out particular mention of Lieutenant Ebbs; also First Sergt. William B. Shearer and Corporal Kent and Farrier Allen. The sword of First Sergeant Shearer did not return to its sheath without vengeance on~ the enemy, as their arms and heads plainly show. I have the honor, & c., JNO. ~. MOSCRELL, Captain, Commanding. Col. JOHN MIX, Gommanding Third New York Cavalry. On the morning of the 13th I was sent with Company B, Third New York Cavalry, on a reconnaissance on the Kinston and Trent road,. where it branches off; some 9 miles from Kinston. I proceeded abou Page 71 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GGLDSBOROUGH. 71 2 miles and came across 4 mounted pickets at a farm or plantation house. My vedettes fired upon them and succeeded in captnring a car- bine and saddle, but the men and horses escaped across the field to the woods. I continued on this road some 3 miles and came in sight of 1 mounted and 2 foot pickets. The vedettes fired at them, one running one way, the other two the other way. Continuing on a mile farther we came nl)on several pickets at a bridge about 3 miles from Kinston. They fired upon my vedettes, who returned the fire. Owing to limited instructions I returned the same road and joined the main column at the church, some 6 miles south of Kiuston. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. F. MOSCIIELIJ. No. 9. Report of Capt. Newtom Hall, Third New York Cavalry, of operations December 1210. SIR: I have the honor to report that on the afternoon of December 12 I was ordered by Major-General Foster, in command of the forces then marching against Kinston, to take three companies of the Third New York Cavalry, viz~ Companies A, I), and G, with one piece of Lieutenant Allis section of artillery, under his (Lieutenant Allis) com- mand, and march forward on the direct road to Kinston, feeling the enemy and making as strong a demonstration as possible with my command. I was also ordered to retire after having made this demon- stration, to build large camp fires for the night, and hold the road until commanded to retire. I immediately moved forward, throwing a platoon of Company A, under command of Lieutenant Chamberlin, armed with carbines, in front of the column, with orders to proceed cautiously and give immediate notice of the presence of the enemy. Proceeding in this manner about ~ miles our advance came upon two cavalry vedettes, dismounted, with their horses saddled, but unbridled, and tied near the road. We were so close upon them that they were unable to mount, and started off across the field for the wood on foot. A shot from a carbine caused them to halt and they were taken prisoners. We again moved forward, and, having gained the information that part of a com- pany of infantry was stationed at a large white house within three- quarters of a mile of the rebel forces encamped at Wises Cross-Roads, I determined if possible to surprise them. Moving with even greater caution than before, we had advanced, as I judge, nearly half the dis- tance when our advance came unexpectedly upon two mounted pickets, and, charging forward upon the instant, captured them without noise or alarm. Sending them to the rear we again advanced, and when within about a mile of the main guard we came upon an infantry picket, and, learning from him the distance to the house charged in a body. As our advance approached the rebel station the rebels rushed in alarm and confusion from the house, and as they endeavored to get into line fired a few shots at us, ~vhen, unable to withstand our onset, they fled. The skirmish here lasted but a few minutes, our men using their car- bines and revolvers freely, leaving, as was subsequently ascertained, 13 dead and dying rebels upon the ground and taking 11 prisoners, be- sides those previously captured, among whom was 1 commissioned offi- cer. The men killed and 11 of the prisoners taken belong to the Twenty- second South Carolina Regiment; the others were a part of Majo Page 72 72 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Nethercutts command. After I had secured the prisoners I ordered the house to be set on fire, which was done, and, firing a shell from the howitzer as a parting salute, I slowly retired 2 or 3 miles, built large camp fires, posted a strong guard, and encamped for the night, keeping the horses saddled and ready to mount at an instants notice. There was no alarm during the night, nor at any subsequent time while I remained on the road, which I did, having no order to retire, until the 15th, when I moved up to Kinston Bridge,~and, learning there that messengers had been sent for me, proceeded with my command to within 4 miles of White Hall, where I encamped for the night. The next morning as the command was passing White Hall it was fired upon by the rebel sharpshooters from the other side of the river. I immediately ordered forward the howitzer, under command of Lieu- tenant Allis, who opened upon them with shell and canister. After three rounds were received by them they ceased firing and we passed without further molestation, joining the main column the evening of the same day near Goldsborough, not having lost a man killed, wounded, or missing. I omitted to mention that the prisoners taken, to the number of 20, were turned over to the Fifty-first Massachusetts Regiment, then acting as rear guard, previous to our leaving the Kinston road. This number, however, did not include 3 who were subsequently taken, among whom was a sergeant of Major Nethercutts band, and were paroled at Kinston on our return, making the whole number of prisoners captured by us while absent from your command 23. While finding nothing to censure and much to praise in the conduct of every officer and soldier of the command, I cannot but think that the conduct of Lieutenant Chamberlin and Sergeant Beecher, of Com- pany A, who were in charge of the first platoon in the attack upon the rebel l)ickets, deserves especial commendation. Much of the success at- tending the attack can be attributed to the soldierly qualities and good conduct displayed by them. I must not neglect to mention Lieutenant Allis and his howitzer, which was always ready when wanted, and did us good service at White Hall. I might mention others, but when I say that the conduct of all would, I think, have fully met your expectations and merited your approval if you had been l)resent, I have said enough. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. HALL, Captain, Third New York Cavalry. Lieut. Col. JOHN MIX. No. 10. Report of Capt. Ferris Jacobs, Jr., Third New York Cavalry, of operations December 13 and 14. NEw BERNE, N. C., December 21, 1862. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 13th instant, pursuant to an order from Major-General Foster, I proceeded with my command, of less than 50 men, on the road to the right of my camp until it intersected a road leading into the main highway from New Berne to Kinston about 1~ miles from the point of intersection Page 73 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBORoUGH. 73 Ascertaining a few minutes after my arrival that a squadron of cav- alry had passed down the road toward New Berne about one hour be- fore, I immediately dismounted my comman(l and posted it, so as to cut off the retreat of the enemy, and sent a messenger to General Foster with the intelligence. He returned with a piece from Belgers battery and permission to remain as long as I thought necessary. I had also been told by a contraband here that the enemy had directed him to draw a load of corn into Kinston for them, threatening to kill him oii their return if he did not do it. He was about to do so when I came on the ground. After lying perdu for one and a half hours I took a small party and reconnoitered in the direction oC Kinston, and after proceeding about three-quarters of a mile found a bridge in the midst of an almost im- penetrable swamp and broken down, the stringers being cut oiL Very naturally concluding that no cavalry force would attempt to return to Kinston on that road I returned to camp and reported as above to the general and yourself. The next morning (14th instant), upon a written order from General Foster to again proceed to the above-mentioned intersection and hold and occupy the place, with verbal permission to skirmish across the broken bridge if I found my force sufficient, I proceeded with my com- mand of the day previous, and one piece (3-inch Parrott) from Captain Lees battery, under Lieutenant Cady, to the intersection, posted the piece on a knoll about one-half mile from and overlooking the brokeu bridge and a breastwork and rifle-pits, which I had found lay behind the bridge on the opposite side of the run, and went forward with 30 cavalry to the l)Oint where the road enters the wood, and about 40 rods from the intrenchment. The skirmishers then went forward, under Lieu- tenant Richardson, through the morass to the run and engaged the en- emys skirmishers on the other side. The range was short a few yards, and Lieutenant Richardson reported it to have been quite effective. I then (near noon) opened fire with the piece from the knoll, and continued to throw shell into the intrenchment at short intervals, for about two hours but finding that the enemy was too well sheltered to be materi- ally damaged at that distance I moved the piece up to the edge of the wood and opened fire with grape and canister at a range of less than 40 rods. Abbut 40 cavalry (mounted) were drawn up in line in advance and to the right of the piece, but sheltered by the wood and a ~light acclivity. To this the enemy (who up to this time had only engaged the skirmishers) replied from the intrench-ment with grape and canister. After exchanging 12 or 15 shots a few of the enemys infantry appeared a-bout the bridge as though preparing a crossing, and fearing a sudden charge of a sul)erior force on my feebly-supported piece, I ceased firing and sent the piece back to the eminence it before occupied. Very soon the skirmishers reported that they had crossed the run into the intrench- ment, found that the enemy had withdrawn, leaving behind a number of muskets (Valley Forge pattern), haversacks, knapsacks, & c. Previous to this I had sent Lieutenant Richardson to burn a bridge half a mile up the run and on our right flank. This he did without op- position. Captain Lee, of the artillery, having arrived, together with two companies of the Fifth Massachusetts, upon consultation with him it was concluded, from the sound of the musketry, that General Foster had advanced and was at or near the Kinston Bridge. Captain Lee repaired the bridge, with the assistance of the infantry and without tools, in an almost incredibly short time. Cautiously advancing about one-fourth of a mile and no enemy being seen I gave Sergeant Gibbs, Page 74 74 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. of Company B, permission to dash on with 5 men until he either en- countered the enemy or ran on the Federal pickets. In less than half an hour he returned with the intelligence that he met the Federal pickets about 1 mile from the bridge we had just crossed and in sight of the town. The citizens estimated the force of the enemy at 1,200 infantry and four pieces of artillery, and their loss at 6 or 7 killed and wounded. Five prisoners were captured, 4 from the infantry; who said their regi- ment was the Twenty-fifth South Carolina, numbering 850 men, and that they lost but 1 man. One said he belonged to Rhetts South Carolina Battery, and that they had four pieces at the bridge but could only get two in position. The prisoners also stated that their officers variously estimated our forces to be from 5,000 to 10,000 at that place. All of which is respectfully submitted. F. JACOBS, JR., Captain, Commanding Detachment. Lient. Col. JOHN MIX, Commanding Third New York Cavalry. No. 11. Report of Capt. George W. Cole, Third New York ~iJavalry, of operations December 1216. SIR: Having been ordered to take the advance on the morning of December 12, nothing of importance occurred to my command till on the morning of the 13th, when I was ordered to make a charge via Sandy Foundation and obtain a bridge on Southwest Creek, about 5 miles from Kinston, to prevent the destruction of it and hold the position if possible. This I proceeded to do, capturing three pickets and thus surprising the rebels destroying the bridge, and by dismounting 12 of my men and advancing under partial cover obtained the first volley, but received in return a shower of canister from a gun placed back of the bridge, and musketry, which severely wounded Jack Costello, of Philadelphia (canister-shot through the head). We succeeded by rapid sharpshooting in keeping them from the bridge and gun (which as often as they endeavored to load we would pick them off) for over an hour, till relieved by the skirmishers of the Ninth New Jersey Regi- ment. After the bridge was repaired General Wessells ordered me to report to Colonel lleckman, who ordered me to feel of the enemy. On ad- vancing we were fired into by concealed enemies in force, and B. F. Chapman, of Syracuse, was severely wounded by a rifle-ball in the thigh. After sharp skirmishing the rebels fell back and we encamped on the field, advancing with the company of skirmishers in the morn- ing, and, while the battle was raging, frequently changing position to the right and left, as the enemys batteries got our range, till ordered by General Foster to make a detour to our right, capturing 4 prisoners, and, endeavoring to cross the bridge to make a charge in the rear of the flying column, I was ordered by you to return and charge up the river. I did as far as the ground permitted, and, as there was no appearance of any enemy or tracks, returned and crossed the bridge, being then Page 75 Cn~. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 75 ordered to make a reconnaissance down the river and obtain informa- tion of a battery. About 3 miles from town we found a battery wagon just deserted, and pushing on deployed as foragers, after examining the position, and charged across the rifle-pits and through their works finding in the first works extensive barracks and a secure work con- taining four 10-pounder guns loaded, with limbers, and one long 32- Vounder ship-gun. A few hundred yards down we ~found a strong bomb-proof and earthworks, on which was an 8-inch columbiad, still warm, with lots of loaded shell, but no powder in magazine. Throwing out skirmishers I hastened to spike the two heavy guns and to gallop to town for teams to draw off the 10-pounders, and, obtaining these~ drew off in the night the four guns, securely spiking the other two and setting on fire the carriages, magazine, barracks, & c., slowly covering the retreat to Kinston of the teams and guns, starting in the morning of the 15th for New Berne with seven guns, by order of General Foster. After proceeding some 6 miles on the Neuse road my advance guard observed a party of the enemy on a cross-road, and charging down with a platoon I took 7 prisoners from a South Carolina and 1 from a North Carolina Regiment, arriving safely in New Berne with guns and pris- oners December 16, turning over guns to Lieutenant Prouty and pris- oners to Captain Messinger. I have the honor to submit the above report. Respectfully, & c., GEG. W. COLE, Captain Company K, Third New York Cavalry. Lient. Col. JOHN Mix. No. 12. Report of Col. Thomas J. C. Amory, Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry~ commanding First Brigade, First Division, of engagements at Kinston,. TVhite Hall, and Goldsborough Bridge, December 14, 16, and 17. IIDQRS. FIRST BRIG-., FIRST Div., DEPT. OF N. C., New Berne, N~ C., December 21, 1862. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the brigade under my command in the several actions of the 14th, 16th, and 17th instant: The First Brigade, consisting of the Seventeenth, Twenty-third, Forty- third, Forty-fifth, and Fifty-first Massachusetts Regiments (the last three being nine months volunteers), marched from New Berne, with the army under Major-General Foster, on the morning of the 11th instant. The brigade numbered at this time nearly 3,500 men. Of these, about 10~ were sent back on our second day out, being mostly convalescents from hospital who were found unfit to continue the march. On our arrival at Southwest Creek on the 13th I was ordered to form my brigade in two lines on the left of the road, detaching one regiment to line the bank of the creek, the passage of which was disputed by the enemy. I sent forward the Twenty-third Massachusetts, which crossed at the mill-dam, the bridge having been destroyed; this regi- ment remained on the opposite bank, and rejoined my command on the march next morning. The Fifty-first Massachusetts had previously bee Page 76 76 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. detached, with orders to remain at Beaver Creek, guarding our rear; this regiment rejoined my command on the evening of the 14th. On approaching the battle-field of Kinston on the morning of the 14th, by order of the commanding general I detached the Twenty-third and Forty-third Massachusetts to the right and left of the road, respectively, in support of batteries. The seventeenth was sent to the extreme right to support Colonel lleckman, Ninth New Jersey, in advance. While superintending this movement on the right the Twenty-third and Forty- fifth were ordered forward in the center, and opened fire in the wood, gradually advancing, as did the entire line, driving the enemy to the bridge On the right I posted the Forty-third to cut off the forces of the enemy on the river road from the bridge, and a portion of these, some 430 in number, shortly afterward surrendered to Major Chambers, Twenty- third Massachusetts. In this action the Forty-fifth sutThred most severely, as indicated by their return of the killed and wounded, hereto annexed,* together with the reports of regimental commanders, to which I beg leave to refer for particulars. The different regiments of my brigade were, during most of the action, scattered through the wood or separated in support of bat- teries. All who came under my observation conducted themselves with commendable steadiness and gallantry. In the action at White Hall on the 16th, my brigade being in advance, three of the regiments (the Seventeenth, Twenty-third, and Forty-fifth) were immediately engaged, with what effect could not be ascertained, as the enemy was posted in intrenchments on the opposite side of the river, which was not fordable. These regiments did their whole duty, remaining under fire as far in advance as possible, until I was directed to withdraw them in order to allow the artillery to occupy this position, which was done, and the guns of the enemy soon afterward silenced. In resuming the march from White Hall I was directed to detach the Seven- teenth to re-enforce the advance guard, nuder Colonel Heckman, Ninth New Jersey. The remainder of my brigade took position in the rear of the column. On the morning of the 17th I was further directed to detach a regi- ment with the battery which was to hold Thompsons Ford, 5 miles above, which order I complied with, sending the Forty-third Massachu- setts under Colonel Holbrook. In the engagement at Goldsborongh Bridge the three remaining regi- ments of my brigade were not brought into action. Colonel Heckman, of the Ninth New Jersey, will doubtless report upon the conduct of the Seventeenth in that action. Their list of wounded proves them to have been completely engaged, and the successful accomplishment of the object of the expedition in the destruction of the railroad bridge is the only comment I need make on their efficiency. When all did their duty well it seems unnecessary to mention names, but I feel compelled in this place to testify to the fidelity with which Dr. Galloupe, the senior surgeon of my brigade, discharged his duties. His efficiency at all times, and his care of the wounded, merits the highest praise. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, THOS. J. C. AMORY, Cot. Seventeenth Massachusetts Vets., Oomdg First Brigade. Maj. SOIJTRARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General, New Berne, N. C. See revised statement, p. 60 Page 77 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 77 No. 13. Report of Lieut. Col.1John F. Fellows, Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry, of engagements at Kinston, White Hall, and Goldsborough Bridge, De- cember 14, 16, and 17. HDQRS. SEVENTEENTH MASSACHUSETTS VOLUNTEERS, New Berne, N. 0., December 22, 1862. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to forward the following report of the movements of the regiment under my command on the late expedi- tion to Goldsborough: As nothing of particular interest occurred until. Sunday, the 14th instant, that is not already known to the commander of the brigade, I will commence at the time I was ordered to report to General Wessells. Soon after the battle of Kinston commenced General Wessells ordered me forward to support Morrisons battery, which was stationed on the right of the road and in great danger of attack from the enemy. In about half an hour the battery was withdrawn to another position, and I was ordered to the edge of the wood. Soon after I was ordered te advance to the right to support another battery at that place. I found the Ninth New Jersey, Colonel Heckman, preparing to advance, and as I received an order to do the same the two regiments proceeded to- gether. I was then notified that the Ninth New Jersey and Seventeenth Massachusetts were to act together, under command of Colonel Heck- man. We pushed on over the open space in front and soon reached the bridge, which we crossed together, being the first regiments to go over. We took several prisoners and then marched to the town, when I was ordered on provost duty. This order was afterward countermanded and the regiment was ordered to rejoin the brigade on the other side of the bridge. On the way back I was ordered by General Foster to remain, as the brigade was to advance, and after joining the brigade was again ordered on provost duty. On Monday we were again ordered to march, the Seventeenth being in advance with the Ninth New Jersey, and this order of march was continued on Tuesday, the 16th. Upon approaching White Hall the Ninth New Jersey was fired upon and deployed upon the banks of the river, where we followed, and remained some two or three hours, the enemy firing upon us from the opposite bank. Attempts were made t& find a ford, but the water was found to be from 8 to 12 feet deep. Dur- ing this time Lieutenant Day and 11 men were wounded. Upon resum- ing the march the Seventeenth was in the advance. The next morning, being yet in the advance, 1 sent forward two com- panies of skirmishers, Companies F and C, under command, of Captain Fuller, and upon approaching the battle-ground they were attacked, but drove the enemy before them. The enemy appearing to be in force in a wood to the left, I received orders from Colonel Heekman to pro- ceed by a road through the wood and obtain possession of the railroad. This was successfully accomplished, with the loss of but 1 man, Ser- geant Hardy, of Company F. My next order was to take the regiment upon the railroad and pro- cee(l toward the bridge and to take advantage of the banks of the road for the protection of the men. We advanced, after leaving two com- panies to observe the enemy, and were soon fired upon by artillery and infantry; and to avoid the raking fire from the artillery the men were ordered to the banks of the railroad and thus continue the advance. Our march was necessarily by the flank, and upon arriving within lO Page 78 78 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. feet of the bridge a heavy fire from artillery and musketry in front and musketry from each side and in the wood was opened upon us, while the shells from our own guns fell and burst between us and the bridge. Not being willing to lose the men by the fire from our own side I again ordered them to the banks of the road and sent a messenger to the artillery to change the direction of their fire; but as the shells continued to fall in the same place I was compelled to go myself and represent to the officer in command of the guns that his fire was ~endangering our own men. As I returned, Morrisons battery caine up and took position near the bridge, and I directed the captains attention to the depot be. yond, where a train of cars had just arrived with re-enforcements for the enemy. Directing his guns with much judgment he sent a shell directly into them and continued to keep up a vigorous and effective fire until the bridge was destroyed. He then retired and I drew off my men to support a battery which continued to play farther to~ the right. After the firing ceased and the battery retired I rejoined the Ninth New Jer- sey and marched with them from the field. I cannot close this report without adding my testimony to the admi- rable conduct of the men of my command. While under fire no sign of faltering was observed among any of them. They behaved like vet- erans accustomed to such scenes, and deserve all praise for their stead- iness and prompt obedience to orders. Lieut. B. N. Mann, our former adjutant, deserves especial mention for his efforts to destroy the bridge, receiving in the attempt a severe wound. Adjutant Cheever also behaved with coolness and bravery, being always at hand to attend to the execution of orders, and the officers and men generally performed their duty to my entire satisfaction. Captain Fuller, with the companies left to watch the enemy, did great service in preventing a flank movement, and captured two of their cavalry who had ventured inside of the line of skirmishers. Our loss upon the railroad was 18 wounded, and in view of our ex- posed position and the fire which was kept up upon us the smallness of the number seems marvelous. The wounded men are in good spirits, and one of them after his wound was dressed desired to go back to the scene of action. Inclosed I send an official report of the killed and wounded: Killed, 1; wounded, 29. Aggregate, 30.* Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. F. FELLOWS, Lieutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Seventeenth Aliassachusetts Vols. Lieut. E. T. PARKINSON, A. A. A. U., First Brig., First Div., Dept. of Y. C. No. 14. Report of Maj. John U. Chambers, Twenty-third Massachusetts Infantry, of operations December 1116. HDQRS. TWENTY-THIRD REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS., tJamp Pendleton, December 23, 1862. SIR: In accordance with General Orders, Nos. 29 and 31, I left camp with my command on the morning of December 11 and took my posi * But see revised statement, p. 60 Page 79 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 79 tion in the general column. The regiment numbered 641 enlisted men and 20 commissioned officers, not including surgeons and quartermas- ter. Upon mustering for the march on the second day I found that about 100 of the enlisted men who had started had been unable to stand the fatigue of the march, and had been sent back to New Berne by the surgeons. In the forenoon of the second day (12th instant) Private John H. Montgomery, of Company I, who had straggled from the ranks into the wood, was shot through the foot by one of the enemys scouts. About noon on the 13th instant, the enemy having been discovered in force at Southwest Creek, my command was among the various in- fantry regiments ordered forward. The position assigned me was one on the left of the main road, facing the creek. I then deployed a com- pany of skirmishers to ascertain the course of the creek and if there was any enemy in the front. Shortly after, by order of Colonel Potter, I marched my regiment across the creek at the dam and was then ordered to report to General Wessells. That night the regiment was placed on picket duty in a swamp about midway between the creek above mentioned and Kinston. During the afternoon of this day Corpi. William K. Worth accident- ally shot himself through the hand. The next morning I received orders to report to Colonel Heckman for skirmish duty, but owing to an unavoidable delay in receiving extra ammunition the order was countermanded and I was again placed in your brigade, where I remained until shortly after the commencement of the action before Kiuston, when I was again ordered to report to General Wessells. General Wessells next sent me to report to Colonel Howell, of the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Regiment. In accordance with his orders I formed my line in the swamp on the left of the road and about 70 paces in the rear of the Eighty.fifth. Although subjected to a heavy fire, being in the second line, my men were kept lying down and thus escaped with but 2 wounded, and those not severely. While marching forward I discovered a number of the enemy making through the wood, and immediately sent out a detachment, to which 2 officers and 58 enlisted men, belonging to the Twenty-second South Carolina, surrendered. They had thrown away their arms. Had I been permitted I could, undoubtedly, have secured a larger number; but being in the second line and under the orders of the commander of the first I could not move forward without his sanction. We left Kinston early on the morning of the 15th instant. Nothing unusual occurred on the road until about noon on the 16th instant, when, as we were approaching a place called White Hall, the firing in front denoted that we had again come upon the enemy. The Seventeenth Massachusetts, having the right of the brigade, was the first regiment ordered in, and my regiment was immediately formed in line and shortly ordered forward. I marched it through a small piece of swamp under a heavy fire and came to the edge of the Neuse River, my left resting near where the bridge had been destroyed. The enemy were on the opposite bank, secreted behind trees and stumps, and opposite my left they had a log fort. I immediately commenced firing, which we continued until we had expended about 40 rounds of ammunition, when we were ordered out to give place to a battery which had been posted in the open space iu our rear. After the action at White Hall, our brigade being placed in the rear, we did not participate in the action near Goldsborough Page 80 [CHAP. XXX~ 80 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. In both actions the officers and men of my command behaved admi- rably, each seeming to vie with the other as to who should best perform his duty. Respectfully submitted. J. 0-. CHAMBERS, Major, Commanding Twenty- third Massachusetts Volunteers. Col. T. J. C. AMORY, Comdg. First Brigade, Department of North Carolina. No. 15. Report of Col. Charles L. Holbrook, Forty third Massachusetts Infantry. HDQRS. FORTY-THIRD REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS., Camp Rogers, December 23, 1862. SIR: At your request I respectfully submit the following statement of such matters of importance as occurred in this regiment during the campaign from which we have just returned: The regiment has taken no active part in any of the engagements, but at the battle of White Hall we lost 1 man. On the march of the column toward Goldsborough this regiment was detached and ordered to Spring Bank Bridge, when four companies were detailed as skirmishers and the remaining companies bivouacked for the night. Captain Tyler, of Company I, had 1 man killed, and Captain Doane, of Company E, had 1 wounded. The regiment marched at 12.30 a. m. to join the column on their return from CToldsborough. D. A. Jackson, private Company I, reports having been taken pris- oner the. second day out, and, after being stripped of everything and kept for half a day, he was paroled. He then marched beyond Kmns- ton till he met the hospital wagons returning with the wounded from White Hall; he got in and rode back to Kinston. He returned to New Berne in one of the gunboats. The men are suffering severely from their feet being badly blistered and the opinion of the surgeon is that they should have rest for three or four days, and, with your approval, I propose to dispense with all drills until after Christmas. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. L. HOLBROOK, Colonel Forty-third Massachusetts Volunteers. Lieut. E. T. PARKINSON, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 16. Report of Col. Charles R. Codman, Forty.ftfth ]Jlassachusetts Infantry, of engagements at Kinston and White Hall, December 14 and 16. IIDQRS. FORTY-FIFTH MASSACHUSETTS MILITIA, December 22, 1862. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that eight companies of this regiment (two being on detached service) were engaged in two actions during the late expedition into the interior of North Carolina Page 81 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 81 On the 14th instant, the regiment being on the march toward Kin- ston, I received orders from Major Hoffman, chief of the staff of the general commanding, to advance into the wood on the south side of the Neuse River to support the troops of Wessells brigade, then engaged and sai(l to be hard pressed. I was directed to act under General Wes- sells or(lers. In compliance with this order the regiment ptoceeded along the road nntil directed by General Wessells to filq to the right, when it I)roceeded to enter a wood, which, as afterward appeared, was exposed to a cross-fire from the enemy. Upon entering the wood the regiment opened fire upon the enemy, who were found to be in front and whose fire for a time was very sharp. The regiment continued to advance, occasionally lying down to rest and to avoid the enemys fire when hottest, and finally, after penetrating the wood, it found that the enemy had fled. I should add that the Tenth Connecticut Regiment, during one of the l)crlo(Is when this regiment was halted, advanced gallantly through the wood t9 its assistance, and both regiments penetrated the wood at nearly the same time. The conduct of the troops was excellent throughout. The action con- tinued for more than an hour, during which time the regiment suffered a loss of 1 corporal and 12 men killed, or who have died of their wonnds, and 1 sergeant, 5 corporals, and 38 privates wounded. On the 16th, in the battle near White Hall, this regiment was ordered by Colonel Amory, commanding the brigade, to form upon the White Hall road, to act as circumstances might require. By further order from Colonel Amory the men were directed to lie down. The regiment did not move from its place during the action except to take position a few feet in the rear of the road, but nevertheless met with some casual- ties, sustaining a loss of 1 sergeant and 3 privates killed, and 2 ser- geants, 2 corporals, and 12 privates wounded. The conduct of the men was in this instance also admirable. I beg to add that, from the statements of pri~oners and fro~a other circumstances, I am satisfied that in the battle of Kinston it was the fire of this regiment that first made untenable the position of the enemy upon the road on the south side of the Neuse River. The present effective state of the eight companies now in camp at New Berne is 29 officers and 582 men, and of the companies at Morehead City and Fort Macon 4 officers and 181 men; a total of 33 officers and 763 men. I have the honor to be, respectfully, CHARLES R. CODMAX, Colonel, (Jomdg. Forty-fifth ]Jliassachusetts Militia. Lient. E. T. PARKiNSON, A. A. A. C., First Brig., Dept. of North Garolina. No. 17. Report of Gol. Augustus B. B. AS~prague, F?fty-flrst Massachusetts D~frmntry. HDQRS. FIFTY-FIRST MASSACHUSETTS VOLUNTEERS, Foster Barracks, New Berne, N. 0., December 21, 1862. In obedience to Department General Orders, No. 77, and Brigade General Orders, No. 31, 1 reported, with my command, 778 rank and file, on the Trent road in light mt~rching order at 7 oCloCk Ofl the morn- 6 R RYOL XYJI Page 82 82 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. ing of Thursday, 11th instant, remaining with the brigade en route till the afternoon of Friday, when we were detached, in company with two pieces of artillery, under command of Captain Ransom, to guard the Beaver Creek Bridge, the main road to Kinston, and the road to Tren- ton, in rear of the advancing column. ReceiVing orders from Major-General Foster at 1.30 oclock on Sunday morning to join the main force without delay, wemarched at sunrise, having in charge 21 prisoners (taken by the cavalry on the main road to Kinston), which were turned over to the provost-marshal upon onr arrival at Kinston on Sunday morning. We advanced with the brigade on Monday morning, arriving at the scene of action at White Hall about 11 a. m. on Tuesday morning, and, though not participating in the engagement, were within range of the enemys guns ~w~the right of the artillery, which was engaged. At this point, ~i obedience to orders of Major-General Foster,~ Lieu- tenant Sanderson, with a detachment, was detailed to examine the river below the bridge, to ascertain the practicability of fording it. .After a careful examination of the river for nearly a mile he reported that it was not fordable. Tuesday afternoon, passing up with the main column on the left bank of the Neuse, we bivouacked at night about 12 miles from Goldsborough. On Wednesday we were detailed to guard the baggage train, from which duty we were relieved in the afternoon when the baggage train and troops were countermarched, after the burning of the railroad bridge by the advance, keeping our place on the return on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. We encamped on Saturday night near Deep Gully and arrived at our barracks, on the Trent, at 11 oclock on Sunday morning, my men considerably jaded and foot-sore. The orders in regard to pillaging and foraging were enforced, and the men suffered in consequence of an insufficient supply of meat. Taking into consideration the fact that this regiment had been but a week in the held and received their arms only two days before they received marching orders, I have the honor to report that they behaved well during the entire march. None were killed, 2 wounded,and none missing. I have the honor to be, very i~espectfully, your obedient servant, A. B. R. SPRAGUE, Colonel Fifty-ftr8t Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment. Lient. E. T. PARKINSON, A. A. A. Cm, First Brigade. No. 18. Report of Col. Thomas U. Stevenson, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts in- fantry, commanding Second Brigade, of engagements at Iiinston, White Hall, and Goldsborough Bridge, December 14, 16, and 17. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG-., FIR ST DIV., DEPT. OF N. C., New Berne, N. C., December 21, 1862. SIR: 1 have the honor to report the following as the result of the part taken by the Second Brigade in the late expedition: Agreeably to orders from headquarters this brigade joined the column the morning of December 11 on the Trent road, being third in position. Nothing of importance occnrred nutil the morning of Sunday, Decem- b~r 14, when within a few ni iBis Qf Kinston the ~idvance was attacke Page 83 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 83 by the enemy in force. The Tenth Connecticut and Forty-fourth Mas- sacliusetts were ordered into position oii right of road iii support of battery; the Fifth Rhode Island and Twenty-tburth Massachusetts on left of road to sLII)port Relgers battery. The Tenth Connecticut, Fifth Rhode Island, and Forty-fourth Massachusetts were then ordered for- ward to the advance. The Tenth Connecticut made a gallant charge, nnder a very galling tire, on the enemy, who were rapidly retreating over the bridge which had been set on tire. The Tenth Connecticut poured in a very destruc- tive fire, capturing a rebel stand of colors and a number ot prisoners. lily the exertions and gallant conduct of this regiment the bridge was saved, they being the first to cross. As soon as the tire on the bridge was put out onr forces crossed, the enemy retreating in all directions. No more resistance being offered, my brigade bivona ~ :d on the out- skirts of the town. Next morning we recrossed the river, continuing the line of march toward Goldsborongh. On the morning of December 16 the enemy made another stand at White Hall, occupying a strong l)osition on the other side of the river, having burned the bridge. The Forty-fourth Massachusetts and Tenth Connecticut were ordered into position on the banks of the river, on the left of the road leading to the bridge. Jilelgers battery was then or- dered to shell the woods, the enemys sharpshooters being so com- J)letely concealed that the fire of our infantry had but little effect. The line of march was then taken up toward t~oldsborough, the Fifth Rhode Island and a few sharpshooters of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts being left behind to engage the rebel sharpshooters till the rear of the column had passed. At noon on the 17th arrived at railroad bridge over the Neuse River. Captain Belgers battery was ordered to the front, and did signal serv- ice in repelling the charges of the enemy. I formed my brigade in line of battle on the hill on the left of the road. The enemy having been defeated,I was ordered to take up the line of march toward New Berne; had got but a few miles when I received orders to countermarch and supl)ort a piece of aitillery posted on the Everettsville road, where I remained about an hour. I then ieceived orders to march on once more toWar(l New Berne, arriving here last evening (December 20). I cannot close this report without referring, as I do with gratitude, to the manner in which Col. F. L. Lee, commanding the Forty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Militia; Lient. Col. R. Leggett, commanding the Tenth Connecticut Volunteers; Maj. R. II. Steven- son, commanding the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers; Captain Arnold, commanding the Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers an Belger, commanding the Rhode Island battery (which d Captain was attached to my brigade for the occasion), have seconded all my efforts through- out the whole expedition. Their prompt and efficient action has facili- tated every movement which has been undertaken. The valuable services of the Tenth Connecticut Volunteers at Kin- ston, as of Captain Edgers battery at White Hall and at Everettsvihle, were not rendered, I regret to say, without heavy loss as in the list of killed and wounded, which 1 transmit.* , dicated by THOS. G. STEVENSON, Colonel, Commanding & cond Brigade, First Division. Maj. SOIJTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. * Embodied in revised statenmQnt, p. 60 Page 84 [CHAP. XXX. 84 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. No. 19. Report of Licat. Col. Robert Leqgett, Tenth Connectic~tt Infantry, of en yayeinent at Kinston, December 14. I have the honor to report the part taken by this regiment in the action of I)ecember 14 and the losses sustained by it. According to an order received from General Foster I advanced my regiment over three regiments already formed in line in the woods. On reaching the second line the regiment came under a severe fire from the enemy, but went steadily forward to the first line, which was engaged with the enemy and somewhat in disorder. The regiment formed in line with the ad- vance and opened fire upon the enemy. After being under fire about thirty miuntes the fire of the regiment was directed to the bridge, across which the enemy were retreating and which they were endeavoring to burn, in some five minutes the enemy broke and my regiment moved at a double-quick down the road. A portion of the enemy formed in line of battle in a corn field on the opposite side of the bridge and opened fire on us as we came on. Immediately on taking the bridge, where we captured about 50 of the enemy, we extinguished the flames. As soon as the enemy found we had taken the bridge they broke up their line in disorder and opened on us from the ditches on each side of the road. The regiment remained at the bridge about thirty minutes, keeping up a comitinual fire upon the enemy, when we crossed the bridge, taking a numn ber of prisoners behind the intrenchments and, pushing forward, formed in line of battle opposite the city and awaited orders. While in the woods the regiment sustained a loss of 90 killed and wounded, including a captain and lieutenant killed and 2 hienten- ants wounded. At the bridoe 1 lieutenant was killed, 1 severely wounded, and 6 or 8 rank and file wounded. In the action at White hall we brined line of battle and advanced to the river on the left of the bridge, opening fire according to order received. The enemy made no response, and one company was detailed to go down the bank of the river in search of a ford. Finding none, volunteers were called for to swim the river and cut down two tall trees on that side, while two were being felled on this side, and at the same time a company was sent to find lumber to build a bridge. The regiment was at work form- ing a bridge when it received orders to fall back. No loss was suffered by the reglinent at this place. 111 LEGGETT, Licutenant- Colonel, Comdg. Tenth Regiment Connecticut Vols. No. 2fi. Report of Cot. Horace C. Lee, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. IIDQRS. THIRD BRIGADE, DEPT. OF NORTh CAROLiNA, New Berne, N. C., December 21, 1862. SIR: 1 have the honor to report the movements of the Third Brigade, consisting of the Third, Fifth, Twenty-fifth, Twenty-seventh, and Forty- sixth Regiments, under my command, on the late expedition to Golds- borough: We were in line, as ordered, on Thursday, December ii, at 7 oclock, our positioh being with the baggage train in the rear. It was nearl Page 85 ChAP. ,tXX.] NtW I3E1iNE TO OOLDSI3OROtTGit. 85 110 before we were in column. The nature of the roads for a few miles out from New Berne was such that our progress was quite slow. We ar- rived, however, at the camp assigned us, on the Trent road, at about 8 p.m. Friday (12th) we marched through the day, the roads through the swamps gradually growing worse, the train being constantly delayed, until 10 p. m. I had before leaving camp in the morning ordered Colonel Richmond, of the Third Regiment, to detail five companies from his regiment to march beside the wagons and assist the teamsters. Just before dark I ordered the remaining five to fall back and assist in the - same manner, as the roads in many places were almost impassable. Saturday (13th) were in column and moving by 8 oclock, having, by order from General Foster, detailed the Third Regiment, with a corps of pioneers, to march as the day before and assist the train. Arriving about 10 oclock at a cross.road, up which the main body had passed, the Forty.sixth regiment, with a section of Lees battery, was left so poste(l as to comman(1 the approach from the main road to Kinston. We arrived soon after noon at a field near a creek within a few miles of Kinston, where the advance had met and driven back a body of the enemy. We encamped here for the night, and dealt out to the men two (lays rations and 20 rounds extra of ammunition. Sun day (14th) leaving the Fifth Regiment to guard the baggage train, we moved up the Kinston road, the Forty-sixth falling into their position in line as we came, they having been, by order of General Fos- ter, moved up from the post where they had been,left and occupied one near us through the night. We soon heard firing from the front and learned that the advance had met the enemy near Kinston. When we arrived we found General Wessells and Colonel Amorys brigades en- gaged and Colonel Stevensons drawn up in two lines, supporting Bel - gers battery and one of the Third New York Artillery. We were soon ordered to relieve Colonel Stevensons command, which moved forward, we occupying their position. While here the enemy retreated and we went forward into Kinston, encamping for the night. Monday (15th) we were the third in column, General Wessells having charge of time train, following the First and Second Brigades. We re- crossed the river, marched through the day, and encamped about 8 oclock. Tuesday (16th) we were not fairly out of camp when firing was heard in advance of us. We moved on as rapidly as possible and found~ the First Brigade engaged with the enemy at White Hall. The Second Brigade was soon ordered to the front, and we, under orders from Gen- eral Foster, moved immediately on toward Goldsborough, having, as we l)assed, 3 men wounded, leaving a small detachment of the Twenty- fifth and Forty.sixth Regiments as sharpshooters. We encamped at sundown about 8 miles below Goldsborough. Wednesday (17th) we were early in line. Colonel lleckman, with the Seventeenth Massachusetts and Ninth New Jersey acting as skir- mishers, we moved forward and came within sight of the Wilmington Railroad. About 11 oclock a small body of the enemy could be seen upon a hill-side near by. Riggs battery #as put in position and a few shells thrown among them, when they (lisrtppeared. We immediately ad- vanced. The Twenty-filth and Twenty-seventh Regiments were move(l lorwar(1 in line on the left, the battery supported by the Third an(l Forty-sixth upon the right, the Fifth, which had now coimme up with us, remaining in column. Emerging from the wood I toun(i Colonel heck Page 86 86 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. F. VIRGINIA. [ChAP. XXX. man advancing up the railroad, and sent forward to support him the Twenty-fifth and Twenty-seventh Regiments, and subsequently the Third. The Fifth I formed on the left in the wood, commanding a road running down from a mill on the other side of the railroad. Dis- covering the appearance of troops near there, I sent forward a com- pany of skirmishers from the Fifth Regiment, who reported that cav- alry and infantry were in sight within the wood but retired as they advanced. The bridge across the Keuse was soon seen to be on fire, and orders came to destroy as much of the road as possible. This being accomplished and the firing having ceased we received orders to form column and follow the main column en~ route to New Berne. Four regi- ments had already formed and passed, most of them across the creek, in their usual and regular order of march, leaving the Fifth to support the battery. At this time a detachment of the Third New York Cavalry coming up moved down toward the burning bridge, a few approaching its im- mediate vicinity. The latter were fired upon apparently by a regiment of the enemy from the edge of the wood near the bridge. The cavalry then moved quickly to the brow of the hill, followed by Captain Mor- risons battery, which had been stationed midway between the crest of the hill and the bridge. Two or three regiments (three colors were seen) then emerged from the wood and quickly formed a line of battle just behind the railroad track. Captain Morrisons battery then opened a rapid fire upon them with shell, grape, and canister. A portion of the enemy instantly, with loud cheers, charged up the hill toward the battery, and bore up steadily in the face of a well-directed and most destructive fire. I immediately ordered the Fifth Massachusetts Regiment to support Morrisons battery, and recalled the regiments that had retired across the creek, and ordered up Belgers battery, which had been assigned to me on account of its having more ammunition left than Riggs. Warned by the rapid fire of the battery and by the cheers of the enemy they came up rapidly, whereupon I posted the Twenty-sevemith Massa- chusetts Regiment on the left to prevent a flank attack in that direction, and placed the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts in support, believing the main attack of the enemy was in this direction, where he was supported by artillery. On the right I disposed the Third Massachnsetts Regi- ment to resist a flank movement in that direction, and the Forty-sixth Massachusetts was held in reserve so as to be readily available to sup- pori~ the weakest portion of the line. The enemy meanwhile had been staggered by the crushing fire of the batteries, and at sight of my supporting regiments broke and fled in (lisorder to the wood. His retreat was covered by a heavy fire from the battery on his right, which inflicted on my command a loss of 3 killed and 19 wounded. Hereupon I ordered the Twenty-seventh Regiment to file into the wood and to approach the enemys left amid open fire, which they did ~c- cordingly. At this time a section of Riggs battery opened fire from the eminence near the building used as a hospital, and I received orders from General Foster to retire under cover of this fire unless closely prC55C(l by the emmemy. The advance of the Twenty-seventh was checked by the fire from Riggs battery, but the regiment reached a point at which it could put in a few effective volleys. Simultaneously Captain ]3elgers Rhode Island battery took position near my center and replied to the enemys battery with good effect, and also shelled the wood that covered his infantry Page 87 CHAP. X~X.l NEW I3E~NE TO GOLDSBOROUGII. 87 The last effort of the enemy was made on my right. He extended his lines along the wood and threatened my flank, when I ordered the Third Massachusetts to open fire. They did so, but soon discontiflued as the enemy retired. The battery on my left being silenced and the enemy making no further demonstration, and having received information that the creek in our rear was rapidly rising, I ordered my command to withdraw. In crossing the creek the water was up to the waists of the men. Before retiring the field was carefully searched and the bodies of our dead were brought off. Our position was such, being just at the crest of the hill, that our loss was quite small. My column slowly and in proper order now rejoined the main body. We arrived at New Berne on Sunday. It is perhaps unnecessary for me to say that the old regiments (Twenty-fifth and Twenty-seventh) sustained their previous well-earned reputation, officers, and men doing their utmost not only to hold but to add to their laurels acquired in the old First Brigade. The new regi- mnents did nobly, marching up steadily and firmly and maintaining their line and position without flinching even in the most exposed situations. I received great assistance from my acting assistant adjutant-gen- eral, Bartlett, and my aides, Lieutenant Myrick, of the Fifth iRegiment. and Lieutenant Marsh, of the Forty-sixth. iRespectfully, your obedient servant, II. C. LEE, Gol. Twenty-seventh ]Jfass. Reyt., Comdg. Third Brig. Maj. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 21. Report of Maj. Josiah Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts L~fantry. IIDQHS. TWENTY-FIFTH IIEGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS., Camp Oliver, New Berne, N. 0., December 29, 1862. Sin: I have the honor to forward you the following report of the part taken by the Twenty-fifth IRegiment in the late expedition to Kinston and Goldsborough: Arriving from Plymouth late on the afternoon of the 10th with six companies of my regiment, I found orders awaiting me to be ready to march at 7 oclock on the morning of the 11th and assigning my regi- ment to the Third Bri~ade, under command of Colonel Lee. I left New Berne on the morning of the 11th with six companies of the regiment. Captain Moulton joined me at the Harrison place (our outpost on the Trent road) with the other four companies, making an effective force, exclusive of field, staff; and line officers, of 672 men. Nothing occurred in which the regiment or any of it took part worthy of note till Sunday, the 14th instant, when our forces arrived in front of and commenced the battle of Kinston. ileceiving orders to support Battery H, Third New York Artillery, I formed my regiment in line of battle and took l)osition upon the left of the battery. iReceiving orders shortly after- ward to support Belgers Rhode Island battery I moved forward and took position npon the left. In this latter position I remained until the battle was decided. I then moved forward, crossed the bridge, and bivouacked my regiment that night in Kiuston Page 88 88 NORTH CAROLINA AND ~. l~. VIRGINIA. fCIIAP. ~ZY. On Monday, the 15th, the march was resumed. On the 16th our forces were engaged at White Hall. My regiment, though within range of the enemys guns, was not engaged, but march- ing by the flank throngh the fields in the rear of our batteries we took lip the line of march for Goldsborough. At this time I was called upon to furnish sharpshooters for duty on the banks of the river in cleaTing the woods on the other side of the enemys riflemen. Abont 100 of my men volunteered for this dangerous duty. After being I)OStCd they rendered effective service. One man was here shot through the head and severely wounded. On the 17th the line of march was resumed, the Third Brigade hav- ing the advance. Late in the morning skirmishing with the enemys pickets commenced, which continued until we came upon their main force posted this side of tbe railroad bridge crossing the Neuse River. I was ordered forward to be in readiness to support the Seventeenth Massachusetts and the Ninth New Jersey, who were sharply engaged with the enemy. I moved forward in line of battle, taking position on the right of the railroad in the rear of the Twenty-seventh Massachu- setts and quite near onr batteries. I remained in this position till the bridge was burnt and the railroad torn up, when my regiment was with- drawn from the field. In a short time the enemy again made his ap- pearance, advancing in two lines of battle with evident design of charg- ing upon and taking one of our batteries. Receiving orders to again move into the field I advanced by the flank at double-quick and was assigned position in the rear of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts and on the left and supporting Belgers battery. I ordered my men to lie down, and though exposed to a severe fire from the enemy which we had no chance to return yet the men behaved with perfect coolness. While in this position we sustained a loss of 1 killed and 3 woun(led. night brought an end to the contest, and we were withdrawn, and took up the line of march for New Berne, which we reached on Sunday, the ~l st, and went into camp on our old ground. I cannot end without mentioning in terms of the highest praise the conduct of both officers and men during the whole expedition. On the march, in the bivouac, under fire, in everything that they were called upon to perform they showed all the qualities of the true soldier, and their conduct merits and receives my heartiest commendations. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, JOSIAh PICKETT, Major, Commanding. Lieut. GEORGE XV. BARTLETT, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Brigade. No. 22. Report of Lieut. Col. William S. Shurtieff, Forty-sixth Massachusetts En fautry. IIDQRS. FORTY-SIXTh MA5SACiITSETT5 VOLUNTEIERS, New Berne, N. C., December , 1862. Siu: I have the honor to report that in pursuance of your Orders, No. 18, dated Decem ber 10, 1862, the Forty-sixth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteer Militia left its camping ground and entered upon its place in line of march at 7 oclock on the morning of Thursday, December 11, 1862 Page 89 NEW I3EUNE TO GOLDSl3OJ~OUGll. ~3t3 and, in company with thB other regiments and being third in line of your brigade, were en route toward Kinston at about 9 oclock a. in., continti- lug the march nutil about 10 oclock p. in., when it went into camp abont 13 miles from New Berne, on the Trent road. It recommenced its march in the same order at 9 oclock on the morning of December 12, and noth- ing of note haviug transpired again encamped with the other regiments of yours and time preceding brigades about 28 miles from New Berne. Our march was again resumed on the morning of Saturday, the 13th, at about 9 a. in., aud continued for about an hour, when our regiment was detached from your brigade and left, with two pieces of i~iggs battery, Captain Lee, to guard and hold certain cross-roads and the approaches from the rear and front of the center road of the three roads leading to Kinston. The artillery having been placed with excellent judgment and skill by Captain Lee in position to completely command the approach in front from Kinston, the Forty-sixth was drawn np in line of battle behind and in support. Pickets were thrown forward on the Kiuston road and one company (F), under Captain Conwell, was detached and l)osted at two angles of a triangle, some 200 yards in our rear, formed by a cross by-road connecting the road on which our main body was posted and the road taken by the main body of the army, so that no approach upon either road could be made by the enemy without our receiving timely warning. We held this position until sundown, when I received orders from Major Hoffman to advance my command 4 miles nearer to Kinston up the road on which we were then posted, and to hold and occupy cer- tain cross-roads indicated nntil further orders. This order we exeon ted, making the march after nightfall. I detached Company 1) (Captain Grimes), to march some 50 yards in advance and then threw forward 10 men, under Lieutenant Knapp, as an advance guard against surprise. Having arrived at the position indicated, the artillery was placed in position by Captain Lee, the infantry drawn up in line in support in the edge of the woods skirting the cross-road; the several roa(ls thoroughly picketed; the main road in front and a cross-road leading to the right by Captain Grimes company, divided so as to make three posts, in charge, respectively, of Captain Grim-es, Lieutenant Kuapp, and Lieu- tenant Bronson; the road in our rear picketed with two posts from Captain Kingsburys company (B), and the road leading to the left and toward the position of the advance of the army, and the road in our immediate right and left front by (letachinents from Captain Lin- colns company (G). Our baggage train I brought forward and placed on our left, on the cross-road leading to the rear of the advance, and of course between-our left and our pickets. The men were then ordered to lie upon their arms, and of course no camp fires were allowe(i. This position we occupied undisturbed nutil morning, our pickets brin gin g in one prisoner, whom I (lelivered to the care of the rear guar(i; an(l then, in pursuance of an order from Major Hoffman, received about mi(inight, we proceeded at 7 a. in. of the next day to rejoin the main body, arriv- ing just in time to take our proper place in line, where we continued until, the advance becoming engaged near Kin ston, we were sent by your orders forward to support a battery, not then, however, engaged. After the engagement at Kinston was over we nuder your orders re- sumed our former position in line, and entering Kinston encamped there with the i-est of your brigade. Resuming our march on the following morning- (Monday) we preserved our place in line until. the a(ivance bein~g euga~ed ut White Hall with the artillery, un(ler your orders we passed forward following the Twenty Page 90 90 NORtH ~AROLI~1A A~D S. IX VIRCtINIA. [CHAP. XXX. fifth Massacbusetts and formed in line on its left, but were immediately after by you ordered into line of march again. At this time some 50 men were detached, under orders purporting and believed to come from Major-General Foster, to remain at White Hall as sharpshooters. We then proceeded in our proper place and en- camped about 6 p. m. Our detachment of sharpshooters all reported to the regiment before morning, with the exception of one, Chapin, of Company I, who was wounded by a rifle-ball from The enemys sharp- shooters in the arm, not dangerously. Our march was resumed in place on the following morning about half past 7 oclock, and, upon arriving near the line of the Wilmington Railroad, your brigade engaging the enemy, we were ordered up and formed line in support of Belger~s bat- tery, in a position taken at first but at once changed before it engaged the enemy, we following it and supporting it in its new position on the brow of a hill commanding the railroad and woods around the railroad bridge. This position we occupied until, the bridge having been burned and the track torn up, the battery retired and we were ordered to fol- low it en route for New Berne. Pending, however, forming the line for the march~ the enemy reap- pearing to the right and front of our late position and threatening the battery left to cover our retiring force as well as our flank, we were ordered back and at once formed in rear of the Third Massachusetts. In this position we remained, the men lying down, being subjected to a somewhat annoying fire of the enemy~s battery on our left, but with- out having any opportunity to engage any portion of his force, until under your orders (the enemys batteries having been either silenced or withdrawn and his infantry retired) we resumed our place in line en ro?ite again for New Berne, having at the outset to ford a mill-stream rendered swift and deep by the raising of the flood-gates by the enemy, as we supposed. In this action, and while occupying our position after the renewal of the engagement, I regret to state that we had 1 man (one Wall, of ilolyoke, Mass., a member of Company B) mortally wounded and 3 others wounded by the shell of the enemy, the details of which I give in paper marked A, appended hereto.* Continuing our march, we encamped with the rest of your brigade about 10 oclock p. m. at our camping ground of the previous night, and, resuming our march on the following morning at 8 oclock,reached camp at about ii oclock p.m. after a march toilsome and harassing to the men to the last degree. Resuming our march at 8 oclock a. m. on the following day, after a comparatively easy march of some 12 miles we encamped about 6 miles below Kinston, passing down the river road. Resuming our march in our place in line on the day following at 8 oclock a. in., we again encamped at 6 oclock some 13 miles from New Berne, on the Trent road, and from this place our ambulances without halting were sent forward under charge of Maj. James H. Waterman, surgeon of our regiment, then in charge of the ambulance train, to New Berne, our wagons following at early morning in advance of the brigade. Resuming our march at 7 oclock a. m. we arrived at ~ ew Berne and our camping ground about 2 oclock p. in., the men very foot-sore and weary, otherwise in good con- dition and spirits. I am happy to be able to state that from my care- ful observation of the men under my command, both under the trials of toilsome marches and the excitement of anticipated engagement with the enemy, I believe you have in them a body upon whom you may with confidence rely should occasion require you to use them in any * Nominal list omitted. See p. 60 Page 91 ~m.j NEW BRINE TO OOLDSBOEOUGH. 91 of the ways that the exigencies of the service may require. I am happy also to bear witness to the energetic and conscientiously careful discharge of duty on the part of Captain Lee, with whom I was asso- ciated, as I have stated, and to whom I am greatly indebted for nina. ble assistance and counsel on our solitary night march and bivouac, and who, I am glad to learn, on subsequent detached duty added to his reputation and performed valuable service. I should deprive myself also of a pleasure ff1 omitted Co call to your notice the fact that the adjutant of our regiment, James 0. Smith, com- mencing the expedition suffering from a painflil accidentel shot wond in the leg, still Insisted upon accompanying the regiment, and though having double duty to perform, in tb~ absence of one of the field officers, still manfufly endured all the toils of the march and the field and ren- dered me invaluable service in the management and control of the regi- ment I should also state that Colonel Bowler accompanied the expe- dition until after the affair at Kinston, but was unable by reason of indisposition to assume command, and felt constrained by increasing illness to return to New Berne on the morning of the third of the ex- pedition. Very respectfully, your servau~ SHURTLEFF, IdevL GeL, Coueig. iforti-elath If aesaclweette Yolumieere. Col. HoRACE C. LEE, CommaesdMg Third Brigade, First Divides. No. 23. Report of VoL Charles A. Heck...., Ninth Neso Jersey IRfa.try, First Brigade, Second Divides. HDQRS. NxrrH REGIMENT NEW Jnsusy VoLuNTEns, Camp Rene, December 21,1802. Sm: I have the honor to report that in accordance with your order I on the morning of the 11th with my regiment took my position on the right of the column, which position it retained during the whole mareh. On the second day, December 12, we came up with the advance guard of the enemy. I immediately deployed two companies as skirmishers, and drove the enemy back without loss on our side. On the ~orning of December i3~ at 11 a. in.1 we came up with the enemy, who had two guns in position on the west bank of Southwest Creek, supported by infantry. I here fond Captain Cole, Third New York Cavalry, with his men dismounted, warmly engaged with the enemy. Lientenant-Colonel Mix had placed Lieutenant Days section of Morrisons battery in a gcod position and was sending shell into them rapidly. I immediately ordered Companies C, H, and 0 to cross the stream on the ri ht, while with the remainder of the regiment I crossed at a mill-dam about a mile above on the let On arriving at their works from their rear I found it deserted and the guns withdrawn. My whole command having joined mel stationed one company at the bridge and with the balance, having sent you word of my intention, proceeded up the road, and when about a mile from the creek was saluted by a round of canister from a 6-pounder and musketry. I charged on th Page 92 NORTH CAROLINA AND ~. K VIRGINIA. double-quick and Yankee yell an(i secured one 6-pounder and caisson, killed 3, wonuded several, and took 8 of the enemy prisoners. Skir- inishing continued through the whole day, my loss being 1 wounded and 1 taken prisoner. About 3 p. in. Captain Cole, Third New York Cavalry, reported to me, by order of General Wessells, to reconnoiter forward. We had pro- ceeded about three-fourths of a mile when our adva~nce guard was fired npon by volleys of musketry from both si(les of the road woundin~ 1 b cavalryman. I ordered the cavalry to the rear and deployed as skir- mishers three compames on each si(le of the road. The men advanced steadily and firmly under a heavy but wild tiring of tw6 regiments of infantty and two 6-pounders. MQrrisors battery came to my assist- ance and drove the enemy into their stronghold. We bivonacked for the night. On Sunday, December 14, the enemy was found posted about 1 mile this side of the village of Kinston in strong force. Four companies (C, D, E, and I) were sent forward as skirmishers. They were opened on by artillery and infantry, but stood their ground admirably, and doing great injumy to the enemy by their well-directed fire. Again Morrison came forward with a section of his battery and opened briskly, a regi- mnent lmaving arrived to support the battery. With the remaining six companies I moved to the right to prevent being flanked from that direction. We came up with a regiment of them oii our right front, engaged them, and in a few minutes forced them to retreat precipitately. I next discovered a regiment on my right flank. Captain with a section of his battery (New York artillery.), opened upon them with splendid effect, and prevented theni from forming a junction with their main column. Being re-enforced by four regiments of Wessells brigade (Eighty-fifth and Ninety-sixth New York, One hundred and first Pennsylvania, and the Seventeenth Massachusetts) I formed the Eighty- fifth, Lieutenant-Colonel Well man, and the Ninety-sixth, Colonel Gray, in line of battle to the right, the Ninth New Jersey and Seventeenth Massachusetts facing to our original fronts. The Eighty-fifth and Ninety-sixth advanced rapidly about 400 yards, discovered the enemy behind afence in the edge of the wood, and poured a volley into them, at ~vhich they fled in commtusioim, Cxl)05Cd to our fire. I then ordered the Ninety-sixth,, 5u1)pOrted by the Eighty-fifth, to a(lvance, under cover of the woo(l, upon the bridge, and the Ninth New Jersey, supported by the Seventeenth Massachusetts, to advance in a direct line across the open ground to time same point. The One hundred and first remained to support the battery. On arriving near the bridge, shell, canister, ammd musketry were opened upon us from the opposite bank of the river. Firing continued from both sides about twenty minutes. I regret, sir, the necessity to report that at this point we lost the gallant Colonel Gray. After the enemys guns had been sileimeed and their forces dispersed the Ninth New Jersey, aided by the Seventeenth Massachnsetts and Eighty-fifth New York, extinguished the flames of the burning bridge and crossed imi the folloxving order: Ninth, Seventeenth, and Eighty- fifth. My regiment secured three 6-pounder brass guns, one stand of colors, and a number of prisommers and smuall-arms. Loss, 2 killed, ~ xvounded, and 1 missing. I take pleasure iii adding that the lamnemited Colonel Gray, Lieutenant- Colonel Fellows, Lieutenant-Colonel Welhmnan, and Major Zabriskie Page 93 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGJI. 93 with their commands, without exception, displayed marked 1)ravery and coolness, and proved effectually their efficiency an(1 gallantry. As soon as the bridge was sufficiently repaired to permit the crossing of the artillery J received the order forward. XXe marched through the town, the Ninth having the advance and the Seventeenth Massa- chusetts following. We marched along the bank of the river, crossed the railroa(l, and bivouacked for the night about 2 mile8 from Kinston, on the Goldsborough road. At 6 a. in., the 15th instant, received orders to return to the bridge. On arriving at the bridge we crossed and continued our march in the direction of White Hall. Nothing of interest occurred throughout the day, an(l at night bivouacked 3 miles from White Hall. At 7 a. in., 16th instant, we were again in motion, the Ninth New Jersey in advance. Upon our arrival at White Hall my advance guard drew the fire of the enemy, who were strongly iutreiiched and fortified ou the opposite side of the river, having previously buriied the bridge to prevent our crossing. .1 immediately ordered the fences thrown dowa on each side of the road for the artillery to take their position. In the mean time I had ordered four companies to deploy as skirmish- ers, which they did, the entire length of our front, and tbe engage- ment soon became general. The remaining six companies of the Ninth weie immediately ordered forward to support the skirmishers and, when an opportunity offered, to engage the enemy. The Ninth warmly en- gaged the enemy until their ammunition (60 rounds) was expended. The regiment was then ordered to retire and send for ammunition. The Seventeenth Massachusetts relieved us on the left and the Twenty-third Massachusetts on the right. While waiting for ammunition the column was ordered forward. We received orders to wait for our supply and bring up the rear. Our loss was 3 killed, 42 wounded, and 3 missing. I then received orders to take the Seventeenth Massachusetts and proceed in advance toward Goldsborough Bridge. Bivouacked the night of the 16th about 5 miles from the bridge. Morning of the 17th column again moving, Seventeenth Massachu- setts in advance, Ninth New Jersey following. About 2 miles from the bridge commenced driving in the enemys pickets. On coming in sight of the bridge saw a regiment of the enemy passing along the railroad. I immediately ordered the Seventeenth Massachusetts to send out skir- mishers and advance on the left of the road and the Ninth New Jersey to deploy and advaiice on the right as far as the railroad. Found the enemy here in force on both sides of the river. The Seventeenth, on reaching the railroad, by my order left one company where the country road crosses the railroad and then marched down the railroad in the di- rection of the bridge. The company left in position on the country road were charged upon by a squadron of cavalry whom they repulsed, and captured 2 prisbners, with out loss on our side. The Ninth advanced on the right of the Seventeenth to within 30 feet of the river and bridge. As soon as the artillery arrived on the grouiid I withdrew the Ninth New Jersey and Seventeenth Massachusetts to give the artillery position. Torches were sent us and orders to burn the bridge. I rode up to the Ninth New Jersey and called for volunteers to burn the bridge. Numbers volunteered instantly, but as I wanted but three, Lieutenant Graham, acting aide to me, and two privates, one of Company B, William Lemons, and , took the portflres and started on their dangerous mission. The enemy were thickly posted on both 5i(les of the river and all about the bridge, but the volunteers were successful, and we soo Page 94 94 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. had the gratification of seeing flames and smoke ascending in columns, and the bridge was effectually destroyed. Our loss was 12 wounded. The object of the expedition having been accomplished I received orders to countermarch and return. Had proceeded about 1 mile when firing was heard in our rear, and word came forward that our rear had been attacked. I immediately ordered the Ninth New Jersey into line of battle on the left of the road and the Seventeenth Massachusetts on the right. Soon after forming there II received orders to return to the scene of action, which I did, and posted my regiments on the right and left of the country road and left of Belgers battery, which was warmly engaged with the enemy. Remained in that position about thirty min- utes, when we were relieved by a regiment of Wessells brigade and we started on our return and arrived at New Berne Saturday evening, 20th instant, having marched the last day 30 miles. Officers and men displayed great coolness and bravery. The color- sergeant and color-guard behaved nobly. I deem it my duty, however, to mentioi~ particularly Lieut. George Graham, of Rocket Battery, W. W. McChesney (citizen), volunteer aides, for valuable services rendered throughout the expedition. I~ have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. A. HECKMAN, Colonel. General J. G. FOSTER, Corn inanding Department of North Carolina. No. 24. Report of Maj. Abram Zabrisicie, Ninth New Jersey infantry. HDQRS. NINTH REGIMENT NEW JERSEY VOLS., December 21, 1862. SIR: I respectfully forward to you the report of the part taken by the regiment under my command in the expedition, under Major-Gemi- eral Foster, against Goldsborough: We started from New Berne on the morning of December 11, this regiment holding the advance of the column, which position it retained during the whole march. On the second day, December 12, we came up with the advance guard of the enemy. By your order two companies were sent forward as skir- mishers, and continued steadily to drive the enemy back without any loss on our side. On the morning of December 13, at 11 a. in., we came up with the enemy in a strong position on the west bank of Southwest Creek. Two of the companies were ordered to cross the stream on the right, while the remainder of the regiment crossed at a mill-dam about a mile above on the left. When we arrived at the breastwork thrown up by the enemy I found it deserted both by their artillery and infantry. However, discovering the enemy half a mile farther up the road, the regiment charged on them at a run, and succeeded in capturing a gun and caisson, 6-pounder, besides wounding 3 of the enemy and taking 6 or 8 prisoners. Skirmishing with the enemy continued through th~ whole day, our loss being 1 mart wounded aud 1 taKen prisoner Page 95 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERN.E TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 95 On Sunday, December 14, the enemy were found posted about 1 mile this side of the village of Kinston in strong force. Four companies (C, D, E, and Ii) were sent forward as skirmishers. They were soon opened on by artillery and infantry, but stood their ground admirably, holding the l)osit.iou they had taken and doing great injury to the enemy by their well-directed fire. The remaining six companies were sent on the right tQ flank the enemys position. We came up with a regiment of them stationed in the wood on the right, and after a half hours fight succeeded in forcing them to retreat precipitately. Then advancing by your order across the field to the road I opened fire with the head of column upon the enemy, who were retreating across the bridge, and succeeded in preventing their escape. After crossing the bridge we look three guns, one stand of colors and numerous prisoners. Our loss in this battle amounted to 2 killed~ 32 wounded, and 1 miss- ing. Resuming our march, on the 16th we came up with the enemy on the other side of the Neuse River, at White Hall, posted behind breast- works and buildings. The whole regiment was deployed along the banks of the river, kept up a brisk fire for about two hours, and were at last relieved, our ammunition being expended and our loss being very heavy3 killed, 42 wounded, and 3 missing. We again came up with the enemy December 17, posted on the north side of the Keuse. at the railroad bridge near Goldsborough. The right wing of the regiment was deployed along the bank of the river on the rioht of the railroad, while the left companies were held in reserve. The whole regiment was at last drawn ofi after the firing of the bridge, to make way for the artillery. December 17 we commenced our return march, and arrived in New Berne on Saturday, December 20. There were so many instances of individual courage shown in the (lifierent battles that it is difficult to mention particular names. how- ever, I cannot forbear mentioning with praise Captain Stewart, Lieu. tenant Brown, Captain MeChesney, and Lieutenant Townley. not only for personal bravery but for their ability as commanders of their re- spective companies; and also the names of Privates William Lemons, Company E, and , who, with Lieutenant Graham, set fire to the railroad bridge near Goldsborough. I inclose a list of the killed, wounded, and missing.* Jam, sir,veryrespectfully,yourobedientservant ABRAM ZABRISKlE, Col. C. A. HECKMAN. Major, Commanding. No. 25. Report of Brig. (len. Henry NV. Wessells, U. S. Army, commanding Third Brigade, Pecks Division, of operations December 521. HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, PEcKS DIVISiON, New Berne, N. C., December 22, 1862. MAJOR: I have the honor to report that pursuant to instructions from Major-General Peck I left Camp Suffolk, Va., on the 5th instant with my brigade, composed of the Eighty-fifth, Ninety-second, Ninety-sixth New York, and Eighty-fifth, One hundred and first, and One hundred and Embodied in rcvised statement, v 60 Page 96 [CHAP. XXX. 96 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. third Pennsylvania Volunteers, under or~er~ to proceed to New Ferry, on the Chowan, near Gatesyille, there to report to the commauding offi- cer of the Department of North Carolina. My command arrived at the point designated on the 6th instant where it was met by Major-General Foster with transports for the brigade. The troops embarked on the following day, arriving at this station on the 9th. An expedition having beeu planned and organized to move in the direction of Goldsborongh, the column was put in motioif on the morning of the 11th, the advance taken by lleckmaiis Ninth New Jer- sey Volunteers, followed by my own brigade, to which was attached Morrisons battery Third New York Artillery. No serious obstacles were interposed by the enemy until arriving at Southwest Branch, 6 miles from the town of Kinston, where it was found the main road crossing the creek was well watched and strongly guarded both by artillery and infantry. A skillful feint having been made towar(i this point, the main body moved by an npper road, cross- ing the creek about half a mile below on a mill-dam. The bridge was found to be partially destroyed and the enemy covering it with two guns and a force of infantry. This position was at once reconnoitered by the Ninth New Jersey Vol- unteers with their usual intrepidity, and a crossing was effected by the mill, threatening the enemys right. At the same time, by direction of the commanding general, I detached the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Vol- unteers, Colonel Howell, with orders to force a passage below the bridge, by felhiuig trees or fording, and engage him on the right. This difficult duty was handsomely performed. Howells skirmishers, led by Captains Hooker and Phillips, J)nshed boldly through the swamp, engaged the enemy s battery under a shower of grape, and by a well-directed fire of musketry drove the cannoneers from the ground, and Heckmans ad- vance appearing simultaneously from the left the enemy fled, leaving one of his guns in our possessiOn. The brigade in the mean time crossed at the Thill, and being joined by the Twenty-third Massachusetts Volun- teers moved forward about 3 miles and bivouacked for the night, the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers with Morrisons battery taking up a posi- tion about 1 mile in advance. On the following day (December 14) the line of march was resumed at an early hour and in the usual order. Heckinans skirmishers were soon engaged with the enemys outposts, and to support him I directed the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers to move through the wood on the left of the road with a view to act against the enemys right. A sec- tion of Morrisons battery was also ordered forward, supported by the One hundred and third Pennsylvania Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Maxwell, with directions to take a suitable position and open fire. The Eighty-fifth New York, Lieutenant-Colonel Wellmau, was then thrown forward and to the right of the road, with instructions to en- gage the enemy on the flank and press him vigorously toward the left. This regiment was soon followed by the One hundred and first Pennsylvania Volnuteers, Major Taylor, and the Ninety-sixth New York Volunteers, Colonel Gray, with similar orders. Jn the mean time being informed that a portion of the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers were fail- ing in ammunition I directed the Ninety-second New York XTohunte~rs, Colonel Hunt, to move down the road to relieve or support Colonel Heck- man as circumstances might require. All these movements were executed by the several regiments with alacrity and precision,deserving the highest praise. My whole brigade was now in position before the enemys line; the firing was heavy and almost incessant; the wounded were being rap Page 97 ChAP. XXX.] NEW BE1~NE TO GOLDSBOROUGII. 97 idly brought to the rear and the enemy, concealed by the wood and J)oStCd behind an almost impassable swamp, maintained his position with stub- born obstinacy. At this time, and on my application to the major-geii- cml comTnan(ling, I was re-enforced in succession by the Seventeenth, Twenty-thini, and Forty-fifth Massachusetts Volunteers. These fine regiments took their positions with the coolness and precision of vet- erans, and the whole line was then directed to advance and push the enemy at every point. The major-general commanding having arrived on the ground made further disposition of the troops and conducted the aiThir to a rapid and suecessful termination. Under my orders to advance, the whole brigade, supported on the left by other regiments, moved gradually forward, converging toward the enemys line of retreat, driving him from the church and throwing him back toward the bridge, over which the main body escaped, leaving several hundred prisoners in our hands. The retreat of the enemy was closely followed by the Eighty-fifth and One hundred and third Pennsylvania Volunteers on the ft (the latter suffering severely in crossing the open field), while the Ninety-sixth aiid Eighty-fifth New York and One hundred and first Pennsylvania Volun- teers charged from the right; the Kinety-scoond moved along the road in support of the battery. The bridge was fired in several l)laces by the enemy and exposed to a destructive fire of artillery and musketry from the opposite bank but every regiment, including those from other brigades, seemed to vie with each oth~ in emulation, and pressed for- ward with unflinching determination. That gallant officer, Colonel Gray. Ninety-sixth New York Volun- teers, with his face to the foe and the colors of his regiment first on the bridge, fell mortally wounded in the hour of victory. The flames were extinguished without serious in.jury to the bridge, and my brigade being reformed on the opposite bank of the river con- tinued its march through the village of Kinston and bivouacked for the night on the Goldsborough road. The steadiness of the troops during this short conflict gave Inc full confidence of success, and the conduct both of officers and men, with rare exceptions, merits the highest praise. For special acts of gal- lantry and good conduct I have the honor to refer you to the reports of regimental commanders herewith inclosed. Captain Stewart, assistant adjntant-geueral; Captains Webster and Hall, brigade quartermaster and commissary, and my aides, Lieutenants Beegle and Foot, rendered most important service. My orders were conveyed by these officers to every part of the field in the thickest of the fight with the most grati- fying coolness and intelligence. Acting Brigade Surgeon Rush also deserves the highest commendation for the prompt and efficient maim- ncr in which the onerous duties of his department were conducted. A list of casualties accompanies this report.* My brigade, having recrossed the Neuse, accompanied the expedition toward Goldsborough, and its object having been fully accomplished by the destruction of the railway and bridge, the whole command returned to this station, arriving at New Berne on the 21st instant. Respectfully, your obedient servant, ~ ~ WESSELLS, Brigadier- General of Yolunteer8, Commanding. Maj. SOUTHARD HoFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General, Dept. of North Garolina. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 60. 7 R RVOL XVII Page 98 98 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [ChAP. XXX. No. 26. Report of Lient. Got. Abijah J. Weliman, Eighty-fifth New York Infantry, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. ThDQRS. EIGHTY-FIFTH lIEGIMENT NEW YORK VOLS., New Berne, N. 0., December 22, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that at the engagement before Kinston, which occurred on the 14th instant, the J3~ighty-fifth New York Volunteers participated in the following manner: Pursuant to an order received from General Wessells the aforesaid regiment was led to the right of the position which was occupied by the Union forces during the earlier stages of the battle, and reported to Colonel lleckman, of the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers, as his support, at 11 a. m. In accordance with instructions from Colonel lleckman my regiment was then moved to the extreme right, for the pnrpose of a flank demonstration. After proceedi~g 500 yards, preceded by two coin- panics of my command deployed as skirmishers, a regiment of the enemy was discovered 200 yards in advance, drawn up behind a fence at the edge of the wood in which we were. My skirmishers moved quietly to the right of the regiment and opened a brisk fire upon the enemy, which was returned without effect. While the attention of the latter was thus engaged my own line advanced quickly and poured in a volley, at which the enemy fled in confusion, some of them across an opemi field exposud to our fire. Subsequently my regiment was directed to support the Ninety- sixth New York Volunteers in an advance upon the bridge, where the lamented Colonel Gray received a mortal wound. My line was formed, immediately on our arrival at the bridge, along the bank of the river with the left resting at the bridge, which was being swept by grape and canister together with musketry from the opposite bank. A hot fire from both sides continued for twenty minutes. After the enemys guns had been silenced and their forces dispersed, men from Captain Jenneys battery, the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers, and my own regiment extin- guished the flames of the burning bridge. The Ninth New Jersey Vol- unteers then crossed over closely followed by the Seventeenth Massa- chusetts, which latter regiment had just at that moment arrived and had not participated in the capture of the bridge. Immediately after the latter regiment followed my own, which thus had the hon~ of be- ing the first of General Wessells brigade which gained the opposite bank. We captured between 20 and 30 prisoners, besides a quantity of small- arms. I take l)leasure in adding that both officers and men, without an ex- ception, displayed much bravery and coolness. I am, very respectfully and truly, your obedient servant, A. J. WELLMAN, Lient. Got., Gomdg. Eighty-fifth New York Vots. Capt. ANDREW STEWART, Assistant Adjntant-Uenerat, WesseUs Brigade Page 99 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BEU~E TO GOLDSBOROIJGH. 99 No. 27. Report of Cot. Lewi8 C. hunt, Ninety-8eeond New York h~fantry, of en gagement at Kinston, December 14. IHDQRS. NINETY-SECoND NEW YonK VOLUNTEERS, December 21, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that my regiment took part in the battle of Kinston, on the 14th instant, as follows: I was ordered by General Wessells to relieve the Ninth Ne~r Jersey, which had for some time been engaged and their ammunition reported as running low. I found them in a heavily-wooded swamp, passed their line ot battle, and deployed the regiment as skirmishers. This was done nnder a heavy lire from the enemy, which, fortunately, passed overhead for the most part on account of the peculiar conformation of the ground and the usual tendency to overfire, but raimmed down the leaves and branches upon us. The swamp with its thick nndergrowth was next to impassable, but the men floundered through the bog-holes, sometimes up to their middle, delivering their fire as they advanced. The pOint upon which we were operating seemed to be occupied by the enemy in large force, and I moved three companies from the right flank toward the right and front, hoping to find higher ground from which I might make a diversion in support of the main body. I acc Inpanied them, wishing to ascertain the nature of the ground toward the right and whether other troops were assisting in the attack. I found higher and more open ground but no assisting forces. I then sent my adju- tant, Lieutenant Ward, to General Wessells asking for re-enforcements. Returning to the main body I found it had moved off toward time left flank and had charged upon a body of the enemy near the junction of the roads, but was received with such a volley as compelled it to fall back. I then formed my men for another charge upon the enemy di- rectly in front, hoping to gain a ditch near the fence which we might hold until re-enforced. I directed my men to run up in line without firing, which the enemy no sooner perceived than they poured in a volley which indicated a force of five times our number, but which, as before, passed mainly overhead. 1~Iy men were now completely exhausted with their two hours work in theswamp. We had tried to get a foothold to the front and on both flamiks but had failed for want of numbers. The enemy were reported to me by several as passing our right flank, and I judged it best to draw back to the higher ground in our rear where I knew the One hundred an(1 third Pennsylvania to have been posted. Acre I received through yourself authority from General Wessells to direct the movements of the several regiments in the neighborhood. Having had the opportunity of getting a good knowledge of the position and its requirements, I directed Lieutenant-Colonel Maxwell, whose regiment (the One hundred and third Pennsylvania) was nearly twice as strong as mine, to advance through the swamp directly to the front, occupy the ditch, and, if possible, pass on beyond the fence. The men were fresh and went forward gallantly to the task before them, which I lightened as much as possible by send- ing forward the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania, Colonel Howell, lying in the wood near by, and pointed out the direction of attack. I presumed that my adjutant had returned to the right flank with the re-enforcements I had sent him for, and so, while my men were resting in support of a see- tion of Morrisons battery and on the grouRd previously occupied by th Page 100 100 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. YIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. One hundred and third, I sent forward four of my officers in different directions toward the front with General Wessells orders that every regiment should press forward. They fulfilled their mission to my en- tire satisfaction, contributing, I have every reason to believe, to the ifight of the enemy which soon after took place. My officers behaved most creditably, with one exception, of which a special report will be made, and the regiment, as a whole, sustained the reputation which it earned at the Seven Pines as a part of Caseys division. This is paying as high a compliment as the regiment could desire. Of the officers whom I happened to notice I would mention Lieuten- ant-Colonel Anderson, Adjutant Ward, Captain Cleary, and Lieutenant Cole for their coolness and gallantry. Captains Bice, Miller, and Merri- man, and Lieutenant Babcock are highly spoken of. Sergeant Ball, of Company , was especially active and zealous, and deserves promo- tion. Sergeant ONeil and Private Pierce, of Company E; Private Sheridan, of I)~ anti Color-bearer Sergeant Thompson are especially mentioned by their company commanders. Surgeon Edmeston fol- lowed the regiment into the swamp and attended the wounded under fire and, for his zeal, energy, and consideration during the whole expe- dition, deserves the highest praise. A special report of the casualties, amounting to 3 killed, 16 wounded, and none missing, is herewith forwarded.* I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. C. HUNT, Colonel, Ninety-second New York Volunteers. Capt. ANDREW STEWART, Assistant Adjutant- General, Wesselis Brigade. No. 28. Report of Capt. George W. Rinds, Ninety-sixth New York Infantry, of en gagement at Kinston, December 14 IIDQRS. NINETY-SIXTH NEW YORK STATE VOLUNTEERS, Camp near New Berne, N. C., December 21, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report that on the 14th instant, whei~ tli~ brigade engaged the enemy in front of Kinston, N. C., in compliance with the orders of General Wessells, this regiment, under command of Col. Charles 0. Gray, moved down the road leading to the bridge in front and filed into the wood and moved by the right flank several hundred yards to the right of the road, where it was formed into line of battle and rested lying down, while a company of skirmishers was sent forward to feel the enemys position. Finding him in the corner of the wood to the right in some force we advanced in line of battle under fire, the Eighty-fifth New York Volunteers being on our left and One hundred and first Pennsylvania Volunteers as support, charging and cheering, the enemy retreating. As we advanced we commenced a rapid fire, which was discontinued after a few moments, the enemy get- ting out of range Soon receiving an order to advance we moved toward the river, feel- * T~nibodied i~J revised et~tement, p. 60 Page 101 ~n.u. ZX~.J ~W I~1~RNE TO GOLP~BOPOU~4tt. 101 ing our way through the strip of wood leading to the road. Arriv- ing at the road and seeing the enemy crossing the bridge in retreat we charged rapidly toward it, delivering a rapid fire and receiving a raking fire from artillery and musketry. Arriving near the bridge our regiment was cut in two by the Tenth Connecticut crossing our line of march. Col. Charles 0. Gray, with two companies, charged np to the bridge, arriving, with the regimental colors, first upon the eud of the bridge, where a portion of a rebel regiment was cut off, they throwing their guns upon the burning timbers and retreating to the left. At this moment our noble colonel was shot through the breast by a inns- ket-ball, from which wound he soon died. Had it not been for this sad blow our regiment must have been the first to have crossed after the fleeing enemy. Respectfully, GEORGE W. HINDS, Gaptain, Oomdg. Ninety-sixth Regiment New York Volunteers. Capt. ANDREW STEWART, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Brigade, Pecks Division. No. 29. Report of Col. Joshua B. Howell, Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations December 1317. IIDQRS. EIGHTY-FIFTH PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS, Camp near New Berne, N. C., December 22, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that on December 13 instant, while on the march on the recent expedition to Kinston, & c., at the Southwest Creek, when the firing at that place began I was ordered by the general to take my regiment to the iight of the road leading to the bridge, and on the right of the battery attached to our brigade, to support the battery. Soon after I had placed my regiment in the position ordered I was ordered by the general to send forward two companies as skirmishers, to examine the wood and s~vamps as far as the creek, to see if a cross- ing were practicable and to feel for the enemy. In obedience to the order I sent forward Companies B and D, under command of Captain Hooker (Company B), senior captain. Shortly afterward I was ordered to move the regiment forward and cross the creek if at all practicable, and attack and drive the enemy if we found them on that side of the road. By felling trees across the creek apd with much difficulty and labor we effected a crossing. We had not only the creek to pass over but swamps on both sides of it. While crossing the creek we heard sharp and rapid firing in the advance of us, and on coming out on the road ascertained that the two companies (B and D), under Captain Hooker, on their approach to the road from the wood, had come in contact with a party of the enemy (First Mississippi Light Artillery), who had a piece planted on the road. They were promptly attacked by Captain Hooker and driven from their gunrepulsed with a loss of 4 men killed. In the conflict our men received two discharges of grape and canister from the enemy before they were driven from their gun. The enemy were driven up the road, and in the earnestness of i)llrsnit it was omit Page 102 I O~ NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRdIINIA. [CHAP. XXX. ted, unfortunately, to leave any one in charge of the piece captnred. The Ninth New Jersey, coming up immediately thereafter, took the piece into their possession, and from this circumstance might have the eutire credit of having captured it awarded to them; whereas the credit of the capture belongs to the two companies of my regiment exclusively. I do not biAieve, however, that that gallant regiment would claim the credit to the prejudice of my companies. I wish to state here that the timely arrival of Captain Hooker with the companies ~nd the gallant achievement in capturing the gun and driving the enemy manifestly saved that brave regiment (the Ninth New Jersey) from being seriously cut liP. I desire, captain, to communicate to the general, in the very highest terms of commendation and praise, the promptness and gallantry man- ifested by the brave officers and enlisted men engaged in that affair; and I also desire to do the same justice to the other gallant officers and enlisted men of my regiment for their untiring zeal and indefatigable industry and energetic efforts made and exhibited in effecting the cross- ing of the creek, overcoming difficulties that seemed almost insurmount- able, and also for the rapid movement forward (exhausted as they were) .after the crossing was effected. On December 14 instant, at the battle of Kinston, I was directed by the general, at the very commencement of the fight, to deploy my regi- ment in line an(I move it forward through the woods and swamps which lay on the left of the road leading to Kinston. That order was promptly obeyedas promptly as the almost impassable character of the ground admitted of. After getting through we came to the open field on the left of the road, on the line with the fire of the enemy and in advance ot the fire from our side. We met with some of the enemy in our passage. I sent my adjutant back to inform the general of onr position (having received an order to halt), and to ask for further orders. The adjntant returned with orders to return to the road and there support the bat- tery which was under the command of Captain Morrison, which order was obeyed. I found, however, a part of the left wing of the One hun- (Ired and third Pennsylvania Volunteers directly in front of us. Our position was on the left of the battery and left of the road. Shortly afterward, in obedience to an order of Lieutenant Beegle, aide to the general, I moved my regiment, deployed in line of battle, forward, preceded by a part of the left wing of the One hundred and third Pennsylvania Volunteers. On coming out of time wood and swamp we came to an open field in front of us, and there we received sharp, rapid, and continuous fire from the enemy. I should think we were under fire there for an hour. We returned their fire as rapidly. The tiring on our part was splendidly (lone. We then moved rapidly for- war(l across the field, driving the enemy from the wood in front of us and from the church. We passed through the woo(l to a large open field lying between the wood and the river. The fire of the enemy during this time was very heavy, but the gal- lant officers and enlisted men of my regiment and of that part of the One hundred and third Pennsylvania Volunteers which was with us dashed forward, with a shout and with cheers, through the fire without flinching. When about midway over the field I (hiscovered, by ascend- ing a slight elevation which we were approaching, that niy own regi- ment and the One hundred and third would be cut to pieces by pmirsmi- ing that line, and that I could accomplish as much by moving to the right, which I did. We succeeded, as I have before stated, in driving the enemy from our front and from their position in the church Page 103 ctlAr. XXX.] NEW I3ERNE TO O?OLDSI3OROtIGH. 103 It gives me the greatest pleasure to refer the general to the gallant conduct of my officers and enlisted men in this engagement and to be able to speak in the very highest terms of their coolness fi courage during the whole time of the fight. and In the engagement at White Hall and at the railroad bridge my regiment was under the eye of the general, and, although not actually engaged in the firing, it was in line of battle and within reach of the enemys fire, and behaved with coolness and firmness, and ready and desirous to be led into the fights. For the good conduct and soldierly bearing of my regiment ou the march, going and returning, we have already received the commenda- tion of our general; that, with the consciousness that we deserve it, is our highest reward. There was 110 straggling from my regiment of any account, and from all disgraceful acts and scenes done and perpetrated on that march their skirts are free. A list of the casualties has already been furnished you.* I have the honor to be, captain, respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSHUA B. HOWELL, Colonel Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Capt. ANDREW STEWART, Assistant Adjutant- General, Wessells Brigade. No. 30. Report of Maj. Alexander W. Taylor, One hundred and first Pennsylvania Infantry, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. HDQRS. lOisT PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS, New Berne, N. C., December 24, 1862. CAPTAIN: As commander of the One hundred and first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers during the engagement near Kinston, on Sun- day, the 14th instant, I have the honor to submit the following as my report: When the firing commenced in the morning, by order of the general the One hundred and irst Regiment was drawn up in line of battle on the right of the road near the wood. We remained in this I)osition until ordered by the general forward and to the right of the road in rear of the Ninety-sixth New York. Soon after, by order of Colonel lleckman, we were moved forward and to the left to the support of a battery of the Third New York Artil lery. We remained with this battery until the close of the engage- ment. During the entire engagement the conduct of the regiment was all that could have been desired. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. W. TAYLOR, iliiajor One hundred and first Pennsylvania Volunteers. Capt. ANDREW STEWART, Assistant Adjutant- General. Embodied in revised statement, p. 60 Page 104 104 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. No. 31. Report of Lient. (Jot. Wilson (I. Maxwell, One hundred and third Penn sylvania Infantry, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. HDQRS. 103D REGIMENT PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS, Camp near New Berne, N. C., December 25, 1862. SIR: I have the honor to report the action of the One hundred and third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers in the engagement at Kinston: Sunday, December 14, at 9.40 a. in., I was ordered to move my regi- ment forward as a support to one section of Morrisons battery, having the right wing rest on the right and the left wing on the left of said section, with orders to direct our movement with the battery. After advancing gradually for over 50 rods with said battery we halted, when the Ninety-second New York Volunteers moved past us and filed oft in front of the right wing of the One hundred and third. After remaining not more than one hour in advance they fell back across the right wing and reformed their line in our rear. At this time Captain Stewart, assistant adjutant-general, came up and ordered me to move my regiment forward in advance of the battery. We moved forward through a swamp of thick undergrowth and water from 1 to 2 feet deep and about 20 rods wide. Immediately after cross- ing said swamp we received a volley of musketry from the enemys line, which we then learned was but a few rods in our advance. We de- livered a volley, lay down under cover of a small knoll, reloaded and fixed bayonets, rose, delivered another volley, and charged up over the bank. At this time an order from the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania, which was moving up in rear of the left wing, demanded ns to cease firing, as we were firing into our own men. The enemys fire in front of our left was 1mmediat~y directed on our right, making, in connection with the fire from the strong line in front, a heavy cross-fire; also we were in danger of a fire in the rear from the Forty-fifth Massachusetts, whose line was immediately in rear of our right wing. Under this combined fire I gave the order to lie down, and from this position we again rose, charged after the enemy some 20 rods, when their firo was completely silenced. We were then ordered to halt and await the arrival of the battery. During this time the Ninety-sixth New York moved by the flank from our right and reached the bridge. From the time we first formed our line as a support to the battery until we reached the bridge was from 9.40 a. m. to 2 p. m. Our loss during this time out of 430 actually engaged was 14 killed and 58 wounded, some of the latter mortally. During the whole of this time all of the officers and men of the regiment behaved in an exemplary manner, showing entire coolness. I will mention that when we made our first charge the Tenth Connecticut overlapped our extreme right two companies; from the second charge we moved past their line, pass- ing their left. Accompanying this you will find a complete list of the killed and wounded, made from the surgeon~s rep& t.* I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. C. MAXWELL, Lieutenant-Oolonel, Gomdg. One hundred and third Pa. F~ols. Capt. A~REW STEWART, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Brigade, Peel~9s Division. * See revised statement, p. 60 Page 105 CHAP. XXX4 NEW BERNE TO GOLDSI3OROUGH. 105 Nb. 32. Report of Lieut. Cot. Horace A. Manchester, First Neu Yor1~ Marine Ar tillery, of naval operations ~n the New~e River, December 12-15. HEADQUARTERS MARINE ARTILLERY, New Berne, N. 0., December 16, 1862. Sin: In accordance with your instructions on the 12th instant, after waiting until 4 p. m. at Willis T~anding and learning that your boats could not reach me for want of water, I proceeded on board the steamer Allison, accompanied by the steamers Ocean Wave, Port Royal, Wil- sort, and North State, to ascend the Keuse River on a reconnaissance towar(l Kinston. At dusk I anchored in the neighborhood of Lees Lmding, about 20 miles from New Berne by the river, making all dis- l)osltloIlS for defense in case of attack. At daylight on the 13th got under way, and, with much difficnlty and labor, worked our way up to within 2 miles of Kinston, meeting with but slight opposition from the guerrillas on shore, by whose fire 1 man of the Allison crew was seriously wounded. About 2 miles from Kinston, upon a turn in the river, we suddenly found our boats in face of a 10-gun battery, and penned up within the banks of the river, about 1~IMi~ feet wide. I immediately ordered the Port Royal, Ocean Wave, and Wilson to retire, the North State not having arrived, arid interposed the Allison between the battery, which had opened fire, ail(l the boats. The boats had to be backed down, as the river would not admit their turning, and it occupied twenty or thirty minutes. We replied to the enemys fire with one Parrott gun, the first fire being with in canister range. These shells were exploded within the batteries with apparent effect, as the enemy ceased their fire for some time after. It was sunset when the firing commenced, and it became dark so soon that I was scarcely able to get the boats under the protection of the trees before we were left to grope in total darkness. The enemy~s shell exploded over and around us with but little damage. The Allison re- ceived three shots, one taking off the tip of the pilot-house; the next passing through the roof and through the smoke-stack, and the third cutting away some fender and light work. Our boats were moved in double line, hay, beef; bread, & c., being packed along the sides. The guns were put into battery on the decks and bags of oats spread over the (leeks. In this position we awaited until morning in expectation of the enemys appearance. Several attempts were made to reconnoiter our position in the early evening, which were promptly defeated by the sentinels fire. A reconnaissance was made on theirs by Lieutenant Doane, hut little information gained. Soon after taking up our position for the night we heard heavy firing a few miles to the westward of us, which continued about an hour. At (laylight in the morning, upon examination, I found the largest boat on the bottom, and that the water had fallen during the night over 19 inches. I Immediately ordered a lighter boat to hitch on to the Ocean Wave and drag her off and then drop down the river to deeper water. This was a slow operation, as we had to go stern foremost, and our boats often grounded. The forenoon was consumed in getting 5 miles. here we found the North State, and learned that a force of the enemy was about ~3 miles below to (lisI)ute our passage down. We winded all our- boats but the Ocean Wave an(l drol)ped down 9 miles farther when we succeeded imm turn big her. The North State was sent forward to find the enemys position, the others following to shell them out. About Page 106 lOG NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. LCI4AP. XXX. mile from an old dam, on a turn where the water was swift, we found the first party, who fled after one of their number had been tumbled into the river by a shot. Occasional firing was kept up by the enemy for 5 miles, when we came upon a party lodged behind a log house. They stood but one fire from our Parrotts and ran, leaving, as we learned, several of their number killed and wounded. Here we learned from a contraband that a party of 70 had crossed early that morning to obstruct the river at Oldfield Bank Landing, and that, by the addition of others, we might expect to meet 140 men there.. We proceeded~ at once to the place, the enemy keeping up an occasional shot at us. Here we found them in possession of both sides of the river, and occupying the turn so as to fire into the stern of our boats. They opened on the Ocean Wave with a volley which was returned with interest, and the other boats, seeing their position for the fire, opened with grape and canister with such effect that the last boat coming up could find no one to fire at. The boats, after a brief delay, passed on to Streets Ferry, where, meeting the boats of the navy, reported to you. In the last fight Edwin J. Perkins, of Marine Artillery, was killed, and another of that regiment and a member of the Signal Corps were seri- ously wounded. Our loss was 1 killed and 3 severely and several slightly wounded. Of the enemy, 1 was shot from the bridge and fell into the water, and 2 were blown to pieces on the bank. At the log house 30 men are said to have been in it when two 30-pounder Parrotts, loaded with canister, were fired through it at a distance of 200 feet, and at the Oldfleld Bank the fire of the Ocean Wave, North State, and Port Royal was direct and within 400 feet of the enemy. The Ocean Wave and Allison are somewhat disabled, both by shot and contact with trees; the North State has lost her rudder. The other boats are in good order for use. Respectfully, H. A. MANCHESTER, Lieutenant- Golonel, (ommanding Marine Artillery. Commander A. MURRAY, U. S. Navy. No. 33.- Reports of ]lfaj. Gen. Gustavus W. Smith, C. S. Army, commanding Depart~ ment of North Carolina and Southern Virginia, of operations December 1318. PETERSBURG, VA., December 13, 1862. The force at Suffolk is believed to be still strong and threatening. Evans has been fighting all day in advance of Kinston, principally ar- tillery. We were retiring slowly, and at night the enemy were near the bridge at Kinston. Evans calls for re-enforcements. One regi- inent started from here at 8 oclock and one more will start at 6 oclock in the morning from this place and one from the Blaekwater. I will probably not leave this place before to-morrow afternoon. Is there anything from Fredericksburg ~i 0. W. SMITH, ill ajor- General. Hon. JAMEs A. SEDDON, Secretary of War Page 107 ~h1AP. XXX.~ NEW I3ERNE TO GOLDSI3OROUOH. 107 GOLDSB0ROUGH, N. C., December 15, 1862. I arrived here at 3 p. m. The telegraph with General Evans is cut offi By latest information he was at Falling Creek, 6 miles this side of Kinston. Enemy now estimated at 30,000, and scouts report re-enforce- ments con~tautly arriving from New Berne. Governor Vance is here. lie tells me that all accounts agree in stating that our troops behaved admirably in the engagement of yesterday. G. W. SMITH, Hon. JA~n~s A. SEDDON, Major- General. & cretary of War. WELDON, N. C., December 15, 1862. Your telegram is received.* I have ordered three regiments of Daniels brigade, the three Mississippi regiments and two batteries from Richmond, one regiment from Petersburg, and one from the Blackwater and batteries to be sent as soon as possible to Goldsborough. Please ask the Quartermaster-General to do everything in his power to expe- dite their transportation. Evans retired this side the river about dark and burned the bridge. General Beauregard will send 5,000 infantry and three batteries. G. W. SMITH, Hon. JAMES A. SEDDON. Major-General. (Iudorsement.] Preparation has been made to send forward all the troops referred to in this dispatch as soon as they can be ready today. The three regi- ments of Daniels brigade will march to Petersburg with the batteries and take rail from there. The Mississippi regiments will go by rail all the way; start at 12 m. Respectfully, A. C. MYERS, Quartermaster- General. GOLDSEOROUGII, N. C., December 16, 1862. M~ DEAR SIR: Your letter of Sunday reached me at this place last night. I received your telegram of Sunday night at Weldon, and from that place by telegraph ordered troops forward to thrs pointone regi- ment of infantry from the Blackwater, one from Petersburg, and six from Richmond, with three batteries tf artillery, leaving on the Blackwatcr two regimeijts of infantry, two of cavalry, and several batteries; one regiment at Petersburg, a small guard at Weldon, and a guard ~t the l)attery at the obstructions in the Roanoke near Hamilton. I arrive(l here after 3 p. m. yesterday, and sent you by telegraph a statement of the condition of affairs. At 12 oclock midnight it was reported that the enemy were passing up the river on the south side toward Dudley Station or this place. General Evans appealed strongly for cavalry, reporting that he had but one company. I had none, nor troops of auy kind. I iml)rovised, with the assistance of the Governor, who is here, * See Confeder~ite correspondence. Communication from Seddon to Smith, dated December 14, 1862, po8t Page 108 108 NOWVH CAPOLINA AND S. E. VIPGINIA. [girAr. XXX. the best means we could for obtaining information from the south sidc of the river. There were no troops there whatever, the battalion pick- eting on that side below Kinston having been enveloped by the enemy. General French arrived about 7 oclock this morning with one regiment from Petersburg, and has gone down to Bear Creek, about 12 miles, to join General Evans. During the night, not knowing when the troops from Petersburg might be expected to get here, I had ordered General Evans to send one regiment to a bridge 6 miles beloW here and One to this place to guard the railroad bridge and common-road bridge near the city. We can get nothing through the telegraph from Wilmington. Heavy firing is now heard distinctly upon the river below, supposed to be at White Hall Bridge, 15 miles below, or perhaps near the Six Mile Bridge. There is, as usual, great delay and difficulty in the railroad transportation. I hope soon to obtain information of the enemys move- meats, and on the arrival of the troops from Richmond will endeavor to strike an effective blow. Banks fleet is reported by General Whiting as certainly at Beaufort, but it is not known whether or not they have landed. They are within ten or twelve hours sail of him. Troops from General Beauregard were to have arrived in Wilmington this morning early, but I have heard nothing from there to-day. We have no cav- alry, no transportation, and are laboring under some other difficulties. My staff is not here. I am much pressed for time, and write in great haste. The troops are in good heart. I shall do my best to give a good account of the enemy. Very respectfully and truly, yours, G. W. SMITH, Major- General. Hon. JAMES A. SErmoN, Secretary of War. P. 8.A good many of Evans troops were cut off and are now coming straggling in across the river. The heavy guns in the battery at the obstructions below Kinston had to be abandoned when General Evans fell back. They had previously beaten back the gunbo~Lts. The 200 men composing the garrison, with the field battery, retired toward the north and arrived here with their pieces last night. General Evans has not furnished me with an estimate of his losses. GOLDSEOROTJGH, N. 0., December 16, 1862. The enemy made this morning a serious attack at White Hall Bridge, on the right and rear of our position, this side of Kinston. At 2 p. m. a cavalry force, estimated at 500 or more, burned a turpentine stem at Mount Olive, at the railroad, 14 miles from here; injured the track and cut the telegraph poles. Extent of injury not known. Later.The enemy have been driven back from White Hall Bridge; his loss very severe, ours not so. They have abandoned Kinston. The bridges below here are burned.- We are sadly in want of cavalry. None of the troops from Richmond have arrived. 0. W. SMITH. Hon. JAMES A. SnrmoN. GOLDSBOROUGH, N. C., December 18, 1862. The enemy yesterday made a sudden movement in large force upon the two bridges near this place, drove back our pickets, and succeede Page 109 CHAP. XXX.J NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 109 in burning the railroad bridge. Several brigades were afterward passed over the county bridge. They attacked and drove the enemy back and saved the county bridge. Th,e enemy were in very large numbers; their second position was a very strong one; night was at hand; only a portion of the troops from Richmond had arrived; none of the artil- lery aud none of the cavalry from either Richmond or Petersburg. I did not consider it advisable to attack them again. The enemy retired during the night. The few mounted we have (about 60) have been sent out to ascertain their position and probable intentions. It was sup- posed that the whole force of the enemy was present. The force was cer- tainly over 15,000. Without cavalry it is almost impossible to obtaiu accurate or prompt information of the enemys mo cements or num- bers. They are burning mills and houses and devastating the country in every direction. We have not transportation sufficient even for ammunition. I shall move as soon as possible. G. W. SMITH, Hon. JAMES A. SEDDON, Major.General. & cretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, Goldsborough, N. U., December 29, 1862. GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose copies of the reports of Briga- dier-Generals Evans, Robertson, and Cliugman, giving an account of the various affairs with the enemy in this vicinity in their recent bridge- burning and pillaging expedition from New Berne. Brigadier-General Evans, with 2,000 men, held them in check at South- west Creek, beyond Kinston on the 13th, and on the 14th delayed their advance for some time and succeeded in withdrawing his force with small loss to the left bank of the Neuse River at Kinston. He held them at bay until the 16th, when they advanced on the opposite side of the river and made an attack at~White Hall Bridge, about 18 miles be- low Goldsborough, in which they were driven back by General Robert- son with severe loss. Small re-enforcements arrived from Petersburg and Wilmington on the 15th, one regiment of which was placed in posi- tion to cover the railroad bridge over the Neuse near this place. A bat- talion of artillery, which had made a successful retreat from the works at the obstructions below Kinston after the enemy occupied the latter point in force, was stationed on this side of the river at the railroad bridge, and about half a mile above at the county bridge. On the 16th a regiment arrived from Wilmington and one from Petersburg, both of which were sent to the right bank of the river and placed under Gen- eral Clingmans command to protect the two bridges. On the morning of the 17th, having no cavalry and being unable to obtain information by other means~ I directed Lieutenant-Colonel Ste- vens, of the Engineers, with two brigades and five pieces of artillery, to make a reconnaissance for the purpose of ascertaining the position and numbers of the enemy. General Evans brigade had then reached Golds- borough by rail, and, remaining on board, only awaited the clearing of the track and watering of the engines to move by rail to the position already occupied by General Clingman with his three regiments, about 1~ miles beyond the railroad bridge. The capacity of the water-tanks being inadequate for the amount of transportation accumulated here at that time, the cars were delayed until after 1~ oclock fbi want of water, pending which the enemy appeared in force before General Clingmau Page 110 110 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. three regiments and he withdrew across the county bridge to this side of the river. The artillery of the enemy was playing upon the railroad bridge, and Evans brigade had at last. to move forward by the county road and cross, if at all, the bridge half a mile above the railroad. About 2 oclock in the afternoon one bold and daring incendiary suc- ceeded in reaching the bridge, and covered by the wire wall of the abut- ment~ lighted a flame which soon destroyed the superstructure, leaving the masonry abutments and pier intact. At that time re-enforcements which I had ordered from Richmond were hourly exl)ected. It was very important for us now to save the county bridge, the only means remain- ing of crossing the river in this vicinity. Evans and Cliugmans bri- gades were ordered to cross, supported by Pettigrews brigade, and the Mississippi brigade, just coming in, was ordered to move forward at once. The enemy were drivcn back from their position on the line of the rail- road, but on account of the lateness of the hour, the miature of the ground, and the fact that our artillery, cavalry, and a large portion of the re- enforcements had not yet arrived, it was not advisable to attack their strong second position that evening. ID uring the night the enemy made a hurried retreat to their fortifications and gunboats, moving with such celerity that it was useless to attempt pursuit with any other arm than cavalry, of which at that time, unfortunately, we had none. I passed over the railroad from the Keuse Bridge to Wilmington on the 24th and returned last night. The bridge is fast being repaired. At l)resent we are subjected to the temporary inconvenience of transshipment across the county bridge, but in a very few days this will be remedied and everything restored to the former condition. I regret that this grand army of invasion did not remain in the in- terior long enough for us to get at theni. As it is, they burned the superstructure of two bridges, which cost originally less than $10,000 and can be replaced at once, and have utter4y failed to attempt to take advantage of the temporary and partial interruption of our railroad line for the purpose of striking a decisive blow at any important point before we could thoroughly re-establish our communications with it. I beg leave to call your attention to the reports of Lient. Col. [W. II.] Stevens, C. S. Engineers, and of Lieutenant-Colonel Pool, as. well as to those of the three brigadier-generals previously named. Our loss is reported at 71 killed and 268 wounded, and about 400 miss- ing. Most of the latter were taken prisoners at Kinston Bridge, and have since been returned paroled. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. W. SMITH, General ~. COOPER, Major- General, Commanding. Adjutant and In~pector General, Richmond, Va. ho. 34. Report of Licut. Col. Walter H. Stevens, C. S. Engineers, of operations December 1617. HEADQUARTERS, Goldsborough, Y. 0., December 19, 1862. GENERAL: I Iiav~ the honor to submit the following report: On the morning of Tuesday, the 16th instant, by your direction, I posted Lieutenant-Colonel Pools battalion of North Carolina Troop Page 111 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BEENE TO GOLDSBOROIJGH. 111 (armed as infantry) at the railroad and county bridges over the Neuse near this place. Two pieces of artillery were placed commanding the railroad bridge, 0110 at the county bridge, and two a short dis- tance in the rear, enfilading a portion of the right bank of the river which flanked the position immediately at the bridge. These disposi- tions were completed at 7 a. m. About 10 a. m. I started with Colonel Cunningham without an escort to reconnoiter the right bank of the river from Dudley toxvard White Hall, having been led to believe that the enemy were or might be marching iu that direction with a view of cutting the railroad. On arriving at Dudley, hearing nothing of the enemy, in company with Colonel Collier, of the county militia, I pro- ceeded 4 or 5 miles on the road to White Hall, seeing nothing of the enemy. I soon saw a large smoke in the direction of Mount Olive. I rode immediately to Dudley and found a train of cars that started for Wilmington had tnrned back, finding the road was burned at Mount Olive. I. took the train to this place to report to you the cutting of the road. On the way to Goldsborough I l)assed General. Clingman~s corn- mand on the roadside, near where the county road crosses the railroad. Early the next morning I was directed to make an armed reconnais- sance of the enemy with Generals Evans and Clingmans commands. My instructions were to find the enemy, to sweep the county, guarding the flanks well, and if engaging the enemy the command should be so pressed as to fall back before being re-enforced, to fall back fighting and cross at the county bridge; or if pressed too closely to try that, to continue up the river, crossing higher up. A first-rate guide was fur- nished me. General Clingmans command being on the road to Dudley, I informed General Evans that his command ought to go to Dudley by rail as soon as they could be embarked. As soon as the troops were fairly aboard I started with Captain Heinhart and a part of his cavalry company for Dudley. On reaching the county bridge I heard a few cannon-shot east of the railroad~ On crossing the bridge I found a portion of General Clingmans command, Colonel Shaw commanding. I was informed by Colonel Shaw that the enemy were advancino- i the railroad, the other by the White Hall n two columns, one by road, and that one regiment (Colonel Marshalls) was posted at the railroad bridge on the right bank. General Clingman then came upon the ground and I recommended him to form his command with two pieces of artillery obliquely across the county road, covering the head of the bridge. I then proceeded to the front and right on the county road to a point where the road turns to cross the railroad on the way to Dudley. A steady fire of artillery was kept np by the enemy at the railroad bridge. I soon saw one regiment of the enemy get on the railroad track, soon another, and finally four in all; those, with four or six pieces of artillery, were all the troops I could see. They marched deliberately toward the railroad brhjge, then don- ble-quicked for a few instants, and finally disappeared from my view either in the woods or behind the railroad embankment. Immediately a sharp fire of musketry ensued. This very quickly ceased. I rode back to the county bridge and fdund General Clingmans command falling back, one regiment double-quicking on the road from the railroad bridge to the county bridge. I then met General Clingman, who said his men would not stay at the railroad bridge, and asked me if I thought he had better cross the bridge. I thought if the men would not stand they had better cross, and told him so. Lieutenant Fuller, of Starrs battery, placed his guns in position with coolness and judgment, and worked them some moments with ability Page 112 112 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. IXXX. only ceasing his fire when all of his command, save his support, were over the bridge. Captain Reinharts cavalry were cool and staid by me until ordered over the bridge. The command with the artillery were posted then upon the left bank. I then joined Qeneral Evans, who was near the bridge, and in a few sec onds discovered the railroad bridge on fire. At his request I imJflC(li- ately reported the fact to you. A short time after seeing you I accom- panied you to the field. Chiugman had recrossed arl(l was on the right near the railroad. As I crossed in your company, Evans command were crossing. He was starting a regiment 114 to~var(i the railroad bridge when we crossed. I then accompanied you to the extreme right to Ciingman~s position, from whence I had informed you you could see the whole field. While with General Clingman a portion of his command had charged the enemy and rejoined his line while we were in company with him. Clingman~s whole line theii advanced, upon which we crossed the left (General Evans position). Upon re~chin~ General Evans to h we found our whole line up to the railroad embankment. It was then dark and the firing had ceased. The large number of the enemy, strongly posted, with numerous artillery, the (larkuess and extreme coldness of the night, induced me to give my opinion in the council in favor of withdrawing to the right bank of the river, which was effected deliberately before midnight. I have the honor to inclose the report of Colonel Pool. Respectfully submitted. W. II. STEVENS, Lieutenant- Colonel of Engineers. Maj. Gen. GUSTAVUS W. SMITH. No. 35. Reports of Brig. Gen. Nathan G. Evans, C. S. Army, comnuitnding Brigade, of operdtions December 1317. KINSTON, N. C., Dccc ber 14, 1862. General Foster attacked Kinston yesterday with 15,000 men and nine gunboats. I fought him ten hours. Have (iriven back his gunboats. His army is still in my front. I have only four regiments, and will await his attack this morning. I think I can hold my position. N. G. EVANS, Brigadier- General. General S. COOPER. HEADQUARTERS EVANS BRIGADE, Near Goldsboraugh, N. 0., December 20, 1862. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the action of the troops under my command in the recent engagements near Kins- ton, White Hall, and at the railroad bridge near this place: On Saturday, the 13th instant, the enemy approached Kinston in con- siderable force and attacked the line of onr forces under the immediate command of Col. James D. Radcliffe, North Carolina Troops who had taken position on the west side of Southwest Creek. At i6 oclock 1 arrived on the ground and assumed command, and ordered Colonel IlIad- chile to take command of the left wing at the crossing of the upper Tren Page 113 CHAP. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 113 road. The enemy then was attacked at Hines Mill while he attempted to cross the creek. After a sharp engagement of an hour I fell back to- ward the Keuse River, keeping line of battle and arresting his approach about 9 miles from Kinston Bridge. He then attacked in considerable force, but retired after an engagement of ten hours. I rested on my arms that night in this position, the enemy ceasing fire after nightfall. On the morning of the 14th (Sunday), being iiiformed by Colonel Had- chile that the enemy was approaching his position, I directed him to open lire while I would attack his left. 1 ordered an immediate advance, and SOon became engaged with my whole line with the enemy in heavy force supposed to be about 20,000. The action lasted three hours, when, as- certaining his greatly-superior force, I retired with my command across the Nense Bridge, when the enemy pursued with heavy fire, stormed the bridge, and drove me back to the town of Kinston, capturing about 400, including no [number off] sick prisoners. Reforming my line, with the additional re-enforcements of Col. [S. II.] Rogers Forty- seventh Regi- ment North Carolina Troops, in a commanding position in rear of the town, I again awaited the attack. About 3 p. m. Major-General Foster sent his staff officer (Colonel I~otter) to summon me to surrender, which I l)romptly declined, in an hour he commenced shelling the town, but hesitated to renew his direct attack. Taking advantage of my I)osition, I retired in column to Falling Creek, where the major-general commanding had forwarded me additional re-enforcements. At this point (a very strong 1)osItion) I encamped for the night. Hearing early next morning that the enemy had recrossed the river and was advancing on White Hall in my rear, I immediately dispatched one regiment (the Eleventh North Carolina Troops, Col. [C.] Leventhorpe) and 600 dismounted cavalry, the whole under the command of Brig. Gen. B. I-I. Robertson, to proceed in haste and dispute his crossing at White Hall, while I would attack his rear toward Kinston. The report of Brigadier-General Robertson is herewith inclosed, marked A.* 1 here sent Colonel Rogers to march on Kmnston, and held my other forces in readiness to move in either direc- tion. Finding the enemy had retired across the river and burned the bridge, I ordered mny whole command to Mosely Hall, a position where I could support General Robertson. At this point I met Major-General French, commanding department, who immediately assumed command and timely re-enforced Brigadier-General Robeitson. My force engajed at IKinston consisted of the Seventeenth, Twenty-second, Twenty-third, amid Holcombe Legion South Carolina Volunteers; Colonel Radcliffes Sixty-first Regiment North Carolina Troops; Major Malletts battalion; Capt. [H.] Boyces light battery South Carolina Volunteers; Captains Buntings and Starrs batteries North Carolina troops. Lieutenant. Colonel Pool, commanding North Carolina heavy artillery, conmmande(l the immtrenchments at the obstructiomis below Kinston and attacked the gunboats and held them in check while I regained my position in rear of the town. My whole force amounted to 2,014. From Mosely Hall (after the repulse of the enemy at White Hall) I was directed by the major.general comniamiding time department to report to Goldsborough. On umy arrival with my command was ordered by Maj. Gen. G. W. Smith to assume command of Brig. Gen. T. L. Cliugmans brigade and make an armed recommaissance of the enemy approaching the railroad bridge. I immediately ordered General Cliugman to ad- vance his brigade over the river by the county bridge and engage him; that I would support his left. On arriving beyond the bridge about a. * See report No. 39. S u RVOL XYII Page 114 114 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. mile General Clingman became engaged with the enemy in heavy force. I directed Evans brigade to advance to his support. On reaching the railroad I found the enemy drawn up in line of battle marching up to the railroad. I then directed my brigade to cross the railroad and en- gage the enemy, which was done in a spirited manner. I also herewith inclose General Clingmans report, together with a list of killed and wounded. In conclusion I would call the attention of the~ major-general corn- manding to the gallant conduct and admirable judgment of Colonel Radcliffe, who had disposed his troops to dispute every advance of the enemy, and regret to add that, holding his position to the last of the fight, he was taken prisoner, but readily paroled. The following officers were observed by myself as conspicuous in the battles of Saturday and Sunday: Col. P. Mallett, North Carolina Troops; Capt. [M. G.] Zeigler, ilolcombe Legion; Adjt. W. P. Dn Bose, wounded while leadin~ his regiment; Capt. [S. A.] Durham, [Company II], Twenty-third South Carolina Volunteers, wounded severely leading his regiment in action at the railroad. To the promptness of General Clingman in obeying my orders I am particularly indebted for the repulse at the railroad near Goldsborough. To my personal staff (Capt. A. L. Evans and First Licut. Samuel J. Corrie, aide-de-camp) I am much indebted, both for the intrepidity and alacrity with which they obeyed my orders, both often 1e .ding troops in action. I recommend both to the especial attention of the major-general commanding. Col. John A. Baker, Forty-fourth [Forty- first] North Carolina Troops, deserves especial notice; though suffering with a slight wound, was very energetic as my assistant through the engagements of the two days. Colonels Radcliffe and Mallett being paroled prisoners, the reports of their respective commands will be forwarded as 80011 as exchanged. Herewith please find list * of killed and wounded in my brigade. The lists from the other commands have not been furnished inc. Very respectfully submitted. G. EVANS. Brigadier- General, Commanding. Maj. S. W. MELTON, Assistant A d jutant- General, Goldsborough, N. C. No. 36. Report oJ Cot. Peter ]Jfallett, North Carolina Battalion, of engagement at Kinston, December 14. HEADQUARTERS EVANS BRIGADE, Wilmington, C., March 26, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the report of Col. P. Mallett, commanding battalion, of the action of his command at the battle of Kinston, N. C. I forward this report direct, as my report had been sent in some time since. Very respectfully, your obedient serv~ ut, N. 0. EVANS, Brigadier- General, rJomma n ding. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va. Not found Page 115 ClIAL. XXX.] NEW BERNE TO GOLDSBOROUGH. 115 [TncIo~ure.] FAYETTEVILLE, N. C., February 20, 1863. GENERAL: Confinement to my bed for the last two months will, I trust, be apology sufficient for the delay in reporting to you the part taken by my command in the battle near Kinston, on Sunday, Decem- ber 14, 11862]. I arrived at Kinston by railroad Sunday morning at 7 oclock and immediately reported to and was ordered by you to take position with my battalion (consisting of 19 officers and 460 men) in the rifle-pits on the east bank of Keuse River to support a South Carolina battery corn- manding the couuty bridge. At 8.30 we were in position, and in a few moments musketry firing commenced on the left of the line of battle, which was formed on the west side of the river, and at 9 oclock the first gun was fired by the artillery. At 9.15 I received an order through one of your aides to march at double-quick across the bridge. Having crossed, I met you on the west side directing men pouring spirits of turpentine on cotton placed upon the bridge. You ordered me to take my command through the field on the right of the White Hall road and engage the enemy. We passed through the field under a fire of shell from the enemy (losing 1 man) to the distance of a quarter of a mile to a fence on the edge of a swamp, on the other side of which the enemy appeared to be in force. Here we engaged the enemy for some time, but the l)rinc~pal point of attack appeared to be the church known as Harriets Chapel, on my left, where was stationed a section of Starrs battery, supported by the Sixty- first Regiment North Carolina Troops, under Colonel Iladelifib. At length the firing npon my part of the line ceased almost entirely. Being anxious to charge the enemy and drive him back, I sent Lieu- tenant Little to the section of artillery on my left to ascertain the real position of the enemy and of our forces, it being impossible to charge through the 5W~~l) in my front. About the time of Lieutenant Littles return (without any accurate information) I received by courier a writ- ten order from you, as follows: COLONEL: Let me know if the enemy are in your front. If not, join me at the bridge. At this time, there being no indication of the enemy in front, I drew off in good order and returned to the bridge, but to my surprise you were absent, leaving no order or instructions for me. Observing that the South Carolina battery commanding the bridge had been removed and the bridge apparently deserted, I concluded you were waiting for me on the east side, and retreating toward Kinston I proceeded across the bridge. In a few moments after crossing I was met by an officer ol your staff with orders to go back. This order I promptly obeyed, marching agaiu at a double-quick through the same field to my former l)osition under a heavy fire of the enemys artillery, and was almost immediately hotly engaged with his infantry. In about an hour I wa~ reenforced with 90 to 100 men from the Sixty-first North Carolina, com - manded by Licut. Col. [W. S.] Devane, who took position on my right. The enemy made a vigorous charge at this time on my left, and was as vigorously repulsed. Old veterans could not have met the foe with more coolness anti determination than these newly-tried men. He appeared determined to force his way through my lines. At the church I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Devane to re-enforce my left. He took his position promptly and did good service, and I here take pleasure in testif.ying t Page 116 116 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CIJAr. XXX. his coolness and undoubted bravery. With his assistance and the com- pany of my right flank, commanded by Lieutenant Meltac, also ordered to the left, we held the enemy in check some time. My ammunition now began to fail, and after sending repeatedly to the rear could not be replenished. Apprehending an attempt to turn my right also Cap- tain MeRac, acting as my lieutenant-colonel, was directed to observe closely and give me immediate notice of any advance in that direction. He reported the enemy in force, but no at tempt wa~ made to flank me owing, I suppose, to the impenetrable swamp between us. At this time, having held the enemy in check for about three hours, looking in vain for re-enforcements, the section of artillery near the church retired, ~I since learn, for want of ammunition. Immediately after, Lieutenant-Colonel iDevane sent me word that the enemy were flanking us on the left, and withdrew his men toward the bridge. Find- ing myself alone and the enemy pressing upon us I ordered a retreat, which was made in good order, the men continuing their fire with effect. At the bridge I intended to make another stand, but on approaching it found it on fire and crowded with men endeavoring to cross. A panic ensued. The enemy pressed upon us from two directions at double- quick in large force and the bridge the only means of escape. The greater portion of my command succeeded in crossing, while the other was driven back by the flames. While endeavoring to keep the men back, fearing the bridge would fall every moment, I was wounded in the leg by a Minie ball and obliged to relinquish the command to Captain McRae, whose self-possession and bravery should not be left unnoticed. Being under a heavy cross-fire from an overwhelming force, my men and ammunition exhausted, and the bridge impassable, I advised Captain MeRac to surrender. The enemy now directed his fire upon the retreating troops on the Kinston side, who spiritedly returned the fire with good effect, killing a colonel (Gray) and others near the bridge. The enemys force was between 20,000 and 25,000 men, with seventy- two pieces of artillery. General Foster admitted to me that we had re- pulsed three of his veteran regiments with a loss of 100 men; since as- certained to be about 250. I regret to report the loss of two of my best officers, who fell at the close of the engagement: Lient. J. J. Reid, commnan ding Company A, fell by my side near the bridge, and Lieut. J. II. Hill, commanding Company C, while retreating on the Kinston side. Both led their coin- panics gallantly through the entire engagement. Braver or more gal- lant young men never drew a sword. Our loss was 7 killed ,22 wounded, S missing, and 175 taken prisoners. After diligent search and inquiry for Adjt. E. N. Mann and Lieut. Ii. K. Williams I am reluctantly forced to include them in the list of killed. Officers and men, nearly all of whom were under fire for the first time, behaved with the coolness, determination, and bravery of veterans. It would be almost invidious to discriminate, but I cannot refrain from mentioning the conspicuous gallantry and bravery of Lieut. J. H. McLean, commanding Compauy F. Inclosed please find a list of killed aud wounded.* Hoping I may be allowed to engage the enemy under more favorable circumstances, I am, general, your obedient servant, PETER MALLETT, Golonel, Commanding Battalion. Brig. Gen. N. G. EVANs. Nominal list shows 13 killed and 34 woundcd Page 117 NtW 13ERN~ 1O GOtDSBOI~Otlttfl. 4ThAr. ~ 117 No. 37. Report of Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Giingman, C. S. Army, commanding Bri gade, of engagement at Coldsborough Bridge, December 17. HEADQUARTERS CLINGMANS BRIGADE, December 21, 1862. CAPTAIN: Before detailing the particulars of the affair of the 17th (Wednesday) I ought perhaps to state that if arrived at Goldsborough early on Tuesday morning, the 16th, accompanied by only the Eighth North Carolina Regiment, commanded by Col. [II. M.] Shaw. Front Major-General Smith orders were received to pass to the south side of the Neuse River and take a position intermediate between Goldsborough and Dudleys Depot, on the line of the railroad. I selected a point where the railroad is crossed by the road from White Hall, along which the enemy were expected to approach, and which is about 1~ miles south of the railroad bridge. During the day I was re-enforced by the Fifty-first North Carolina Regiment, of my brigade, commanded by Lient. Col. [William A.] Allen, just up from Wilmington. In the course of the night following the Fifty-second North Carolina Regiment, of Pettigrews brigade, commanded by Col. [J. K.] Marshall, arrived with orders to report to me, but to be held in reserve in the rear of the other two regiments. On the morning of the 17th, being informed by one of General Smiths staff that he desired particularly to hear from me, I returned with him on the locomotive to Goldsborough, and was instructed by General Smith to report to Brigadier-General Evans and with my brigade to accompany him in making a reconnaissance iii force to ascertain the position and strength of the enemy. Within a few moments after receiving this order a dispatch was placed in my hands from my adjutant.general statfng that the enemy were reported by our scouts as being in 3 miles of my position. This was read to General Evans while he was in the presence of General Smith, and he at once ordered me to. go on and fight the en- elny, saying that he would follow with his brigade to support me. On returning to my command I found that the enemy in heavy force, both of infantry and artillery, were advancing from the southeast across the open fields and also from the south along the line of the railroad, while their cavalry were seen approaching along the county road which passed in my rear. It ought to be stated that the county bridge is about half a mile above that of the railroad, and that the road crossing it was imearly parallel with the railroad. Between the two is a swamp, but infantry can pass along the bank of the river without much difficulty, and 14 miles fi-om the river the two roads are connected by a cross-road through a plantation. It being impossible with only three regiments to hold both the bridges and at the same time fight a large army, Colonel Marshall with the Fifty-second Regiment was stationed in front of the railroad bridge and Colonel Shaw with the Eighth, supported by a section of Starrs battery, was placed in the field in front of the county bridge; Colonel Allen with the Fifty-first was between the two to support either in case of need. The enemy soon opened heavily, 1)0th with artillery and musketry, against Colonel Marshall, evidently with a view of reaching the railroad bridge. I therefore carried the Fifty-first Regiment to his support and placed it on his right flank. So heavy, however, was the fire from the large force of the enemy tha Page 118 118 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. these regiments were broken and fell back. They were soon rallied and taken back to their positions. The increasing volleys of musketry and the rapid falling of shells from the numerous batteries of the enemy, in spite of all my efforts to keep them longer in position, caused them to give way a second time. It being obvious, indeed, that so small a force could not long maintain a contest against such heavy odds, they were formed in the rear and carried back in good order to the county bridge, and with the force stationed there recrossed the river. To defend the bridge the two guns of [J. B.] Starrs battery, [Company B, Thirteenth Battalion North Carolina Artillery], under the command of Lient. [T. C.] Fuller, were placed near it, and Colonel Marshalls regiment lined the river bank below and Colonel Allens occupied it above, while Colonel Shaw~s was placed in the rear as a reserve. For the defense of the railroad there was placed in position on the north side of the river Colonel Pools battalion with several pieces of artillery. After the above-stated dis- position had been made, possibly an hour later, one of General. Evans staff informed me at the county bridge that he desired to see me. On my going back to the field where he was posted he told me that it was all important to hold the county bridge and that I must (10 it. I re- plied that I was satisfied the dispositions made were snfficient, and on my asking as to the defenses of the railroad bridge he declared that all was secure there, but renewed his order to me to hold the county bridge. Not long after my return to it I was informed that the railroad bridge was on fire. After it was burned the cannonade of the enemy ceased. At a later period General Evans again sent for me, and on my going back to his station he ordered me to advance across the bridge with my entire command and attack the enemy and feel his strength. The Sixty-first North Carolina Regiment, of my brigade, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel IDevane, having by this time arrived, it with three already under my command and the two field pieces above mentioned were moved across the river. Skirmishers were thrown forward in all directions and the enemy was found to be posted from the river for I~ miles along the railroad in line of battle, well protected by the high embankment of the road in front of them. The regiments of Shaw and Devane and the two guns were moved along the county road wbile I carried as rapidly as possible the regiments of Marshall and Allen down the river bank and placed them in line within less than 300 yards of the enemys right, but in a position where they were pretty well pro- tected from the artillery. They were instructed to lie down, to make no reply to the enemy, and no attempt to pass the open field betweefi them and the enemy until they should hear our attack on the right. As soon, however, as that occurred they were ordered to rise and with a shout to move forward at a run and carry, if possible, the embank- ment behind which the enemy were posted. Rejoining the other two regiments I led them along the con nty road and from it by the cross-road through the open field against the enemys left wing. I formed them in line of battle, the right of Colonel Shaw resting on the cross-road while his left and Colonel Devanes extended toward the enemys center. One of the field pieces, unfortunately, from the giving way of the bridge, fell into a ditch and was not gotten out in time to take part in the action. The other piece moved along the road on the right of our line and wa& itself protected on its flank by skir- mishers who covered the ground for several hundred yards. Before we reached the railroad, however4the enemy abandoned it and we occ Page 119 NI~W i3LI~N1~ TO OOLPSI3OftOIJ& 14. pied it without a struggle The two regiments stationed near the river likewise advanced to it without loss 111(1, as I subsequently learned, 0-en- eral Evans brigade soon flu ed up the center. After retreating from this position the enemy occupied a hicdier field in our front with a large iiumber of cannon and heax ~ bodies of infantry drawn up in two lines with an interval of 100 or p00 yards between them. As soon as Lieu- tenant Fuller opened on them w ith his gun their artillery, which had previously directed its lire mun~t our left where the regiments of Marshall aud Allen were st Thoned was shifted and its concentrated volleys were poured upon our right. Their position approached within 400 yards there, while from our left it was more than a half mile distant. With the large number of pieces they had in play it is a wonder they did not succeed in disabling a single gun. notwithstanding the dis- parity of force and the loss of several of his men, Lieutenant Fuller, with the greatest gallantry, continued to reply until darkness put an end to the contest. During the evening the regiments of Colonels Mar- shall and Allen, by General Evans order as I have since learned, made a charbe against the enemys position on the hill. They advanced most courageously, but were repulsed by heavy showers of grape and mus- ketry. As they had to move across an open space of 1,000 yards, swept by heavy batteries supported by large masses of infantry, it was barely possible that they could carry such a position. Their prompt and daring attempt furnished the highest evidence of their courage and readiness to obey orders. Immediately after dark the enemy retreated with his entire army, and soon after we recrossed the river, the troops under my command following General Evans brigade and bringing up the rear. - The entire force at my disposition that day was rather below 2,000 men. The loss was: Command. Xiiled. Wounded. Missing. Marsballs regiment ii 58 10 Aliens regiment 6 4:1 8 Sliaws regiment 3 6 i)evanes regiment. rota 20 107 18 I cannot give the casualties of I ullers section precisely. I learn that the loss in the two first-named reriments occurred mainly in the charge above referred to; but fom th1~ ~xc should have had the satisfaction of knowing that we had, with x tstly inferior force, driven the enemy from a strong position and obliged his whole army to retreat almost without loss on our part. In conclusion I take plumsume in saying that tile officers and men in all tile regiments behaved in m m inner creditable to veteran troops. Capt. Edward White, m~ assistant adjutant-general, and Capt. A. M. Erwin, my aide-dc-camp, were energetic an(1 prompt in carrying orders to all parts of the field. Very respectfully, yours, & c., T. L. CLINGMAN, Brigadier- General. Capt. A. L. EVANS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Beans ]3rigacle Page 120 120 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [Cktir. XXX. No. 38. Report of Lieut. Got. Stephen D. Pool, C. S. Artillery, of engagement at Goldsborough Bridge, December 17. GOLDSBOROIJGH, iN7. C., December 19, 1862. COLONEL: Soon after daybreak the morning of the 16th instant my command, consisting of Companies B, G and fl Tenth North Caro- lina Troops, Company F, Fortieth North Carolina, and Starrs battery of artillery, took the positions assigned them on the north side of Nense Hiver commanding the immediate approaches to the railroad and county bridges. Everything remained quiet nntil abont noon of the 17th, when the enemy, ocenpying the south side of the river and east of the railroad, opened fire with evident design of destroying the bridge. To effect this their batteries employed for about two hours shell and solid shot, occa- sionally discharging shrapnel along the north bank of the river to dis- lodge any force there. The sonth bank of the river west of the railroad was occnpied by a portion of Brigadier-General Cliugmans brigade, the left of the Fifty-second North Carolina Troops, Colonel Marshall, resting against the bridge. Orders were sent me by Colonel Marshall not to open fire with the section of Starrs battery, commanding the bridge, until his troops retired. About 2 p. m. the Fifty-second broke and in confusion retired from the bridge, leaving the south of that im- portant strnctnre entirely undefended except by the forces on the north bank of the Nense. Orders were immediately sent by me to Captain Starr to open fire with shrapnel on the mouth of the bridge to prevent the enemy if possible from entering and destroying it. The order was immediately obeyed. While the left of the Fifty-second was retiring II saw a small force of the enemy running down the railroad bank, shout- ing and yelling as if in pnrsnit. Snspecting their design to be to enter and destroy the bridge, I cautioned my men to be on the alert and as soon as they came within range to ponr their fire into them. This was done so effectually that two were instantly killed; the others fled pre- cipitately. Our fire having disclosed onr exact position, the enemy opened npon ns with a most severe fire of canister, shell, and shrapnel for about half an honr, our gnns replying with rapidity and effect. Daring this fire my men on the banks of the river remained perfectly quiet, receiving the enemys fire unflinchingly. Thinking they had dis- lodged ns, the enemy sent forward 2 men to effect the destruction of the bridge by fire. I cautioned my men of the approach of the men, and as soon as they broke cover for the bridge fire was opened npon them. One fell back wonnded, the other succeeded in reaching the projecting brick-work, where he was enabled to complete his work iii perfect security from any fire from the north bank of the river. No effort was spared by my men to reach him with their fire. I)ifferent points of the bridge were selected, and shot after shot poured in in the vain hope of killing him. His work proved successful, and in less than ten minntes the entire southern and eastern faces of the bridge were in flames.- Seeing the destruction completed, I gave orders to retire to the rear of the section of Starrs battery posted on the railroad. Sub- sequently my entire command was ordered to the county bridge; two pieces of the battery were placed in position. Companies B and F were posted on the west side of the bridge, while Companies 0- and II took position on the eastall on the north bank of the river. Here we remained dnring the night and until ordered to this point next day Page 121 CITAP. XXXI NEW EERNE TO GOLDSBOROIJGH. 121 Late in the afternoon of the 17th one section of ~ battery, in charge of First Lient. T. C. Fuller, engaged the enemy south of the river, near the point where the county road crosses the railroad. All speak in terms of praise of the gallantry displayed here, and of the effi- cieney of Lieutenant Fullers fire. The details of this engagement do not come within the scope of this report. Justice will be (lone by the brigadier-general commanding at that point. I cannot close this report without expressing my admiration of the coolness with which my officers and men stood fire for more than two hours without an opportunity of returning it, and of the gallantry dis- played by all of Captain Starrs officers and men enga~ed. Killed, 3; wounded, 6. Captain Starr received a slight wound on arm from frag- ment of spent shell. I have the honor to be, colonel, yours, very respectfully, STEPHEN I). POOL, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Battalion Artillery. No. 39. Report of Brig. Gen. Beverly H. Robertson, C. AS~. Army, commanding Bri gade, of engagement at White Hall, December 16. HEADQUARTERs, Goldsborongh, N C., December 19, 1862. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in accordance with your order IL left Mosely Hall, on the Goldsborough and Kinston Railroad, at 11.30 a. in., 15th instant, and, with Leventhorpes regiment, portions of Ferebees and Evans regiments, and a section of artillery from [J. W.] Moores [Third North Carolina] battalion, commanded by Licut. [N.] MeClees, proceeded to White hall, on the Neuse River, to burn the bridge at that point and (lispute the enemys crossing should be attempt to turn our right. Having no cavalry I impressed a citizen guide and pushed forward to reconnoiter in advance of my command. Upon reaching White hall I learned that the enemy had not made his ap- pearance there. I then ordered my guide to scout toward Kinston to l)revcnt surprise. One hour later my force arrived and I made rapid 1)rel)arations for burning the bridge. Making a personal examination some miles to the front without finding the enemy, I returned to White hail. Shortly afterward citizens, with jaded horses and apparently much excited, announced the enemy was advancing. I ordered Major Jackson and Lient. [W. K.] Worthington to watch his movements, but they could not find him. I waited his approach until nearly dark and determined to recross and burn the bridge, according to my orders. The torch had scarcely been applied when the enemys cavalry appeared with artillery. They shelled the woods until late at night, destroying the gunboat in process of construction on this side. Several men, tak- ing off their clothes, attempted to cross the river by swimming, but were driven back by our sharpshooters. From the force displayed it was evidently his intention to cross the White Hall Bridge. About 9 a. m. on the 16th a brisk picket skirmish commenced. I visited the bridge, and after giving the necessary instructions went back to order up the Thirty-first North Carolina Regiment, Col. [John V.] Jor- dan, which had arrived during the night, and which I placed in posi- tion as much sheltered as circumstances would permit. I then posted the artillery as well as the nature of the ground would admit and or Page 122 NORTII CKROtINA AND ~. l~. VIIIGINIA. 122 dered both shell and solid shot to be fired. For some time previous the enemy had been firing from 12 to 18 pounders, some of immense cali- ber. Owing to a range of hills on the White Hall side the enemy had the advantage of position. The point occupied by his troops being narrow, not more than one regiment at a time could advantageously engage him. I therefore held Leventhorpe, Ferebee, and Evans in reserve, leaving the artillery, Thirty-first Regiment, and two picket companies in front. The cannonading from the ~flemy~s batteries be- came so terrific that the Thirty-first Regiment withdrew from their position without instructions but in good order. I immediately or- dered Colonel Leventhorpe forwa~rd. The alacrity with which the order was obeyed by his men gave ample proof of their gallant bearing, which they so nobly sustained during the entire fight, which raged with intensity for several hours after they became engaged. No veteran soldiers ever fought better or inflicted more terrible loss upon an enemy coftsidering the numbers engaged. it was with difficulty they could be withdrawn from the field. Three times did they drive the Yankee cannoncers from their guns and as often l)revclit their infantry regi- nients from forming line in their front. In spite of the four hostile regiments whose standards waved from the opposite bank did these brave men finally drove the enemy continue to hold their ground, and in confusion from the field. More than 100 of their dead and wounded were left upon the river bank. The conduct of this regiment reflects the greatest credit upon its accomplished and dauntless commander. Colonel Ferebee, of the Fifty-ninth Regiment, displayed the most sig- nal coolness and courage. For several hours, with 18 men of the picket guard belonging to the Eleventh Regiment, he fought the enemy at close quarters, notwithstanding his own command was not in action. The Fifty-ninth and Sixty-third Regiments, although in reserve, were nevertheless exposed to a galling fire from the ~nemy~s artillery. A few were killed and a number wounded. Both officers and men behaved admirably. The section of artillery was remarkably well served, Lieutenant Mc- Clees and his men remaining cool and collected. My thanks are especially due to Maj. George Jackson, Capt. Charles II. Gordon, andLientenant Worthington, members of my staff, for their efficient services and their prompt delivery of orders under the heaviest fire. The soldierly qualities displayed by Colonel Leventhiorpe on the march and during the action, to which I can bear witness, strongly recoin rnen(l him to the favorable consideration of the authorities. About 70 stand of arms and a quantity of clothing were collected from the battle-field. I regret having to report the death of Lient. [W. N. IMI.1 Means, Com- pany E, Eleventh Regiment North Carolina Troops, and also First Ser- geant Bristol, Company B, of the same regiment. They both fell like brave men in the faithful performance of their duty. TIne loss of the enemy, though not accurately ascertained, is known to have been very heavy. I herewith inclose a list * of killed and wounded on our side. Very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, B. II. ROBERTSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Capt. A. L. EvANs, Asst. Adjt. Gen., llidqi s. Evans Brigade, in the Field. * Nominal list shows 10 killed and 42 wounded Page 123 CHAP. XXX.) SkIRMISHES 1~tAR SU1~TOtK, ETC. 12~ DECEMBER 22, 1862.Skirmishes near Windsor and at Joyners Ferry, on the Blackwater, Va. Report of Brig. (ieu. Orris S. Perry, U~ S. Mrny. SUFFOLK, December 23,11862. GENERAL: Lieutenant-Colonel Onderdonk, with 200 of Dodges cav- alry, had a skirmish with a force of the enemy, consisting of artillery, cavalry, and infantry, 4 miles beyond~ Windsor yesterday. Colonel On- derdonk was conveying the ballot-boxes to Smithfield, and this force was sent across from Zuni to intercept him. He succeeded in extricat- iiig himself with the loss of 4 horses, but no men. He captured 2 of the enemy, and believes that he killed a number with his rifles. Lieutenant-Colonel Stetzel, of Spears cavalry, yesterday made a re- connaissance to Joyn ers Ford with four companies. He found the enemy there in considerable force, and had a sharp skirmish across the river. He captured 4 of their 1)ickets and 1 horse, without loss to himself. 0. 5. FERRY, Brigadier- General. Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe. DECEMBER 28,1862.Skirmishes near Suffolk and at Providence Church,Va. Report of Brig. Gen. Orris S. Perry, U. S. Army. [DECEMBER 29, 1862.1 Colonel Gibbs, sent out by me at 3 oclock p. in. yesterday toward Carrsville to occupy the enemy while Spinolas column was moving out, came in contact with the enemys scouting parties a short distance beyond our l)ickets. He drove them back, capturing 9 of them, and bivouacked about 10 miles from here. The prisoners say that Pryor was at Carrsville with two brigades of infantry, two regiments of cav- alry, and nine pieces of artillery. Colonel Gibbs returned at daylight this morning. I send the prisoners to the Fortress to-day. On the Windsor road an attack was made on our vedettes at Provi- (lence Church at 4 oclock p. in. yesterday. The vedettes were driven in, but the reserves attacked and repulsed the enemy, driving them back several miles to a main body of about 300 cavalry. 0.S. FERRY, Brigadier-General. Major~General Dix, Port Monroe Page 124 124 NOIdH CA1~OLINA AND S. t~. VIt~GINIA. JANUARY 7-~9, 186~.Expedition from Yorktown to West Point and Wliito House, Va. Report of lllqj. Gen. Erasmus D. Keyes, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS FoURTU ARMY CORPS, Yorktown, Va., January 10, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of a successful raid up the country between the Paiuunkey and Mattapony Rivers and at the White House. A detachment of cavalry of the Fifth Pennsylvania and Sixth New York Regiments, under Ma,j. W. P. Hall, and another of the One hun- dred and fifteenth New York Infantry, nuder Captain McKittrick, 300 in all, left Yorktown on the evening of the 7th instant in steamers co- operating with the strong naval forces ou this station. It was concerted with Capt. F. A. Parker,~ commanding the gunboats on the York River, that he would clear out the Pamunkey and destroy the railroad , & c., at the White House, while the infantry should hold West Point with the aid of a gunboat and the cavalry should sweep the roads and country on the left bank. Unft~rtunately, however, the water was too low to enable the vessel to reach the White house. Ma- jor Hall therefore crossed the river at that point in a skiff with a small party, burnt the ferry-boat, also a small steam& r called the Little Ma- gruder, two sloops loaded with grain, two barges, four pontoon boats, a storehouse containing a thousand bushels of wheat, & c., a quantity of whisky, soap, salt, & c. The torch was then applied to the railroad depot, which contained freight for Richmond; the tank, the rolling stock, signal station, sutlers buildings, & c. When the destruction was complete the party recrossed the river. On the left bank of the Pamunkey the cavalry captured and brought in 6 wagons and 2 carts, with 26 mules and 8 horses The wa~ons were laden with blockade goods, such as salt, black-lead, gum-shellac, buckles and rings, gutta-percha belting, bars of tin and iron, brass wire, 60 ounces of quinine, and a lot of gold lace, stripes, and stars for rebel uniforms. The expedition got off without its destination being known or sus- I)ected by any person except Captain Parker and myself The conduct of Maj. W. P. Hall, Sixth New York Cavalry, entitles him to special notice and praise. His success was complete, and he lost neither man nor horse. It will not, I trust, be deemed out of place to say that the success of the land part of the expedition wa~ largely indebted to Captain Parkers admirable management of his vessels. On this and many other occa- sions I have noticed the zeal and good judgment of that naval officer. 1 have the honor to be, very respectfully, your ol)edient servant, E. D. KEYES, Major- General, Commanding Fourth A rmy Corps. Major-General Dix, Commanding Department of Virginia. * For Commander Parkers report see Annual Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 7, 1863 Page 125 CHAP. XXX.] EXPEDITION FROM SUFFOLK. 125 JANUARY 810,1863.Expedition from SufLo]k toward the Blackwater, Va. Report of Col. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry.* II1)QRS. ELEVENTh PENNSYLVANIA. VOL. CAVALRY, Camp Suffolk, Va., January 12, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to transmit the following report of the recon- naissance lna(le by me, in obedience to instructions dated Headquar- ters, Suffolk, Va., January 7, 1863: I left Suffolk on the morning of the 8th instant in command of the following force, viz: Howards battery, six pieces; the One hundred and fifty-fifth, One hundred and twelfth, and One hundred and thirtieth New York Volunteers; the One hundred and sixty-fifth Pennsylvania Mili- tia, and 600 of my own regiment (Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry), am- bulances, & c., for the purpose of protecting General Ferry~s embarka- tion on the river Chowan, some 37 miles from Suffolk. I encamped on the night of the 8th near Hollands Corners. Next morning I started toward Carrsville, as the spirit of my instruc- tions was such as to leave much to my ~ relative to the approach of the enemy from any quarter. At Carrsville I received val- uable information from Mr. Whitehead, which afterwards proved to be correct, that Pryor was down in the vicinity of Barbers Cross-Roads with a large force. I at once got into position, supposing that my presence toward Soinerton would no longer be necessary. After re- nmalning here for about an hour a dispatch was received ordering me at once to Somerton (as per original instructions). I obeyed the order, counterinarched, and had l)roceeded to the Quaker Chu~rcli, on the Som- erton road, when another dispatch was received directing re-enforce- inents to report to me, and Maj. Samuel Wetherill, with three companies of cavalry and the One hundred and sixty-fourth New York Volunteers, rel)orted. I encamped at the Quaker Church, and the next morning the Thir- teen Hi Indiana, Lieutenant-Colonel Dobbs, reported, when, according to the dispatch, I proceeded with the entire force to Blanchards Cor- ners; thence to MeClennas Station; thence, via Deserted House, West- ern Branch Church, & c., to Windsor. At Windsor my advance, corn- i~ianded by Lieut. John L. l1ol)er, captured a dispatch, directed to General lit. A. Pryor, in the hands of two Confederate cavalry. These prisoners, with their horses, were immediately sent to headquarters, and 1 will here remark that great credit is due to Lieutenant Roper for his prolnl)t, energetic, and faithful performance of the important duty of lea(ling the advance of such a large l)Ody of troops. At this 1)oimmt (Windsor) I sent out (letachnients of cavalry in every direction to ascertain the (lirection of the enemy, and in about one hour (liscovered that he had retired on the road direct to Carrsville, passing over the same ground I occupied the J)revious day, and crossed the river at Franklin with his wagons, stores, troops, & c. I found Mr. Whiteheads information, relative to the strength and location of the correct, was of the f , : Fourteen enemy, to l)e and ollowing strength viz pieces of artillery, 1,500 to ~, 000 cavalry, and about 6,000 infantry. I have put this at the lowest estimate; some have estimated his strength at 12,000 men, consistiii g of all arms. At Win(lsor I encamped on the same ground occupied by Pryor the day previous, and sent a dispatch to headquarters for rations, forage, 8cc also Peck to Dix, January 10, in Correspondence, etc Page 126 [CHAr. XXX. 126 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. and other necessaries, which call was quickly and correctly responded to, which gave great comfort to both men and horses in a most tremen- dons rain-storm. After a bivouac of about three hours, and the return of my detach- inents sent o-at in every direction, I had a consultation with all the com- manders of the different arms which resulted in the (letermination to return to Suffolk and it being in accordance with instructions I started at 5.50 p. m. on the Petersburg road via Providence Church, draw-~ bridge, & c., on my return, and reported in person to the commanding general at 8 p. m. on the night of the 10th instant. I found that the new regiments of infantry lately arrived (One hundred and fifty-fifth and One hundred and sixty-fourth) used their entire three days rations in two, and did.not take with them their shelter-tents. I find these shel- ter-tents to be of indispensal~e use on reconnaissances, marches, & c., as they do for both blanket, bed, or tent, as the weather might demand. It gives me great pleasure to report the fact of the valuable assist- ance rendered by Colonel Gibbs, commandiub the infantry. Nearly the entire three days and nights he was constantly in the saddle, first at one point and then at another, encouraging his men, supplyin~ their wants, and exhibiting sound judgment in all his orders, l)ositions, and maneuvers, ever ready at a ~ warning to place the infantry, without noise or confusion, at any place required. Captain Howard, chief of artillery, was prompt and untiring in his duty and always ready to cheerfully execute all directions and orders in a true, spirited manner. He and his officers are all worthy of my best thanks. The cavalry, under command of Major Wetherill, were all that could be desired, caring well for their horses. They performed their arduous duty in such a manner as to prove beyond a doubt that in case of greater emergency their pride will always be to horse, and their results a faithful execution of existing orders. Major Stratton, who first led the cavalry before the arrival of Major Wetherill, performed his duty in his usual thorough manner, and is to my command a very useful and valuable officer. Colonel Dodge reported at the Deserted House with 200 cavalry, and very kindly offered his services in any manner I might suggest. His urbanity and politeness is worthy of emulation. The entire command, through rain, mud, and water, are deserving of my warmest commenda- tion in expressing their readiness at any muoment to execute any orders and under any circumstances. I am, sir, very respectfully, & c., ~. ~. SPEAH, Cot. Eleventh Pennsylvania Vol. Car., Comdg. Expedition. Maj. B. B. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. JANUARY 9, 1863.Skirmish near Providence Church, Va. Report of ]Iliaj. Gen. John J. Peck, If. S. Army. FORT Moi~1uoE, YA~, January 15, 1863. The Richmond papers are boasting that General Pryor repulsed our troops near Providence Church on the 9th instant. The following dis- l)atch of the 10th from General Peck gives the true version of the affair. The attack was repulsed by our Mounted Rifles, under Maj. [James N.] Wheelan. It is due to the latter and to our troops that the truth shoul Page 127 chAr. XXX.] RECONNAISSANCE AND SKIRMISHES. 127 be known, and if you see no objection I would be glad to have the dis- l)atch published: The enemy crossed the I3laekwater in considerable force and attempted yesterday to drive ja our right at Providence Church. Infantry, cavalry, and artillery were em- ployed by the reb~ls, but they were repulsed by Major Wheelans New York Mounted i~i1les. At dusk the enemys advance was charged and driven back upon his sup- Fort. At intervals through the night shells were thrown from rebel batteries. JOHN J. PECK, Major-General. JOIIN A. DIX, ilL ajor- General Go Maj. Gen. H. W. JIALLECK, inmandintii. General-in-Chief. JANUARY 1721, 1863.Reconnaissance from New Berne to Pollocksville, Trenton, Youngs Cross-Roads, and Onslow, N. C., and skirmishes (19th) at White Oak Creek and (20th) near Jacksonville. REPORTS. No. 1.Col. Simon II. Mix, Third New York Cavalry. No. 2. Gel. Aiigu stus B. R. Sprague, Fifty-first Massachusetts Infantry. No.1. Report qi. Gol. ~irnon II. Mix, Third New York Cavalry. NEW BERNE, N. C., January 22, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that in obedience to orders I marched from New I3erne on the morning of the 17th instant with eight coin- ])anies of my regiment and proceeded a distance of about 12 miles up the south bank of the Trent Iiiver to Mill Creek, near Pollocksville, where a halt became necessary in consequence of the destruction of a bridge across that stream. The bridge was expeditiously rebuilt and my line of march resumed through Pollocksville a short distance on the road toward Trenton, where, at an angle of a thickly-wooded road, three shots in rapid succession were fired from an ambush on the advance guard of my column. A halt was immediately ordered, when it was discovered that the road was blockaded by trees felled across it for some distance in front. I communicated the fact to Colonel Amory, acting brigadier-general, in command of the expedition, who ordered me to encamp my regiment for the night. The obstruction being removed at this point, I moved my regiment at 7 a. m. on the morning of the 18th, reaching Trenton, 13 miles dis- tant from Pollocksville, about 11 oclock a. m. Several points on the route, about midway between Pollocksville and Trenton, were block- aded by felled trees, and a large mil 1-dam, the flow from which crosses the road within a half mile of Trenton, was found to be cut, with the evident intention of flooding the road to prevent, my pa sage into the town. The cut in the dam was repaired in season to l)revent great de- lay in my march. At Trenton I discovered some i-ebel cavalry, who retreated up the White Hall road toward Iiinston. A strong blockade of felled trees across the road, densely wooded, and swamps on both sides prevente Page 128 128 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. my pursuit. Immediate preparations were made for removing the blockade, and the bridge across the river at Trenton was burned and destroyed to the waters edge. The blockade of the road in the meaii time having been removed I marched up the White Hall road about 6 miles and destroyed a bridge which crossed the Trent River at that point. This accomplished and night arriving I countermarched my regiment to Trenton and encamped for the night. I countermarched to Trenton as a matter of necessity, inasmuch as the road leading to Comfort, as I ascertained, was blockaded to such an extent as to defy all farther progress in that direction. On the morning of the 19th, at 7 oclock, I marched from Trenton without obstruction to Youngs Cross-Roads, taking a road southward, which intersects the main road from Trenton to Pollocksville, 4 miles from the latter place. The distance from Trenton to Youngs Cross-Roads by this route is 17 miles. I reached Youngs Cross-Roads about noon and found the bridge across White Oak River, 1 mile below Youngs Cross-Roads, on the road leading toward Jacksonville, destroyed, and a strong barri- cade erected on th~ opposite bank to oppose its reconstruction. From this barricade my advance was fired upon without effect as it. neared the stream. A howitzer was brought forward and the barricade stormed with canister, which had the effect to silence the enemys fire and cause him to retreat from the position. In so great haste did the enemy retire that he~ left behind five sabers and a quantity of anmmu- nition. Preparations were made to rebuild the bridge across White Oak River, and my regiment, after carefully reconnoitering the adjacent roads, en camped at Young~s Cross-Roads for the night. During the evening two contrabands came within our lines, who stated that they were with the enemy at the time of my firing into the stockade at White Oak River, and that the rebel officer in command received three severe wounds at the first fire of the howitzer. I retained these con- trabands as guides, and procured from them reliable information. The bridge across White Oak River was completed and crossed on the morning of the 20th instaimt at 10 oclock. Leaving all my trans- portation behind at Youngs Cross-Roads with the infantry, I pressed my regiment forward in the direction of Jacksonville with great rapidity. Five miles from Youngs Cross-Roads my advance guard met and surprised a company of rebel cavalry, about 50 in number, which was pursued at a gallop for nearly 12 miles by a portion of Major Coles battalion, my regiment being kept up at supporting distance. When within about 5 miles of Jacksonville, and about 20 distant from Youngs Cross-Roads, our pursuit was checked by the destruction of a bridge across Big Northeast Run, a stream about 20 feet in width, which bridge had been previously arranged for speedy removal; a stockade had been erected about 100 yards on the 01)posite side of this stream, at the end of a deep, wooded gorge, from which a heavy volley of buck-shot was poured back npon our advance. The howitzer was again brought to bear, the stockade cleared, and the bridge repaired. At this point I had 1 man killed and 1 seriously but not fatally wounded by the enemys fire. My regiment again moved forward and reached the intersection of the road leading from Comfort to Jacksonville, 3 miles from the latter l)lace, where I halted, after as- certaining that the bridge across New River at Jacksonville would be destroyed by fire on our approach and all communication with the en Page 129 CHAP. XXX.] RECONNAISSANCE AND SKIRMISHES. 129 emy in that direction would be cut off~ he having safely arrived on the opposite side. After a short halt at this last-mentioned place, night approaching and a terrible storm of rain and wind setting in, I countermarched my regiment to Youngs Cross-Roads, which point was reached at 10 p. in., where I again encamped for the night. My entire return march was through a heavy storm of wind and rain, which caused the road to be- come very heavy and difficult to travel. I caPtured 3 1)risoners between Youngs Cross-Roads and Jackson- ville, and also took of the enemys transportation three wagons with three pairs of mn1~s attached, and one mule-saddle, with holsters, pis- tols, & c. With one of the prisoners a horse was captured. Believing my orders had been obeyed and carried out to the full ex- tent of my ability to perform the same, on the morning of the 21st in- stant I returned with my command to New Berne, N. C., reaching that plaee at 3 oclock p. m. I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, [SIMON II. MIX, Lieut. Col. SOUTHARD IIOFFMAN Golonet, & c.j Assistant Adjutant- General, ~Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 2. Report of Cot. Augustus B. P. ~prag~e, F~fty-ftrst Massachusetts Infantry. FOSTER BARRACKS, January 21, 1863. On the 17th instant, in conformity to Special Orders, No. 14, joining a portion of the First Brigade and a detachment of artillery and the Third New York Cavalry, I marched with seven companies of my corn- mand (Companies F, B, and G being on detached service) by Brices Creek and the south side of the Trent River to Pollocksville, about 13 miles distant arrived at 5 p. m. and went into bivouac for the night. On the morning of the 18th two companies, under the command of Major Harkuess, marched with the main column toward Trenton, while I was ordered, with the five remaining companies and a detachment of cav- alry, to guard the approaches and hold Pollocksville till the return of the main force. This was successfully accomplished, amid upon the re- turn of the main body at noon of 19th instant, I received instructions to move five companies to Youngs Cross-Roads and hold that point till the arrival of the main column. Without a guide we passed the spot known as Youngs Cross-Roads (about 7 miles from Pollocksville}~ and coming suddenly upon White Oak Creek my advance guard received the fire of the enemys outposts on the other side of the river, the bridge having been destroyed and a breastwork of logs formed for their protection. The advance, under the dirgct command of Lieutenant-Colonel Studley, returned the fire and the enemy retired. In obedience to instructions we bivouacked at the cross-roads, and at evening were joined by the Third New York Cavalry. Soon after day- light, 20th instant, crossed White Oak River with a detachment and established an outpost on the Jacksonville road to guard the approaches while the bridge over the creek was being rCbllilt. The main force, 9 R RYOL XVII Page 130 130 NORTH~CAROLINAbAND S. E.- VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. under Colonel Amory, arrived and a portion of the cavalry pressed for- ward tQ a point near Jacksonville and reported the enemy in force at that place. The object of the expedition accomplished, we left Smiths Mill on the morning of the 21st, passing through PolLo~ksvillc, and ar- rived at New Berne in the evening. A heavy rain during the preceding night made muddy roads and overflowing streams. William P. Kent, of Company 1, who marched in apparent good health, was taken sud- deiilv ill and died in an ambulance on the route. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. B. li. SPRAGUE, Colonel Fifty-first Massachusetts Regiment. Lieut. E. T. PARKINSON, A. A. A. G., First Brigade, Dept. of North Carolina. JANUARY 19, 1863.Scout from Williamsburg and skirmish at Burnt Ordinary, Va. Report ~f ]liaj. William U. ]LfeCandless, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Yorktown, Ya., January 21, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the following report of a scout made on the 10th instant by Major McCandless, of the Fifth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry, sent out by Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, commanding that regiment, under orders frommyself: I left camp with a scouting party, consisting of 120 men, at 9 oclock a. m. When, beyond the picket, at the point where the roads diverge, I divided my command, sending one party by the York River with orders to join the main column at the Six Mile Ordinary and another party up the Jamestown road to the Chickahominy River with instructions to go by way of Centreville and join me at the Bnrnt Ordinary, while I proceeded with the remainder of my force directly up the Richmond road. At the Six Mile Ordinary the party reported having seen nothing of the enemy. My strength was now about SO men. With this number I went on up the Richmond road, and when arrived at Mrs. Picketts gate, 9 miles from Williamsburg, I came upon the enemys first post of 3 mounted men and at the brick church half a mile farther on dis- covered their reserve of 16 men, who were at once chased by my advance guard, under Lieutenant Vezin, as far as the Burnt Ordinary, at which point they were met by a force of the enemys cavalry coming alongside the Centreville road, and who, dashing upon the head of the advance guard with a sudden swoop, succeeded in cutting off and capturing 4 of our men, who, in the excitement, had gotten 300 or 400 yards in advance, and then began instantly to draw up in line of battle. Lieutenant Vezin, seeing the fate of his men and perceiving that an instants delay would give the enemy time to form, and notwithstanding the fact that he had but 13 men with him, ordered the rest of the advance guard to draw saber and charge, which was done in the most gallant manner and in the face of a volley from the enemys guns. The flashing of our sabers in air and the shouts of the men as they charged upon the foe was more than the enemy could stand, and breaking at once in every direction they fled precipitately, about 20 returning up the Centreville road and the balance taking the Diascund road, which party being the larger we pursued and succeeded in retaking 3 of our captured men, with their horses and arms, and in capturing 4 of the enemy, besides wounding one other, who, however, escaped through the woods, leaving his horse in our hands. I regret to have to report the loss by capture of Pri- vate McNeil and the injury of Private John Brown, who was shot in the side. We pursued the enemy 3 miles beyond the Burnt Ordinary, but their horses being fresh and fleeter than ours they all, with the exception of those above mentioned,made good their escape. Having learned the force of the enemy to consist of one regiment of infantry and 500 cavalry seationed at Diascund Bridge I returned to camp by the Centreville road, and was joined on the road by the party who went to the Chickahominy River. They reported no enemy in sight on either side of that river Page 131 CIIAP.~ XXX.] RECONNAISSANCES. 131 The activity and energy of the officers and men of the Fifth Pennsylva- nia Cavalry and the uniform success which has attended their numerous scouts during the last three months are worthy of notice. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Major- General, Commanding Corps. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, Comdg. & venth Army Corps and Dept. of Virginia. JANUARY 2728, 1863.Reconnaissances on the Neuse, Dover, and Trent Roads, N. C. Report of 6ol. John Rieht~r Jones, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry. IIDQRS. OUTPOSTS, CAMP FIFTY-EIGHTH REGT. PA. VOLS, January 28, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that in order to close our lines effect- ually and at the same time to obtain information of the position of the enemy on my front, I yesterday dispatched strong parties on the Neuse and Dover roads; also on the railroad and on the Trent road. My di- rections were to feel the enemy, capturing his small parties and out- posts but avoiding those which showed strength, and to obtain as much intelligence as possible. My several parties returned this evening. On the Neuse and Dover roads the bridges over Core Creek were found broken down, and no posts on this side, and no parties met ex- cept one of a few men near the creek on the Neuse road, who retired hastily and escaped into the woods. There were no pickets on the Dover road crossing or the railroad, but a very small one at the Neuse, beyond the creek. The railroad bridge at Core Creek was found standing, but the up- rights are chopped nearly off close to the water, so as to call readily. From the information obtained the enemy seem to have retired to Sandy Ridge, some 24 miles beyond Core Creek, where they are fortifying them- selves. They also have blocked up the cross-roads between the railroad and the Dover road. The force at Sandy Ridge is reported by residents of the vicinity to be two companies, and they also report that General Evans is in command at Kinston, but with what force they do not know or choose to say. On the Trent road while a working party which I sent to finish block- ing the roads on the flank of Deep Gully was thus engaged, the escort, Company K, of the Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, under Capt. Cecil Clay, moved in advance. On the Trent road, near the 14-mile post, a blockade was found obstructing effectually the passage of artil- lery and cavalry, and continuing more or less complete to beyond the eighteenth post. At the forks of the Trent road Captain Clay dis- covered a post of the enemy, which, by judicious arrangements, he sur- rounded and surprised, capturing the whole partyS infantry and 2 cavalry. In this little affair, Captain Clay reports that good service was rendered by Lieutenant Wells (Company F), who, being with him for topographical purposes, had command of the squad which made the actual capture; also that his men behaved admirably Page 132 132 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. The arms and horses taken will be turned over to the proper depart- ment. The prisoners, lOin nnmber, I send to headquarters under charge of Captain Clay. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. RICHTER JONES, Colonel, Commanding Outposts. Licut. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Eighteenth Army Corps. JANUARY 30, 1863.Engagement at Deserted House, or Kellys Store, near Suffolk, Va. REPORTS. No. l.-Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Michael Corcoran, U. S. Army. No. 3.Col. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 4.Col. William MeEvily, One hundred and fifty-fifth New York Infantry. No. 5.Brig. Gen. Roger A. Pryor, C. S. Army. No. 1. Reports of Mc0. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Suffolk, Va., February 4, 1803. On January 29 information reached me that General Pryor had been encamped at Hollands Corners, 14 miles distant, with a force of all arms, the preceding night. Captain Ward, of the Eleventh Pennsyl- vania Cavalry, was promptly dispatched to procure reliable data and watch his movements. Late in the afternoon this most valuable and daring officer reported that General Pryor had gone in the (lirection of the Deserted House, with some 2,000 infantry, 500 cavalry, and a num- ber of pieces of artillery. Parties were Sent to the indicated point and returned about 8 p. in. with information of his arrival there. I at once organized a specihl force, consisting of the following: Eleventh Penn- sylvania Cavalry, Colonel Spear; Folletts (Fourth U. S. Artillery) bat- tery; Davis (Seventh Massachusetts) battery; two mountain howitzers; the Thirteenth Indiana, Lieutenant-Colonel Dobbs; thc Sixth Massa- chusetts, Colonel Follausbee; the One hundred and thirtieth New York, Lieutenant-Colonel Thorp; the One hundred and sixty-seventh Penn- sylvania, Colonel Knoderer; the Sixty-ninth New York, Colonel Mur- phy, and the One hundred and Iifty-fifth New York, Colonel MeEvily; Colonel Gibbs coniunanding the infantry (amounting, by the morning reports of that day, to some 4,800 total), and placed it under the com- mand of Brig. Gen. M. Corcoran. He left about 1 a. in., with instructions to proceed cautiously, ascer- tain the locality of the enemy arid force him from his position, indicting all the loss possible. About 3.20 a. m. the cavalry came upon the rebel picket, driving it in and back upon the enemys main line of battle. Folletts battery, supported by the Thirteenth Indiaha Regiment, an Page 133 CHAr. XXX.] ENGAGEMENT AT DESERTED HOUSE. 133 two sections of Davis battery, supported by the One hundred and thir- tieth New York Regiment, were pushed forward to an open space m front of the enemy by the light of the camp-fires. At 3.40 a. m. Follett opened his fire and was immediately replied to by all the Confederate artillery. Davis battery joined in and the cannonade was continued without cessation until 6 a. in. General Corcoran ordered the infan- try to advance at 5.15 a. in., bnt the order was not promptly executed, although given more than once. He says the One hundred and sixty- seventh Pennsylvania became a confused mass, mixed up with other regiments, and filled up the entire road, leaving it iml)asSablC and crc- ating a temporary contusion among some other regiments iii the rear. At the request of the lieutenant-colonel it was sent to the rear to restore confidence and reform. About 6 a. m. one section of artillery was pla;ced in the road, with the Thirteenth Indiana on the right and the One hundred and thirtieth New York on the left, supported by the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, and the whole, under Colonel Spear, advanced upon the enemy. Other regiments were formed in successive lines, supporting the movement. Upon the approach of this determined mass the enemy faltered and commenced his retreat. He was pursued vigorously until the troops reached a thick wood and marsh. The One hundred and thirtieth New York and cavalry were sent forward to reconnoiter and found the en- emy well posted at the distance of 2 miles. A section of Davis battery and the Sixty-ninth New York took position on the road and opened upon the enemy. As it was now 10.15 a. m. a halt was ordered to give the men break- fast, while awaiting fresh supplies of ammunition and re-enforcements called for after the openiuig of the engagement. Soon after 11 oclock Colonel Foster joined, with the One hundred and twelfth New York and three l)ieces of the Second Wisconsin Battery, and the ammunition, and was placed in command of the infantry. At 12 oclock the plan of flanking by the Franklin road was given up and an attack in front ordered. The One hundred and twelfth New York, a section of Wisconsin guns, and two companies of cavalry were de- tailed to hold the Deserted House, and the command moved on again. The enemy had commenced his retreat, but all possible haste was made to overtake his fleeing battalions. At Pecosin Creek a sharp skirmish occurred between the Thirteenth Indiana and the rear guard. The cavalry followed 2 miles beyond Carrsville, when pursuit was dis- continued. It being evident that no frirther stand would be made a return to Deserted House was ordered. At Carrsville Major Wheelan reported with six companies of Dodges Rifles and one howitzer and was assigned to duty. Later in the day a section of the Second Wisconsin guns also joined. The whole com- mand reached the Deserted House about 6 p. m. and Suffolk after mid- night, having made a march of 32 miles in twenty-four hours and beaten the enemy soundly. Our loss was as follows: * Killed. Wounded. Mb~ing. Officor8 2 9 Privates 23 93 9 Total 25 102 9 * But see revised statement, p. 135 Page 134 134 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP.- XXX. The rebel loss must have been more than ours, judging from the in- dications of the field and roads and from the fact that 1,140 rounds of shot and shell were thrown from our batteries. Thirteen prisoners fell into our hands. The Thirteenth Indiana is spoken of in very flattering terms; also the Sixty-ninth, One hundred and fifty-fifth, and One hundred and thir- tieth New York. The demoralization of the One hundred and sixty-seventh Penn- sylvania, already spoken of, undoubtedly arose from a complication of unfavorable circumstances rather than from any determination to dis- obey orders. It had never been under fire, its position at the head of the column near the artillery (exposed to the enemys fire for near two hours in the darkness without being engaged), and the fact that the colonel was desperately Wounded and the lieutenant-colonel and major unhorsed were considerations well calculated to create temporary con- fusion. From this it recovered, and no complaint was made during the subsequent operations. This regiment should avail itself of the earliest opportunity to wipe out any suspicion that may have attached to its conduct at the Deserted House. General Corcoran speaks in high commendation of Colonel Foster, of the Thirteenth Indiana, in command of the infantry; of Colonel Spear, comn~anding the cavalry; of Captain Follett, senior officer of artillery, and of Surgeon Hand, medical director. These are all officers of rare merit, who have won high reputation by their bravery, prudence, and fidelity. Lieutenant-Colonels Dobbs and Thorp; Captain Davis, Lieutenants llartwell, Devoll, and McCurdy (Seventh Massachusetts Battery); Lieu- tenants Whitney and Wilkeson (Fourth Artillery); Surgeons Dwyer and Nolan, Assistant Surgeons Spencer and Fawcett, Quartermaster Cooke, Captaiu Blodgett (assistant adjutant-general), and Aides-dc-Camp Tra- cey, Hughes, and Winterbotham are particularly noticed for zeal, gal- lantry, and good conduct. The troops that joined during the day are deserving of credit for the alacrity with which they responded to the call of duty~ The wounded, iu kind and skillful hands, are doing well. Especial praise is due them for unflinching courage on the field and patient en- durance of suffering. The dead fell in the performance of high and stern duties assumed in behalf of a country menaced by the most cruel and wicked rebellion recorded in history. Nobly have they discharged all obligations, leav- ing bright examples of valor and fidelity for their fellow-soldiers and countrymen. Their families and friends have the deepest sympathies of the American people, and the precious and enduring recollections that their blood was poured out in the defense of constitutional liberty. The artillery of the enemy equaled ours, while he had a chosen posi- tion and choice of ground in his retrograde movement. A flank move early in the day would probably have been decisive, and the victory full and complete. The action was prematurely brought on by the ad- vance some two hours before daylight, during which time the usual sup- ply of battery ammunition was nearly exhausted and the temper of the troops severely tried. Delays ensued and the enemy commenced his retreat. Under all the circumstances it was a handsome affair, and the enemy will long remember his losses, disappointment, and narrow escape from capture Page 135 CHAP. XXX.] ENGAGEMENT AT DESERTED HOUSE. 135 General Corcoran and the troops are entitled to my warmest appro- bation for the brilliant ~tchievement contributed by them to the cause of the Government. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN J. PECK, Col. B. T. YAw BUREN Major-General. Assistant Adjutant- General, Seventh Army Corps. [Addenda.] Return of Casualties in the Union forces engaged at the Deserted House, or Kellys Store, Ta., January 30, 1863. [Compiled from nominal list of casualties, returns, etc.] Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. Command. S S -~ u3 ~ . a ~ u ~ ~,, -.~ Q ~I2 ~ S ~ S 0 ~ 0 ~ n 0 ~ 13th Indiana Infantry 1 11 7th Massachusetts Battery 2 14 16 6th Ma8sachnsetts Infantry . 1 3 2 5 11 112th New York Infantry 1 1 . - ...I 17 69th New York Infantry [N. G. A.] 3 1 8 2 130th New York Infantry 1 6 2 18 ~ 29 155th New York Infantry - - - - 2 3 ~ 164th New York Infantry 1 1 2 4 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry 1 1 18 . 20 165th Pennsylvania Infantry 5 5 167th Pennsylvania Infantry 1 9 10 4th U. S. Artillery, Battery D 4 8 12 Total 2 21 8 100 121 143 Oflicers killed.Lieut. Edward D. Sawtell, Sixth Massachusetts; Capt. Rowley P. Taylor, One hun- dre d and thirtieth New York. MerteUy weunded.Col. Charles A. Knoderer, One hundred and sixty-seventh Pcnnsylvania. SUFFOLK, January 30, 1863. Three of Folletts guns have arrived; two of them disabled by ina- bility to get shells down; one of his limbers exploded. Our loss about 100. My extra force had arrived at the latest; also Colonel Foster. The enemy had fallen back from 3 to 4 miles since daylight, contesting different positions. I have repeatedly guarded against being led too far away in case of success. It has been a- hard night and day, but I feel sure that we have a victory. One of the churches has been pre- pared for the wounded. Prisoners say that battery horses were nearly exhausted and the guns were moved by hand at intervals. Some guns will. probably be secured. JOHN J. PECK, Major- GeneraL Major~G~neral IDix, Fort Monroe Page 136 [011kv. XXX. 136 NORTH~ CAROLINA ANT) S. E, YJ~GINIA. No. 2. Report of Brig. Uen. Michael Corcoraw, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS CoRcoRANs Juisil LEGIoN, Suffolk, Va., February 1, 1863. MAJOR: I have the honor to report that, in ~mp1iance with orders received from Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, at 9.30 p. in. on Thursday the 29th ultimo I proceeded to take command of the troops designated for the expedition to attack the rebel force under General Roger A. Pryor. Arriving at the point previously arranged for the rendezvous of our troops at 12 oclock I found most of the regiments already on the ground or had passed them on their march thereto. At 1 a. m. on Friday, the 30th, everything being in readiness I com- menced the march in the order according to the annexed supplement. I continued the march until., arriving near the Kansemond County Poor House, I ordered a halt for about ten minutes, after which we proceeded on toward the Deserted House. About 1 mile from th~ latter place our advance guard, at 3.20 a. in., met the enemys pickets posted in strong force on the road and in the woods. They were promptly charged~, some being killed and others taken prisoners. Thecharge was continued by two companies of Colonel Spears cavalry up to the enemy~s front, who were drawn up in line of battle. I pushed forward Captain Folletts battery of the Fourth U. S. Artillery, supported by the Thirteenth Regiment Indiana Volun- teers, and two sections of Captain Davis (Seventh Massachusetts) hat- tery, supported by the One hundred and thirtieth New York Volunteers. They gained an open space in front of the enemy, whose camp-fires were burning. The other regiments of the command, which were in line of battle along the south side of the road, were ordered to lie down when the artillery firing commenced. Captain Folletts battery first opened at 3.40 a. in. on the north side of the road, and the enemy immediately replied with twelve pieces, soi.~e of which were of a largpr caliber than our own. ~Japtain Davis took l)osition on the south side of the road, and our own guns and the en- emys kept up an incessant and very rapid fire untiL 6 a. in. At about 5.15 a. m. I gave ordefs for the infantry to adVance. This order, twice repeated, was not promptly executed, throi~gh cause which I reported verbally to the major-general yesterday. O~u learning this I immediately ordered an advance a third time and went in person to the One hundred and sixty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Militia and sent orders to the regiments in the rear to advance in succession in the order of battle previously assigned. II found the One huiThred and sixty-seventh without a single field officer. The colonel, I afterward learned with regret, was seriously, if not mortally wounded, and the lieutenant-colonel and major had their horses killed under them apd were temporarily hurt. I asked it there was any officer present who would take command of the regiment. The adjutant promptly re- sponded and used all exertions to get the men forward, but did not succeed. They became a confns~d mass, mixed up with other regi- ments, and ffiled up the entire road, leaving it impassable and creating a temporary confusion among some other regiments in the rear. The lieutenant-colonel came up to me about this time and requested per- mission to take his regiment to the rear in order to restor~ confitience and have them reformed. I became convinced this must beAone, an Page 137 CHAP. XXX.] ENGAGEMENT AT DESERTED HOUSR. 137 consequently ordered the Sixty-ninth Regiment New York National Guards (who behaved throughout with admirable steadiness, although suffering severely from the enemys shell) and the One hundred and fifty-fifth New York Volunteers to take position in line of battle about 800 paces in the rear and stop any of the command from retiring be- yond that point. One company of Spears cavalry was placed on the road for a similar purpose. I rode down to see this order executed, and on returning to the front in company with Colonel Spear, at 5.40 a. in., determined to charge the enemy with the bayonet, and ordered two pieces of artillery to be placed on the road and formed the Thirteenth Indiana and One hundred and thirtieth New York on the right and left, strongly supported by Spears cavalry. These orders were promptly attended to, and at 6 a. m. they all moved forward nuder command of Colonel Spear. I ordered up the other regiments and formed theni in successive lines of battle. The enemy rapidly retreated at our apparent approach, and were vigorously pursued until our infantry advance was stopped by thick woods and marsh. On the concentration of our forces at this point I ordered the One hundred and thirtieth New York Volunteers to be thrown forward as skirmishers on each side of the road and a portion of Spears cavalry to reconnoiter on the road, who soon reported the enemys artillery strongly posted about 2 miles in front. Our skir- mishers here were under the command of Lientenant-Colonel Thorp, and continued to advance steadily. The enemy on perceiving them came forward with their peculiar yell to dislodge them, but were quickly driven back with much loss. ~Chey tried this three times with the same result. Lieutenant-Colonel Thorp acted bravely and exhibited much coolness and good judgment. Two pieces of Captain Davis bat- tery, supported by the Sixty.ninth New York National Guards, mean- while took position on the road and opened on the enemy. It may be necessary for me to state that from 5.30 a. iii. the re- inainder of our artillery were almost entirely without ammunition. The men of the command had eaten nothing up to this time, 10.15 a. in., and had made a rapid march. I therefore ordered a halt for the pur- pose of giving them time for breakfast and awaiting fresh supplies of ammunition. I consulted the colonels and chiefs of commands and decided to endeavor to take the enemy in flank by moving along the old Franklin road. At about 11 a. m. Colonel Foster reported to me, and I immediately placed him in command of the entire infantry. Soon after, the One hundred and twelfth Regiment New York Volunteers and three pieces of the Second Wisconsin Battery, with a fresh supply of artillery am- munition, reported. My thanks are due to these commands for the prompt manner in which they marched to the scene of action and the desire they manifested to joiu in the pursuit of the enemy. The two howitzers attached to the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry were present and were brought to bear on the enemy while on their retreat in the morning. At 12 in. everything was in readiness and I altered the former de- termination and decided to attack the enemy in front, and again umoved forward for that purpose, leaving the One hundred and twelfth New York Volunteers, two pieces of the Second Wisconsimi Battery, and two companies of Spears cavalry to hold the Deserted House. The eneimmy had commenced his retreat. We pursued with all possible haste toward Carrsville. At Pecosin Creek the Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers, as skirmIshers, came up with their rear guard, strongly posted on th Page 138 138 NORTWCAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. opposite bank, and a sharp skirmish ensued. Our artillery was quickly placed in position and opened, receiving no reply. After a few mm- utes I ordered the artillery to cease fli~e and Colonel Spear to charge the enemy across the bridge, which he did in his usual gallant and fear- less manner. He continued on nearly 2 miles beyond Carrsville and returned, reporting the enemy entirely out of sight. I then concluded that all attempts to get them to engage were useless, and therefore farther pursuit unnecessary. Major Wheelan, with six companies of Dodges hew York Mounted Rifles, reported at this time and was immediately assigned to duty. We returned toward Suffolk, halting at the Deserted House at 6 p. m. to give the men time for rest and food. Details were ordered to bury those of the enemys dead who, in their flight, were left on the field, and among whom was a lieutenant, as in- dicated by his uniform. We fired, according to Captain Folletts official report, 1,140 rounds of shot and shell, and the ground occupied by the enemy was strewn with dead soldiers, horses, broken rammers, sponges, knapsacks, and cartridge-boxes; and innumerable pools of blood on the roadside and in the woods gave fall proof of the immense havoc our artillery created during the night engagement. I ascertained, from information received on the way to Carrsville, that 25 wagons were believed to have been impressed for the purpose, and were driven oft~ filled with their killed and wounded. I visited a large farm house occupied by Mrs. Mulliol- land, which they had used as one of their hospitals. Both floors of the building were covered with blood and pieces of bone and flesh. My in- formant told me that 40 wounded hadbeen there, among whom were 4 offi- cers. A prisoner asserts that our first shell killed one of their colonels. The Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers, with its accomplished lieutenant- colonel I found ever ready to obey all orders promptly and cheerfully, and did signal service. Of the Sixty-ninth New York National Guards and the One hundred and fifty-fifth hew York Volunteers, as they be- long to my own command, I do not desire to speak as flatteringly as they deserve. What I have a right to say of Colonel Spear, command- ing the cavalry, would scarcely add to his already high reputation as one of the most accomplished officers in the service, a thorough disciplin- arian, and one who does not know what fear is. He led every charge in person, and I found him, his lieutenant-colonel, majors, adjutant, and other officers and entire command ever ready to perform every duty assigned them with the greatest alacrity. His perfect knowledge of the country was of incalculable service to me. Colonel Foster is also too well known to the major-general for me to endeavor to elevate his military character beyond that very high stand- ard he has already earned and attained. I must, however, state that lie fully maintained this character and rendered me most efficient serv- ice from the time of his arrival. Captain Follett, as chief of artillery, acted with great judgment, and himself and officers, as also Captain Davis and officers and the men of both batteries, cannot be spoken of too highly for their coolness and indomitable courage during such a severe engagement. I was most ably assisted by Captain Blodgett, my assistant adjutant- general; Lieutenant Tracey, my aide.de-camp, and Lieutenants hughes and Winterbotham, detailed on my staff. They carried my orders and messages everywhere under the most galling fire, and all are alike de- serving of the highest praise and commendation. Captain Blodgett was slightly wounded in the left knee by a piece of shell. I also desire to mention the excellent soldierly qualities of PrivateJame Page 139 CHAP. XXX.] ENGAGEMENT AT DESERTED HOUSE. 139 Collins, Company E, of Colonel Spears regiment, who was detailed to me as orderly. For specific accounts of meritorious conduct of subordinate officers who did not come under my own observation I beg leave to refer you to accompanying reports. Dr. Hand, the medical director at this post, was present and directed the transportation of our wounded and relieved and prevented much suf fering. Dr. Dwyer, surgeon of the Sixty-ninth, took charge of the build- ing occupied as our hospital, and, with the assistance of Dr. Nolan, sur- geon of the One hundred and fifty-fifth, and Assistant Surgeons Ewen, Spencer, Fawcett and others, rendered good service in that department. Quartermaster Cooke, of the One hundred and fifty-fifth New York Volunteers, was placed in command of the transportation and gave most perfect satisfaction. The number of prisoners taken by us has not been generally men- tioned in the official reports to me, but I believe them to be about 30. Our total loss is as follows * Killed. Wounded. Missing. Officers 2 9 Non-commissioned officers 3 21 i Privates 18 65 14 Total 23 95 15 Total casualties 133 The whole command arrived at Lheadquarters in most excellent spirits at 1 a. m. on the 31st ultimo, making a march of 32 miles in about twenty-four hours. I cannot close without returning my sincere thanks to Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, commanding this post, for the high honor he conferred on me in intrusting the command of this important expedition to me and leav- ing in his special orders and dispatches so very much to my own dis- cretion. I endeavored to execute everything to the best of my ability, and hope that all I have done meets his approbation. I am, major, with high respect, your obedient servant, MICHAEL CORCORAN, Brigadier-General, Gomdg. at Battle of Deserted House, Va. Maj. B. B. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant-General. [Supplement.] Order of march of force under command of Brig. Gen. M. Corcoran, United States Volunteers, from signal station near Suffolk, Va., from 1 to 3.20 a. m. Friday, January 30, 1863: Six companies Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, under command of Col. Samuel P. Spear; Thirteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, under command of Lieut. Col. C. J. Dobbs; Battery D, Fourth U. S. Artil- lery, under command of Captain Follett, acting as chief of artillery; two sections Seventh Massachusetts Battery, under command of Cap- tain Davis; One hundred and thirtieth Regiment New York Volun- teers, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Thorp; Ambulance Corps; SIxth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, under command of Colonel Follausbee; One hundred and sixty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Militia, under command of Colonel Knoderer; Jne hundred and fifty- fifth Regiment New York Volunteers, under command of Colonel Mc- * Bat see revised statement, p. 135 Page 140 [CHAP: XXX. 140 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VII~GINIA. Evily; train; one section Seventh Massachusetts Battery, under coin- mand of Lieutenant ; Sixty~ninth Regiment New York National Guards, under command of Colonel Murphy, and two companies Elev- enth Pennsylvania Cavalry, under Major Cornog. No. 3. Report of Cot. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. HDQRS. ELEVENTH PENNSYLVANIA VOL. CAVALRY, Camp Suffolk, Va., February 1, 1863. SIR: Inclosed herewith I have the honor to transmit a list of the killed and wounded in an engagement in which my regiment was en- gaged for thirteen hours, being three hours and eleven minutes under a most tremendous fire of shot and shell from the ~nemy~s heavy guns. This is the fifth heavy engagement that the regiment has taken an active part iu since October 1, 1862, in the vicinity of Blackwater. The recent battle took place on the morning of the 30th of January, 1863, at the Deserted House, 9 miles west of Suffolk, Va. The enemy consisted of 16 pieces of heavy artillery, 1,200 cavalry, and 6 regi- ments of infantry. Our force was 12 pieces of artillery, 5 regments of infantry, and my regiment, the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. The cavalry opened the engagement by a charge on the enemys pickets, and was from that moment till the end, as before stated, constantly in the hottest of the battle. Lient. Col. George Stetzel and Majs. Samuel Wetherill and George T. Cornog were present with the regiment and rendered prompt and valuable services during the entire engagement. The non-commissioned officers and men performed their duty in excel- lent style, and during a crashing fire they proved an ornament to the service and an honor to their State. It will be seen by the inclosed list that Capt. Albert J. Ackerly had his horse killed by a piece of a shell, and that Capt. John B. Loomis and my adjutant, A. A. Meuzies, had their horses instantly killed by a heavy shot. My own horse was seri- ously and perhaps mortally wounded by a sh6t in the breast. Both officers and macn are worthy of the highest commendation for their coolness, courage, and undaunted bravery. I most respectfully request that permission may be granted to have inscribed upon the regimental colors the words, ~ and De- serted House. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. P. SPEAR, Colonel, Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. Hon. ELI SLiFER, Secretary of State. No. 4. Report ~f Col. William ]IieEvily, One hundred and fifty-fifth New York Infantry. SUFFOLK, VA., January 31, 1863. Sin: In compliance with Special Orders, No. 31, from general head- quarters, I herewith furnish for the information of the brigadier-general commanding a detailed account of the expedition in which the regiment under my command was engaged ou the 30th instant Page 141 CHAP; XXX.] ENGAGEMENT AT ~DESERTED HOUSE. 141 In accordance with orders received the regiment fell in at 12 oclQck midnight and marched for the signal station on the South Quay road, a short distance from which, farther on, it came up with the rear of the rest of the forces composing the expedition, under command of Brigadier- Geiieral Corcoran, and proceeded with them to within about half a mile of the place known as the Deserted House, where the regiment was drawn up in line of battle, heavy firing in the front having announced that we had got up with the enemy and that an engagement had com- menced. In this spot we remained within range of the rebel artillery, exposed to occasional danger from the discharge of shot and shell, the men of my command behaving with a coolness and self-possession sel- dom evinced by volunteers under a first fire. here a temporary confusion was created among the soldiers of my command by the One hundred and sixty-seventh Pennsylvania and the Sixth Massachusetts Regiments falling back in disorder upon them, but from this they soon recovered and remained steady in line until 6 a. in., when an order was received to advance, which was complied with, and the regiment was again formed in line of battle on the other side and within half a mile south of the Deserted House. At this time the com- panies were mustered to ascertain if any casualties had occurred, when it was found that there was 1 man of the One hundred and sixty-fonrth Regiment (two companies of which were attached to my regiment in lieu of Companies D and K on duty at the time the regiment was or- dered out, Company K being on picket duty and ID detailed to garrison Fort ilalleck) killed; 2 men of Company B, of my regiment, wounded, and 5 reported missing. From this position we then followed the enemy, who was retreating, some 5 or 6 miles, when, in consequence of renewed firing in our front, the regiment was once more formed in line of battle, soon after which, the firing having ceased, I was ordered to return with my command to the Deserted House, where I arrived about 6 p. m. and remained till 9 oclock, the men~ resting and refreshing themselves after the fatigue they had undergone. From here I was ordered to Suffolk, for which lilace I marched with my regiment and arrived at 1 a. in. on 31st instant. I must particularly mention the valuable assistance rendered me throughout the whole time the engagement lasted by Major Flo@d, whose services principally conduced to the restoration of order and confidence when the regiment had been thrown into confusion by the One hundred and sixty-seventh Pennsylvania and Sixth Massachusetts Regiments. I would also make favorable mention of Captain Byrne and the sol- diers under him, whose anxiety to get into action was such that it was with difficulty they were restrained from charging on the rebel batteries. I should do an injustice tothe gallant men composing the two companies of the One hundred and sixty-fourth Regiment attached to the One hundred and fifty-fifth if I omitted to mention the brave and steady manner in which they behaved. From the bearing of all the officers and men engaged in the affair and the coolness and intrepidity displayed by them during the time it lasted, I feel confident that they possess all those qualities necessary to make good and efficient soldiers, and of their willingness to display the same whenever occasion offers. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, WM. MOEVILY, Got., Corndg. One hundred and fifty-fifth Regt. New York 17ols. rapt. J. J. BLODGETT, A. A. U Page 142 142 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. No. 5. Report of Brig. Gen. Roger A. Pryor, 0. 8. Army. HEADQUARTERS FoRcEs ON THE BLACKWATER, February 4, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the fight at Kellys Store on the 30th ultimo: With the design of subsisting my command as largely as possible within the enemys lines, on the 25th ultimo I crossed the Blackwater on a foraging expedition. The detachment consisted of the regiments ot Cols. [Robert C.] Trigg, [J. J.] MeMalion, and [Thomas] Poage; 150 men of Col. [W. C.] Claibornes [Seventh Confederate] Cavalry; [Capt. J. C.] Coits, and a section, respectively, of [Capt. S~ T.] Wrights and [Capt. Louis~ II.] Webbs batteries. Subsequently I directed Maj. [S. P.] McConnell to join me with a part of [H. A.] Edmundsous bat- talion and a section of S. Taylor Martins battery. The entire force did not exceed 1,800 of all arms. The evening of the 25th I bivouacked at Somerton. Informed of the presence of the enemys cavalry at Gatesville, some 12 miles distant, I dispatched Lieut. Col. [V. H.] Taliaferro that night with 100 mounted men to beat up their quarters; but they were appraised of his ap- proach, and despite the celerity of his march they continued to escape by a circuitous route to Suffolk. The 26th I moved from Somerton to Hollands Store, where I was detained three days by inclement weather. On the 29th I resumed my march,and that evening about 5 oclock I reached Kellys Store, on the direct road from Franklin to Suffolk, dis- tant from the former 12 miles, from the latter scarcely 9. Apprehend- ing a probable attack, I disposed my force in such manner as to be pre- pared for any contingency. I preferred to approach Kellys by the road from Kinsale Swamp, because it conducted toward the enemy by a direct instead of an oblique march, and because, being covered on either side by an extensive and impenetrablepognosia, it protected me against the pos- sibility of a flank attack, except through certain obscure pathways, which a small force would suffice to block up. At Kellys the road divides one fork leading directly to Suffolk, the other turning almost perpendic- ularly to the left and sweeping around by Elys and Providence Church. A hundred or two paces from the store both roads are intersected by a swamp, but it opposes scarcely any obstruction to the passage of troops. The store stands in an open field of considerable extent, inclosed on either side by a thick pine growth reaching to both roads at the point where they traverse the swamp. The wood in rear of the field, about 1 mile from the swamp, I occupied with the regiments of McMahon and Poage, deployed on both sides of the road. One battalion of Triggs regiment was in the pines on the left, a little in advance of Poages, the other on the right, a little in advance of McMahon. The batteries I destined to sweep the field in case the enemy should cross the swamp. A section of 6-pounders I advanced to within 300 yards of the store, one gun being on either side of the road. Some 400 yards to the rear and on either side of the road I placed a rifled piece and howitzer. This was Coits battery. Wrights section, consisting of a rifled gun and howitzer, was in position on the left of the road and in line with Coitls rearmost pieces. Edmund- sons battalion, with a section of Martins and a section of Webbs bat- teries, were held in reserve some three-quarters of a mile in rear of th Page 143 CHAP. XXX.] ENGAGEMENT AT DESERTED HOUSE. 143 main body, and were so posted as to observe the two by-paths which there intersect the Kelly road, the one communicating with the railway and the other with the Carrsville road on the left. The cavalry were em- ployed in outpost duty, a strong picket being stationed on both roads some distance beyond the swamp. A company of infantry was also placed on each road immediately at the swamp. Hardly were these dis- positions completed when the vedettes in advance of the cavalry outposts encountered and drove back a small scouting party from Suftblk. An- ticipating an attack during the night by a large force of cavalry, I pre- pared an ambuscade by posting 100 sharpshooters on the direct road a mile beyond the swamp. As was expected, about 3 oclock the enemys cavalry approached the men in ambush and received a volley which emptied many a saddle and threw the column into confusion. They rallied, however, and were saluted with another destructive fire. The infantry behind then engaged my skirmishers, who, being overpowered by numbers, were obliged to recross the swamp. Here they were again placed in ambush, and again theypoured a deadly volley into the enemys cavalry at a distance of 10 paces. Meanwhile the enemy~s whole force pressed on across the swamp. At this moment I reached the spot and immediately directed Captain Coit to open with his advance section. He was anticipated by the enemy, who had already gotten a couple of mountain howitzers in position. The ground being favorable to the action of the enemys cavalry, I appre- hended some peril to the pieces in advance, and accordingly after a few rounds I retired them on a line with the other sections. All my artillery, except the reserve under Captain Martin, was now engaged. The enemy, too, had brought up his batteries, and there ensued and was maintained for two hours as furious a cannonade as I have ever witnessed. it was now 4 oclock precisely; by 6 oclock the enemys advance was decisively checked and all his guns silenced, except a single piece which discharged an occasional shot with feeble efh~ct. At this moment word was brought me from various sources that the cars were running and were accumulating troops in rear ofmyrightfiank. This information obliged me to move my main force to the point occu- pied by the reserve in order to prevent the enemy debouching on my flank and rear. Accordingly 1 directed the infantry to retire by successive bat- talions and the artillery by alternate sections. The movement was exe- cuted with perfect deliberation and without the least annoyance. The reserve, now become the advance, was re-enforced and arranged in a skirt of woods behind the field, about 400 paces in width, which the enemy in his approach would be obliged to traverse. Skirmishers were thrown for- ward to the right and left. The artillery was disposed on the edge of a field in such order as to rake the road and sweep every foot of the field. The position was sufficiently strong, and we awaited the approach of the enemy if he should prove in a mood to renew the fight. After the lapse of nearly an hour their cavalry appeared in the woods on the opposite side of the field. A single discharge of spherical case sent them scamper- ing away. Next they brought up a howitzer, but after three rounds that also was disabled and withdrawn. Their infantry then issued from the woods across the field with the evident design of charging our batteries, but being confronted by our skirmishers and assailed by storm of case and canister they broke and ran in the utmost confusion, nor did they rally again. My line of skirmishers was advanced and scouts were sent forward to ascertain the enemys presence, but they were not to be found. They were beaten and had fled toward Suffolk. Despite our inferior force and deficiency in cavalry I resolved on pursuit, and ha Page 144 144 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. issued twders accordingly, when I received the embarrassing informa- tion that the artillery ammunition was exhausted. In this circuin- stance no alternative was left me but to return toward our base of supply. After remaining on the field from 8 until 1 oclock (five hours) without seeing or hearing of the enemy we retired leisurely, marching 3 miles in so many hours, and exempt from all interruption until we reached Kinsale Swamp, when the enemys cavalry attempted a dash on our rear guard. He was promptly repulsed and severely chastised. We proceeded to Carrsville and bivouacked 0 miles from the field of battle. The fortunate issue of this engagement, maintained against such su- perior force (the enemys force being fully 8,000), I attribute to the favor of Providence and the superb valor of the troops of my command. For four hours the infantry lay under a terrific storm of shell, case, and canister, and yet hardly a man abandoned his place in the ranks. But the chief glory of the fight must be accorded to the artillery. To the rapidity and effect of their fire, the firmness with which they held their position and maintained the fight against more numerous an4 heavier batteries and under the menace of a charge by cavalry and infantry, is due the decisive repulse sustained by the enemy. When all discharged their duty so admirably it is difficult to distin- guish particular merit in individuals; but I could not acquit myself of injustice if I omitted to recall the services of Captains Coit, Martin, and Wright. By their gallantry and judicious conduct these officers im- parted the noblest spirit and the greatest efficiency to their respective commands and contributed chiefly to the successful event of the day. The casualties in the command were few, but among them I have to lament the death of Colonel Poage, of the Fiftieth, and Capt. [Thomas P.] Dobyns and Lient. [John S.] Lacy, of the Fifty-fourth Virginia Vol- nuteers, all courageous and capable officers. Persons with the best opportunities of information report the enemys loss to exceed 300 in killed and wounded. My own dead and wounded were brought from the ifeld, except the few who fell in the fight across the swamp and who were lost in the thickness of the woods and the darkness of the night. In conclusion I have to commend the conduct of my staff: Of Capt. [XV. II.] Whitner, assistant adjutant.general, whose zeal, gallantry, and intelligence are worthy of all praise; of my aide, Lieut. [C.] McCann, who exhibited his usual activity and reckless audacity of courage, and of Messrs. McMullen and Barnes, who were equally fearless and ener- geti~ in communicating my orders and directing their execution. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, IlOGER A. PItYOR, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Capt. GEORGE G. GARRISON, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indorsemdnt.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Goldsborough, N. C., February 10, 1863. I have the honor to forward the report of General 11. A. Pryor, in- closing with it the list of killed and wounded. It is with pleasure 1 call the attention of the War Department to the successful defenseof the lines of the Blackwater. Although I have never been able to place an adequate force oii the line, yet by defensive works and constant vigi- lance it has been held since July last against a force often five or six times our numbers. Three times in heavy columns they have tried t Page 145 CHAP. XXX.] EXPEDITION TO PLYMOUTH, N. C. 145 force a passage and have in each instance been repulsed, and our forces have constantly traversed the counties on the left bank and drawn there- from most of their own supplies. Col. C. Leventhorpe, the former corn- mander of the lines, and General Pryor both deserve commendation for their successful defense of that frontier with their small commands. S. G. FRENCH, Major- General, Commanding. (Addenda.] Return of Gasnaltieo in the Brigade commanded by Brig. Gen. Roger A. Pryor, in engagement at Kelly8 Store, Va. [Compiled from nominal lists on file.] Killed. Wounded. Command. ci ,,~ ~ bE ~ . f-c . Q f- .~ f-f- n ~ 0 ~ H 0 ~ H ~4 50th Virginia Regiment, Col. Thomas Poage 1 1 1 0 7 8 63d Virginia Regiment, Col. if. J. McMahon 4 4 1 9 10 14 54th Virginia Regiment, Col. Robert C. Trigg 2 2 . 4 4 6 Coits battery, Capt. J. C. Coit 1 1 1 5 6 7 Wrights battery, Capt. 5. T. Wright 1 2 3 3 Martins battery, Capt. 5. T. Martin 1 1 1 Grand total 39 FEBRUARY 110, 1863.Expeditiou from New Berne to Plymouth, N. C. Report of Cot. Francis 12. Lee, Forty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry. HDQRS. 44TH REGIMENT MASS. VOL. MILITIA, Camp AS~tevenson, New Berne, February 14, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in obedience to order of January 31, 1863, I embarked my command on steamer Northerner and arrived at Plymouth, N. C., at 4 p. m. on February 2. Upon landing I consulted with Major Bartholomew, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Regiment, commander of the post, in regard to closing the lines; but learning from him that information of our arrival and probable force had undoubtedly been sent forward to the enemy even before our arrival, I deemed it unwise to interfere with existing ar- rangements in regard to passing the lines. Learning that Commodore Flusser was absent, I proceeded in com- pany with Major Bartholomew to inspect the location of his pickets and his preparations for defense, and found the pickets well placed, his precautions against surprise sufficient, and every advantage taken of the natural defenses of the town, the major having almost completed a ditch connecting the two swamps lying south of the town. Inside of this ditch, which is about 6 feet in depth and about 15 feet wide, the earth is thrown up sufficiently high to afford shelter for sharpshooters. Major Bartholomew proposes to erect a small block-house where the Long Acre road crosses this ditch, and also one upon the Jainesville road at the crossing of the ditch. My carpenters built draw-bridges for each of these roads, and I would respectfully suggest that two field )~Qwjtzers would render the defense of these roads easy against any force 10 R HVOL XVII Page 146 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [OHM. XXX. 146 likely to be brought against them, and that they arc most eai nestly de- sired by Major Bartholomew. I would also recommend a further supply of axes and shovels, as the want of these tools prevents Major Barthol- omew from availing himself fully of the services of the coutrabands in hi~ command. Upon the Long Acre road the picket is stationed at the ditch, about three-quarters of a mile from the custom-house, with an outer picket of 5 men half a mile in advance at the junction of the toad with the Lees Mill road. At this point there is a blockade of trees fallen across the road. Upon the Columbia road the picket is established just west of the bridge, crossing Coneby Creek, about two miles from the custom house. This bridge is taken up each night and affords an easy and sure de- fense, as the creek is very deep. Upon the Jamesville road the picket is at the ditch, about 1 mile from the custom-house, and a cavalry vedette is stationed about half a mile in advance. Upon inquiring as to the probable force and location of the enemy, I learned from Major Bartholomew that he, in company with Comino- dore Flusser, had, on January 30, made a reconnaissance as far aa Jamesville on the gunboat Commodore Perry, shelling the woods at various points but finding no signs of the presence .of the enemy. It was the opinion of Major Bartholomew that the position and strength of the enemy was as follows: Two companies of the Seventeenth ~ orth Caro- lina Regiment at Rainbow Bluff wi4t two field pieces; the remainder of that regiment, with four field pieces, in the vicinity of the bluff; any- where between Hamilton and Williamston; four companies of infantry some 7 miles northwest of Washington, and the remainder of their regi- ment at or near Greenville; three companies of cavalry scouting any- where between the Tar and Roanoke Rivers. A cavalry scout to Wards Bridge, some 4 miles from town, failed to discover any signs of rebel scouts, though they learned that parties of two or three cavalrymen had been seen in that vicinity within a week. Commodore Flusser arrived on the evening of the 2d of February, and after consultation I arranged to go with my regiment on his three gunboats to Williamston, starting the next morning at 7 oclock and landing at Wiiliamston or Jamesville as might be thought bestthe landing party to be supported by three boat howitzers and their crews, under command of Lieutenant Furness, of the Valley City. On the fol- lowing morning a drifting snow-storm rendered any advance by land or water impossible; the impassable state of the roads also prevented an expedition to Windsor to confiscate bacon packed for rebel use. On Friday, February 6, finding that no coal could be furnished to our transport by the Navy and that my pioneers were unable to supply the requisite quantity of wood, I was obliged to send out some 3 miles to buy and draw some dry wood belonging to Mr. Harrison, a loyal man living on the Long Acre road. Before starting the wagons Major Bar- tholomew told me that he had good reason to believe that many of the inhabitants upon that road had abused their protection papers by smug- gling out salt in larger quantities than they needed for home consump- tion; that they had packed large stores of bacon intended for the use of the rebel troops; that he thought an examination and confiscation of a portion of their bacon, if found in such large quantities, would be de- sirable. I therefore took four of my companies and went some 13 miles out, taking on the way the horses, mules, and carts to transport the pork if found. I examined the farms of the persons suspected, and $inding f~ppi two to three tons of bacon took fvoni fQtW of them 3,38 Page 147 ChAP. XXX.] EXPEDITION TO PLYMOUTH, N. C. 147 pounds, leaving much, for want of transportation, which I think would properly have been brought away. This bacon, with 22 horses and mules and 16 carts, I handed over to Major Bartholomew, lcaving it to his judgment to return any of the horses and carts to persons in whose loyalty he had confidence, and directing him to see that quartermasters receipts for the property taken should be given to the parties, in ordei that if they could rebut the testimony with regard to their sympathy and aid for the rebel cause they might receive payment from the Gov- ernment. On Sunday morning, being informed by the captain of our fransport that unless we started then he would be obliged to lay at Plymouth until coal was found him, and my ra~ons not being sufficient for over two days longer, I left Plymouth that afternoon, and after anchoring at Roanoke for coal, arrived here on the evening of Tuesday, February 10. Yours, with respect, FRANCIS L. LEE, fJolonel, Gomdg. Forty-fourth Regt. Mass. Vol. Militia. Capt. ANDREW STEWART, Assistant Adjutant-General. P. S.Inclosed please find instractions received from headquarters relative to the movement above stated. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, New Berne, N. C., February 15, 1863. Approved and respectfully forwarded. H. W. WESSELLS, Brigadier- General Volunteers, Commanding. [Inclosure.l IIDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, 18TH A. C, New Berne, January 31, 1863. Col. FRANCIS L. LEE, Comdg. Forty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia: COLONEL: You will embark your command to-morrow morning at 7 oclock on the steamer Northerner and proceed directly to Plymouth, N. C. The Massasoit will be at the wharf at the foot of Middle street for the purpose of transferring your regiment to the Northerner. Upon your arrival at that place you will assume command of the post, and immediately after consultation with Captain Fhisser, U. S. Navy, and Major Bartholomew, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volun- teers, take the necessary steps to drive in the enemys pickets. It is reported here that the enemy is in force (aboat 1,000) at James- yule. Should you find this report corroborated by the information you may receive at Plymouth, you will advance on that place and whip the enemy; and if upon consultation with the above officers it should be deemed advisable you are authorized to advance as far as Williamston. It is necessary that the advance should be made very shortly after your arrival, so that the enemy may not receive information of your arrival ~it the place, and you are therefore advised to close the lines. Captaip Flusser, U. S. Navy, will furnish you with some boat howit- zers and crews, and he, as well aa Major Bartholomew, are strongly ie~ onuipnd~4 to yoi~ ~rprn their loi4g e~pe4~met~ n4~ tEe post Page 148 148 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. YIRGINIA. (CHAP. XXX. Much of course must be left to your own discretion, and the greatest confidence is placed in your judgment and abilities. The generals de- sire is to drive the enemy back and prevent their annoying our forces at Plymouth. Yours, very respectfully, HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General. FEBRUARY 2, 1863.Destruction of Salt-Works at Wales Head, Currituck Beach, N. c: Report of Capt. Francis E. Porter, Eighth Massachusetts Infantry. HEADQUARTERS, Roanoke island, February 5, 1863. CAPTAIN: Pursuant to information received from you in your com- munication of December 29,1862, of there being salt-works in operation on Currituck Beach, I on the 2d instant went with a force of 90 men on the United States steamer Halifax and succeeded in destroying the same, together with about 100 bushels of salt, without opposition. These same works are located at a place called Wales Head and have before been destroyed by our forces, but were rebuilt and in frill operation and, I should say, were manufacturing salt at the rate of about 50 bushels per day. My expedition was a perfect success. Trusting my actions may meet your approbation, I am, captain, re- spectfully, your obedient servant, F. E. PORTER, Captain, Commanding Post. Capt. JOHN F. ANDERSON Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, New Berne, N. C. FEBRUARY 5, 1863.Skirmish near Olive Branch Church, Va. Report of Maj. Christopher Kleinz, Fifth Pennsylvania ~iJavalry. CAMP MAGRUDER, Near Williamsburg, February 5, 186.3. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that in obedience to instruw tions I proceeded this morning in command of th~ second and third squadrons, numbering in all 156 men, to make a reconnaissance of the country as far as Twelve Mile Ordinary. Arriving at Fort Magruder I ed by 26 men, under Lieutenant Williamson, and from thence was join to William and Mary College; here I detached the third squadron, under Captaiu Stetson, with orders to take the Jamestown road and scout that portion of the country around by Green Spring farm; to come in by Centreville, and send me wor4 as to his arrival down to the junction of the Centreville and Richmond roads, where I, with the remaining part of my force, was waiting. During the interval I sent Lieutenant Williamson on with his com- mand toward York River, some 5 miles, who on returning reported no sign of an enemy. On receiving word of Captain Stetsons arrival at Centreville I marched to Six Mile Ordinary, where I was joined by Cap- tam Stetson, who reported no traces of the enemy in the direction fro Page 149 CUAP.XXX.J SKIRMISH AT OLIVE BRANCH CHURCH, VA. 149 which he came. With my whole force I now proceeded up the Rich- mond toad to Mrs. Picketts gate, where the advance guard came on the enemys pickets, which they gallantly drove in, capturing 1 prisoner (and [who] in their hasty retreat left part of their arms, blankets, and a Virginia dinner at Olive Branch Church, where their reserve of 8 men was posted), and pursued them 2 miles beyond Twelve Mile Ordinary. In accordance with instructions I halted my main force at the Ordi- nary, and finding no force near, and from information received believ- ing none to be nearer than Diascund Bridge, I returned with my com- mand and prisoners to camp. I am, colonel, your obedient servant, C. KLEINZ, ]Iliajor. Lieutenant-Colonel LEWIS, Gomdg. Fifth Pa. Gay. FEBRUARY 621, 1863.Transfer of Ninth Army Corps from the Army of the Potomac to Newport News, Va. Itinerary of the Ninth Army Gorps, Maj. Gen. William F. kSmit~t, U. S. Army, commanding, February 6~28.* February 6.In accordance, with orders from corps headquarters the Third Division struck tents on the Rappahannock River, near Falmouth, and proceeded by cars to Aquia Creek and thence by transports to Fort Monroe, where it arrived on the 10th; thence it proceeded to Newport News. February 9.The Second Division struck tents near Falmouth; took cars for Aquia Creek, and transports from thence to Newport News, where it arrived on the 11th. The artillery of this division, having been 1anded at Hampton on the 15th, joined at Newport News on the 21st. February 10.The First Division left camp on the Rappahannock and iroceeded by cars and transports to Newport News. FEBRUARY 7, 1863.Skirmish at Olive Branch Church, Va. REPORTS. No. 1. Maj. Gen. Erasmus D. Keyes, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Army Corps. No.2. Maj. Christopher Kleinz, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. :~.Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S. Army. No. 4.Col. William B. Tabb, Fifty-~intli Virginia Infantry. No. L keports qf Maj. Gen. Erasmus D. Keyes, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH Conrs, Yorktown, February 8, 1803. GENBR*L: A ~iquadron of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, which left on a reconnaissance yesterday afternoon, encountered a force of Corps RePirn for February, 1863 Page 150 150 NOIITIL CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XYX~ rebel cavalry and infantry at Burnt Ordinary, about 25 miles above here. After a short conflict our squadron retired, having lost several officers and men. I will report in detail as soon as I learn the facts. E. D. KEYES, Major- General. Maj. Gen. JOHN A. Dix, Fort Monroe. YORKTOWN, February 9, 1863. The report of particulars has not come in. I would rather delay a little than report an exaggerated loss before the stragglers return. Rumor now places it about 23. The officer in command exceeded his instructions by going to Burnt Ordinary when he was directed to go only to Six Mile Ordinary. I am going up to examine in person before I give the facts. E. D. KEYES, Major-General. Major-General Dix. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CORPS, Yorktown, February 10, 1863. Lieut. George Smith and 5 privates reported missing in the recon- naissance of the 7th instant have come in. Lieutenant Williamson was killed and Captain Hagemeister and Lieutenants Reinmuller and Little were taken prisoners. Five rebel deserters have just come in. Lees brigade of cavalry is reported, on pretty good authority, to be in King William County, opposite the White House. E. D. KEYES, Major- General. Major-General Dix, Fort Monroe. No. 2. Report of Maj. Christopher Kleinz, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. CA1~n OF FIFTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Near Williamsburg, February 8, 186~. COLONEL: I have the honor to make the following report: That dur- ing your absence yesterday from the regimentthe command having been turned over to me by you before leavingthree deserters from enemy came into our lines and delivered themselves to our pickets. They stated that several more were outside who desired to come in, but in consequence of the enemy having sent out patrols for the purpose of discovering and arresting them they were afraid to venture. Shortly afterward two other deserters came in and delivered them- selves up, and who corroborated the statement of the others, saying furthermore that 16 of their men likewise disposed were at Walkers Mill, 3 miles beyond and to the right of our pickets, on the Richmond road; also that they had heard of 20 of their own men patroling in front of our lines and in the immediate neighborhood in search of de- serters, and of whom the men at Walkers Mill were in fear Page 151 CHAP. XXX.) SKIRMISH AT OLIVE BRANCH CHURCH, VA. 151 I deemed it necessary to send out a scout to ascertain if there was any truth in these statements. Accordingly a squadron, composed of Companies L and M, numbering 84 men, and commanded by Captain Faith, was sent out with instructions to take the road leading to Walkers Mill to the right at the Richmond road picket post, and from Walkers Mill to proceed to Six Mile Ordinary, and then return to camp via the Richmond road; in the event of meeting with the enemys patrol, as previously mentioned, to capture them if possible. I have been informed that Captain Faith proceeded as far as Six Mile Ordinary without discovering any trace of the enemy. He then ordered his advance guard to proceed 300 or 400 yards beyond, on the Richmond road, and halt. This the advance guard proceeded to do, when they discovered a small patrol in their front. The lieutenant commanding advance guard sent back to Captain Faith for orders. Captain Faith, in violation of orders received from me, ordered the lieutenant to charge and capture them if possible, and that he would support him. The enemy fled on the approach of our men, and after being pursued for 2 miles they took a road leading to the right, our advance guard in hot pursuit. At this point Captain Faith threw out another advance guard, upon the direct road, endeavoring to cut off the enemy~s retreat. An- other body of rebels, being either infantry or dismounted cavalry, and secluded by a ravine alongthis part of theroad, allowed our advance guard to pass them, and as the column was passing poured into them two or three volleys, emptying about twenty saddles. At the same time a small body came out of the woods and charged the rear of the column, throw- ing our main body into confusion, and owing to the unexpectedness of this fierce attack they could not be rallied until they had retreated to Six Mile Ordinary, a distance of from 2 to 3 miles. Here they rallied, charged, and dispersed the pursuing enemy; but in consequence of their horses being completely worn-out they were unable to take ad- vantage of the change in our favor. The number missing at present is 5 officers and 33 men; some of the latter are supposed to be in the woods, their horses having been shot and disabled. The enemys loss, so far as I can ascertain, appears to be 5 killed and 15 wounded. Immediately on hearing the firing I ordered out one battalion under Major MeCandless to support Captain Faith. On reaching Williams- burg they met the retiring party and there halted for further orders. In the mean time you had arrived in camp and resumed command. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KLEINZ, Major. Lieutenant-Colonel LEWIS, Commanding Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. [lindorsemeuL] HEADQUARTERS PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Yorktown, February 9, 1863. Respectfully forwarded to Major-General Dix, commanding depart- ment. Captain Faith, who commanded the scouting party, is wounded iu the face and speaks with difficulty. The reconnaissance was not conducted properly, and was in violation of my general instructions. Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, commandin Page 152 [CHAP. ~ 1ri~ NORTh OAROLINA A1~P S. E. VIfl~tNtA. Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, had left for Yorktown on business but a short time before the party was sent out by Major Kleinz in consequence of the representations of the deserters. I have heretofore regarded C~p- tam Faith as an enterprising officer, but lie and Major Kleinz have in this instance both allowed themselves to be deceived. Captain Faith was led into an ambush at a point near Nine Mile Or- dinary, which is about 21 miles from Yorktown. E. D. KEYES, Major- General. No. 3. Report of Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, U. S. Army. BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS, Chaffins Farm, Va., February 10, 186312 m. GENERAL: The report of Col. [William B.] Tabb, [Fifty-ninth Vir- ginia Infantry,] is fully confirmed. On Saturday, the 7th instant, ~t about S p. in., the enemy advanced in force (about 85 cavalry) np the Telegraph road and approached near the Olive Branch Church, below the Burnt Ordinary. Colonel Tabb had about 100 infantry and about 150 cavalry. When the enemy came within short range he fired one volley of infantry and charged with his cavalry, killing some 7 or 8 and wounding some 2 or 3, which were captured, and capturing 35 prisoners, with their horses, arms, accouterments, & c., and pursuing the enemy down to the Six Mile Ordinary, and there firing severely into them and putting them to rout. Probably their wounded who escape,d amounted to some 10 or 20 more. Thus the colonel, without the loss or injury of a man or horse, succeeded in killing, wounding, and capturing some 50 or 60 of the enemys cavalryfrom a fifth to a fourth of his whole num- ber. I send to you 35 prisoners, among whom are 1 captain and 2 lieutenants. One lieutenant was killed. These men are chiefly Ger- mans, of the rascally Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, who destroyed the records of Charles City County and who burned the buildings, library, & c., of the venerable William and Mary College. I trust they will be dealt with accordingly. Accompanying this is a note from Colonel Tabb. I have approved of his request to retain the horses, arms, & c., for his cavalry. They need them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier- General. Major-General ELZEY, Commanding, & c. No. 4. Report of Col. William B. !labb, Fifty-ninth Virginia Infantry. HEADQUARTERS, Diascund Bridge, Va., February 7, 1863. GENERAL: I left my encampment here at 10 a. m. to-day and with a detachment of six companies of cavalry and four of infantry (an aggre- gate force of 235) moved down the Telegraph road in the direction o Page 153 Citxt~. ~ ~AtIRMISli AT SA1~D4~ 1UPGI~, fl. ~. 153 Williamsburg. At Olive Branch Church, 1 mile below the Burnt Or- dinary, my advance guard came upon a detachment of the enemys cav- alry. The position being favorable I immediately disposed my force in ambush and awaited their approach. When they had come within close range I ordered a volley of musketry, and taking advantage of their confusion charged them with my cavalry. They were easily routed. The pursuit was continued as far a~the Six Mi]~e Ordinary. The enem~P lost 7 killed, 2 wounded, and 36 captured, with their horses, arms, and equipments. In my command there are no losses or casualties to report. My original object was to penetrate the enemys lines and gain the rear of the guard force in Williamsburg. ~1y intention having been discovered, I decided to abandon it for the present and returned to my iutrenchments. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. TABB, Golon4, Gommanding. Brig. Gen. H. A. WISE, Gommandin~i, cte. [Thdorsement.] FEBRUARY 8, [1863]7.30 p. m. I respectfully forward this excellent report of a successful skirmish with the enemy without the least loss. Colonel Tabb deserves more than a word of approval.* May I not send another battalion to re- enforce him? HENRY A. WISE. FEBRUARY 1213, 1863.Expedition from Batchelders Creek and skirmish (13th) at Sandy Ridge, N. C. Reports of Cot. John Richter Jones, Fifty-eighth Pennsytvania Infantry. HDQES. OUTPOSTS, CA~IP FIFTY-EIGHTH P~& . VoLS., Batehelders creek, February 14, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the result of an expedition made yes- terday and the night before in order to ascertain the force of the enemy on my front and also to abate their audacity. At 8 p. m. Thursday evening I moved my effective men, leaving this post in charge of those not capable of severe duty assisted by a com- pany which I ordered up temporarily from the railroad crossing. At Tuscarora I dispatcheil Captain Brown, of the Fifty-eighth, with two companies, to move on the Neuse and IDover roads and scour the country near the Keuse River, and also to co-operate generally with my movement. At Jones Clearing, 1 mile short of Core AJreek, I dispatched one company to seize the railroad bridge at the creek and to remain there in order to co-operate with me when necessary;* and at the same point I moved by a road crossing the railroad southwardi. with seven companies. Under guidance of an intelligent negro, on routepartly over wood-paths and through swamps, I reached the enemys position on S~dy Ridge at daybreak. Unfortunately, from the difficulty of the route, which was almost impracticable even to infantry, it was later than I contemplated, and before the camp was completely surrounded the enemy was alarmed, *Sce report No. 3, p. 15w Page 154 [CHAP. XXX. 154 NORTIT CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. rushed from their quarters and opened an irregular fire. I had ordered my men to capture the enemy with the bayonet, but my flank companies and some of the others fired also and a short action ensued. When the enemy ran, which was very soon, the proximity of the woods and the incompleteness of my arrangements saved most of them, but we cap- tured 43, of whom 4 were wounded, and ir~ addition one of them also was killed and left on the ground. Providentially none of my men were hurt, though for a time the enemys fire was sharp. After burning the tents, quarters, & c., and destroying the stores, & c., I returned by the Dover road. Their pickets behind Core Creek on the railroad and other roads being alarmed made their escape. Bridging Core Creek at the Dover road I reached my camp in the afternoon. Meanwhile Captain Brown, with his two companies and a detachment of Company E, Third i~ew York Cavalry, under Captain Jacobs, whom I had previously ordered to co-operate, had scoured the country along the Neuse, discovering a body of the enemy, 40 or 50 strong, whom they followed briskly but were unable to catch. - The enemy at Sandy Ridge were Companies C, Captain Davis, and D, Captain Robinson, Eighth North Carolina, and are reported as 180 or 200 strong. The party pursued by Captains Brown and Jacobs was Captain Aviretts company. As soon as an inventory of the arms and property captured can be made I will order a return of them to the proper department. As a general result, this expedition has swept away the enemy~s posts on our front and enables ns to occupy without opposition the line of Core Creek, ifjndged expedient, as in my opinion it is. In the march over an almost impracticable route, the distance made in twenty hours being at least 32 miles, and in the short action which ensued the con- duct of my men was all that could be expected from soldiership of the highest grade. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. RICHTER JONES, Colonel Fifty-eighth, Commanding Outposts. Lient. Col. SoUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General. If not already ordered, please send me some cars to transport the prisoners to New Berne. llnQns. OUTPOST8, CAMP, FIFTY-EIGHTH PA. Vots., Batchelders Greek, February 19, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that I have ordered to be turned in to the proper department captured ordnance and ordnance stores as per the annexed inventory. Also that I have on hand fourteen captured shot-guns, in more or less serviceable condition, or injured, which not falling under the classification of ordnance as known to the service, I propose distributing among the captors as a reward and an incitement, with the assent of headquarters, of course. Also that I have turned into the proper department and taken a re- ceipt therefor, as in my hands for the public service, captured horses, mules, and wagons, as per inventory. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 3. RICHTER JONES, Colonel Fifty-eighth, Commanding Outposts- Lieut. Col. SouTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General, Eighteenth Army Corps Page 155 CHAP. XXX.J SKIRMISH NEAR WASHINGTON, N. c. 155 [Inclosure.] Inventory of ordnance and ordnance stores captured from the Confederates at Sandy Hilt, N. 0., February 13, 1fi63, by Cot. J. B. Jones, commanding Fifty-eighth Regiment Penn- sylvania J7olunteer8. No. Description. Condition. Caliber of gun. 35 United States muskets, Harpers Ferryand Springfield.. Serviceable .69 2 United States muskets, Harpers Ferryand Springfield.. Unserviceable .69 1 Belgian rifle Serviceable .54 1 North rifle do 20 Gun-slings Unserviceable 3 Bayonets Serviceable 3 Bayonet-scabbards -- ..do. - - 40 Cartridge-boxes do 32 Cartridge-belts do 1 Cap-pouch do 2 Waist-belts do Waist-belt plates The above is a correct inventory of ordnance and ordnance stores captured as above stated. N. J.. HADLEY, Acting Ordnance & rgeant Fifty-eighth Regt. Pa. Vols. FEBRUARY 13, 1863.Skirmish near Washington, N. C. REPORTS. - No. 1.Lieut. Col. Luke Lyman, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infantry. No. 2.Capt. George F. Jocknick, Third New York Cavalry. No. 1. Report of Lieut. Gol. Luke Lyman, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infantry. HEADQUARTERS, Washington, N. 0., February 16, 1863. DEAR SIR: I have the honor to report that on Friday last, 13th, the cavalry company stationed at this post crossed the bridge, drove in the enemys vedettes, surprised their picket headquarters (where some 40 cavalry were stationed), and captured 7 men and 12 horses; one of the men was dangerously wounded and is now in our hospital. The horses I turned over to the post quartermaster (a poor lot); the saddles were retained by the cavalry company. The prisoners I will send to New Berne by the first opportunity, unless ordered to parole, and send them out the lines from this point. They belong to the Sixty-second Georgia State Troops, but are North Carolinians. If you wish me to parole them here please inform me. Have I the authority.-if not, will you give it to meto appoint a board of appraisers? The surgeons would like to purchase of the Gov- ernment one or two of the captured horses. All quiet along the lines. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, LUKE LYMAN, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Post. Lieutenant-Colonel HOFFMAN, A. A. 0 Page 156 156 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGiNIA. [CHAP. XXX. No. 2. Report of Capt. George F. Jocknick, fLhird New York Cavalry. WAsHINGroN, K. C., February 14, 1863. COLONEL: The monotony of the daily routine of military duties here for the last few weeks has at last been interruptedi by a little affair which reflects much credit on all concerned. Having ascertained that the enemy kept a picket station on the other side of the river, some 3 or 4 miles from this post, and were in the habit of pushing their vedettes close up to our lines, I sent yesterday First Lieutenant OBrien with a detachment of 20 men of my company to in- tercept them and thus check their boldness for the future. The command left here at 1 oclock p. m. yesterday, and. returned iu less than two hours with 7 prisoners and the following amount of cap. tured property: Twelve horses, 12 saddles, 5 bridles, 8 Enfield muskets, 1 Harpers Ferry musket, and 1 saber. Lieutenant OBrien reports that after proceeding about a mile the enemys vedettes were discovered some distance in advance, when he immediately charged, determined to overtake them. The enemy after firing their pieces put spurs to their horses and retreated up the Green- ville road at their utmost speed. A 3-mile race was the result, at the termination of which our lieutenant found himself with only a small part of his command in the very nest of their main guarda troop of some 30 or 40 mounted and dismounted cavalry. Our men in the rear, retarded by gullies in the road, were pressing up rapidly. But so com- plete was the surprise that the enemy at once broke for the swamps, where they fired volley after volley, but without any effect whatever. One of the prisoners captured is mortally wounded, and how many more were left on the field cannot be ascertained. We had no casualties on our side except the wounding of a horse rode by First Sergeant Richards. Among the prisoners is a color-sergeant and an orderly-sergeant, both very intelligent men. The latter states that the troops engaged be- longed to the Sixty-seventh Georgia Regiment, being a detachment of Captain Thompsons company, * under command of Lieutenant bit. Our men, I am told, all behaved well and are much pleased that we at last have been able to retaliate in the open field for the many outrages committed on our pickets by skulkers in the swamps. The horses captured are of pretty good breed, but in a miserable, worn-out condition; their backs covered with sores and ulcers. I shall turn them over with the rest of the property to th~ quartermaster at this post. Respectfally submitting the above report, I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, G. F. JOCKNICK, Captain, Comdg. Company I, Third New York Cavalry. Col. S. H. Thx, ~iJomdg. Third New York 6~avalry, New Berne, N. C. * Compaiy E, Sixty-second Georgia Page 157 CHAP. XXX.] EXPEDITION TO SWAN QUARTER, N. C. 157 MARCH 16. 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Swan Quarter, N. C., and skirmishes (3d and 4th) near Fairfield and Swan Quarter. Report of Capt. Cohn Richardson, Third New York Cavalry. NEW BERNE, N. C., March 6, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I left this place Sunday, March 1, at 5 p. in., on board the steamer Escort with my company (F, Third New York Cavalry) and the flrst~ howitzer of the battery attached to the same regiment, also Company G, First North Carolina Volun- teers, and proceeded to Rose Bay Bridge, not, however, without a great deal of delay for the want of a pilot, as there was no one on either of the two boats who was sufficiently acquainted with the place. I then ordered Captain Brinkerhoff to make a reconnaissance with his boat North State, who after a delay of four hours reported that he had found the bridge. I ordered the scow alongside and disembarked the infantry and howitzer and a portion of the cavalry, placing Lieutenant Joy in command until my arrival. On arriving with the balance and having resamed the command I ordered a small guard on board the North State, with orders to the captain of the same to destroy the bridge; I in the mean time pro- ceeded along the north side of the lake for a distance of about 5 miles. With much difficulty and delay we marched, the crossings of the road having been torn up by the negroes, under the orders of one Henry Cradle (whom I have brought back a prisoner), and having a protection from Governer Stanly. I encamped for the night at the cross-roads. Next morning at daybreak I resumed my march, encountering and driving in the enemys pickets. About 3 miles from Fafrfleld we drove more of the enemy, and on arriving at the place I found it nearly de- serte(l. I passed on about 2 miles farther, when I discovered a boat on the lake; hailed it, but no attention was paid to the hail. I ordered Lieutenant Burke to throw a shell across the bow of the boat, which brought it to shore. I found in the boat two men without protections, whom I ordered out of the boat, and placed in it a squad of infantry under charge of a non-commissioned officer, to sail around to Lake Land- ing, with orders to save the bridge if possible. I then moved on and encamped for the night 9 miles from Lake Landing. The next morning (Wednesday) I resumed the march. After moving about 5 miles I was fired upon by guerrillas from some houses on the right of the road. Our men drove them from the houses into the woods. I then deployed the infantry to the right and threw out cavalry skir- mishers in front and rear and covered the infantry with the howitzer, shelling the woods and dispersing the enemy in all directions. Having rallied my command, I moved on toward Lake Landing, leaving Lieu- tenant Morse, with a party of cavalry, to burn their headquarters. I l)roceeded without further interruption until arriving at the bridge, which I found destroyed. I ordered the fences to be torn down and used to rebuild the bridge. I then moved on and drove in mounted pickets during the whole march from Lake Landing to within about l~ miles of Swan Quarter, when I was attacked from the swamp on the right of the road in front and rear by about 80 guerrillas and ordered 1 to surrenc~er. A deep canal about 8 feet wide ran between me and the attacking party. As my vedettes were passing, the guerrillas fired one shot. Lieutenant Benson immediately charged with the first platoon of cavalry and received a volley, killing 3 of my men and woundin Page 158 NORTU;CAROLINA AND S. B. VIRGINIA. [Oak?. XXX. 158 the lieutenant and several others. Six horses were killed and many wounded. I ordered the infantry to deploy into the woods as skir- mishers, not,however, without some difficulty, and ordered Lieutenant Burke to unlimber his piece and give the enemy a few rounds of can- ister, supported by the second platoon of cavalry. Here Lieutenant Burke was wounded in the face, breast, and hand. The remainder of the enemy were dispersed and fled, having sustained a loss of many of their number, among whom was their captain killed and a lieutenant taken prisoner. After having my killed and wounded taken care of and placed in wagons and carts which I had captured, I moved on to Swan Quarter, and having learned that a force of 250 or 300 guerrillas was lying in ambush about 3 miles from Swan Quarter, on the road to Rose Bay, and deeming it inexpedient to encounter it with my weakened force, I dispatched Corporal Kent, Con~any F, Third New York Cav- alry, and 3 men to sail in a small boat to the gunboat North State, or- dering Captain Brinkerhoff to steam around to Swan Quarter Landing. The next morning, he having arrived, I embarked on board the steamer Escort, which had accompanied the gunboat. I arrived here at 4 p. m. to-day. I beg leave to make honorable mention of Luther H. Farnsworth, Coin- panyl, Fifth Massachusetts Volunteers, who accompanied the infantry. He was cool and courageous, jumping through the canal and taking the extreme right~ leading the platoon of infantry into the fight; also Lieu- tenant Morse, of the Third New York Cavalry, who was of great service in the rear, returning the fire of the enemy with effect and holding them in check. My loss is as follows: Killed, 3; wounded, 2 lieutenants (Benson and Burke) and 12 men of my company and 1 of the First North Carolina Volunteers. One sergeant of my company has since died of his wounds. I am, sir, respectfully, yours, COLIIN RWHARDSON, L~apt. Company F, Third New York Gay., Comdg. Expedition. Licut. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant-General. MARCH 68, 1863.DemonstratiOn on Kiuston, N C., including skirmishes (7th) at Core Creek and near Dover. 1?~EPO:RTS.* No. 1.Col. Josiah Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. No. 2.Col. J. Richter Jones, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry. No. 3.Capt. Ferris Jacobs, jr., Third New York Cavalry. No. 4.Capt. James R. Chamberlin, Third New York Cavalry. No. 5.Brig. Gen. Junius Daniel, C. S. Army, commanding at Kinston. No. 1. Report of Cd. Josiah Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry. HDQRS. TWENTY-FIFTH REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS., 6~amp Oliver, Yew Berne, N. C., March 12, 1863. COLONEl.: I have the honor to report that in compliance with orders issued by you on the 5th instant I proceeded with my command on the ~eo also Capt. David A. Taylors report, p. 170 Page 159 CHAr. Xxx.] DEMONSTRATION ON KINSTON, N. C. 6th to the forks of the Trenton and Kinston roads, 17 miles distant from this place. XVe reached our destination about 4 p. m. I immediately secreted niy force from the observation of the enemy, between Jumping Run and Nethercutts, my purpose being to make a demonstration on their outposts during the night. The expedition, consisting of three com- panies of infaiitry, nnder command of Captain Denny, with Captains Jacobs and Chamberlins companies of the Third New York Cavalry, left our bivouac at midnight, proceeding rapidly up the Kinston road a distance of 4 miles. The cavalry, leading the advance, encountered and were fired upon by the rebel pickets. They immediately made a most gallant charge of over a mile, the infantry following at double- quick, reaching Jones hou~e (their reserve picket post). Captain Jacobs succeeded in capturing two of the enemys scouts, and in so doing was fired upon from an ambush, seriously wounding a sergeant and private of his company. Ascertaining that their camp was alarmed, Captain Denny ordered the infantry in the advance and pushed on, receiving and returning their fire from various points. When within a short distance of their camp the infantry were deployed as skirmishers on each side of the road. The line moved up speedily, passing the barricade of trees, and when within a few rods of the rebels (intrenched by another barricade) received a heavy volley of musketry; this was returned, and after a sharp skirmish the rebels were routed and pursued for some distance, but escaped into the woods. Pursuit being useless, and perhaps under the circumstances impru- dent, Captain Denny ordered his men to returnburned their camp, destroying twelve tents, several log barracks, a large number of new knapsacks, arms, equipments, blankets, several boxes of new clothing, and in fact everything left by the rebels in their hasty departure. Owing to their supenor speed only 45 prisoners were taken, whom I forwarded under guard to headquarters. The force reported back to our bivouac with no loss, and only 2 wounded, at 6 a. in., having marched a distance of 16 miles and within 12 miles of lilinston. From muster- rolls found in the enemys camp their force was estimated at 190 effect- ive men. Ours numbered 130 infantry (which was the only force en- gaged after leaving Jones house) and 80 cavalry. I desire to acknowledge the gallantry, bravery, and endurance of both officers and men engaged in the affair. Considering their fatiguing march of the previous day, to march 8 miles after midnight, whip the rebels handsomely, and return by daybreak, very niuch credit is due them. Captain Denny is entitled to great praise for the able manner iu which he conducted the expedi~on. The Third New York Cavalry sustained its brilliant reputation. To Captains Jacobs and Chamber- lin I am under great obligation for, their valuable co-operation and assistance. They left us on the morning of the 7th. During our stay at Nethercutts scouting parties were sent out occasionally to observe the movements of the enemy. On the morning of the 8th, Captain ONeil discovered them in Tren- ton and exchanged shots across the river. Captain llarrington, from a reconnaissance on the Kinston road, retnrned with the intelligence that a large body of rebel cavalry had approached to within 1 mile of our pickets. during the night. Receiving orders from you at 10 a. m. on the 8th to fall back to a more defensible position, I retired to the Kork~i of tlio Tventol4 awl, PollocKsville roals, remaining there ~rntfl tl4e 15 Page 160 [CHAP. XXX. 160 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. 10th at 2 p. in., when, by your orders, I returned to New Berne, leaving the four companies, underOaptain Denny, in their former position, near Deep Gully. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSIAH PICKETT, Colonel Twenty-fifth Regt. Massachusetts Volunteers. Col. HORACE C. LEE, Comdg. Second Brig., First Div., Bightecuth Army Corps. No. 2. Reports of Cot. J. Richter Jones, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry. HDQRS. OUTPOSTS, CAMP FIFTY-EIGHTH PA. VOLS., March 8, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that conformably to instructions I made a movement in connection with the general reconnaissance, but the orders were not received in time, not in fact until the 7th I was as unable to operate in exact connection. I left my camp at 8 oclock the evening of the 6th (Friday) with the efficient men of the Fifty-eighth (about 500) and reached the neigh- borhood of Core Creek about 2 a. m. of the 7th, having also ordered a small (letachment of Company H, Third New York Cavalry, to fol low. Ascertaining that the line of the creekrelinquished after my expedition to Sandy IRidge-.--was again occupied by the enemy, I en- deavored to cross at some unobserved point, but owing to the darkness of the wiods and t,he depth of water in the swamps was unable. Be- ing obliged to force a passage, I did so at the Dover road, just before daylight, by opening a heavy fire on the crest of the breastwork which defended the crossing, while a party rushed over the single string-piece, a round log, which remained on the bridge. The enemy fired sharply at first, but their fire was soon silenced, when they cried out that they snrrendered, but on the consequent cessation of our fire they took the opportunity to retire under cover of the darkness before my men could reach their works. I then rebuilt the bridge, which detained me until full daylight, and leaving a company in charge of it I moved forward, but the various posts of the enemy had been put on the alert by the firing, and the alarm had .been propagated, perhaps, to Kinston by signal-rockets sent up immediately afterward. About a mile beyond the creek my advance was fired on from a swampy thicket and woods flanking the road on both sides, and as the enemy stuck closely to cover it cost my skirmishers time and labor to dislodge them. In my subsequent advance at the forks of the Dover and.~tl~ railroad depot roads I captured a camp recently aiid suddenly abandoned, apparently by two companies, containing rough shelter, blankets, knapsacks, spare clothing, & c., the blankets, & c., being good and new; but I could find no enemy in force, and being informed by the negroes that they knew of none nearer than Rouse farm, 12 miles from the creek, and the driving of fugitives from thickets and swt~mps with- out definite object being useless labor, I concluded to return. From the marks on the captured property the enemy whom I encoun- tered belong to the Forty-third~NOrth Carolina and the Sixty-third Nort Page 161 ChAP. XXX.] DEMONSTRATION ON KINSTON, N. C. 16t Carolina Cavalry, but what numbers of either regiment were in front did not appear, the enemy keeping closely under cover and the country being thickly wooded. They are a different class of troops from those I have hitherto met, contesting successively every strong position and givil ig way only to my superior numbers. Their arms are also different, being, from the whistle of the bullets, the Minie or others of similar tone. Ji rom the information of negroes it would seem that som~e general offi- cer (General French, some of them say) visited their posts on Wednes- day last, ordered the line of Core Creek to be reoccupied, and brought re-enforcemeuts. Also yesterday, while I was on my return, thc whistle of a locomotive was heard some distance up the railroad to~vard Kinston, and on the supposition that fresh troops might be brought up I took a strong positiou and awaited a couple of hours, but no show of increase of force being made I resumed my march. On the whole, my movement effected nothing beyond drivin~ back sonic of the enemys posts and accustoming our men to Ia petiteguerre. As to capturing their men, that will be difficult while they hold the line of Core Creek and impose on us the necessity of forcing a passage every time we cross. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. liJCIITER JONES, Colonel Iuifty.eigltth Pennsylvania TZols., (Jomdg. Outposts. Lient. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighteenth Army Corps. IIDQRS. OUTPOSTS, CAMP FIFTY-EIGHTH PA. VOLS., .illareh 10, 1863. SIR: In reference to the surrender of the enemys picket in the breast- work on the Dover road beyond Core Creek I have the honor to report the following flicts: As soon as the sentinel at the enemy~s works fired I opened a rapid fire from the two companies which had been previously placed under cover along the near bank of the creek. Our fire was answered imme- diately by about twenty pieces, and for a few minutes there was a brisk exchange of shots. Then the enemys fire suddenly ceased. Standing a few yards from the bridge, which my storming party was endeavoring to cross, I heard my officers on the right and left give the command, Cease firing; theyve surrendered, and our fire almost immediately ceased. On inquiry afterward I was informed by officers and non-com- missioned officers that they distinctly heard from the enemys side of the creek the words, We surrender; dont ~ several times repeated. It was very dark at the time and the passage of the bridge on the single remaining string-piece difficult, so that it cost my men some time to cross and form beyond the creek, and when they entered the enemys works they were empty. As the ground rises rapidly to the rear of the breastwork it would have been hazardous to leave them if our fire had mmot ceased, and I attribute the escape of the picket to the cessation of our fire, consequent on the supposition of the surrender. Very respectfully, your obedient servaiit, J. RICHTER JONES, 6~olonel, Gommanding Outposts. Lient. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant. General, Eighteenth Army ~Jo~ps. Il-I- R HVOL XVII Page 162 [CHAP. XXX. 162 NORTH CAROLiNA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. No. 3. Report of Capt. Ferris Jacobs, Jr., Third New York Cavalry. lIED HousE, March 7, 1863. Col. J. MOILTER JONES, Commanding Outposls: COLONEL: I have the honor to report that pursuant to your per- mission I proceeded yesterday with my own and Captain Chamberlins company up the Trent road, joined Colonel Pickett, Twenty-fifth Mas- chusetts, eiicamped at a concealed point near Nethercutts, and at 12 oclock at night marched with the two companies cavalry, and three companies infantry furnished by Colonel Pickett, to the Kinston forks (4 miles beyond Netherdutts), the cavalry keeping pace with the in- fantry. On the knoll immediately beyond the Kinston forks my advance ye- dettes were fired upon, whereupon I set the whole cavalry column in motion, charging at full speed up the Kinston road with the intention of capturing the reserve picket station of about 30 men. Not finding them at the place specified I continued the charge, without halting, to the house of one Jones, being about 3 miles from the place where we met the first picket. The infantry followed at double-quick and in a few minutes joined me. At this place it was ascertained that we were within 1 mile of the enemys camp, which was near the house of one Green. After a mo- ments consultation the line of march was again taken up, with cavalry in advance. At this moment, and while I was giving instructions to the vedettes two mounted men approached, and upon being appre- hended purported to have been sent out to ascertain the cause ot the disturbance. About a quarter of a mile farther, on encountered a party of six infantry, who surrendered,. and while the sergeant (Mosier) in charge of the advance was receiving their arms, four of them fired upon him, wounding him severely in the hip and 1 maim in the arm. Four of six escaped. At this point I drew in the cavalry, threw out lines of skirmishers upon the flanks, and advancing quickly upon their camp received a severe fire from their barricaded camp in the directioii of the skirmishers. The skirmishers escaped by falling to the ground an(l covering them- selves in a ditch a few rods imi front of the enemys breastwork of trees. Captain Denny, in command of the infantry, then pushed forward in fine style and after a few minutes sharp firing entered the camp, the enemy escaping in a sort of chaparral 50 (leilSe that a footman unop- posed could barely have passed through. The infantry companies under Capt in i)enny behaved exceedingly well. The enemy in their haste had left everything, even their knap- sacks (which were new, havimig been issued to them three days pre- vions), and 15 or 20 Enfield rifles which they had just received. There were two streets of tents, about ten in each, and two officers tents, au(l a comumissary tent in additiomi. Imi short, they abandoned everything. After an examninatioli of a few mniimutes I ordered the camp and its contents burned, which was done, producing quite a smart ex- plosion of fire-arms, which had been concealed or overlooked. Only one prisoner was captured here. The camp was exceedingly strong by natural position and artificial defenses, and could have been held by the same uumbev of r~solate men for hours agaiust an arm Page 163 CHAr XXX.] DEMONSTRATION ON KINSTON, N. C. 165 without artillery. There were two companies of the Forty-fifth I~orth Carolina, commanded by Captains iRankin and Scales, and both were said by the prisoners to have been in charge of a major. After the destruction of the camp I moved back to the house pre- viously occupied as a reserve picket station, but since the late desertion the station had been removed to the woods near by, where a large picket- fire was burning when we advanced. The enemyhad between their camp and the outpost from which we were fired upon 40 men on duty each day, all of whom, with the exception of the outpost vedette, were driven in, and escaped us without firing a shot or in any way alarming the main body. The reserve picket-station house was burned. Reached the camp of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, at Nethercutts, at daybreak. It is sufficient to say that the cavalry detachment be- haved with more than the usual spirit and promptitude. The affair is of but little importance except for the information gained or confirmed. It is also worthy of mention, perhaps, that the movement penetrated farther into the enemys country in that direction than any other reconnaissance with exception of General Fosters advance on Goldsborough. Trusting that you will pardon the particularity and diffusiveness of this report, I remain, with great respect, your obedient servant, F. JACOBS, JR., Captain, Commanding Detachment. [Appendix.] COLONEL: I should have mentioned in the body of my report that the success of the movement mainly depended upon the accuracy of the information derived by Captain Chamberlin from the late deserters and other sources, and that it was upon Captain Chamberlins suggestion that the attempt was made. Yours, respectfully, F. JACOBS, Jn. [Indorsement.] I have the honor to forward Captain Jacobs report of his spirited movement, made under my authorization in connection with the gen- eral movement. Very respectfully, J. RICHTER JONES, Commanding Outposts. No. 4. Report of Capt. James R. Chamberlin, Third New York Cavalry. HDQRS. COMPANY A, THIRD NEW YORK CAVALRY, Trent Road, N C., ]Jiliarclt 10, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report: From information which I deem reliable I ascertained there were two companies of infantry (picked men), belonging to the Forty-fifth North Carolina Regiment, encamped on the Kinston road some 12 miles this side of Kinston, and I determined to surprise them. After making a map of the country, with which I was somewhat familiar, I opened my plan to Capt. F. Jacobs, jr, Company E, Thir Page 164 [CHAr. XXX. 164 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. New York Cavalry, and proposed that we unite our two companies (A and E) and make an attempt on the rebel camp, to which he acceded. We accordingly provided our command with two days rations, and left camp at noon on March 7, our whole command numbering 102 men, all told, Company A furnishing 43 and Company E 54 men. At Major Nethercutt5 (secesh) house we came across the Twenty-fifth IRegiment Massachusetts Volunteers, commanded by CoL J. Pickett, which was acting as a corps of observation at that point. We biv- ouacked with them for a few hours. From a contraband whom I picked up I learned that the enemy had changed their camp aud had reCCiVE3(l additional re-enforcements. Upon consultation with Captain Jacobs we determined to ask of Colonel Pickett two companies of infantry, and he very kindly assigned us three companies (A, C, and K), commanded by Captain Denny, Company K, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Regiment, numbering about 130 men. With this additional force we left Nethercutts house at 12 oclock that night. Upon reaching the Trenton Cross-Roads, a distance of 4 miles, we halted for the infantry to close up and theu made our prepa- rations for the attack, for it was only some one-fourth of a mile beyond this point that we expected to meet their first picket, and our plan was, after drawing his fire, the cavalry was to commence a charge at once and endeavor to capture their reserve picket station of 25 men, said to be some half a mile beyond. We placed some of our fleetest horses with the advance guard, which was commanded by Lieutenant Gibbs, of Company E, Third New York Cavalry, and after allowing a few mo- ments of rest the column was again put in motion. Slowly and silently we moved along, every man intent on doing his duty, and determined not to be outdone by another. Presently we saw a flash, and then the sharp, shrill report of the rebel pickets rifle, with his ball whistling over the heads, unharmed, of our entire column. Hardly had the flash died away when the command ~ was given, and instantane- ously the whole column started like one man. On we flew, like the wind, the ground fairly quaking beneath our feet. The picket station reached, but not a rebel was foundthey had heard the alarm and fled like thieves in the night. On we dashed to ilobles house, a mile be- yond, and again to Jones house, still another mile, but found nothing. So impetuous had been our charge that we had completely cut through and cut off their advance guard, which I afterward learned was com- posed of 40 men. While waiting here for the infantry to come up, which were to follow us at double-quick, and while Captain Jacobs was giving some instruc- tions to the advance guard, up rode two rebel cavalrymen, evidently mis- taking us for friends, and inquired, Whats the matter below s? Before these words had hardly left their lips several of Colts Love me quicks were presented to their heads and they were gobbled. One of them, in utter astonishment, remarked, Thats another damned Yankee trick. We learned from our prisoners that the rebel camp was about 1~ miles beyond, but nothing definite as to its situation. After the in- fantry had arrived we determined to attack them with our combined force. Accordingly, Companies A and C, of the infantry, were placed in rear of our advanced guard, followed by the cavalry, while Captain Dennys company (K) was held in reserve, and in this order all again pressed forward. We had gone but a short distance when our advance guard met six rebel infantrymen, who had been sent out to ascertain what had become of their two mounted men. They all immediately surren- dered, and while the two first were in the act of giving up their arms thei Page 165 CHAP. XXXX] DEMONSTRATION ON KINSTON, N. C. 165 comrades jumped into the woods and fired, wounding Sergeant Mosier and Private Morenus, of Company E, Third New York Cavalry. The infantry were then thrown out on the flanks a~ skirmishers, while the cavalry kept in the road. In a very few minutes we met the enemys line of skirmishers and a brisk fire commenced. We adopted the drop game on themthat is, we fell down immediately after firing, loading~ our pieces on the ground; and after drawing their fire, which invariably passed over our heads, we would up and charge them again. In this manner we kept gradually pressing forward and soon reached their camp, which we found strongly barricaded on three sides. The rebels here attempted to make a final stand, but it was of short duration, for we carried their works by storm, they retreating in hot haste toward Kinston. In their camp we found several fine tents and any quautity of clothing, camp and garrison stores, arms and accouterments, and sev- eral packages (sent by express), containing coffee, tea, sugar, ham, and other delicacies of camp life, evidently showing that some of our claim- ing-to-be Union friends within our lines not only sympathized with but contributed to our enemies. We hastily gathered everything together and burned all, together with their camp, to the ground. Not deeming it safe to remain long in such close proximity to Kistoun with such a small force we commenced our homeward march, reaching camp at daylight, having marched 16 miles and done our fighting in six hours, our entire casualties being the sergeant and private of Com- pany E, as before mentioned. I must not omit to say that both officers and men behaved themselves with great credit to their country, and never have I seen men fight with more determination or bravery. We took 5 prisoners. Of the loss of the enemy I had no means of ascertaining, as the night was quite (lark and we had no time to look after bereaved friends. I have the honor to be, colonel, your very obedient servant, JAS. li. CHAMBEIRLIN, Captain, Corndg. Co~npany A, Third Yew York Cavalry. Lient. Col. GEORGE W. LEWIS, Commanding Third New York Cavalry. No. 5. Report of Brig. pen. Junius Daniel, C. S. Army, commanding at Kinsion. HEADQUARTERS Kinston, N. C., March 10 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of yours of yesterday. In the different skirmishes with the enemy on Saturday there were two infantry lost, supposed to be captured. I have since learned that there are two couriers missing, supposed to be captured. Major Winston lost a few tent-flies and a few blankets. I have learned from citizens that the enemy buried men on their retreat on the lower Trent road and that they had others wounded. On the Dover road citizens say there were several killed and some wounded. These reports come from citizens below and I think are reliable. I would have made these statements sooner but my pickets are so fa Page 166 166 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP XXX. apart and on so many roads that I could not have done so sooner. I forgot to mention that one of my men deserted and made known to the enemy my signals, and it was in this way that they got upon the two infantrymen. Nothing of the enemy this morning. Generals Robert- son and Pettigrew are here. Very respectfully, & c., JUNIUS DANIEL, ~Brigadier-& ~eneral. Maj. Gen. D. II. HILL, Gommanding, ~Thidsborough, N. C. MARCH 610, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Trenton, Pollockaville, Youngs Cross-Roads, and Swansborongli, N. C. REPOI~TS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Henry Prince, U. S. Army, commanding Expedition. No. 2.Capt. David A. Taylor, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief Signal Officer, of operations March 515. No. 3.Lient. Josepli Pricker, Eighth Pennsylvania Reserve Infantry, Acting Signal Officer, of operations Mardi 615. No. 4.Surg. Pitkin B. Rice, One hundred and thirty-second New York Infantry, Chief Medical Officer. No. 5.Lieut. Francis U. Farquliar, U. S. Corps of Engineers, Chief Engineer Eight- eenth Army Corps. No. 6.Col. Silas P. Richmond, Third Massachusetts Infantry. No. 7.Col. Augustus B. R. Sprague, Fifty-first Massachusetts Infantry. No. 8.Lient. Col. George W. Lewis, Third New York Cavalry. No. 9.Maj. Jeptha Garrard, Third New York Cavalry. No. L Report of Brig. pen. Henry Prince, U. S. Army, eonnnanding Ilixpedition. IIDQR8. FIFTH DIvISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, New Berne, N. C., ]Ifarch 11, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that the reconnaissance in force, which I was directed to make by your letter of the 5th instant, was completed last evening by the return to New Berne and distribution to former quarters and commands of all the parts of my column. The instructions I received have been entirely carried out and the objects of the expedition fully accomplished. It gives me pleasure to say that the most admirable spirit was mani- fested by every portion of the command. The desire to carry out the views of the Government, as made known through orders from time to time, was made strikingly apparent in all ranks, as was also the desire to have their determination to do so tested in the face of opposition, even to the death. At the same time their feeling toward the enemy was self-possessed and magnanimous, as was illustrated by instances of personal conduct. I will give a narrative of the expedition for the records of the department. A copy of my orders is subjoined (A). The column formed as it passed over the bridge at Brices Creek, at 8.30 a. m. on the 6th. We crossed the bridge, which we had to con Page 167 CHAP. XXk.] EXPEDITION FROM NEW B~RNE, N. C. 167 struct over Mill Creek, at 2.15 p. in., and bivouacked on Creek, at McDaniels plantation, at 4 p. in., at which place the train did not get fully up till near 12 oclock at night. Leaving the train parked here, guarded by the Third Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers and a sec- hon of Riggs battery, the column marched at 6.30 oclock next morning in the same order. The cavalry arrived at Trenton at 8.45 a. in., fol- lowed by the voltigeurs, where 1 joined them immediately, sending back to halt the main body 2 miles in rear. At 10 a. m. I sent from Trenton to General Spinola and Colonel Jourdan, commanding brigades, th~ message that the bridges we were ordered to destroy have not been rebuilt since their former destruction; the enemys cavalry have been scattered by a charge of ours;. there is no body of the enemy on this side the Trent, and con ~equentiy the column will face-about and return to the wagons. The column marched in returning at 10.15 a. m. At 11.45 a. in., having obtained all the information I could at Tren- ton and created the indefinite impression that I was going to Kinston or toward Richlands to look up their cavalry, I withdrew the cavalry to feed, without the limits of the town, and then continued the return fl) arch. I arrived with th~ main column at McDaniels at 1.30 p. in., and hav- ing previously sent orders to the train to hitch up, marched at 3.15 p. in. by a direct route to Youngs Cross-Roads. The cavalry pushed on rapidly with its howitzer, followed more moderately by the voltigeurs. VYlien nearing Youngs Cross-Roads Colonel Lewis, being with the ad- vance of the cavalry, discovered, as he supposed, the enemy~s picket of two mounted men, and he charged to capture them. They proved to be one Lieutenant Sharp, ai(le-de-camp to General Whiting, and an- other lieutenant. Their start being a long one, they got off by plung- ing into and swimming the White Oak River, to the bank of which they were followed, where they fired upon their pursuers from the op- posite side. A party of cavalry, being sent up the Pollocksville road, drove some foot pickets into the swamp. Darkness came on before the infantry caine up. We had withdrawn all but a small guard from the river to lay out the camp, which was to be on ground about a mile distant from the river, and a sentinel at the river being approached in the darkness from the direction of camp by six men, hailed them, at which they halted and cocked their guns. He called, Turn out the guard,~~ and mustantly the persons scattered in the cover. This party was Captain Harris and five of his men, as we afterward learned. As soon as the intantry caine up I sent two companies to deploy, under the guidance of Captain Farquhar, United States Engineers, who was directed by inc to reconnoiter the river thoroughly in the neighborhood. He ascer- tained that a log below the bridge was the means that footmen had of ci-ossing. The river was carefully watched for the rest of the night, that no more of the rebels should get back to their quarters. On the opposite side of the river there was a steady light of a small camp bearing southwest by the compass. I could not tell whether it was a bright camp light 5 miles off or a lesser one a mile. The train did not come up till 2.30 oclock in the night, owing to holes \~rearing in the road over which the howitzer and caisson charged with the cavalry. One of my permanent orderlies, who happened to be stationed to show the way that the wagons should turn out, reports seeing, during the hour of intensest darkness (perhaps 7 oclock), previous to the coming up of the infantry, bearing southwest, a light, probably a fire balloon Page 168 168 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. which rose and stood awhile, dipped several times, moved horizontally back and forth several times, then descended. Presuming from all these indications that a picket guard of the enemy intended to annoy the constructors of the bridge which I had to make here, I (lid not com- mence it till I had crossed a regiment, which I did soon after daylight in the morning. Having deployed a company of skirmishers on the immediate bank of this side, I placed two Napoleon guns in positi6n to command the opposite bank, and sent a regiment. across in single file on the log. The regiment which performed this duty and formed its line beyond the swamp was the One hundred and thirty-second New York, Lieutenant- Colonel Hitchcock. The commander was ordered not to cross till three companies were over, and quite an emulation was excited among the captains as to who should go over first. Colonel Hitchcock ordered the left flank company forward, and its commander, Capt. George Micha, Company A, One hundred and thirty-second Regiment New York Vol- unteers, was first on the log and on the opposite bank. No opposition was made till the verge of the swamp was reached, when half a dozen shots of small-arms were exchanged. At 10.30 a. m. the bridge was ready, and the column, with three days rations, moved over it, leaving behind to guard the bridge and train the Third Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, a battalion of the One hundred and sixty-eighth Pennsylvania Militia, two sections of Parrott guns, one section of Napoleon guns, and a company of cavalry, Colonel Richmond, Third Massachusetts, in command. It being open country for the 4 miles to the next defile, Colonel Lewis was permitted to go on rapidly to it with the cavalry, followed within supporting distance by the voltigeurs of Major Garrard. The cavalry of the enemy were seen upon all flanks and in rear by these forces, cut off and scattered by our movements, and they were either left behind us or found some course other than the road we traveled to get away by. We marched a mile or so beyond where the road forks off to Sneads Ferry, which the guide-post there says is 20 miles distant, and, finding a good position, bivouacked at 6.15 p. in. In the morning I detached the cavalry to go back to the forks, take the Sneads Ferry road, and proceed on that route and toward Swanshor- ough, taking into consideration the imminent prospect there of unfavor- able weather, as far as he thought he could, and join or communicate with inc in the evening. At 12 in., presuming that the cavalry were at or near Swausborough, I marched back to and halted at the forks of the road to Swansborough till 4 p. in., at which time the cavalry joined inc. Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis report of this scout is appended. It was now evident from our reconnaissance that all the forces of the enemy in this region were withdrawn behind the New River; that the bridge at Jack- sonville had been destroyed and not yet rebuilt, and that there could be no point whatever in marching my column any farther away. No enemy could be met with without going farther than the organi- zation and supply of the command contemplated. There was nothing left undone which the expedition set out to do; nothing more whatever which my imagination could suggest as within our reach to be done. I therefore returned from this point at once to Youngs Cross-Roads, reaching there at 6 p. in., and on the following day, the 10th, pursued the route to New ]3erne. Of course there were many incidents occurring having an interesting bearing on the personnel of our troops. At a time when I was in the front with the advance guard of the cavalry I saw a corporal and two vedettes, who were 100 yards out beyond me on th Page 169 CHAP. XXX.] EXPEDITJON FROM NEW BERNE, N. C. 169 road, hail and receive the surrender of three mounted rebels, nniforined and armed. A bend in the road concealed from the rebels the danger they were approaching, and the corporal and vedettes, though ready, made no attempt to fire. It could not have been performed quieter on the stage, and the balanced self-possession which it indicates I regard as a quality of the command. Beyond this I am satisfied by this march 1 hat there is neither corruption of politics nor infamy-of-peace notions to taint the pnre patriotism of the command. It is glowing with a (le- sire to enforce, as the countrys true soldiers, a decided policy of the Government for suppressing the rebellion. Inclosed herewith please find (marked A, B, C, ID, E, and F) * a copy of my instructions; report of Lieut. Col. 0-. W. Lewis, Third New York Cavalry, of scout toward the sea-board; receipt of department l)rovost- marshal for seven prisoners, including a commissioned officer, sergeant, corporal, and four privates; report of property captured by the cavalry; report of property captured by the vottigeurs; copy of my orders I relat- ing to the expedition. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY PRINCE, Brigadier-General of Volunteers, C imanNng. Licut. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Di hteenth Army Gorps, New Berne, N. C. I [Inclosure A.] HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, New Berne, N. 0., March 5, 1863. GENERAL: By direction of the major-general commanding I have the honor to submit, for your guidance, the following points: You will proceed with your command to Trenton by the road on the south side of Trent River. On arriving there you are to destroy the Trenton Bridge and the White Hall Bridge. The enemy in this d rection will be carefully observed. You will then countermarch your command to Pollocksville and Youngs Cross-Roads. From this latter point, after leaving a strong rear guard for the protection of the wagon train and such force of artillery and infantry as you may deem need- ful to hold that point, you will push on toward Onslow. Observing the enemy in this direction you will take a strong position with the infantry and batteries of your command, and send all the mounted force at your command to scour thoroughly the country between the White Oak and New Rivers. From the information you may be able to obtain you will be able to determine as to the expediency of pushing he reconnaissance as far as Sneads Ferry, near the mouth of the New River. The object of this expedition is to make a strong reconnaissance in I he (lirection of Wilmington, to ascertain the roads, the crossings of I he rivers and creeks, the position of the enemy, & c., and if possil)le to capture or break tip two companies of cavalry slippose(l to be between I lie White Oak and New Rivers. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SOUTIIARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- (I encre l. Brig. Gen. 1-TENRY PRINCE, Oomdg. P~fth Division, Eighteenth Army Gorps. Inclosures B, D, antI B are Reports Nos. S and 9. t They relate solely to the routine duties of troops on the march and are therefore omitted Page 170 I 70 NORTH CAROLINA AN~ S. E. VIRGINIA. fOHAP. K~C. [Iriclosure C.] PROVOST-MARSHALS OFFICE, New Borne, N. 0., March 10, 1863. Received from Colonel Lewis, Third New York Cavalry, 7 prisoners, viz: William B. Pringle, Tenth North Carolina Volunteers; T. B. Snipes, Lient. L. B. Williams, Josiah Tyson, and Wesley B. Mews. Sixty-third North Carolina Volunteers; Joseph Grey, deserter, and Z. M. Caston, citizem* GEORGE F. WOODMAN, Department Provost. No. 2. Report of Capt. David A. Taylor, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief $ig~al Qffteer, of operations March 515. HDQI~s. SIGNAL DETACHMENT, EIGHTEENTH A. C., N~wBerne, N. 0., March 16, 1863. SIR: In pursuance to your orders, on the 5th instant I detailed two officers (Lients. Joseph Pricker and B. 11. Blagden) to accompany the force commanded by Brigadier-General Prince on the lat& reconnais- sance to Swausborough. At the same time I detailed First Lient. N. S. Barstow to accompany the force nuder Colonel Sprague, at Newport Barracks, which was to advance on Swanshorough by southern route, and Second Lient. Henry T. Merrill to accompany the command of Colond Pickett, who covered the right flank of General Princes move- m ent. That the different forces might have a ready and certain mode of com- munication I drew up a rocket code of signals for the use of the officers on this expedition. The command of General Prince bivouacked near Pollocksville on the night of the Iirst days march; the command of Colonel Pickett bivouacked at the Trenton Cross-Roads, with a heavy picket force of the enemy in front, for the reason that Colonel Pickett was going to attempt a surprise of the enemy. Lieutenant Merrill did not answer the rockets sent up by General Prince, as the rockets would reveal the position of Colonel Picketts force which it was necessary to keep concealed. At 3 a. m. of the 6th instant Colonel Pickett surprised a rebel picket, taking 5 prisoners an(l (lestroying their camp. On the 7th instaut Colonel Pickett fell back to the Pollocksville Cross- Roads to await the return of General Prince. General Prince marched directly to Swausborough, Colonel Sprague at the same time advancing to the same point and reachinb there nearly the same time, when com- munication between the two commands was immediately opened by Lieutenants Pricker and Barstow. On the return of the different forces there was no occasion for any signal communication between them. All parties arrived at New Berne in time to take part in the skirmish at Fort Anderson on the 14th. On the mornin~ of March 14, immediately after the attack on Fort Ander- son, Lieutenant Merrill and party was placed on board gunboat Shaw- sheen, Lieift. B. R. Blagden and party on the ilnnchback, and Lient. Joseph Pricker, on the evening of that day, on board the gunboat G. F. W. * Discharged soldier from Thirty-fifth North Carolina Volunteers; has his discharge with him Page 171 CHAP. XXX.I EXPEDITION PROM NEW IIERNE, N. C. 171 Hetzel. As soon as the attack commenced Lieutenant Barstow signaled to Lieutenant Fricker that the enemy were in front of the fort in large force, with artillery, and asked for re-enforcements, to which was re- plied, Hold out as long as you can; re-enforcements will come as quickly as possible. When the gunboats got into position their lire was directed by means of signals by Lieutenant Barstow, stationed at Fort Anderson, and Lieutenant Merrill, on board the Shawsheen. Lieu- tenant Merrill, from the paddle-box of the boat, was aWe to obtain a better view of the movements of the enemy than any one else. He so skillfully directed their fire that one of the enemys pieces was for a time abandoned and their infantry driven back some distance. Had the garrison of Fort Anderson been strong enough to have made it safe a well-conducted sortie would have easily captured one or more of the enemys guns. On the morning of the 15th three boats went up the Neuse, accom- panied by Lieutenants Fricker, Merrill, and Knox, who, by their signals, kept up a constant communication between the different boats to the entire satisfaction of the officers in command, who expressed themselves in terms of admiration at the ease, rapidity, and certainty with which every message was transmitted. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAViD A. TAYLOP~, Captain and Acting Signal Officer in Charge. Maj. Gen. J. 0-. FOSTER, Commanding Eighteenth Army ~Jorps. No. 3. Report of Jicut. Joseph Pricker, Eighth Pennsylvania Reserve Infantry, Acting Signal Officer, of operations March 515. HDQRS. SIGNAL DETACHMENT EIGHTEENTH ARMY CoRPS, New Berne, March 18, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit to you the following report of the expedition nuder the command of General Prince: In obedience to your orders of March 5, 1863, I reported to General Prince for signal duty. Left New Berne at 8 oclock, March 6, and pro- ceeded 3 miles beyond Pollocksville; bivouacked for the night. Ac- cording to arrangements made previous to starting I sent up two red rockets, the first at 9 oclock p. in., the second at ten minutes past 9. The rockets were to indicate that the advance of our column is here, and all quiet, but I received no reply from the other parties. Ou the morning of the 7th we started and advanced on Trenton. We remained in Trenton a few hours, then started and bivouacked about 6 miles from Trenton that night. There was nothing of any ac- count took place, with the exception of taking a few of the enemys pickets along the march. On the 9th I received an order from General Prince to accompany the advance cavalry to Swansborough, a distance of 16 miles, which I did, accompanied by Flagmnen W. J. Lindsay and H. P. Baker. When within 1 mile of Swausborough the cavalry charged into the town, my- self and flagmen in the advance carrying a red signal flag. I immedi- ately went down to the waters edge and called attention from the part Page 172 [CHAP. XXX. 172 ~IORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. on the opposite side of Bogue Inlet. It was replied to by Lieutenant Barstow, signal officer, who accompanied a party under command of Colonel Sprague, of the Fifty-first Massachusetts Volunteers. We sent several official messages; Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, who was in com- mand of the cavalry and to whom I was ordered to report by General Prince, sending messages across the inlet and receiving reply in return. There was nothing worthy of note on our return to New Berne. Immediately on retnrning to New Berne I went P5 my station on the south side of the Nense River, a short distance from General Fosters headquarters. I remained there, communicating with Lieutenant-Col- onel Anderson on the opposite side. On Saturday, March 14, at 5.45 a. in. I received the following official me~sage from the fort: To General FOSTER: The enemy have attacked our pickets with artillery and infantry. - They are in large force. The colonel wants more men. BARSTOW. I immediately sent the message to General Foster. In a few minutes the general came and told me to send to Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, who was then in command of the Ninety-second New York, to hold out as long as he could and not snrrender unless he was compelled to. I also received and sent a large number of messages from the fort asking for more troops and re-enforcements, which I replied to, by order from General Foster, that re-enforcements would be there in a short time and that the gunboats were getting in position. I also re- ceived messages directing the fire of the gunboats and stating the loca- tion of the enemy. I also received messages from the gunboats hunch- back, Lockwood, and Shawsheen. On the evening of the 14th I was ordered on board the commodores boat lletzel; remained there until 9 a. in., March 15, when I was or- dered on gunboat Allison to proceed up the Neuse River on a recon- naissance. We went up the river to Streets Ferry, a distance of 12 miles. The enemy had retreated beyond this point. We found four of the enemys pickets; they skedaddled. We then shelled the woods for an hour, and returned to New Berne the sanie day. With great respect, I remain, your obedient servant, JOSEPH FRICKER, First Lient., 8th Pa. P. V. C., and Actg. gig. Officer 18th A. C. Capt. D. A. TAYLOR, Chief Acting Signal Officer, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 4. Ryort of Sury. Pitkim B. Rice, One hundred and thirty-second New York Infantry, Chief Medical Officer. BRIG., iv., BIGIITEE T11 A. C., HDQRS. FIRST FIFTII 1) New Berne, March 12, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of the ex- pedition just returned: The division, commanded by Brig. Gen. Henry Prince, comprised of the two brigades commanded, respectively, by Brig. Gen. F. B. Spinol Page 173 CHAP. XXX.1 EXPEDITION FROM NEW BERNE, N. C. 173 and Col. James Jourdan, together with two batteries of artillery, under the command of Major Stone, and four companies of cavalry, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, left New Berne on the morn- ing of the 6th instant, and after marching over good roads with no (lifficult streams to cross, making 18 miles, bivouacked for the night in a large open field on high dry ground contiguous to an abundance of wood and excellent water. The men of the several infantry regiments, viz, the On~ hundred and seventy-first, One hundred and fifty-eighth, One hundred and sixty- cith, an(l One hundred and seventy-fifth Pennsylvania Militia, coni- l)risin g l3ri gad icr-General Spinolas command, and the One hundred and fifty-eighth and One hundred and thirty-second New York Volun- teers, together with the Third Massachusetts Militia, commanded by Colonel Jourdan, bore the march exceedingly well; none sick; a few complaining of sore feet, occasioned by ill-fitting boots. The second day the regiment left camp in light marching order, travele(l 6 miles and returned to the camp of the previous night, the i-oute being over a dry sandy road with no foimnidabie streams to pass. After a halt of two hours, to enable the men to rest and prepare their rations, the march was resumed over a road about 3 miles of which was through low swampy ground. At 8 oclock p. in., after accomplishing 22 miles, encamped on high dry ground adjacent to wood and running water. On this days march the men suffered considerably from blis- tered feet; none, however, reported sick. The next morning, March 8 at daybreak broke camp, and leaving the One hundred and sixty-eighth Pennsylvania and Third Massachu- setts Militia a.s a guard to the wagon train, crossed White Oak River and traveled 14 miles; bivouacked in a pine grove 5 miles from the junc- tion of the Swausborough and New Berne Cross-Roads, near to a full su~)ply of good water. Next day at 1 p. m. resumed the line of march and returned to our former camping ground at White Oak River. At 7 oclock on the morning of the 10th the colunin took up its direc- tion homeward. During the early part of the day the roads were ex- cellent, but heavy rain setting in about noon rendered them heavy and the mnaich very fatiguing; nevertheless the various regiments reached their camps about 8.30 p. in., and no stragglers reported. The entire march was performed in good order and unattended with any casualty; very few men were sufficiently sick to be conveyed in ambulances~ the principal complaint was sore feet, the result of char- ing, confined almost entirely to those who wore heavy boots. The con- trast in this respect between the boot and Government shoe was very marked and exhibited the superiority of the latter and absolute neces- sity of every infantry soldier substituting it for the boot on the march. Frequent bathing with cold water afforded gi-eat relief, and on the last days march of 22 miles but little complaint was heard. The rations provided for the regiments were abundant and of excellent quality. Fresh beef was furnished three days out of five. This report is written on the second day after the return of the troops, amid the effects of the march on the physical condition and health of the men appear to be more beneficial than otherwise. The sick repoi ts fromn the various regiments this morning are even less than usual. Respectfully submitted. P. B. RICE, Surgeon. Capt. S. W. WALDRON, A8sistant Adjutant- General Page 174 174 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. No. 5. Report of Lieut. Francis U. Farquhar, U. S. Corps of Engineers, Chief Engineer Eighteenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS DARiXIEE, New Berne, March 12, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that in accordance with your orders I Joined the command of Brigadier-General Prince on the 6th instant. The command moved along the Pollocksville road on the south side of the Trent. After passing Brices Creek the general direction of the road was a very little north of west. As far as Mill Creek the road was only tolerable, but after the rain it was very bad. We found it neces- sary to build the bridge across Mill Creek, which occasioned a halt of the advance guard of two hours. After passing the creek the road was firm and good. From Pollocksville the road bore nearly west. Our first days march ended at the Mill Creek, near McDaniels plantation. On the 7th the march was resumed toward Trenton. With theexception of the crossing of the creek near McDaniels the road was good. The creek near Trenton could not well be forded by field artillery when the creek is high. The Trenton Bridge was destroyed, as was also the White Hall Bridge. From reliable information we learned that there was a bridge known as the Quaker Bridge, and another bridge above White Hall and below Tuckahoe Creek. There is also a small neighborhood bridge known as Wilcoxs Bridge, about 6 miles from Trenton. However, these bridges are not absolutely necessary, as at the ordinary height of water the stream is fordable in many places above Trenton. The road from New Berne to Trenton affords many good places for camping, especially after passing Mill Creek, water and wood being abun- dant. At Trenton the command counterinarched and returned to McDan- iels plantation, where we had camped the previous night. From thence we took a road bearing south by east for 5 miles and southeast for 3, which brought us to Youngs Cross-Roads. This road passed for the greater part through an extensive pocoson. The road was bad in some places. About Youngs Cross-Roads the ground was good for camping. Here our days march ended. The bridge across White Oak River was destroyed, and would have been rebuilt during the night, but the troops and negroes were very tired, having marched nearly 22 miles, and the eliemys pickets were on the other side of the stream. On the morning of the 8th instant the troops crossed at 6.45. By 9.30 the bridge was finished. The general direction of the road toward Jacksonville south by one-half east. The country is slightly undulating. On the west side of the road for 8 or 9 miles is an extensive pocoson, from which flow many small tributaries of the White Oak River. Through this semi- swamp run many roads, at most times impracticable for wagons, but through which with great toil infantry might march. About 4~ miles from White Oak River there is a church known as The Tabernacle, near which the road forks, the left fork leading direct to Swansborough, the distance to latter place being 13 miles; the right-hand road leads to Jacksonville, the distance being 16 miles. About 4 miles from this fork the road again forks, the right-hand fork leading to Jacksonville, the left direct to Sneads Ferry, passing through Piney Green. Near this latter fork the command bivouacked for the night. The next morning, with the cavalry for an escort, I made a recon- naissance to Swansborough. We took the Sneads Ferry road as far as Piney Green; then we turned to the left toward Swausborough. From Piney Green to Swausborough the distance is 12 miles, and t Page 175 Car. flU EXPEDITION FROM JEW SINE, N. C. 175. Sneads Ferry 15 miles. The roads are quite good, being of sand, but the country is flat, and in wet seasons would not afford good camping grounds. Bwansborongh is a small place, easily defended, and can be approached byvessels drawing8feetofwater. After spending two hours at Bwansborongh, during which time communicated with General Potter, we countermarched for 4 miles, when we took the right-hand road and joined the infantry at Mortons, near The Tabernacle. We then marched on to Youngs Cross-Roads, where we bivouacked tor the night. The next morning we marched for New Berne via Poflooksville. Accompanying this report is a sketch of the roads passed overP Hoping that the information gained may be useful, I have the honor to be, general, your obedient servj~ ~. FAUQUHAB, Sewsd fleet U.S. .Bugrs., awed ChWEwegr. 18th Corp CAned.. Maj. Gen. J. G. FosTn. No. 6. Report of VoL Silas P. Rkhraond, Third Maaaaehuaetts Iuifantrg. HDQES. TaxED RuT. MAssACHusETTs VOL. Muana, (lamp J~nerdaa, .Neso Dense, .N 0., March 12,1863. CoLoNa: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by myself and command in the recent expedition under the com- mand of General Prince: On the evening of the 5th instant I received orders to march at 6 ocbook on the following morning withthree days cooked rations. March 6.Formed regimental line at 6 a. in., and almost immediately after joined a column consisting of Prince?s division and took up the line of march toward Pcllocksvifle. . I marched 24 officersand 529 men. After crossing the Trent River I r~ceived an order detailing myself and com- mand to the responsible and laborious position of escort to the subsist- ence train, which consisted of nearly 100 wagons heavily laden. I made the following distribution of my regiment: Two companies in advance, four companlesinthe denter, and three companies in the rear of the train. We made good progress for about 6 miles, after which we encountered bad places in the road, which qaused much delay and hard labor, but we finally succeeded in bringing the whole train to the place of bivouao at about lOp. m. Thiawas onthe McDaniels plantation 4miles beyond Pollocksville. The distance marched this day was said to be 18 miles. March 7.Early this morning I received orders to park the train in the best possible position and with my regiment, a section of Morrisons battery, and a platoon oicavalry remain and defend it. I sent out the cavalry as patrols and five of my companies as pickets In different direc- tions, holding the remainder of my command in a position near the train, which I had parked near the center of a broad field. During the morn- ing the main column marched to Trenton and returned without meeting any opposing force. Nothing of importance happened at the place of bivouac during the absence of the commanding general. At 3p. m. the whole force took up the line of march toward Youngs Cross-Roads. My regiment was detailed to march in the rear of the train and a com- pany of cavalry in my rear. The roads were exceedingly bad, and I hadto detail alargennmberofmymento go forward andassistin get- ting the wagons over the bad places. The train, moved very slowly, OmltIm4 unimpoflau& Page 176 176 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. the teams being frequently stuck. We arrived at the l)l~1ce of bivouac (Youngs Cross-roads) with the whole train at 3 a. iii. on the morning of the 8th, having marched about 10 miles. March 8.My regiment with the One hundred and sixty-eighth Penit- sylvania Yolunteers, Belgers battery, and a small company of cavalry, the whole being under my command, were detached from the column and ordered to hold this phce while the mail column moved on toward Swansborough. The larger portion of the subsistence train was left with ns. My whole force amounted to 1,120 men. I irniuediately I)arked the train in a large field near White Oak River, threw out strong infantry pickets with cavalry patrols beyond on the different roads, disposed of the remainder of my force to the best of my judgment for defense, and awaited the result. The remainder of the day passed very quietly. March 9.The night passed without any occurrence of importance, as also did the day nutil 6 ~ ru., when the main column returned, the ad- vance reporting to have been to Swausborough without meeting the enemy iii force. During the absence of the general my cavalry patroled the roads as far as Pollocksville in the rear and some 9 miles to the right on the opposite side of White Oak River, and also abont 15 miles on the road to Peletiers Mill, meeting no oppo~sing force or signs of the enemy. The whole column again bivouacked here for the night. March 10.Had the train straightened out and my regiments in line before 7 a. in., but had to wait some time for the First Brigade, they having the advance, my regiment coming next in column, the train fol- lowing, und the remainder of the Second Brigade in the rear. The col- umn moved at about 8 a. in., taking the direct road to Pollocksville. On arriving at the last-named place, in accordance with orders I halted my regiment and the train until all the force in the rear had passed on; we then moved on. Colonel Jourdan destroyed the bridge after we crossed. It now commenced to rain very heavily and continued to do so about two hours. This rendered the roads very bad indeed. My regiment was distributed through the train in the same manner as on the first day out. We moved very slowly and with much hard labor in assisting the train. The head of the train reached New Berne about 9 oclock, but the rear did not get in until after 11 p. m. The distance marched this day was 22 miles. Both my officers and men were very much exhausted with their con- stant exertions to assist the train along. There were no severe casual- ties in my command during the expedition. I am pleased to say that although my command occupied the hardest and most responsible posi- tion during the entire expedition, yet there was but very little com- plaint, the men, with but few exceptions, doing their duty nobly. All of which is respectfully submitted. S. P. RICHMOND, Colonel, Commanding Third ]lfassachusetts. Col. J. JOURDAN, Comdg. 2d Brig., 5th Div., 18th A. C. No. 7. 1~eport of Cot. Augustus B. B. Sprague, Fiftyftrst Massachusetts Infantry. IIDQRS. FIFTY-FIRST MASSACHUSETTS REGIMENT, Beaitfort, N. C., March 11, 1863. COLONEL: In obedience to instructions from department headquar- ters I left Newport Barracks oji the morning of the 7th instant wit Page 177 CHAP. XXX.) EXPEDITION FROM NEW BERNE, N. C. 177 Companies B, C, ID, H, and I, of my regiment, a section of Lees battery, Lieutenant Cady, and Captain Mosehells company of Third New York Cavalry. Passing through the pocoson around the head of Big Broad Creek we arrived at Cedar Point, opposite Swausborough, some 18 miles from Newport, about 4 oclock on the afternoon of the 7th. The steamer Wilson did not make her appearance at the mouth of the White Oak River as arranged, and as no other transportation could be procured to cross the river (about 1~ miles wide at this place) the troops went into bivouac in the woods at Cedar Point. On the morn- ing of the 8th, the Wilson not having arrived, I accompanied Captain 1~Ioschells company of New York cavalry on a reconnaissance up the east side of White Oak Creek to a point called IDortons Ferry (about 143 miles distant from the Point by road), about 6 miles from Smiths Mill, or Youngs. En route we passed over Pettifords, Hadnots, and Hunters Creeks; examined Dortons Ferry, long since abandoned as a thoroughfare and entirely impracticable as such in consequence of the extended marsh over which a road must necessarily be built to the river bank. The marsh which borders the river at this point is nearly a mile in width and the river in the vicinity about 200 feet broad. There is no ferry or ford between the Point and the mouth of the White Oak River. We returned to Cedar Point, arriving at the camp soon after dark. On the morning of the 9th communicated with Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, who had reached Swansborough, coming down on the other side of the river with a detachment of Third New York Cavalry. At 6 oclock a. in., 10th instant, left Cedar Point and returned to Newport Barracks. Saw nothing of the enemy during our advance and absence, and am convinced that they do not cross White Oak River in force, and that Swausborough has only been occupied by some 15 or 20 of the enemy as an outpost. Brigadier-General Potter, chief of staff, joined me in the expedition, and I respectfully refer to him in the matter of details, relative to ferry, fords, depth and width of rivers, & c., in conformity to original instruc- tions. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. B. R. SPRAGUE, Colonel Fifty-first Massachusetts Regiment. Lient. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 8. Reports of J2ieut. Col. George W. Lewis, Third New York Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS THIRD NEW YORK CAVALRY, New Berne, N. C., March 11, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that in obedience to the follow- ing order, viz HEADQUARTERS FITTII DIvISIoN, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Bivouac in Field, March 9, 15636 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, with the cavalry and voltigeur8, will reconnoiter upou the road leading from this point to Sneads Ferry, and will pass from it toward 12 11 RVOL XVII Page 178 178 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Swausborough, going as far on both routes as he may consider prudent, taking into consideration the threatening state of the weather, so as to join the lenin body by night or communicate with it. By command of Brigadier-General Prince: S. W. WALDRON, Ja., Captain and Asoi8tant Adjutant-General---- I started with four companies of my regiment and one mounted howit- zer and 150 mounted men, under Major Garrard,in the direction of Swausborough, which road intersects the road to Jacksonville via Sneads Ferry at Piney Green, 11 miles from Jacksonville and 13 from Swausborough. Halting at Piney Green I sent a detachment up the road to Sneads Ferry, 2 miles or more; they reporting nothing in that direction, I moved on to Swansborough, arriving there at 11 a. in., com- municating with General Potter, at Hills plantation, directly opposite Swansborough, through Lieutenant Fricker, the signal officer accom- panying my command. General Potter immediately crossed to Swans- borough in a small boat. After remaining at Swansborough nearly three hours I took up the line of march and joined the left of the column, under your command, at the forks of the road, 5 miles from Youngs Cross-Roads, at 5 p. m. During the march we captured three Confederate soldiers, one a pa- roled prisoner named Caston, who was not yet exchanged; one by the same name who claims to have been recently discharged, and Private William B. Pringle, Tenth North Carolina Volunteers, who was visiting Swausborough on a furlough. On my advance I captured several citizens, taking them to Swans- borough, but returning them to their homes on my return. I ascer- tained by inquiries all along the route that the rebel pickets had left the day before for Jacksonville. I am, general, with great respect, your most obedient servant, G. W. LEWIS, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Third New York ~Javalry. Brigadier.General PRINCE, Commanding Fifth Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS THIRD NEW YORK CAVALRY, New Berne, N. C., March 12, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the following list of property taken by my command during the recent march, viz: Horses G Light wagons 3 Cavalry sabers and belts 3 Jack 1 Jennies 2 Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. W. LEWIS, Commanding Third New York Cavalry. Brigadier-General PRINCE, Commanding Fifth Division, Eighteenth Army Corps Page 179 Onir. XXX.J SKIRMISH NEAR WINDSOR, VA. 179 No. 9. Report of ]Iliaj. Jeptha Garrard, Third New York Cavalry~ HEADQUARTERS YOLTIGEUR~, , 186~J. List of property taken on march made by General Princes division by Maj. Jeptha Garrard, commanding voltigeurs: Horses 2 Colt 1 Buggies 2 Harness for buggy 1 JEPTHA GARRARD, Major, Third New York Gavairy, Gorndg. Iroltigeurs. Captain WALDUON, JR., Assistant Adjutant- General, Princes Division. MARCH 79, 1863.Reconnaissance from Suffolk and skirmish (9th) near Windsor, Va. Report of Cot. Charles C. Dodge, First Battalion New York Mounted Rifles. HEADQUARTERS MOUNTED IIIFLES, Suffolk, Va., March 9, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of a late recon- naissance at Smithfield, Blackwater, & c.: In accordance with instructions from general headqnarters I started with about 450 of my command and one field howitzer on the evening of the 7th instant for the Isle of Wight Court.House, and thence to Smithfield, where I remained till about 9 a. m. on Sunday, the 8th in- stant. No enemy were discovered, although the day before Lieutenant- Colonel Taliaferro was reported there with a small party. He had un- donbtedly returned across the river by Broadwater or Proctors Bridge. Making the cross-roads my headquarters, strong scouting parties care- fully reconnoitered the vicinity for a circle of 10 miles, but met no en- emy. The inhabitants of this district assured us that since Pryors raid there some two months ago no large force has visited the town. A few mounted rebels occasionally appear, but do not remain any time. I am confident all that district, including Surry Court-House, may be safely considered free from them. From Smithfield we proceeded via Benns Church to Chuckatuck, where we spent the night. Every effort was made to gain information as regards the enemy and their visits to this place, and our exertion satisfied me that, excepting on one or two occa- sions, never more than two or three Confederate soldiers had dared to enter the peninsula. These persons came to see their relations, & c., and seldom have done any one an injury. I believe, however, forage, bacon, & c., have been sent from there to Zuni and Petersburg in times past, but none whatever can be found now, and the disadvantage of this therefore exists no longer. The guerrillas have burned down the only bridges leading direct from Chuckatuck toward Suffolk or Windsor. On the a. m. of the 9th instant we were obliged to make a detour of some miles, improvise a bridge, and proceed toward Barbers Cross Page 180 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Roads and Windsor, arriving about 10 a. in. Parties were at once sent ~out toward Blackwater Bridge and Zuni. The former had not pro- ceeded far when its advance guard, in turning a sharp bend in the road, suddenly came upon the advance of a small force of the enemy en route for Windsor. Shots were exchanged, and my advance at once ordered to charge. This they did well, the main column supporting them at as close a distance as possible. At our first fire, however, the enemy, ~whom we learned to be some 50 of Claibornes Codfederate cavalry ~Seventh Regiment), turned and fled precipitately. Lieut. Thomas Freeborn, with Squadron ID, pursued them at his utmost speed, driv- ing them vigorously, the entire column following at the gallop; but as they had some half a mile the start of us and fresh horses it was im- possible to come up with them, although we followed to within half a mile of Blackwater Bridge at the most rapid gait in our power. They crossed the river at once upon the pontoon bridge there. Lieutenant Freeborn and Major Wheelan succeeded, however, in capturing four men and horses, with several rifles, shot-guns, & c., which the enemy had thrown away in their flight. The prisoners are in the hands of the provost-marshal, awaiting such examination and disposition as you may decide. Believing it imprudent to attempt to force the bridge, consid- ering the force we knew to be there and the wearied condition of our men and horses, we returned with our captures to Windsor. The party going toward Zuni went to within sight of the river banks, but met no force on this side, although pickets, as usual, were discovered on the other. Thus the entire section of country which I guard has been most care- fully reconnoitered, and, I trust, to the generals satisfaction. The con- duct of my men has been everything that could be desired, and all of the regimental officers and men are but the more eager from the experi- ence of to-day to meet the enemy in a fair fight, that they may then prove, as they have often before, the injustice of late reports circulated by malicious parties concerning the demoralization, & c., of the Mounted Rifles. Not a man has been lost, nor, I cau safely say, a pennyworth of property destroyed. I have the honor to remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES C. DODGE, 6olonel, Commanding. Maj. B. B. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. MARCH 714, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Mattamuskeet Lake, N.C. Report of Col. David B. Morris, One hundred and first Pennsylvania In fantry. IIDQRS. ONE HUNDRED AND FIRST REGT. PA. VOLS., New Berne, N. C., March 17, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following as my report of the ex- pedition under my command around Lake Mattamuskeet, Hyde County, North Carolina. In obedience to instructions from corps headquarters of-March 7 I embarked the troops under my command, viz, One hundred and firs Page 181 CHAP. XXX.J MATTAMUSKEET LAKE, N. C. 181 and One hundred and third Regiments Pennsylvania Volunteers, Com- pany F, Third New York Cavalry, and one piece and caisson Third New York Artillery, on the afternoon of 7th instant, on board the North- erner and Escort. Accompanied by the North State and two scows, we proceeded to Swan Quarter, Hyde County, arriving at 7 oclock a. in., 8th instant, and the gunboat Allison at once proceeded to Rose Bay Bridge to prevent its reconstruction. After eight or ten hours delay, caused by the captain of the steamer Northerner failing to go nearer than about 13 miles to the lauding, we com- menced debarking the troops in the afternoon of the 8th instant. Seven companies of infantry and one platoon of cavalry, with howitzer, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Armor, One hundred and first Pennsyl- vania Volunteers, were debarked and marched to Swan Quarter, 14 miles from the landing, arriving about 5 oclock p. m. The remainder of the troops debarked at 11 oclock on the morning of the 9th and proceeded to Swan Quarter. Acting on the advice of Captain Richardson, ~J2hird New York Cavalry, we then advanced in two columns, one in a south- west direction, under command of Colonel Morris, the other in a north- west direction, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Armor, forming a junction at Masons house at the earthwork, distant about 8 miles from Swan Quarter, where we bivouacked for the night, after posting our picket. During the night our picket captured 1 man (Thomas Voliva), attempting to fire upon the picket. We resumed the line of march at 6.30 oclock a. in., 10th instant, pro- ceeding around the lake from north to east, marching 25 miles, and bivouacked for the night on Spencers farm. At 6 oclock a. in., 11th instant, resumed the march; arrived at Swan Quarter about 6 oclock p. in., having marched 30 miles. iDuriug the 10th and 11th it rained almost incessantly, consequently the roads were very bad. No armed force at any point was to be seen. A few stragglers, whose names were on the guerrilla muster-roll, were captured and brought to 1~ew Berne. A few others, supposed to belong to the company, were also brought with usli in all. They are now in the hands of the provost-marshal at New Berne. About 60 citizens were made prisoners, but released at Swan Quar- ter upon taking the oath of allegiance. From the best information that could be obtained the band of guerrillas in this county were scat- tered about in small parties of from 6 to 8, through the almost iinpass. able swamps. Quite a number of horses, oxen, and carts were captured, but the greater part were abandoned, not deeming them of sufficient value to warrant the delay of transportation and expense of subsistence. On the morning of the 12th instant Captain Richardson, with 300 men and all available transportation, was sent out 7 miles, to the farm of Judge Donald, for the purpose of bringing in a quantity of cotton, corn, and bacon. The following is an approximate list of all the property turned over to the proper authorities: Seventeen horses; 13 buggies; 1 yoke oxen; 1 schooner, Snow Squall, of Washington, of about 35 tons burden- cart-loads cotton (small portion utiginned), not baled; about 8 1,500 pounds bacon; about 400 bushels corn; about 40 slaves, who followed us to the landing. We embarked on the 13th instant and arrived at New Berne on 14th instant. The only buildings burned by my order were the outbuildings of a farm-house near Fairfield. in which we found a rebel officers coat, ammunition, & c. I regret to state that a small mill at Swan Quarter was fired and burned, and also a barn fille Page 182 182 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CRAP. XXX. with corn adjoining Spencers farm was burned by an unknown party; also a number of stacks of fodder on the farm of Judge Donald was burned without my order. I would also call attention to a lack of proper discipline among the line of~cers of the One hundred and third Regiment Pennsylvania Vol. unteers. They seem to have little or no control over their commands, and lack energy to enforce proper discipline. To this there are some exceptions. The One hundred and First Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers also lacks discipline, which I attribute to my long absence from it, but which in the course of time I will bring about again. As an instance of in- subordination in the One hundred and third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, while embarking on board the Northerner from the steamer Escort the officers and men, contrary to repeated orders, rushed forward before the boat could be made fast to such an extent as to endanger life ~nd to render it impossible for the officers of the boat to manage her. Having repeated the order for the men to remain in their places and await orders, and all to no effect, I seized a gun and fired down the side of the boat for the purpose of deterring the men, but with no in- tention of injuring any one. At the moment of firing a man rushed forward and was slightly injured. My thanks are due the officers of the Escort, North State, Lockwood, and Allison for their valuable assistance. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. B. MORRIS, Colonel, Commanding Expedition. Li~it. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant. General. [Addenda.] NEW BERNE, March 28, 1863. Major-General FOSTER, Gommanding, & c.: GENERAL: I deeply regret to be compelled, in the last hours of my stay here, to distress you by complaints of the outrages of our forces in the last expedition to Hyde County. in numerous instances, well au- thenticated, they entered and robbed the houses of loyal men, destroyed furniture, insulted women, and treated with scorn the protections which by your advice I had given them. Can I give to people whose loyalty is not and has never been questioned any assurance that you can see them protected? As matters now stand the loyal men and women, aged and infirm, out. side of our lines are the most unfortunate and oppressed in our country; both sides pillage and rob them. I know you have uniformly rebuked these atrocities, but your words have been treated like my protections. I invoke for the people referred to such interposition as your sense of duty and humanity will suggest. With high respect and regard, yours, & c., ED. STANLY. [Indorsement.] MARCH 29, 1863. Referred to Colonel Morris for report. J. G. FOSTER, Major- General Page 183 CHAP. XXX.] ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 183 MARCH 816, 1863.Expedition against New Berne, N. C., including skir- mishes (1& thl4th) at Deep Gully, and attack (14th) on Fort Anderson. TEPORTS.* No. I.Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, cornmandincr the North Carolina. ~ Department of No. 2.Capt. David A. Taylor, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief Signal Officer. No. 3.Liefit. Nathaniel S. Barstow, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry, Acting Signal Officer, of attack on Fort Anderson. No 4.Itinerary of the First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer, U. S. Army, commanding, March 7-15. No. 5.Col. Josiah Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, Second Brigade, of skirmishes at Deep Gully. No. 6.Brig. Gen. Henry Prince, U. S. Army, commanding Fifit Division, of opera- tions March 1516. No. 7.Maj. Gen. Daniel H. Hill, C. S. Army, commanding Expedition. No. S.Maj. John C. Haskell, C. S. Army, commanding Artillery. No. 9.Brig. Gen. John J. Pettigrew, C. S. Army. No. 10.Brig. Gen. Richard B. Garnett, C. S. Army. No. 11.Brig. Gen. Jnnius Daniel, C. S. Army. No. 12.Brig. Gen. Beverly H. Robertson, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. John U. Poster, U. ~. Army, commanding the De partment of North Carolina. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, New Berne, N. C., Miarch 15, 1863. GENERAL: The enemy are retiring from an attack on this town, which was intended to have been strong, but was feeble, very feeble, in all places except on a work on north side of Kense River, directly opposite the town. At that point the enemy opened a brisk artillery fire from seventeen pieces, which continued about three hours. They retired a short distance and remained threatening the work till this morning, when they retired. The whole force of the enemy, from deserters, was 13000 infantry and cavalry and thirty-nine pieces of artillery. I am sending parties out in all directions to harass the enemys retreat. The attack was on the 14th, the anniversary of the taking of the town, and the supposition is that they intended to recapture the town on that day. I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, Major- General C Major-General HALLECK, , ommanding. General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, New Berne, N. C., March 15, 1863. GENERAL: Referring to my telegram of this date I have the honor to report that on the evening of the 13th the enemy appeared in force on the Trent road, driving in our picket posts on that road; the force on * For reports of Actg. Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee and Commander A. Murray, U. S. Navy, see Annual Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 7, 1863 Page 184 184 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX~ the road was heavily re-enfQrced and ordered to retire slowly, and fig~it if they were pressed. At daylight of the 14th General Pettigrew, .with a force of 7,000 men and seventeen pieces artillery, attacked a small work on north side of the Kense River, occupied by the Ninety-second New York Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson.* They opened a fire from a~l their pieces on the work and held their infantry in reserve for assault. Colonel Anderson was summoned to surrender several times,~which he declined doing. Referring to me for orders, I instructed him to defend and hold the work. The Navy gunboats were in a4n unfortunate position to be of much assistance at first, owing to one being aground and the other two damaged. They were, however, towed to position by tugs, and, assisted by a battery of rifled guns on this side of the Neuse, compelled General Pettigrew to withdraw his artillery and infantry, merely remaining in a threatening position till this a. in., when he finally retired. On south side of Trent River the enemy advanced to within 6 miles of New Berne, but have wNidrawn. The attack was to have been made with vigor enough by General Pettigrew to have taken Camp Anderson, which would have enabled him to have planted rifled batteries at that point,~ whence he might have driven the gunboats from the river and shelled the town, during which a strong attack was to have been made on Treiit~ and Neuse roads. Our pickets held them on Trent road, although they were ordered to fall back to my defenses where I proposed making the fight. The whole affair, meant to be effective and strong, was ineffective and weak, inflicting no damage and accomplishing no object. The force of the enemy was about 13,000 to 14,000 infantry and cav- alry and thirty-nine pieces of artillery. Our loss was only 2 killed and 4 wounded. Referring to my letter of March 2, I beg to say that recent inform a- tion shows General Longstreet with his corps to be on the Blackwater,. and not southweat, as reported. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, Major- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. No.2. Report of (lapt. David A. Taylor, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief Signal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SIGNAL DETAAI~HMENT, New Berne, Miarch 18, 1863. SIR: Inclosed I forward you copies of the reports of Lieutenants Mer- rill t and Barstow, containing an account of their signal operations at and in the vicinity of New Berne during the late movements, and of the action which took place here on the 14th instant. I can truly say that 1)0th Lieutenants Merrill and Barstow are by far too modest in describing their own share of the work. * The casualties in the Ninety-second New York Infantry were 3 men wounded an4 3 men missing; 1 man reported as killed, March 13. INot found Page 185 CHAP. XXX.] ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 185 The position occupied by Lieutenant IBarstow was one of extreme danger; every tent and house within the works at Fort Anderson was riddled by shot and shell, and the parade literally blown up by the ene- mys artillery. Both Lieutenant Barstow and his flagman (Marsh) were struck by spent pieces of shell, but fortunately received no injury of any account. It is but justice to Lieutenant Merrill to state that but for him the gunboat on which he was placed would have done more damage to our troops than the enemy, as either through the stupidity, excitement, or drunkenness of its commanding officer they were going to open fire on the only place where the garrison of the fort were covered from the fire of the enemy. Lieutenant Merrill having taken position on the pad- dle-box had a fine view of the field and the roads by which the enemy must come to assault the place, and the moment the head of their columns showed themselves gave directions, distances, and elevations to the gun- ners, and that so accurately that some of the rebel guns were for a time abandoned and their infantry driven back. He and Lieutenant Barstow together directed the fire of the guiiboat Hunchback and the batteries on shore on the south side of the Neuse. With a corps of such officers as Lieutenant Merrill I would be willing to undertake anything. It was impossible for these officers to get their reports ready in time, or these copies would have accompanied my own report of the same transaction, lately mailed to you. I remain, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID A. TAYLOR, Captain and Acting Signal Officer. Maj. A. J. MYER, Signal Officer, U. S. Army. No. 3. Report of Lieut. Nathaniel S. Barstow, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts En fantry, Acting Signal Officer, of attack on Port Andersou. HEADQUARTERS SIGNAL DETACHMENT, New Berue, March 16, 1863. Siu: On the 13th instant, in pursuance to orders of Captain Taylor, I reported for signal duty to Lieutenant~Colonel Anderson, at Fort An- derson, on the north side of the Neuse River, New Berne, N. C. On the morning of the 14th instant, just before daylight, the fort was attacked by General Pettigrew with two brigades of infantry and sev- enteen pieces of artillery. By & rder of Colonel Anderson I sent the following message to Major. General Foster: The enemy are in front of us in large force, with artillery; we want men. Answer: Re-enforcements shall be sent as soon as possible. After sending this message, by the severity of the enemys fire I was compelled to change my position, and took a more sheltered place. From Colonel Anderson to General Foster: Send more men; send them quickly. Answer: Hold out as long as you can; lie close; men are coming Page 186 I4ORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. 186 [CHAP. XXX. This message was several times repeated, each time by order of Colonel Anderson in his extreme anxiety for re-enforcements. I sent several messages to the gunboats, directing their fire, such as, Fire higher, Fire to the left, Fire to the right, & c., but having no blank book with me at the time could not record them. I wish to recommend to your notice my flagman, Timothy S. Marsh, Company D, Twenty-first Massachusetts Volunteers, who throughout the whole aff~iir behaved with admirable coolness under a fire the severest I ever saw. I have the honor to remain, yours, very respectfully, N. S. BAIRSTOW, Lieutenant and Acting Signal Officer. Capt. D. A. TAYLOR, Chief Acting Signal Officer. No. 4. Itinerary of the First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer, U. S. Army, commanding, March 7~15.* March 7.In accordance with orders from Headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps, five companies of the Fifty-first Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, of the First Brigade, marched from Newport Barracks to Cedar Point, opposite Swansborough, on White Oak River, where they biv ouacked. Here the infantry remained while a reconnaissance, under General Potter, chief of staff Eighteenth Army Corps, was made some 16 miles farther on into the enemys country. On the return of the re- connoitering party the infantry returned to Newport Barracks, arriving on the 10th instant. March 13.In anticipation of an attack upon New Berne three regi- ments of the Second Brigade, viz, the Fifth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Volunteers, and the Forty-sixth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, were sent to Deep Gully, on the Trent road. On arriving at the Gully it was found that the enemy had crossed and were strongly posted. Bivouackin.g for the night, preparations were made for a morning attack. At daylight the movement com- menced and the fire of the skirmishers had just opened, when orders were received to retire to New Berue, leaving one regiment, the Twenty- fifth Massachusetts Volunteers, to hold the enemy in check. This was done. March 14.The regiment at Deep Gully was re-enforced this a. m. by the Forty-sixth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, of the Second Brigade. An attack on New Berne being apprehended, the Forty-third Massa- chusetts Volunteer Militia and other forces, under command of Col. T. J. C. Amory, marched 18 miles on the Kinston road on a reconnaissance, but, the enemy having retired, returned on the 16th to camp. March 15.The enemy commenced falling back, closely followed some 15 miles by the Forty-sixth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia; but the road being rendered impassable at this point by the retreating force the Forty-sixth retraced their steps toward New Berne. * From Returns of the Division and First and Second Brigades for March, 1863 Page 187 CHAP. XXX.) ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 187 No. 5. Report of Col. Josiah Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, Second Brigade, of skirmishes at Deep Gully. HDQRS. TWENTY-FIFTH REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS., (lamp Oliver, New Berne, N. C., March 15, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that on the 13th instant, at 5.30 p. in., I started with six companies of my regiment for the outpost near Deep Gully, that place being attacked by the enemy and being held by the other four companies of my regiment with a part of the Third New York Cavalry. I arrived at the disputed ground soou after dark and learned that the enemy were in strong force in our front, with infantry, cavalry, and artillery, a distance of half a mile. By order of Colonel Lee, commanding the brigade, I divided my regiment, placing a wing on either side of the Trent road, throwing out a strong l)icket to guard against surprise, and remained on our arms until morning. At daybreak I moved forward a company as skirmishers and they immediately engaged the enemys line. General Palmer taking com- mand, I was ordered forward with my regiment, supported by the Fifth and Forty-sixth Regiments Massachusetts Volunteers, with a section of Riggs and one piece of Belgers batteries. Musketry firing was kept up for nearly three hours. The city being attacked iu our rear, the regiments supporting me were withdrawn for its defense, and i was left, with my regiment and two pieces of artillery, to take care of the enemy as best I could. Having special orders from General Pal. mer not to expose the pieces, I blockaded the road and fell back to a better position at the Jackson House and awaited their advance. They soon began to shell the woods around and kept it up at intervals during the day, but did not advance. At 4 p. m. I sent out one company, under command of Captain Harrington, to observe the movements and posi- tion of the enemy if possible. He went as far as Deep Gully and found them falling back and exchanged shots with them at that place. I was relieved by the Forty-third Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Militia at 6 p. m. on the 14th, and returned to camp at New Berne with a loss of 1 man wounded and 1 missing. Respectfully submitted. JOSIAH PJCKETT, Golonel Twenty-fifth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. GEORGE W. BARTLETT, A. A. A. C. Second Brig., First Div., Eighteenth Army Gorps. No. 6. Report of Brig. Gen. Henry Prince, U. S. Army, commanding FLfth Di vision, of operations March 1516. HDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, New Berne, N. C., March 16, 1863. COLONEL: Pursuant to orders, verbally communicated to me by the commanding general, my division moved out yesterday on the road south of the Trent River to feel the enemy, who had just then been reported from the front to have probably crossed iu large force to tha Page 188 188 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. side. At half past 1 oclock the regiments left their camps, and at twenty minutes to 6 the command bivouacked 3~ miles this side of Mill Creek. The ground and road being very bad and wet for 3 miles for- ward and the moon being absent made it impracticable to go farther. We found a picket of the enemy 2 miles in front, and our own picket, a mile in front, reports three shots fired into it in the night. We advanced at daylight to-day. We approached Mill Creek as if to find it occupied. Meeting no opposition we took possession of the opposite bank at 8 a. m. 1 pushed on at once with the infantry to Pol- locksville and there learned that Robertson with his cavalry left that place yesterday at 1 oclock p. in., going to Kinston. Having a picket on the Trent, this side of Mill Creek, I communicated by it with the gunboat North Star, the captain of which placed himself under my orders. This was prior to the advance from Mill Creek. 1 directed the boat to proceed to Pollocksville, where she arrived soon after the troops, when I ordered her to return to New Berne. Satisfied that the enemy were beyond reach and that no troops were left in that vicinity, I marched my command back to their quarters at New Berne. The One hundred and fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Militia was detailed last evening for the advance guard in the morning, and Colonel Mc- Kibbin commanded it, although after being detailed his horse had fallen upon him and fractured the fibula of one of his legs. He returned in the gunboat from Pollocksville. He expressed himself as ably seconded in the duties of the morning by Lieutenant-Colonel Troxel and Major Hale, of his regiment. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY PRINCE, Brigadier- General Volunteers, Commanding. Lient. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, A. A. U., Hdqrs. Eighteenth Army Gorps, New Berne. No. 7. Report of iIJiaj. Gen. Daniel H. Hill, (1. S. Arn~y, commanding Expedition. GOLDSBOROUGH, N. C., March 16, 18631() p. m. Have just this moment arrived from below. Our expedition was partly successful. I went with Daniels brigade on the lower Trent road to New Berne, and sent Robertson around on the upper Trent road to cut the railroad. Pettigrew was to bombard the shipping and barracks from the other side. The result was highly satisfactory on our road. On Friday we drove them to their first line of works at Deep Gully, 8 miles from New Berne. This was a very strong position naturally, and strengthened by earthworks. It was defended by five companies and two pieces of artillery. General Daniel in person charged it and captured it with four companies. We held it that night and I sent an order to Robertson to cut the railroad the next day. At daylight Saturday morning the Yankees made a feeble attempt at a recapture of Deep Gully. General Pettigrew opened at the same time, but I soon discovered that he had been repulsed, as the firing was plainly that of the heavy guns Qf a gunboat. After repulsing th Page 189 CHAP. XXX.] ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 189 Yankees at Deep Gully I would have pursued them to their next strong- hold, at Rocky Run, ~ miles nearer New Berne, but as Pettigrew had been silenced, and there were three shorter roads to Kiuston than the one I was on, I fell back to a point opposite Trenton. Remained there ~Sunday and until noon to-day. No pursuit by the Yankees. Our loss has been slight. General Pettigrew reports: The absence of the Whitwortli ruined us. The 20-pounder Parrotts are worse than useless. One burst, killing 4 men and wounding 4; another broke its axle. The shells of all of them burst just at the mouth of the gun. I hope never to see them again. Robertson sent me out a lieutenant, who partly cut the railroad. He sent out a colonel, who saw some Yankees and came back. Robertson did not go himself. We must have a better man. Garnett did not start until Sunday. I have sent Pettigrew to Greenville to protect him if necessary. I propose to go over there myself in a few days. I fear Garnett has seriously compromised himself by his long delay. If it be true, as your scout reports, that the Yankees have been so heavily re.enforced at New Berne they may attempt to cut Garnett oft. Had the Whitworth been sent the gunboat would have been beaten and New Berne would have been at Pettigrews mercy. Then if my origi- nal plan had been carried out of moving Ransom on the Sound road to the rear of INew Berne I think we would have gained the town, or at least have caused a very salutary alarm. The spirit manifested by Whiting has spoiled everything. My order of assignment says: Gen- eral ID. H. Hill is assigned to the command of all the troops in North Carolina. If I am to be cut down to two brigades I will not submit to the swindle. So far as I can judge there will beno movement at Charleston until Hooker gets out of the mud. Then there will be a general movement on Fredericksburg, Petersburg, the North Carolina Railroad, and Wil- mington. We ought to have been clearing out North Carolina while Hooker was mud-bound. This I urged three months ago, but I was unheeded. It is not yet too late to do something and I am anxious to go to work. I started out with my throat in a terrible fix and thought it might cost me my life. Thank Gbd, I am no worse. Foster ought to be ashamed of letting one brigade run him into his rat-hole. I have received nothing but contemptuous treatment from Richmond from the very beginning of the war, but I hope they will not carry mat- ters so far as to perpetuate a swindle. You were greatly mistaken in supposing that I was indifferent about the Whitworth. I told you that it was too late to get it, but that it was worth all the guns I had. I had tried the Parrotts, and their shells all burst prematurely. if the Yankee re-enforcements are as large as your scout represents them they will establish an inland communication between New Berne, Washington, and Plymouth, and thus have their cordon of forts com- plete from Suffolk down. A. glance at the map will show how seriously this would embarrass us. For my part I could get no information from New Berne. With great respect, ID. H. HILL, Major-General. [General LONGSTREET. Page 190 190 NORTH CAROLiNA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. No. S. Report of Maj. John C. Haskeli, C. & Army, commanding Artillery. HEADQUARTERS ARTILLERY, March 16, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor most respectfully to submit the following report of the artillery under my command: 1st. Having on March 8, in obedience to orders from Maj. Gen. D. II. Hill, marched from Goldsborough with a portion of the reserve artillery, I bivouacked at Falling Creek, 26 miles from Goldsborough, 8 from Kinston. 2d. On 1~he night of the 8th at this place I received orders to report to Brig. Gen. J. J. Pettigrew, and from him orders to move on to Kinston with the rifle guns of my command, which consisted of four 20-pounder Parrott guns of the Macon Light Artillery, under command of Lient. [C. W.] Slaten, and one 3-inch rifle of the Montgomery Light Artillery, under command of Lieutenant Davis. Having reported there with the above-mentioned guns, I was joined by the following batteries: Captain Wyatts, with two 12-pounder Kapoleons (bronze), one heavy 12-pounder (bronze), and one 10-pounder Parrott; Capt. [J.] Grahams, of one 3- inch rifle, one 12-pounder howitzer, and two 6-pounders (bronze), and a section of Captain Grahams battery (attached to Daniels brigade), of two 3-inch rifles. With this artillery I marched in rear of the brigade and trains about 21 miles from Kinston and halted for the night. About a mile from the camping ground I was delayed for over three hours by a portion of the brigade wagon train, and when they moved out, one of my guns, a 3-inch rifle, broke through a corduroy bridge, letting the piece down into the water; all the other guns of the command escaped. Two being behind this were delayed until this gun could be pried out and the bridge repaired. All the guns then crossed except the last two. The horses of the first of these took fright and pulled one side of the gun-carriage over the edge of the bridge. The water underneath being some 4 feet deep, with great difficulty the wheels were taken off the car- riage and the gun dismounted. To do this, however, it was found necessary to cut away part of the bridge, and before it could be repaired and the guns gotten to camp it was near daylight and the men and horses were much jaded. At 7 a. m. on the 10th the artillery resumed the march in the same as the day before and marched as far as Palmetto Creek which position was crossed by all the artillery except the 20-pounder battery, the first gun of which crushed in the bridge and was drawn out by hand with great difficulty; The bridge was then repaired in about three hours and the rest of the train passed over and moved on, allowing the brigade commissary wagons to pass in front. In this order the march was con- tinued until within about 3 miles of the camping place for the night, when the artillery was stopped by the brigade wagon train, which had stalled in the middle of a stream. The wagons were removed by about 10 oclock that night, when all the light guns and one 20-pounder crossed, I getting over about 11.30 oclock. The rest of the 20-pounders were behind the commissary wagons, which did not cross until about 2 the next evening, as the stream was impassable and had to be bridged. If this battery had crossed the night before I do not think they could have advanced farther, as the horses were broken down. After cross- ing, the artillery again moved forward and arrived within about 2 mile Page 191 ChAP. XXX.] ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 191 of Bafringtons Ferry and halted with all the guns except the 10- pounder Parrott of Captain Wyatts battery, which I had placed in position under Lieutenant iRives at Pettifords Ferry to enfilade the work at Barringtons Ferry and fire at the gunboats when expedient. This gun fired a number of rounds at the encampment and redoubt, the effect of which could not be seen, and eight at a gunboat, four of which Lieut. [Charles M.] IRives thinks took effect, when she hauled off out of range. The artillery, with the exception of this piece, was moved forwardjust about daybreak, and I was directed by General Pettigrew to place them in position so as to play upon the earthwork at the ferry and the gun- boats upon the river. In obedience to this order I placed the guns of Captains Wyatts and Grahams batteries in position about 400 yards from the work, and directed them to open firewith shell and case-shot, which they did, throwing the shell and case-shot with great precision in the work. After some rounds Captain Wyatt commenced firing solid shot from some of his guns to batter down the breastwork. It was soon found unavailing and stopped. As soon as the batteries of Captains Wyatt and Graham commenced firing I ordered up the rifle guns and placed them in position on the right and left of these batteries, giving them orders to direct their fire against the gunboats, except a section of 3-inch rifles under Lient. Aldon Alexander, which was placed upon the extreme right, with orders to fire upon the earthwork at a point where it seemed weakest. Though the guns were worked well and fired accurately the effect was small. The rest of the rifle guns fired at the gunboat, which was distant 1~ miles, with but little effect. Although they struck her several times it was impossible, with the very inferior ammunition with which they were supplied, to shoot accurately enough to strike any vital part unless ~by chance. After the firing had continued about an hour the first piece of the 20-pounders burst, mortally wounding 1 man and severely wounding 2 others. About half an hour after this, by the di- rection of General Pettigrew, the guns were gradually withdrawn and taken back about 1 mile, with the exception of the smooth guns of Captains Wyatts and Grahams batteries, which were kept close to be moved up if necessary. About 3 p. m. they were withdrawn and moved back to the halting place of the night before and halted there until about 12 oclock at night of the 14th, when the artillery moved again until it arrived at the ground where I had encamped the night of the 12th, and halted there until about 12 in. on the 15th; then again moved to Swift Creek and took position to repel an attack which was antici- pated. During the march it was found necessary to dismount and leave one of the 20-pounder Parrotts, as the axle, which had an old crack in it, was found on examination to have broken in two during the fire of the 14th and could not be replaced. It was hidden, so that it might be sent for hereafter. I would most respectfully recommend that the 20-pounders be taken from the Macon Light Artillery, as it is a good company and deserves better than to have its members wounded and killed by defect- ive guns. I would beg leave, most respectfully, to call to the favorable con- sideration of the general, Lient. Aldon Alexander, who on the march down gave invaluable aid by his skill as an engineer and untiring energy in commanding, which would without him have been the cause of much greater delay than was experienced. All the men and officers behaved coolly and well. The following were the casualties: Macon Light Artillery had 1 man mortally wounded, 2 severely; Lieutenant Alexanders section had 1 ma Page 192 192 NORTh CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXL wounded by a shell from the enemy, not dangerously. The rer~aiiiing batteries lost none killed and none wounded. From Captain Grahams battery there is 1 missing. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN C. HASKELL, Capt. [N. C.] HUGHES, Ailiajor, Commanding Artilery. Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 9. Report of Brig~ Gen. John J. Pettigrew, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS PETTIGREWS BRIGADE, Greenville, N. 0., March 17, 1863. GENERAL: The expedition intrusted to me having failed in accom- plishing the hoped-for result, I snbmit the following statement of the causes: I left Goldsborough on the 9th instant (Monday) with the portion of my brigade there stationed and arrived at Kinston on Tuesday after- noon. That night I received your instructions to take the two rifled guns of General Daniel, the four 20-pounder Parrotts of the reserve artillery, and the Whitworth gun in case it arrived, and to proceed to Barringtons Fenry; to get my guns in position without observa- tion if possible; to open a concentrated fire upon the enemys work, which it was thought would so demoralize the enemy as to induce an almost bloodless surrender. I was then to open on the Yankee ship- ping and barracks. It was important that the bombardment should begin on Thursday. The distance was 57 miles, and the heavy rain of Tuesday and Wednesday had swollen the swamps and put the roads in very bad condition. Many of the bridges broke down under the 20- pounders, all causing great delay, but I wrote you that I hoped to carry the work by moonlight on Friday morning with the bayonet, which I preferred, as the enemy in New Berne then would not know the result and I might thus be enabled to intrench the guns before the gunboats attacked. The infantry reached the camp, 8 miles from Barringtons, at dark, and I intended to start at midnight for the ferry, but a swamp some 3 miles in rear of the halt changed under the train into a quick- sand. The men vainly worked all night in the freezing water to repair it. It was necessary to bridge the whole swamp in a new place, which was done under the superintendence of Lieutenant Koerner, of the Topo- graphical Engineers, who otThred his services and greatly aided me. About 3 p m. Friday the bridge was finished. The infantry arrived at the ferry early in the night, but the 20-pounders having mired, the ar- tillery was detained until late in the morning. In a reconnaissance made by me and Major ilaskell and my aides during the afternoon, Pettifords Ferry had appeared a suitable point for attacking the gunboats and perhaps for enfilading the work. A rifled gun, under Lieutenant Hives, was placed there before daylight. The Twenty-sixth Regiment (Col. [II. K.] Burgwyn), assisted by Cap- tain Whitfords Rangers, were to capture or drive in the enemys pickets. The Twenty-sixth supported by the Forty-fourth Regiment, if necessary, were to carry the work. I hoped then to intrench the 20-pounders and drive away the gunboats and the enemy from his intrenchments in fron Page 193 CHAP. XXXJJ ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 193 of New Berne. The first part of this programme was excellently well carried out; 3 of the enemys pickets were captured; the bridges within the enemys lines were repaired. At 400 yards we came for the first time in view of the work. The result of what I had heard of the char- acter of the work and learned from my reconnaissance of the previous day, and from what I now saw before me, was as follows: It was a simple pan coup6, situated on a slight elevation, the height of the interior crest being 8 or 9 feet and the ditch in front 6 by 8 feet. It was flanked by a swamp of 3 or 4 miles on the right and a swampy creek on the left, so that it could only be approached in front. The road ran down to its center and then along the ditch of the left half. The garrison was composed of a two-years regiment, about 250 or 300 strong. It was now broad daylight. The presumption was the garrison would fire one round, costing us 50 or 100 men. I therefore decided to display my Three, demoralize them by a heavy fire, and demand a surrender, thus saving my own men and not nunecessarily killing theirs. The light bat- teries deployed finely into battery at 400 yards from the work and opened upon it a rapid and well-directed fire. After a few minutes I demanded a surrender by Lieut. [Louis G.] Young, my aide-dc-camp. This was a mistake on my part and I regret it very much, but it had no effect upon the principal object of the movement. They declined surrendering with- out consulting General Foster, & c. The firing was then recommenced. I now devoted my attention to the 20-pounders. I regret to say that their performance was execrablefully as bad as the experiments at Goldsborough led us to fear. A gunboat lay opposite us at the wharf in New Berne, about l~ miles distant, getting up steam and firing upon us, in which she was aided by field guns, probably Whitworths from the sound of the missiles. Half of the shells from the 20-pounders burst just outside of the guns. They turned over in the air and were perfectly harmless to the enemy. At length the axle of one of these guns broke and it became unserviceable. Then another burst, wound- ing 3 men, I of them mortally. These four 20-pounders were our sole agents for accomplishing the object of the expedition. It was now painfully evident that they were worse than useless. Of the six guns composing the battery two had burst at Fredericksburg, one here, a fourth was disabled by the breaking of an axle-tree. The ammunition was fully as bad as the guns. The light guns would have been effective against gunboats in an ordinary-sized river, but the Neuse at New Borne is so wide as to enable them to remove a mile or two distant. Other bdats with heavy guns were coming round from the Trent. The principal object of the expedition having then ntterly failed it seemed to me folly longer to expose the men and mat~riel of the artillery. The only question was whether I should carry the work before withdrawing. The Twenty-sixth had been in waiting ever since daylight and would have done it in five minutes. The advantage of so doing would have been the capture of some 300 two-years men, with their arms. The work we could not hold. The disadvantage was the probable loss of a certain number of men 60 miles from our hospitals. I decided against it. It cost me a struggle, after so much labor and endurance, to give up the Johtt, but I felt that my duty to the country required me to save my men for some operation in which sacrifices would be followed by two-years holdino consequences, not in capturing men and temporary possession of breastworks, however brilliant the operation might be. I therefore withdrew the whole command except the Twenty-sixth Regi- 13 R RYOL XVI1 Page 194 [CHAP. XXX. 194 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. ment, which remained within about 500 yards of the place in order to cover the withdrawal of Captain Whitfords men. I cannot too highly express my admiration of the manner in which they stood the furious shelling of the enemy withont flinching. The rest of the command was about a mile distant. In the afternoon, the enemy having received re-enforcements, I thonght he might sally out, so I drew up in line parallel to the fire of the gunboats, the right resting some three-quarters of a mile from the work. While in this position the enemys scouts were perceived ad- vancing, doubtless to discover our position, but they disappeared as soon as our skirmishers showed themselves. The shelling of the gun- boats continued all day. The two rifled guns at Pettifords Ferry re- plied, and, I have every reason to think, disabled one. Later in the afternoon I withdrew to my camp. Dnring the night the sounds of drums, bugles, and bands in New Berne announced that their forces had retreated from General Daniels front~ but as we heard nothing from his guns after 12 m. I concluded that he had not pursued. The whole force in New Berne could thus be thrown upon my rear at very short notice, so the next day (Sunday) I fell back 8 miles, within striking distance of Swift Creek. I then received your order to proceed to Greenville. It will thus be seen, general, that the not capturing of the fort was owing to myself, for which I have given my reasons, good or bad. The failure of the effort to drive the gunboats out of New Berne and the troops from their intrenchments was owing solely to the utter worth- lessness of the 20.pounder Parrotts, which had hnng around our necks like a millstone during the march and failed us in the vital moment. My attack was partly effective in withdrawing the troops from General Daniels front, and had I been supplied with four Whitworth guns I firmly believe you might have slept in New Berne that night. For details of the artillery I refer to the report of Maj or Haskell, who discharged his whole duty. I was greatly indebted throughout to that gallant and efficient officer Captain Whitford. I cannot refrain from bearing testimony to the unsurpassed military good conduct of those under me. In seven days they marched 127 miles, waded swamps, worked in them by night and day, bivouacked in the rain, sometimes without fire, never enjoyed a full nights rest after the first, besides undergoing a furious shelling, and discharging other duties. All this without murmuring or even getting sick. The loss of the enemy I have no means of ascertaining. Several boat-loads of apparently dead or wounded men were sent over to New Berne. Our casualties were caused by the bursting of the 20-pounder and by the shells from the gunboats. The fort did not return our fire at all. Including concussions and other trivial injuries they amount to 23, dis- tributed as follows: Killed Seriously wounded (2 mortally, since died) 7 Slightly wounded 14 Total Among the wounded is the adjutant-general of the brigade, Capt. [N. C.] Hughes, whose face was injured by sand thrown into it by the strik- ing of a shell upon the ground nearly in front of him Page 195 ChAP. XXX.] ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 195 We left the fragments of the 20-pounder that burst on the field in front of the work at Barringtons Ferry. They could not have her taken off without a wagon. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. J. PETTIGIREW, Brigadier- General, Provisional Army, Confederate & ates. Maj. Gen. D. II. HILL, Commanding Department of North tijarolina. [Inclosure.] GOLDSBOROUGH, N. C., Jfarch 10, 1863. [Brig. Gen. J. J. PETTIGKREW:] I wish you to take all the rifled guns in your own brigade, 1)aniels, and the reserve artillery, and the Whitworth gun from Wilmington (if arrived) and move with your brigade to the neighborhood of Barring- tons Ferry. Get all your guns in position, if possible, without observa- tion and open a concentrated fire upon the enemys work at the ferry. It is thought that this can be reduced; if so, push np your guns to it after its fall and open upon the Yankee shipping and barracks. It is important that this bombardment shall begin on Thursday, and your brigade must move part of the way to-morrow. It is proper for you to know that there is to be a combined movement from the James to the Cape Fear, and you are to begin it. Upon your success depends very much the success of the scheme. The condition of Contentnea Creek or the roads below may prevent your march, or there may be other ob- jections which I do not understand. If so, wait until you see me; hope to be down to-morrow.. I most earnestly hope, however, there will be no obstacle in the way. I have written to General Garnett, at Greenville, that you would begin on Thursday. Everything is in- trusted to your skill, prudence, and good management. With great respect, D. H. HILL, Major- General. No. 10. Report of Brig. Gen. Richard B. Garnett, C. S. Army. HEADQUARIERS GARNETT5 BRI~fADE, fliarborough, N. C., March 11, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report, which J deem important you should be in possession of: My last regiment has just arrived. My troops have been very much delayed on the route, owing to want of concert among the railroad agents. I did not receive your letter of instructions until about 1 oclock to-day, which was the first reliable information I had of my destination. Being entirely ignorant of the country in which I was ordered to oper- ate, I consulted with the post quartermaster, Captain Brown, who in- formed me that he had done business in Hyde County for many years. He was of the opinion that it had been very much stripped by the Yankees, and introduced to me a Mr. Blount, of the Forty-first North Carolina Regiment, whom he represented as a very trustworthy man and a native of Beaufort, the adjoining county to Hyde. Mr. Bloun Page 196 [CHAP. XXX. 196 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. gives me the following information, which he obtained in Hyde Connty while endeavoring to get out a horse belonging to him ~ The Yankee troops have destroyed the following bridges: Pungo Bridge, 100 yards long; Wilkersoll Creek Bridge, 40 yards long; Broad Creek Bridge, 60 yards long, and Rose Bay Bridge, 20 yards long. (All of these except the first are in Hyde County, and nmst be rebuilt before wagons can pass over the only accessible road through the county. This last fact is confirmed by Captain Brown.) Mr.~Blount was told by IDr. Milton Selby and Mr. Davis (gentlemen of high standing in Hyde) that the Federal troops had lately made several raids into the county (one about a week since), destroying and carrying off large quantities of bacon (about 15,000 ponnds from a Mr. Bell), besides wantonly killing beef cattle and other stock. The number of the enemy in their last expedition was about 1,500, Mr. Blount reports ten gunhoats on the Sound, two of which he saw in Pungo River. I have but few mechanics in my command and no building-tools ex- cept axes. It would be almost impossible to build a bridge over the Pungo River if attacked by the gunboats, which would probably be the case, as the water is some 20 feet deep and the work would necessarily occupy several days. With regard to the other bridges I can form no idea, being ignorant of the facility for getting timber, & c., in their neigh- borhood. You can judge, seeing the distance I would have to march and the detention I would meet with from the causes above stated, whether the concert you mentioned with other troops could be carried out. I shall leave for Greenville to-morrow morning, which place I cannot reach until the next day. As the information may modify your views, I am desirous of hearing from you as soon as possible. You will there- fore oblige me very much by replying by the bearer. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. B. GARNETT, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. D. H. HILL, Commanding. No. 11. Report of Brig. Gem. Junius Daniel, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS, Kinston, N. C., March 11, 1863. GENERAL: Your letters of instructions have been received and de- livered. General Robertson left yesterday; General Pettigrew this morning; Major Haskell is about leaving. I am very anxious that you should come down to-day. You are aware that there are four roads from this place to New Berne besides the railroad. I do not thiuk I can advance in any force or with wagons over aiiy other than the lower Trent. The bridges are destroye(1 on Neuse and Dover roads and it will require a day or two to build them. You are also aware that un- less General Robertson operates between the Trent and White Oak that the upper Trent road will be left open to the enemy. I think I under- stood froiu General Robertson that his orders were to operate on south side of Trent, allowing him to go beyond the White Oak I pre- sume Page 197 CHAP. XXX.J ATTACK ON NEW BERNE, N. C. 197 The only news from the enemy is that of the 8th. The enemys cav- alry went to Swansborough from Smiths Mill, where they met some of their men in boats. The cavalry returned to Smiths Mill on the 9th. Very respectfully, & c., JUNIUS DANIEL, Maj. Gen. D. II. HILL Brigadier- General. Comm anding at Goldsborough, N. C. No. 12. Report of Brig. Gen. Beverly H. Robertson, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, March 21, 1863. MAJOR: I have the honor to report, for the information of the major- general commanding, that on Monday, the 9th instant, in obedience to his written instructions, and immediately after their receipt, I moved with six squadrons of my commandthree from the Fifty-ninth and the remainder from the Sixty-third IRegiment North Carolina Troops, in all about 500 mento the south side of Trent River; thence toward Jack- sonville, the enemy having been reported advancing in that direction. Upou my arrival at Huggins farm I was informed by Capt. [T. W.J Harris, [Company B, Sixty-third North Carolina Troops, or Fifth Cav- alry], on picket duty in that vicinity, that the Yankees had recrossed the White Oak River and probably returued to New Berne. Learning next morning (Thursday) that they were reported in force at Trenton, I at once started for that point via Comfort, in the vicinity of which I en- campe(l the same night. Early on the following day, in order to protect I)aniels right and re- connoiter the country, I proceeded to Pollocksville, where it was stated the enemy had their I)ickets stationed and were strongly fortified. Upon my arrival there I ascertained the Yankees had crossed Mill Creek several days previous and destroyed the bridge over that stream, which, on account of the recent rains I foun in that vicinity. I therefore , d impassable for cavalry, at least returned to McDaniels Mill and encamped, leaving Melntires squadron on picket at Pollocksville and Mill Creek, with orders to hold those places at all hazards. With a view to carry- ing out the instructions of the major-general commanding, I detached a party under command of Lieut. W. J. Wiley, Company F, Sixty-third Regiment, with directions to move rapidly and cut the railroad between Sheppardsville and New Berne. I provided the party with a few axes and sent with it the only good guide I hadPrivate Dennis, Forty-first Regiment North Carolina Troops. With the bulk of my force I deter- mined either to head Mill Creek and operate in the enemys rear nearer New Berne or move upon Sheppardsville. Upon reaching Richard Old- fields I was informed by a most respectable, intelligent, and loyal citi- zen (well known to many of my officers), and perfectly familiar with that section of country, that but few cavalry could be advantageously used there. I therefore decided to detach a good squadron, with instruc- tions to strike a blow at or near Evans farm, a bout 7 miles from Ne Page 198 [CHAP. XXX. 198 NOR 11 CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. Berne. With his usual alacrity Col. [P. Gj Evans, [Sixty-third North Carolina Troops, or Fifth Cavalry], who is perfectly acquainted with that neighborhood, volunteered to command it and selected Capt. [E. F.] Shaws squadron. With the remainder of my command I moved on to- ward Sheppardsville, reaching Peletiers Mill ,20 odd miles distant, before sunset. After gaining from reliable sources all the informatiou I could relative to the enemys strength, position, & c., 1 made arrangements to attack Sheppardsvilie early next day (Sunday), or. at least to occupy the enemys attention at that point while Colonel Ferebee, who promptly oft~red his services for the purpose, would destroy the raihioad above Newport Creek, taking the left-hand road beyond Kennedys Mill. During the night official dispatches were received, both from the major- general commanding and from Colonel Evans, whose contents induced me to abandon my plan. By reference to the map you will perceive that I had reached a point 25 or3O miles in frontof Smiths Mill, on White Oak, following the only road by which it was possible for inc to return. Colonel Evans having been compelled to fall back over Mill Creek my position was by no means desirable, since in the event of the enemys advance to the fork of the road at Smiths Mill I should have been forced to cut my way through or swim the White Oak at Swausborough. Some time before day Lieutenant Wileys party returned and reported they had torn up the railroad track at a point 3 miles above Sheppardsville. From the proximity of the enemys forces they were compelled to wait until after night to commence operations. I was highly gratified with the promptness and efficiency displayed by Lieutenant Wileyand party. Colonel Evans had not advanced more than 6 or 7 miles beyond Mill Creek before he encountered a large force of the enemy~s cavalry, with which he skirmished awhile, resulting in the loss of one horse killed on our side and disabling one of the enemys. The colonel then ordered a charge, but the road was in such condition that the horses mired down and two men were dismounted. The shouting, however, had the effect of routing the Yankees, but the colonel did not deem it prudent to pursue, as his rear was much exposed. A prisoner whom we captured reported a large force in that vicinity, as did also a loyal citizen. Colonel Evans speaks in the highest terms of the coolness and gal- lantry of Captain Shaw and Lieut. John C. Hine~, of Company C. He also mentions the good conduct of Sergt. Lewis II. Darden, whose horse was killed under him; Privates Thomas 0. Bunting, Richard II. Lee, Charles Butler, Thomas M. Ferrill, Walter J. Moore, George M. Tatum, George Vaun, Cornelius Timothy, Isaac W. Grist, and Corpi. W. F. Culbreth, all of whom volunteered to go to the front and watch the enemy. I am pleased to state that my whole command during the march con- tinued in excellent spirits despite the weather, and seemed anxious to engage the foe. My movements were seriously interrupted and impeded by the scarcity of forage, of which there is not sufficient to supply the wants of the few citizens remaining in those counties. I am greatly in need of a good battery, and respectfully ask that one be ordered to me without delay. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. H. ROBERTSON, Brigadier- General. Maj. ARcHER ANDERsON, Asst. Adjt. Gem., Hdqrs. Dept. of N. C., Goldsborough Page 199 CHAP. XXX.] SKIRMISH NEAR FRANKLIN, VA. 199 MARCH 1013, 1863.Demonstration on Plymouth, N. C. Report of illaj. Walter 6~. Bartholomew, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infrntry, commanding Post. PLYMOUTH, N. 0., March 13, 1863. GENERAL: T have the honor to report that on the 10th instant, at about 3 oclock p. in., the enemy made their appearance, about 50 strong, within rifle-shot of our outpost. I immediately ordered the garrison to take position in line of the inside pickets and sent a company out as skir- mishers, who proceeded about 2 miles and found they were in force one- half mile farther on. I reported to Captain Flusser, of the gunboat Perry, but the enemy not making any further demonstrations at that time did not open upon them. After standing an hour in a drenching rain another alarm was given. As the enemy advanced and fired upon our pickets the gunboats commenced to shell them, and they retired. They made their appearance again about 10 in the evening so close to our lines that we conld hear them speak distinctly. At a signal from the boats the pickets were drawn in, and they were agaiu shelled, as I learn, with good effect, as several were reported killed and wounded. We were under arms the remainder of the night but were not molested. In the morning I sent a party to reconnoiter, who went as far as Corpeurs blacksmiths shop, which had been used as a picket post, and burned it in sight of the enemy, and ascertained their strength to be about 800 men of the Seventeenth North Carolina Regiment. This morning (the 13th), about 2 oclock, three rockets were sent up by the enemy and were answered by two blue ones several miles up the river. Thus we are still in doubt as to what they intend to do, but ex- pect to meet them with determination whatever way they come. Both officers and men behaved with their usual gallantry, and expressed much disappointment that the affair shonld .end so quietly. I am, general, your very obedient servant, W. G. BARTHOLOMEW, iliajor, Commanding Post. MARCH 17,1863. Skirmish near Franklin, Va. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army. No. 2. Col. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army. SUFFOLK, VA., March 17, 1863. DEAR SIR: Colonel Spear was delayed from four to five hours, and reached the vicinity of Franklin about 9 oclock. He charged with cavalry, capturing one lieutenant, but his men failed to get over the earthworks, ditches, & c. He made a second charge with like results. He shelled them with effect. He went down toward South Quay and is now returning. Major Stratton led a cLarge and was twice wounded Page 200 [CfIAP. XXX. 200 NORTH CAROLINA A1~D 8. E. VIRGINIA. but only slightly. Lieut. [G. B.] Knight and one man missing. Lieut. [S. L.] Monday is badly wounded. It was a bold dash for cavalry, and impressed the rebels with the idea that our men were in earnest. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. 0-eneral Dix. No. 2. Report of Col. Samuel P. AS~pear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Gai~alry. IIDQRS. ELEVENTH PENNSYLVANIA VOL. CAVALRY, Camp Suffolk, Twa., March 18, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of a reconnais- sance made by me in the direction of Franklin, & c.: On the evening of the 16th I received orders from the commanding general, through his assistant adjumnt-general,~to make a thorough in- vestigation of the ground occupied by a supposed force on the Black- water, and opposite to, on this side of the river from Franklin. I ac- cordingly left Suffolk in command of 350 cavalry and four pieces of Davis battery, and, proceeding very cautiously, arrived at and found the enemys outer pickets at Hebron Church, half a mile from Carrsville and 4~- miles this side of Franklin. They at once fled to the woods~ and undoubtedly, by a pathway, gave information of my approach. I advanced, and at a poiiit 1 mile this side of Franklin found a small picket; captured a first lieutenant in charge and sent him at once to your headquarters. Here I ordered a charge of three companies, under Maj. F. A. Stratton, and he gallantly made the same, in , imme- diately under the breastworks of the enen1y~ he lost his horse and full equipments. Some of his men were wounded and Lient. Samuel L. Monday was badly wounded in the abdomen. The party under command of Major Stratton, after examining the enemys defenses, & c., and in accordance to orders, returned and joined my main body. Captain Davis was then directed and threw about eighteen shells directly into the en- emys lines, which must have done great destruction. I then ordered cease firing and made a second charge of three com- panies, under Maj. George T. Cornog, which was done in such a man- ner as to merit my thanks. The enemys intrenchments, masked bat- tery, and rifle-pits were so constructed as to be impassable for cavalry, and while no results could be gained by me, enabled him to a very great advantage. The fortifications, rifle-pits, & c., are about 200 yards from Blackwater River and running nearly parallel with it, and it is estimated, by a minute examination, that one regiment of infantry, about 250 cavalry, two 10-pounder rifled guns, and one section of rocket battery is the strength of the enemy on this side of the river at that point. Inclosed please find a list of wounded and missing, * and see note of some since returned. Lieutenant Knight must, I think, have been thrown from his horse, and is probably now a prisoner unhurt. It gives me pleasure to commend highly-the conduct of Majs. Frank- Iin A. Stratton and George -T. Cornog for their prompt, energetic, and spirited manner in conducting their respective charges, and unless Not found. Regimental returns report 1 officer and 2 men wounded, and 1 officer and 11 men missing Page 201 CHAP. XXX.] SKIRMISH AT WINFIELD, N. C. 201 these movements had been made it would have been impossible to have given a correct or even a slight accoulit of the enemys defenses, strength, & c. Lieut. Samuel L. Monday was seriously wounded* while in the per- formance of his duty, and I regret exceedingly this serious injury to an excellent and promising officer. Capt. Phineas A. Davis is deserving of great credit for his portion of duty in the reconnaissance, and officers and men all behaved well. Having performed the duty assigned me, I ret.urned to camp at 7 last evening. While I regret exceedingly the loss in missing I am positive that I could not have carried out my instructions with less casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ~ ~. SPEAH, Colonel Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. Maj. B. B. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General, MARCH 23, 1863.Skirmish at Winfield, N. C. IREPO RTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of Virginia. No. 2.Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of North Carolina. No. 3.Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army. No. 1. Report of ilIaj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Yirginia. FORT MONROE, VA., March 29, 1863. On the 23d the enemy, with three companies Forty-second North Car- olina and a guerrilla force, under command of Colonel Brown, Forty- second North Carolina, attacked the post at Winfield, on the Chowan, below Gatesville. Lieutenant McLane, with part of a company of the First North Carolina Volunteers, took refuge in a block-house, and after an hour and a halfs fighting repulsed the enemy. The next day Gen- eral Foster came up from Plymouth with three companies, which were landed and sent in pursuit. Four companies of the Eleventh Pennsyl- vania Cavalry were sent from Suffolk the same day by General Peck. Some of Colonel Browns command succeeded in crossing the Chowan. The residu*i were overtaken by General Fosters companies, and after a skirmish were dispersed and scattered in the swamps. Our troops were trying to hunt them up at last accounts. This morning the enemy attacked Williamsburg with infantry and cavalry, and were repulsed by the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, under Colonel Lewis. They had retreated an hour ago. All was quiet at Williamsburg, and Colonel Lewis had re-established hia pickets. JOHN A. DIX, Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief. Major- General. * Died of his wounds March 18, 1863 Page 202 202 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [Ca& P. XXL No. 2. Report of Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding the Depart inent of North Carolina. CHOWAN RIVER, STEAMER JOHN FARON, March 25, 1863. GENERAL: The rebels attacked the post at Winfield on the morning of the 23d at daybreak. Lieutenant MeLane, with the portion of his company (of the First North Carolina Volunteers) that had not left him, took refuge in the block-house, and after one and a half hours fighting repulsed the enemy, whose force consisted of three companies of the Forty-second North Carolina and a guerrilla force, all nnder the com- mand of Colonel Brown, of the Forty-second North Carolina. I was at Plymouth at the time and ran up with three companies, landed them, ana started them in pursuit, at the same time patroling the river with my boat to prevent their recrossing and also sending for some cavalry to General Peck, at Suffolk, to scour the country and pick up stragglers. Some of Colonel Browns command succeeded in recrossing, but the re- mainder were overtaken by our companies at Rocky Hock Creek yes- terday morning and attacked, and after a short skirmish scattered into the swamps. Four companies of your fine regiment, the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, arrived at night, too late to do much scouting, but will to-day try to force out these fugitive rebels. You can, if you choose, send a brief epitome of this small affair to General Halleck. If you still entertain the idea of holding the country north of the Albemarle, now garrisoned by very small parties, I shall be happy to vacate whenever you find it convenient to replace my small garrisons or to establish others more convenient for you. I think the post at Winfield should be maintained to intercept smuggling across the Chowan River. With great respect, very truly, yours, J. G. FOSTER, ]Lliajor- General, Volunteers. General JOHN A. DIX, Corndg. ~Seventh Army Corps, Fort Monroe, Va. No. 3. Reports of ]lIaj. Gen. John J. Peek, U. S. Army. SUFFOLK, VA., March 23, 1863. The post at Winfield, N. C., was attacked this morning by a consid- erable force of guerrillas in the absence of the gunboat. One of the pickets came in. I at once ordered Major Stratton to go down with a party of cavalry and render any assistance in his power. JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. General Dix. SUFFOLK, VA., ilfarch 24, 1863. A commnnication from General ~ headquarters reached me this morning. The gunboats had arrived at Winfield from Plymout Page 203 CHAP. XXX.j SKIRMISH AT WILLIAMSBURG, VA. 203 and relieved the garrison after all their barracks were burned. They crossed 8 miles below. Yesterday I sent a strong party, under Major Stratton, and hope we may be able to cut off and capture some of them. Shall follow them up. JOHN J. PECK, lliajor- General. General Dix. SUFFOLK, VA., March 25; 1863. Major Stratton reached Winfleld at 8 a. in., ill excellent time. The gunboat had been back with four companies of infantry and left again prior to his arrival. The infantry were in pursuit. The rebels moved off toward Edenton. Some heavy guns were heard in that direction. JOHN J. PECK, Major-General Dix. Major- General. MARCH 29, 1863.Skirmish at Williamsburg, Va. IREPOIRTS, ETC.* No. 1.Brig. Gen. Richard Busteed, U. S. Army, commanding at Yorktown, and orders. No. 2.Lieut. Col. XVilliam Lewis, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. / No. :3.Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S. Army. No. 4.Col. William B. Tabb, C. S. Army. No. 5.Capt. G. A. Wallace, C. S. Army. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. Richard Busteed, U. S. Army, commanding at York. town, and orders. YORKTOWN, March 30, 1863. I sent you this morning the report of Colonel Lewis, who is now here. Our casualties were 5 wounded, 6 missing, and 2 murdered. The boots were stolen from off our dead. The enemys loss in killed and wounded, according to the most reli- able accounts, is at least 18. He came with a train of wagons and four field pieces, and was guided into the town by citizens of Williamsburg at three different points. I will send you to-morrow three of the enemys force, who deserted to us. I have the pleasure to report everything quiet now. RICHARD BUSTEED, Brigadier- General, Commanding. General Dix. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Yorktoun, Va., March 29, 1863. Colonel LEWIS: I received on Thursday from General Dix a telegram that Williams- burg must not be destroyed unless actually taken possession of by the * See also Dix to Keyes, May 26, 1863, in Correspondence, etc., post Page 204 204 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. enemy, and then not unless absolutely necessary for our own safety. You must be guided by these rules in all that you do. RICHARD BUSTEED, Brigadier- General, Commanding the Forces at Yorktourn. FOURTH ARMY CoRPS, ORDERS.] yorktown Va., March 29, 1863. COMMA~DIN~ OFFICER, Williamsburg, Va.: The attack of the enemy ou our lines at Williamsburg this (Sabbath) morning was accompanied by circumstances of so aggravated a char- acter as to call for prompt and severe punishment to those most impli- cated. Conclusive evidence has been furnished to the commanding general that the attack was aided, if not planned, by citizens of Will- iamsburg and carried to a successful end by them and their abettors outside the lines; that the enemy were led into the city by one or more citizens, and that when once in they were enabled by the aid of the citizens and their own overwhelming-force to occupy the most advan- tageous points for attack and defense; that upon their occupation of the city they were assisted by the citizens in their attack upon our forces, who were fired upon from the houses lining the streets, the dead bodies of the murdered being despoiled and stripped, their boots pulled off their feet~ that the stores of their sympathizers within the city were thrown open to their advantage and their horses loaded with packs prepared for their arrival. To provide against a repetition of the outrage, the commanding general directs: 1st. That all the privileges to all store-keepers in the city of Williams- burg to purchase and sell goods are revoked. 2d. That all citizens in the city of Williamsburg and vicinity who are willing to take the oath of allegiance to the Government of the United States will present themselves to the provost-marshal of Williamsburg for the purpose of taking such oath on or before the 1st day of April, 1863. 3d. That all citizens in the city of Williamsburg and vicinity who are not willing to take the oath of allegiance to the Government of the United States, excepting the servants and employ~s of the Eastern Lunatic Asylum of the State of Virginia, will prepare themselves and their families to be placed beyond the lines now occupied by the armed forces of the said Government by the 2d day of April, 1863. 4th. The greatest publicity possible will be given to this order and the cause leading to its issue, and the end to be accomplished by its enforcement will be communicated to all concerned. By order of Brigadier-General Busteed, commanding post: C. C. SUYDAM, Assistant Adjutant- General. YORKIOWN, VA., March 30, 1863. Col. WILLIAM LEWIS, Commanding Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry: General Dix directs that the order 1 issued to you to-day shall not be enforced. You will therefore consider it as revoked. Notify the provost-marshal at Williamsburg. RICHARD BUSTEED, Brigadier- Genera 1, Commanding Page 205 CHAP. XXX.] SKIRMISH AT WILLIAMSBURG, VA. 205 HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS, Fort Monroe, March 31, 1863. Maj. Gen. E. ID. KEYES, Commanding, Yorktown, Va.: GENERAL: In view of the raid on Williamsburg on Sunday last, and rumors of complicity on the part of the inhabitants with the assailants, you will give orders as follows: 1st. No persons will be allowed to go to Williamsburg from any point south of Fort Magruder without taking the oath of allegiance. 2d. No citizen of Williamsburg will be permitted to go to Yorktown or to any place south of Fort Magrudei without taking the oath of alle- giance. 3d. No person will be allowed to trade in Williamsburg without first taking the oath of allegiance. 4th. No further supplies will be allowed to be taken to Williamsburg for the use of the inhabitants, except the produce of the neighboring farms, until further orders. An investigation will be made into the circumstances alleged to have occurred at the time of the attack, and if the parties accused of aiding and abetting it are detected and reasonable presumption of their guilt is shown they will be brought before a military tribunal and punished according to the laws of war. The objections to the order issued by General Busteed are: 1st. If the enemy should come in overwhelming force and dispossess us of Williamsburg the order would be an idle threat. 2d. It assumes without investigation that the reports of complicity with the enemy are true and that all the inhabitants are implicated, whereas we must ascertain who is guilty and leave the innocent undis- turbed. 3d. It has not been the policy of the Government in towns which are occupied as outposts, and which may only be temporarily held as such, to apply the tests imposed by General Busteeds order; but on the con- trary to leave the people unmolested if they continue in the quiet pur- suit of their customary occupations and give no aid or comfort to the enemy. 4th. An order of such extensive scope as that of General Busteed, who was only temporarily in command in your absence, should not have been issued without authoriry of the commanding general of the de- partment. Should it be found that any house in Williamsburg was occupied by the enemy with the consent of the owner for the purpose of firing upon our troops it will be razed to the ground. JOHN A. DIX, ]Jiajor- General. No. 2. Report of Lient. Col. iViUictm Lewis, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Near Williamsburg, Va., March 29, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that at about 5 a. in. this day a body of infantry, 100 strong, drove in our pickets near Lipscombs farm and advanced into Williamsbnrg while a large force of cavalry, est Page 206 206 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. rOHAP. XXX. mated at 1,000 in number, advanced on the Richmond road, havin gwith them four pieces of artillery and a number of wagons. The cavalry en- gaging the attention of Lieutenant Weuzel, of Company C, who with 26 of his men were stationed on the Richmond road, the infantry succeeded in getting in his rear. Lieutenant Wenzel, finding himself cut off drew saber and charged through their infantry to join Captain Stetson, in command of reserve pickets, but in so doing had 2 men killed and himself and 3 others wounded; 9 men additional were dismounteu and are missing. Lientenant Weuzel behaved with great gallantry. He gives a very clear account of the whole affair, and is positive as to the strength of enemy, as he allowed them to approach within 500 yards before retreating. Their battery was l)lanted at the college ready for action. On ascertaining their strength Captain Stetson, with picket reserve, fell back and joined the regiment in line of battle near Fort Magruder under my command. Before receiving contrary orders from your headquarters I ordered Captain Bayley, in command of Fort Ma- gruder, to shell the enemy out of the town, which was accomplished after firing about 12 rounds from a 6-pounder. Our picket line was then re- established, the enemy still holding a positiomi in the woods about one- half mile beyond Williamsburg. One 24-pounder was then run from Fort Magruder and preparations made for an advance, with the idea of clearing our picket line, whereupon the enemy retired. In this affair we lost 7 horses besides the men previously named. The enemy lost in killed and wounded 12 men, whom they carried away in their wagons, and 4 deserters. After quiet was restored I returned to camp with my command, and arrived here at 11 a. m. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. LEWIS, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Lient. Col. C. C. SUYDAM, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Fourth Army corps, Yorktown, Va. [Thdorsemnent.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Yorktown, Va., March 29, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. The within report is furnished to the major-general commanding the department for his information. I am, however, not satisfied with its completeness, and have directed Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis to report to me in the morning that I may obtain a more full and detailed account of the occurrences of this morning. RICHARD BUSTEED, Brigadier- General. No. 3. Report of Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wiee, C. S. Army. MARCH 31, 1863. * * * * * * * Colonel Tabb, on March 29 instant, made a descent upon the Federals at Williamsburg. The result of the expedition was the capture of th Page 207 Cair. XXX.] SKIRMISH AT WILLIAMSBURG, VA. 207 town and the killing and capturing of about 15 of the enemy without loss on the part of Colonel Tabb. Some time since, as has been reported already, Colonel Tabb captured some 36 Federal cavalry. The cavalry on the Peninsula are doing good duty and are actively employed. They are doing all that can be done with them. Very respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier- General. No. 4. Report of Got. William B. fUabb, C. ASr. Army. HEADQUARTERS, Diascund Bridge, Va., March 30, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have to report the failure of my attempt to capture Fort Magruder. My plan of operations was as follows: The whole command moved together to Petitts farm, between 3 and 4 miles from Williamsburg, on the Telegraph road. Here 100 infantry, under Capt. G. A. Wallace, were detached. Captain Wallace was di- rected to gain the rear of Fort Magruder by a detour to the left through Petitts and Lipscombs farms, passing between the pickets at Capitol Landing Bridge and Williamsburg, and to surprise the fort before day. break. The main body moved to within lA miles of Williamsburg. The report of Captain Wallaces guns was to be the signal for a general advance. Signals were concerted by which I could be apprised of the success or failure of the assault. Had the fort been carried Captain Wallace would have been re-enforced there and a detachment sent to Kings Mill~ if he failed the main body was to form in line of battle at the east end of the town, and Captain Wallace, falling back over ground protected from the guns at the fort and inaccessible to cavalry, would come up by the Capitol Landing road, enter Williamsburg in my rear, and so rejoin the main body. Partly through the blunders of guides, in whose efficiency I have every reason to rely, and partly through straggling among the men by which the command was divided and time lost in getting it together, Captain Wallaces detachment was two hours going not quite 4 miles. They reached Capitol Landing road after daybreak and came in full view of the enemy~s pickets. All thought of capturing the post by surprise had now to be abandoned, and an open assault would have involved a sacrifice altogether dispro- l)ortionate to the advantage to be gained. Captain Wallace prudently forbore to make the attack, and, signaling me to that effect, moved up toward Williamsburg on the Capitol Landing road. The main body moving rapidly forward drove the picket and provost guard back on Captain Wallace, who, without loss, killed and wounded 4 and made 11 prisoners. I will forward Captain Wallaces report. The failure to capture Fort Magruder involves the failure of the expe- dition to Kings Mill. The most direct road looking from Williamsburg to Kings Mill passes over two mill-dams, both of which have been cut, making the road impassable for cavalry. The only other road passes within close range of Fort Magruder. The citizens of Williamsburg inform me, however, that nothing could be gained by going there; the negroes have all been removed Page 208 208 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Large smokes were observed at Fort Magruder and Whittakers Mill. Mr Douglas, the superintendent of the lunatic asylum, who was watch- ing from the tower, reported that the enemy were burning their stores. I am. still confident that the enterprise is easily practicable, but in this connection I will write again. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. TABB, Golo~el, Commanding. Capt. J. II. PEARCE, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 5. Report of Capt. G. A. Wallace, C. S. Army. DIASCUT~D BRIDGE, VA., March 30, 1863. SIR: I beg to hand you here my report of the expedition intrusted to me: The object being the capture of Fort Magruder by surprise~ I left you at a point on the Telegraph road about 3 miles from Williamsburg at 2 a. m. yesterday. I took with me two guides, Companies F and A, Fifty- ninth Virginia Regiment, and Capt. [J. C.] Hills company, of Forty- sixth Virginia Regiment, numbering 102 muskets. It was thought by your guides that we could reach the point from which I was to make the assault on the fort before daylight, but the guides whom you gave me, though they knew the direction, seemed to know nothing of any path. We were led over a very rough countrythrough ploughed fields, over fences, deep and wide ditches, through a swamp that took the men over knee-deep, and through some timber with very thick un- dergrowth. Owing to all this our progress was very slow; as it was, the darkness caused Company A, Fifty-ninth Regiment, and Captain Hills company to be separated from my command, and at daylight I reached the open country about 1 mile from the fort with Company F, Fifty-ninth Regiment, only. I sent back one of the guides to find the two lost companies and when he returned with them it was so light that we could be seen and were undoubtedly seen from Williamsburg. I determined therefore to push on. On reaching a point near the Cap- itol Landing road we discovered three of the enemy, mounted, coming from Williamsburg. They having discovered who we were turned their horses, and I ordered a volley to be fired on them. I then determined, being discovered, to make my way through Williamsburg to form a junction with you on the Telegraph road, if not at Williamsburg itself A few minutes after the first II fired the second volley, as the signal agreed on, and was proceeding over the old field toward the town when we were threatened by a body of cavalry on our left. I immediately formed line of battle and advanced at double-quick and in good order. They seeming to advance, I halted and fired several rounds. Having dispersed them I marched by the flank to the town. Another large body of cavalry in the mean time was discovered in a field on our left, who followed us to the town. When I struck the main street, up which I filed my force, this last body followed. In the mean time we captured 4 prisoners, horses, arms, & c., and fired on several who would not su Page 209 CHAP. XXX.] SKIRMISH NEAR DEEP GULLY, N. C. 209 render. I then discovered about 30 or 40 cavalry forming ahead of us at College Place. Having thus the enemy to contend with at each end of the street I formed my men on the right side of Main street. when the body at College Place advanced in a charge. We held our fire until they were close to us~ Our fire broke and confused them. We killed 3 men at this fire and wonnded several and took 7 prisoners who were not wounded, besides killing and capturing the like nurnb~r of horses, arms, & c. I continued to move, but made another stand immediately at College Place upon discovering that the enemy in my rear moved after us. While in this position the enemy in the rear retired and your force then appeared. This ends my report e failed. - xcej)t to say Ii feel sorry your Nain object The enemys loss in killed and wounded will be at least 13 and )ris- oners 11. We did not lose a man. Our men acted very bravely. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. A. WALLACE, Col. XV. B. TARE, Captain, Commanding. Commandinq Forces near Diascnnd, Va. MARCH 30, 1863.Skirmish near Deep Gully, N. C. Extract from Record ~f Events of iS~eeond lii.igctde, Fifth Divis ion, Eighteenth Army Corps.* Five companies of this brigade picketed that portion of our lines running from red house to Trent River, in the vicinity of Deep Gully, at which place, on March 30, a slight skirmish with the enemys pickets occurred, on which occasion Private Fosdick, Company C, One hun- dred and fifty eighth New York Volunteers, was wounded and captured by the enemy. * Prom Return foi month ofApril, 1S63. 14 R RVOL XVII Page 210 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. 210 MARCH 30APRIL 20, 1863.Siege of Washington, N. C., and pursuit of the Confederate forces. SU1VIII1\IA~RY OY TI5EE PRINCIPA~L EVENTS. Mar. 30, 1863.Skirmish at Rodmans Point, Pamlico River. Washington invested by the Confederate forces nader Maj. Gen. Daniel H. Hill. April 1, 1863.Engagement at Rodmans Point.* 2,1863.Engagement at Ilills Point, Pamlico River.* 4 5, 1863.Engagement at Rodmans Point.* 9, 1863.Action at Blonnts Creek. 1321, 1863.Expeditions from New Berne to Swift Creek Village. 15, 1863.Siege raised. 16, 1863.Affairs at Hills and Rodmans Points. 1621, 1863.Expedition from New Berne toward Kinston. 1718, 1863.Skirmishes at Core Creek. 1719, 1863.Expedition from New Berne to Washington. 19, 1863.Skirmish at Big Swift Creek. 20, 1863.Skirmish at Sandy Ridge. REPORTS, ETC. No. 1.Maj. Gen. John G. Foster, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of North Carolina. No. 2.Capt. David A. Taylor, Third New York Light Artillery, Chief Signal Officer. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Edward E. Potter, U. S. Army, commanding at Washington, of operations April 1617. No. 4.Itinerary of the First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer, U. S. Army, commanding, April 7-25. No. 5.Brig. Gen. henry M. Naglee, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division, of Expedition from New Berne to Washington, April 1719. No. 6.Brig. Gen. Charles A. Heckman, U. S. Ar my, commanding First Brigade, of Expedition from New Berne to Washington, April 1719. No. 7.Itinerary of the Fonrth Division, Brig. Gen. Henry W. Wessells, U. S. Army, commanding, March 15April 13. No. 8.Brig. Gen. Henry Prince, U. S. Army, commanding Fifth Division, of opera- tions on the Pamlico, April 46, and Expedition from New Berne toward Kinston, April 1621, with resalting correspondence. No. 9.Col. Silas P. Richmond, Third Massachnsetts Infantry, of operations April 7 10 and April 1621. No. 10.Capt. John M. Willson, Third New York Cavalry, of skirmish at Sandy Ridge, April 20. ~o. 11.Col. J. I~ichter Jones, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry, of skirmish at Sandy Ridge, April 20. No. 12.Brig. Gen. Francis B. Spinola, U. S. Army, commanding Provisional Division and First Brigade, Fifth Division, of operations on the Pamlico, April 14; action at Bloants Creek, April 9, and Expeditions from New Berne to Swift Creek Village, April 1321. No. 13.Itinerary of the Second Brigade, Fifth Division, Col. James Jourdan, One hnndred and fiftieth New York Infantry, commanding, April 7-22. No. 14.Brig. Gen. Robert Ransom, jr., C. S. Army, of skirmish at Sandy Ridge, April 20. * Between Union ganboats and Confederate batteries. For reports of Actb. Rear-Admiral Lee, Commanders Davenport and Renshaw, Lientenant-COmmand8r McCann, Aetin~ Volnnteer Lientenants MacDearmid and Graves, and Acting Masters Saltonstall and Boomer, U. S. Navy, see Annnal Report of the Secretary of the Navy, December 7, 1863. See ~dso ft 1. IJiU to J3eaurerd,, April 20, 186~, in Correspondence, etc., po8t Page 211 CHAr. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 211 No. 1. Reports of iifaj. Cen. John U. Poster, U. 8. Army, commanding the Depart ment of North Carolina. FORT WASHINGTON, Washington, N. 0., April 5, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that hearing of an approach- ilig attack on this place by ID. II. Hills corps darmee, I started from New Berne at 2 oclock on Sunday, March 29, ordering re-enforceinents to follow at once. In consequence of the transport getting aground at the mouth of the river the troops (lid not arrive before the enemy succeeded in investing the place by placing batteries on the river banks and on the roads lead- ~ng from the town. I found here a garrison of only sixteen companies of infantry, one company of artillery, and 25 cavalryl,200 men in all. The enemy opened fire on our advance posts on Monday night and on Wednesday morning at daybreak opened from batteries of rifled guns on the oppo- site side of the river. One gunboat, the Commodore Hull, received ninety-eight shots from a battery of Whitwortli guns. I put np batteries on this side of the river to reply to and draw the fire of three guns from the gnnboat; at the same t:me I sent word to General Palmer to send troops to take the batteries on the river by landing and attacking the batteries, while the gunboats (also to be sent) attacked them in front. Owing to the lack of transportsthe most of our vessels being absent at Hilton Headthe force brought and which arrived under General Prince on Tuesday and Friday, below the Hills Point Battery, was not sufficient to cope wit Ii the enemys force supporting the battery. I there- fore directed him to send a regiment or two through the blockade in boats and then return to New Berne and march across to this place, at- tacking the enemy in the rear and raising the siege. I am, however, anxious lest the disposable force now left in New Berne umay not be suffi- cient to effect this object, and therefore ask, respeetfally but earimestly, that re-enforcements be sent immediately to New Berne in force not less than 5,000 men. It will also aid me very much to have General Dix an(l a force from Suffolk to join two regiments at Plymouth and make a demonstration from that place. This should not, however, interfere with the rapid sendimmg of troops to New Berne, as their want is very urgent. I am onite confident that I can hold out here till the place is relieved. I shall not leave until that time, as I consider my presence absolutely necessary. The firing on both sides has been continued at intervals since Wednesday, but without material injury or effect. I would most respectfully but earnestly renew my application to have the detachment of the Eighteenth Army Corps now at Hilton Head re- turned to this department to replace the troops that now may be sent from General IDixs department to meet the present emergency. I can effect more with those men than with superior numbers of other troops, and their discipline and efficiency are fast being impaired by the inactivity and unfortunate circumstances surrounding them at Port Royal. I am confident that heavy operations will be necessary in this State, and that the most desperate efforts are and will continue to be made to drive us from the towns now occupied. I trust therefore that yo Page 212 212 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. will regard my application for the immediate return of this detachment as tending to meet a necessity of the war. Referring to the pressing necessity for immediate re-enforceineuts to relieve me at this place, I would respectfully suggest that the 5,000 men be sent temporarily from General j~j~~5 command and with the utmost expedition. I understand, from an officer who came through the blockade, that General Palmer has already made the above request in substance of General iDix. I have honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, Major- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Commander- in- Chief U. AS. Army, Washington, D. C. NEW BERNE, N~ C., VIA FORT MONROE, VA., April 23, 18633 p. m. I left New Berne on the morning of the 18th with a force to raise the siege at Washington. Our advance of cavalry, with Brigadier-General Naglee, came npon the enemys rear-guard of cavalry near Washington, and, after driving it several miles, routed it, capturing their battle-flag and taking a surgeon and 5 men prisoners, killing and wounding sev- eral. The cavalry were still following their retreat yesterday. I found that the main body withdrew from before Washington with the artillery on the night of the 15th. General Potter immediately leveled their batteries in front of the town, and after occupying Hills and Rodmans Points made a dash after the retiring force,~capturing 2 officers and a drum-major. Everything is now secure. J. 0-. FOSTER, Major- General. Maj. Geii. H. W. HALLEOK, General-in- Chief. HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA, 18TH ARMY CORPS, New Berne, N. C., April 30, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report in relation to the siege of Washington, N. C.: Learning an attack was to be made upon Washington I left here, with several members of my staff, for that place, arriving there at 7.30 a. m. on March 30. The garrison of the place was eight companies of the Forty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia,~ eight companies of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers,~ two companies of the First North Carolina (Union) Volunteers, one company of the Third New York Cavalry, and one company of the Third New York Artillery. After making an examination of the works and giving necessary orders as to strengthening them I at once sent out a reconnaissan~e of one company of the Forty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, one piece of artillery, and a few cavalrymen to ascertain if the enemy held the cross-roads 3 miles from Washington. When about 1~ miles fro Page 213 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 213 the town the party was fired upon by the enemy in some force. They returned and reported. I also sent one company of the First North CarOlina (Union) Volun- teers, Captain Lyon, and one 12-pounder Wiard to occupy Ilodmans Point, on the sonth side of Pamlico IRiver and 1~ miles below the town. This company landed at the Point, and, having thrown out pickets, erected an earthwork in which they placed the field piece. That night their pickets were driven in and the company driven to their boats. At daylight the next a. m. the enemy advanced to the beach and forced the boats off, wounding Captain Lyon and 9 men. At sundown our ])ickets on the Jamesville road were driven in by the enemy~s cavalry. Tuesday, March 31, a cutter of the United States gunboat Commo- dore Hull was sent down the river after a scow upon which were some men of the First North Carolina who had been driven from Itodmans Point the previous night. When opposite Hills Point it was opened upop by a battery of four rifled guns. It was also fired upon by a bat- tery at Swans Point. At 12 oclock midnight a schooner, in charge of Mr. Gilbert, was dispatched to New Berne with orders for re-enforce- ments. The enemy sent in a flag of truce to open communication with the commanding officer. I refused to receive any flag of truce. April 1.At daylight this morning the gunboat Commodore Hull was opened upon by a battery at IRodmans Point (opposite which she was lying in order to prevent the erection of a battery) and from one a little above which had been thrown up during the night. The Hull got aground opposite the battery, but maintained a gallant fight during the day, though with no result. At night she floated off and returned to town. April 2.The gunboats below the barricade were seen engaging the Hills Point Battery. The movements of the enemy indicating the erec- tion of his siege batteries, I caused traverses to be erected along the line of our intrenchments, merlons to be placed on the fort, the door of the niagazine to be casemated, the ditches to be enlarged and flooded by means of dams, and the whole garrison generally was steadily kept at work strengthening the defenses; 10,000 rations were jut in the fort, with the intention of holding it to the last extremity even were other portions of the line forced by the enemys column. A redoubt was built on the right flank of our works, near Block-house No.4, bearing on Rod- man s Point, upon which were mounted three guns. Another redoubt was erected, covering the marsh on the right of the fortifications. At night a schooner loaded with ammunition and commissary stores ran the batteries, as small boats had previously done. April 3.At daylight the enemy opened fire upon the gunboats from a battery abreast the town and near the New Berne road, which they had erected during the night. This battery was silenced by the gunboats. A redoubt was erected at the end of the bridge crossing the Tar River and in the town, for the purpose of sweeping the bridge and also the streets of the town in case the enemy should succeed in forcing an en- trance, and in it was placed one 6-pounder gun. The work was erected and to be manned by Captain Jocknick with his company of cavalry, dismounted. I ordered a party of this company of cavalry, under Lieu- tenant OBrien, to cross the river in boats and endeavor to capture the gun on the marsh opposite the steamer Louisiana,. which had been si- lenced by the gunboats. It was found impracticable to reach its pOsi- tion, owing to the intervening swamps. April 4.This morning the gunboat Ceres, Lieutenant MacDearmid Page 214 214 NORTH CAROLINA ANI~ S. E. VIRGINIA. [CIIAP. XXX. ran the blockade with a good supply of ammunition. At nooii General Potter embarked on the gunboat Ceres, with two companies of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts and one company of the Third New York Cavalry (dismounted) for the purpose of driving the enemy from Rod- mans Point and occupying the position oursGlves. The Ceres got aground nearly opposite the battery; and it being impo~ible to accom- plish the desired object the men were landed in small boats on the Wash- ington side of the river, below Block-house No. 4, and thence returned to the town. April 5.The Ceres, after being exposed to the fire of the battery for twelve hours, to which she gallantly replied until her ammunition was exhausted, floated off at night and came up to the town. April fLAn abatis was placed in front of our battery on the Ply- mouth road and on the borders of the creek bounding our right flank. April 7.A battery of two gnus opened from the woods beyond the creek upon Fort Hamilton. A battery (Fort Ceres) was built on the left of Block-house No. 1 and one 30-pounder Parrott mounted upon it and manned by officers and men from the Ceres for the purpo~e of com- inanding the approach to the town by way of the river from above, it having been heard that the enemy intended coming down in scows protected by cotton bales. April 8.---The enemy fired all day at the gunboats and Fort Hainil- ton, to which the fort did not reply for want of ammunition. One gun was placed in battery on the south side of the river opposite the gun- boats, but was silenced by them. At dark I commenced works on Castle Island situated in the middle of the river opposite the town. April 9.This morning I discovered the enemy had built four bat- teries, Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4, in front and to the right of the fort, and were mounting guns. We opened fire on theni to disturb the working par- ties. I was obliged to abandon the attempt to continue the work on Castle Island by daylight, owing to the fire of the enemys batteries across the river. Two small schooners, with Lieutenant-Colonel Mc- Chesney, First North Carolina (Union) Volunteers, and Master Mc- Keever on board, arrived from below, bringing ammunition. April 10.At 8.30 a. in. the enemy opened fire upon the fort from Batteries Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4, one gun in each. The fire was returned by three 32-pounders from the fort and by a 32-pounder in the battery on the Jamesville road. After firing for somewhat over an hour the enemy withdrew their guns from sight and ceased firing. April 11.The enemy opened fire upon the fort and the lines at 7.30 a. m. from all their batteries. The fort and the gun on the Jamesville road replied. April 12.At 9 a. m. the enemy opened fire from Batteries Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and from a new one (No. 5) at the right of their former batteries. We replied, and the enemy withdrew their guns from sight after an hours firing. The gunboats Hull and Eagle, discovering the enemy repairing the battery opposite them with cotton bales, opened upon it, set the cotton on fire, and drove the gunners from their posts. April 13.The enemy endeavored to replace a gun in the work on the cotton battery, but were forced by the gunboats to abandon the undertaking. Learning the enemy had small armed boats and scows in the rive1~ for the~ purpose of capturing our dispatch boats and in- terrupting communication between the town and the gunboats below, Captain MacDearmid, of the Ceres, and Captain Gouraud, aide-de-camp, started upon a schooner with a boat howitzer to clear the river. Th Page 215 CHAr. XXX.j SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 215 schooner was fired into by the enemys boats; she replied, and drove the boats ashore. The batteries at Bodmans and Hills Points opened upon her also, striking her, but without damage. That night the steam-transport Escort, with hay bales placed on her guards and decks as a protection, ran the batteries. There also arrived two small schooners with ammunition and commissary stores. The Escort had on board the Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers, Col. H. T. Sisson, and a plentiful supply of ammunition and commissary stores. She had 60 shots fired at her from the batteries but was not struck. April 14.The Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers were properly placed on the line of works. At 12 m. the enemy opened fire with all 1~h~ir batteries and were replied to by all of ours. After an hours firing they withdrew their guns from sight. Regarding everything as safe in the town, and the re-enforcements and men, with the supplies of am- munition and provisions, as ample until I could raise the siege, I deter- mined to run the blockade and place myself at the head of the reliev- lug force in order to insure more efficiency in its conduct. I therefore embarlied on board the Escort for the purpose of running the batteries at night, but the pilot could not distinguish the necessary marks to pro- ceed by and therefore waited for daylight. I left Brig. Gen. E. E. Pot- ter, chief of staff, in command of the place in my absence. April 15.At daylight the Escort started and ran the batteries. She was fired at one hundred times by the Rodmans and Hills Point bat- teries and struck forty times, but with no material injury. The pilot, Padrick, a brave and skillful man, was killed by a rifle-shot. At 6a.m. all the enemys batteries (Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, arid 6, the last opening for the first time) opened and continued a heavy firing for an hour. April 16.At daylight 5 deserters from the enemy (conscripts of the Eighth Virginia) arrived in Washington and reported that the enemy had retired from our front and were retreating on Greenville. General Potter immediately sent out the entire force of cavalry (one company) to harass their rear and at the same time a force of contrabands was employed to level the enemys batteries in front. Fort Hamilton fired a number of shots into the Rodmans Point Battery. There being no reply it was surmised that the battery had beeii abandoned. The gun- boats Eagle, Ceres, and Hull thereupon steamed down and opened upon the battery, which eliciting no response, the Ce res, without orders, sent a boat on shore to take possession. As the boat neared the land three volleys of musketry were fired into her, by the enemy concealed in the intrenchments. The engineer of the Ceres was killed and 2 men were wounded. The gunboats then renewed the attack, rapidly shelling the battery. The gunboats below were now seen shelling the Hills Point Battery, which they soon passed, and reported it to be evacuated. At this time the enemy having also retired from the Rodmans Point Battery, it was taken possession of by a party from the gunboat Eagle. Five companies of the Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers, under Lieuten- ant-Colonel Tew, with omme 12-pounder and one 6-pounder, were sent down in the Ceres to occupy the battery. They immediately com- menced the construction of intrenchments to hold the position. There was found in one of the batteries at Rodmuans Point the carriage of a 32-pounder barbette gun in perfect order; also fragments of several exploded gum~s. Toward evening three companies of the Forty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, with one 12-pounder Wiard and one 6-pounder, were sent to occupy the Hills Point Battery in connection with three companies of the Forty.third Massachmsetts Volunteer Mlii Page 216 216 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. tia from below. They intrenched themselves there. The pickets of the enemy occasionally appeared through the night, but in the morning they had entirely disappeared from the vicinity. In the mean time I returned to New Berne and proceeded to organize operations so as to effectually raise the siege. To distract the enemy II dfrected General Prince to march up the railroad as far as he could toward Kinston and make a vigorous attack, continuing it for several days. At the same time I crossed the Keuse with all my available force and marched directly toward Bloiints Creek, the point where General Spinola was repulsed in the first attempt to relieve the siege, sending at the same time General Spinola, with his brigade, to make an attack on the enemy at Swift Creek, which is on the direct road be- tween New Berne and Washington. The movement toward Kinston with this latter movement, together with the enemys information of the accession of strength of lleckmans brigade and the fact that after fourteen days of close siege of Washington General Hill had failed to obtain a single advantage or to advance one step nearer his object, in all probability caused him to retreat. On arriving at Blounts Creek I found it abandoned. GenerafNaglee, with detachments of two companies of cavalry, pushed on in advance toward Washington. He succeeded in capturing 5 of the enemys rear guard by a brilljant dash on them made by himself, Captain Johnston, assistant adjutant-general; Captain Cochen, and Captain Gouraud, aide.de-ca~mp. The next morning, April 19, he pushed on, with the cavalry, and fought the enemys rear guard, driving them from breastwork to breast- work and finally forcing them to retire, taking some prisoners, killing and wounding some, and capturing the battle-flag of the Seventh Con- federate Cavalry (Georgia). The column pushed on, arriving at Washington Sunday evening, April 19. After making necessary dispositions at Washington I re- turned to New Berne to make general dispositions for the defense of the department, which I will report. General Hill has returned up the country with his forces and all our posts are now relieved from pressure. I take advantage of this opportunity to say that the garrison of Wash- ingtonthe Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers, Forty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, two companies of the North Caro- lina (Union) Volunteers, one company of the Third New York Cavalry, and one company of the Third New York Artillerybehaved nobly; and regarding the intrenchments which by their cheerful and zealous labor I had been enabled to throw up, together with the courage shown in all cases, I believe they could have successfully resisted an assault of all the forces under General Hill at the Point. I must also acknowl- edge the timely assistance of the Fifth llhode Island Volunteers, brought up on the Escort by Golonel Sisson. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. G. FOSTER, ]iiliajor- (Jeneral, (Jommanding. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLmJK, General-in-GhiV, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C Page 217 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N.- C. 217 Return of Casualties in the Union forces during the siege of Washington, N. 0., March 30 April 16, 1~563. - [Compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, etc.] Killed. Wounded. Command. H S ~ H H ~ H H 4 -~ 0 ~ 0 P~ 27th Massachusetts Infantry 10 10 43d Massachusetts Jufantry 2 2 44th Massachusetts Infantry 1 4 1st North Carolina Infantry, Company B 1 1 6 8 3d New York Light Artillery, Battery 0 1 1 Total 1 2 22 21 No. 2. Report of Capt. David A. Taylor, Third N~w York Light Artillery, Chief & gnal Officer. HEADQUARTERS SIGNAL DETACHMENT, New Berne, N. C., April 21, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to forward you a report of the late operations of this detachment connected with the siege of Washington, N. C.: On the 9th instant, at my solicitation, Lientenant-Colonel Hoffman, assistant adjutant-general of this department, ordered me to open com- munication between Washington and the gunboats in the Pamlico River below Washington. On the morning of the 10th instant, in company with Lieut. J. B. Knox, acting signal officer, I started from New Berne, and that evening met the gunboats 12 miles below Washington. I di- rected Lieutenant Knox and men to - report to Captain McCann, corn- manding gUnboat fleet in Pamlico River, and always to be on the boat at the blockade near Hills Point. That night, in company with Lieutenant-Colonel MeChesney, First North Carolina Infantry, and Lieutenant Josselyn, of the Navy, and ac- companied by my flagmen, Jacob A. Reed, Company I, Third New York Artillery, and Horace P. Baker, Company E, Third New York Artillery, I went np to Washington in a row-boat and reported to Maj. Gen. J. (L Foster. In making arrangements for the opening of communication, Cajtaiu McCann agreed to always have a l)Oat on the river within siolit of WashingtoD, and Lieutenant Knox had to entirely depend. npou the boats to place him in a position from which he could communicate with me. Notwithstanding his agreement, Captain McCann did not have a boat at the point designated until the second day, and theii only Thr a couple of hours, during which time Lieutenant Knox was unable to find my flag, and it was not until the third day that he saw it; after which communicatiow was kept up at all times when Ie\g~u~boats were at the proper stations. Whenever my flag was raised at Washington a cross-fire from the southwest and the north was opened upon it by the enemy. On the 16th, while signaling to Lieutenant Knox from No. 4 block Page 218 218 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. house at Washington, Private Reed, standing on the parapet of the battery, flagged three messages of some length under a very severe fire of shell au(l shrapnel from the enemy~s batteries at Rodmans Point and Blounts house. Many of the shell and shrapnel burst very close, drol)- pinge pieces immediately around him, but Reed never once left his posi- tion until I had done signaling. Reed has several times before this 1)ehaved in an equally admirable manner, and I take pleasure in again recommending him to your favorable notice, and hope be may receive a suitable prQmotion. He is sober,intelligent, (liscreet, and brave, arid has been kept in the ranks solely for the reason that he has been de- tached from his company and serving in a separate command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID A. TAYLOR, Captain and Acting Wgnal Officer. Maj. Gen. J. 0-. FOSTER, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 3. Reports of Brig. Gen. Eduard B. Potter, U. S. Ar my, commanding at Washington, of operations April 1617. WASHINGTON, IN. C., April 16, 1863. GENERAL: The enemy evacuated the batteries in our front last night and retreated toward Greenville by the Jamesville road. Five (leserters came in this morning at 5 oclock, who brought the information. They stated the force under General Garnett on this side of the river to be about 4,000 men and that they received orders last night to withdraw in order to re-enforce the army in Virginia. I sent Captain Jocknick out on a reconnaissance to learn the where- abouts of the enemy. He followed them 4 or 5 miles, but they had crossed Tranters Creek at Gainers Bridge. Suspecting that there was a general movement I requested Captain Renshaw this morning to send a gunboat to Rodmans to discover whether any of the guns had been left there. The Ceres and the Eagle went down and shelled the Point but received no reply. A sergeant of the Forty-third Massachusetts volunteered to go down and ascertain the condition of affairs. He went with 10 or 15 men of that regiment on a schooner. When they had reached the Point a sniall boat put off from her to land as did also one from the Ceres. This was contrary to my wish and instructions. When they had got quite close to the shore the rebels opened a sharp fire of musketry, killing the third engineer of the Ceres and wounding 2 men of the Forty- third. The boats were all got oIL Being convinced that the force at the Point was very small I determined to semid five companies of Fifth Rhode Island to occupy it this afternoon. In the mean time the gunboats had come up from below and threw a large quantity of 9-inch shells into Rodmans. I sent the five companies on the Ceres and in a fiat protected by hay bales. On the fiat was a 6- pounder. Master MeKeever went down on a schooner armed with a boat howitzer. He was the first to land. The whole force landed without opposition. Hills Point is also evacuated. I shall send three com- panies to occupy it along with the two companies of the Forty-third Massachusetts now below. I have had all the batteries on the ridge in our front leveled to-day Page 219 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. 0. 219 I have just received intelligence that the rebel cavalry have appeared on the Jamesville road. Please send me word what other disposition you wish made of the force nuder my command, and what will be your plans under the altered cir- cumstances. Very respectfully, EDWARD E. POTTER, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps. OFF HILLS POINT, April 18, 18632 p. m. GENERAL: We occupied Rodmans Point last evening with five com- panies of the Fifth Rhode Island, a 6-pounder smooth-bore, and a navy howitzer. There was some skirmishing between the rebel pickets and our own; one of them (the rebels) was killed and 3 prisoners takena captain, drum-major, and a private. Later I sent three companies of the Forty-fourth with a field piece to Hills Point. Here they were to be joined by the detachment of the Forty-third lying in the river. I have visited both places to-day. They have commenced throwing up works at both places and will soon be in an excellent condition for defense. A gunboat lies off each Point. At Rodmans the rebels left behind them a 32-pounder carriage. Their cavalry came down on the Jamesville road yesterday evening only with a view of picking up stragglers, as I was told by 5 deserters who came in this morning. The enemy are in full re- treat, and their show of resistance yesterday was to enable them to get off their guns which were probably troublesome in the muddy roads. Our pickets have been out to-day nearly to the cross-roads, as I am told by the lieutenant-colonel of the Fifth Rhode Island, and have seen nothing of them. If we had had sufficient force to pursue them I think some of their guns might have been taken. I shall continue the work on the castle, and also those laid out between Block-houses Nos. 3 and 4. A large supply of ammunition caine up this morning. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD E. POTTER, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Major-General FOSTER Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps. A dispatch from General Nagle~ addressed to you arrived yesterday, which I opened. No. 4. Itinerary of the First Division, Eighteenth Army C~orps, Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer, U. S. Arm~,, commanding, April 7~25.* April 7.The Forty-third and Seventeenth Massachusetts Regiments, of the First Brigade, and Fifth Massachusetts, 4 the Second Brigade, together with other troops of the Eighteenth Army Corps, crossed the Nense River, and nuder General Spinola marched to the relief of the besieged garrison at Washington, N. C. * From Division R~t urn for April, 1863 Page 220 220 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. April 9.Arrived at Blounts Creek, found the enemy strongly in- trenched; engaged them, but finally withdrew, and returned to New Berue. Immediately after the return of the column the Forty-third Massachusetts, of the First Brigade, went on board of transports and proceeded toward Washington, N. C. After lying off the rebel bat- teries in the Pamlico Itiver for seven days returlle(l to New Berne. April 17.The Seventeenth Massachusetts Volunteers, of the First Brioade and the Fifth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia and two coin- p~mes of the Forty-sixth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia, of the Second Brigade, forming a part of the force under the immediate command of Genemd Foster, crossed the Neuse Itiver and marched on Washington, N C aniving there on the 20th instant, without meeting the enemy; d~stmuce oS miles. Ap~ mi ~.Returned to New Berne by transports. Ap~ml ~3.The Forty-fifth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia (First Bri- gad~) leheved from duty as provost guard of the city of New Berne, complimented by Major-General Foster for the efficient and soldierly manner in which the duty had been performed. No. 5. Report of Brig. Gem. Henry ilL. Naglee, U. S. Army, commanding Second Dirision, of Expedition from New Berne to Washington, April 1719. HEADQUARTERS NAGLEES DIVISION, New I3erne, N. C., April 21, 1863. COLONEL: I would respectfully report that the advance, consisting of Heckman~s brigade, a detachment of the Third New York Cavalry, and one light lrowitzer, crossed Blounts Creek on the afternoon of the 18th of April, after a march of 22 miles. Here I learned that the forces of the enemy under General Hill had retired in the direction of Greenville; that a rear guard still held the crossing of this road with that leading from New Berne direct to Wash- ington, and that the road was picketed and held by the Second Geor- gia Cavalry. We proceeded without opposition until we were about crossing the Chocowinity Creek, where, by a bold cavalry dash, we cap- tured 5 of the enemy, and it being night withdrew to the right bank and held the bridges at the mills, that at time main road having been (lestroyed. Our pickets at both bridges were fired upon repeatedly during the night; returning the fir~, killed several of the enemy at the main-road crossing. On the morning of the 19th we were under arms by 4 a. in., and at 6 found th~p enemy occupying the field works commanding the bridges and mill-dam. A force was sent across the dam while a mounted one was pushed across the bridges, and both attacked in a spirited manner and drove the enemy from the breastworks. Again they formed and occupied another line of works about 1 mile from the last, and again were dispossessed of them. At the long line 6fW~ks crossing the New Berne and Washington roads, 3 miles from the latter place, they again showed a determination to resist our progress. We approached cautiously and determinately, and without hesilation attacked them. The horse of an officer was shot and threw his rider, and a charge was ordered, which resulted in th Page 221 CHAP. XXX.~ SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 221 capture of the captain of the Second Georgia Cavalry and the speedy retreat of his men and soon after of all the force. It now became a spirited race nntil near the crossing, where the enemy turned into the road toward Greenville, and where the howitzer was ordered into bat- tery and opened with such effect that all organization was abandoned and the Second Georgia Cavalry thr~w dowii its colors and scattered in confusion. General Foster having ordered that I should not pursue beyond this point I ordered the cavalry to bivouac; that lleckmans brigade should do the same as soon as he should come up. and that all should await further orders. I am happy to notice the services and gallant conduct of my assist- ant adjutant-general, Capt. George II. Johnston, and that of Capts. George E. Gouraud and Cochen, who assisted in a charge which cap- tured more of the enemy than the number of those that engaged them on our side. The efficient conduct of Lieutenant Beecher, of the Third New York Cavalry, attracted my attention. We killed several of the enemy and made a number of prisoners. Very respectfully, & c., HENHY M. NAGLEE, Brigadier- General. Licut. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 6. Report of Brig. Gen. Charles A. Ifeckman, U. ,ST. Army, commanding First Brigade, of Expedition from New Berne to Washington, April 1719. HEADQUARTERS IIECKMANs BRIGADE, New Berne, N. C., April 21, 1863. SIn: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by two regiments of my brigade during the recent expedition to Wash- ington, N. C.: Friday (17th instant) having received orders to cross the Neuse River with my command and take the advance, I proceeded on the road toward Washington as far as Penifys plantation, distance from New Berne 7 miles, the road for a great part of the way being of the most horrid character. The column not having closed up, I placed Edgers battery, com- manded by Lieutenant Simpson, in l)OsitiOn, and my two regiments of infantry and a squadron of cavalry, commanded by Lieutenant Beecher, in line to support them. I then ordered the troops to bivouac for the night. At daylight on the morning of the 18th formed line and commenced the march without interruption until we arrived at Swift Creek road at 10 a. m. Learning that the road to Swift Creek was blockaded for a number of miles I continued on the direct road to Blounts Creek Mill. At 12 in., the main column being some distance in the rear, I halted to rest and allow the column to close up. After a halt of about two hours I was joined by General Naglee and staff, wb~eu we immediately pushed forward and reached Blounts Creek about 3.30 p. in. Found the bridge over the creek destroyed, but with very little labor the pioneers con- structed a passage through the mill. Received orders from Genera Page 222 222 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Naglee to halt the column when it arrived, bivouac, and move forward early in the morning, the general proceeding~in the direction of Wash- ington, accompanied by his staff. As soon as the cavalry arrived and had fed their horses I ordered them to follow, which they did, coming np with the general about 8 miles from our encampment. At 5.30 a. in., cplumn again in motion, received orders that upon ar- riving at the road leading to Hills Point to take one regiment of in- fantry and ascertaiu if the fort was occupied, and, if so, by whom. Ac- companied by my staff and followed by the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers I rode into the fort and found it occupied by detachments of the Forty- third aiid Forty-fourth Regiments Massachusetts Volunteers. At 12 in. received orders to continue the march toward Washington, leaving the Ninth New Jersey and Twenty-third Massachusetts at Hills Point. Placed the Seventeenth Massachusetts in advance, and arrived at Washington at 3p. m. The Ninth New Jersey Volunteers arrived by boat from Hills Point at 5 p. in. Left on steamer Escort for New Berne, N. C., on the 20th and reached here at 6 a. in. 21st. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Brigade. Licut. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 7. Itinerary ~f the Fourth Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Henry W. Wessells, U. S. Army, commanding, March 15April 13.* March 15.The Forty-fourth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Mili- tia received marching orders and proceeded to Washington, N. C., by transport, where they remained until April 22, when they returned to New Berne. March 30.Companies A and C- went on a scout, and, falling into an ambuscade, returned to Washington, with a loss of 3 men wounded and prisoners and Captain Richardson wounded. The rebels the next day blockaded the Pamlico River and laid siege to the town, keeping up a continuous firing until the 16th, when they withdrew their forces and abandoned the siege. April 13.Colonel Sisson, with the Fifth Rhode Island Regiment, succeeded in running the enemys batteries, re-enforcing the garrison at Washington without loss. No. 8. Reports of Brig. Gen. Henry Prince, U. S. Army, commanding Fifth Divis- ion, of operations on the Pamlico, April 46, and Expedition from New Berne toward Kinston, April 1621, with re8ulting correspondence. HDQRS. FIFTH iDJYISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, New Berne, N~ C., April 13, 1863. COLONEL: My last formal dispatch was dated April 3, at which time I was present at department headquarters here. I left next morning * From Division Return for April, 1863 Page 223 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 223 (4th inst.) for the Pamlico River and arrived at Blounts Bay at 8 p. m. In addition to the gunboats which I left therethe Lockwood, Allison, and sloop GraniteI found the Southfield, Whitehead, and Seymour. The Ceres, which arrived on Thursday evening, had during that night buoyed out the passage through the barricade, and, while engaging the battery about 3 oclock the same night, passed through. The enemy probably withheld their fire supposing that the Ceres would be impaled, and mu~t have been surprised to see her steam off up the river. On the following night they removed the buoys placed by Captain MacDearmid. The evening of the 4th Dr. Rice left in a row-boat with dispatches for Gcneral Foster. By him I inforned the genera] of my views of the state of things at the barricade, and the impossibility of taking the battery by landing. On the morning of the 5th I had Colonel Dyers regiment (One hun- (lred ~nd seventy-fifth Pennsylvania) on board the schooner Annie L. Edwards (with part of Ransoms battery), to be towed to Washington by the gunboat Lockwood, Captain Graves, who volunteered for the purpose. They were under way, approaching the barricade in gallant style, when Dr. Rices boat and another belonging to the Southfield arrived from Washington, and the officers of the Navy on board of them said that there was not water enough above for the Lockwood, so I stopped theni and turned them back. The Northerner arrived with the following troops on board: The One hundred and first Pennsylvania, Colonel Morris, 350 strong; the Fifth Massachusetts, Colonel Peirson, 500 strong; making the whole number here, artillery and infantry, 2,500 men. In the afternoon the Hunch- back, Captain McCann, arrived, having been detained by boisterous weather. The Hunchback, Southfiel d, and Whitehea;d made a coin- bined attack on the battery at 6 p. m. The battery replied with bu( three shots, which passed near the Hunchback. As soon as dark came on (in order that the enemy might not observe) I began preparing the Emilie steamer, by disposing bales and boxes of clothing and three bales of cotton to protect the boiler, for the reception of a regiment, intending to place her in charge of Captain Wells, of the Seymour, who said he would make the effort to run her up to Washing- ton. Later, toward 10 p. in., a dispatch arrived from General Foster. The dispatch in the morning directed as follows: If you find it to be too risky to land and take the batteries, content yourself with sending me through two regiments, witir a plentiful supply of ammunition for the guns (32-pounders, 6-pounder Wiards, 6-ponnder smooth-bores, and 3-inch guns); then, leaviug the gunboats to take care of Hills Point battery, return at once to New Berne and, taking every man that can possibly be spared (five regiments are enough for tbe safety of New Berne), march across the country from Fort Anderson to Wash- ington. I am quite sure that you will only meet ten regiments on the way, and them you can overcome. The road from Fort Anderson to Swifts Creek is bad but the rest is good. You can also go by the way of Streets Ferry, but it involves the bridging of Batchelders Creek and the crossing of the Neuse River and Swifts Creek. It is better to corduroy 5 miles of the road from Fort Anderson. And the dispatch of this evening says: If you cannot send the two regiments through without delaying the main demon- stration and attack from New Berne send only one, or leave it to be sent, and push the other matter. It is my belief that the battery at Hills Point will be abandoned when our force approaches the cross-roads 31 miles from here on the road to New Berue. The project of sending a steamer crowded with men was proposed for discussion between the higher navy officers and some of my staff, and as my ideas of its impropriety were not shaken I countermanded the ~rders given to tue Emilie and ordered the One hundred and fift~ Page 224 224 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. eighth Pennsylvania, Lieutenant-Colonel Troxel, to embark at once in the schooners Annie L. Edwards and Flambean, these vessels to be towed to Washington by the Allison and Ph~ienix, commanded, re- spectively, or guided, by MeKeever and Dc Camarra, of the Louisiana and Hunchback, both of whom volunteered for the pnrpose. The following is a copy of the orders to the troops: SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS, No.1: Blounts Bay, April 5, 186312 p. In. The One hundred and fifty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers will embark to-night in the two transports, in which it is to run the batteries of the enemy, to join the commander of the Eighteenth Army Corps in ths defense of Fort Washing- ton. The steamers Allison and Phomix will tow the transports through. By order of Brig. Gen. Henry Prince: ALBERT ORDWAY, First Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. The plan was as follows: When the vessels were ready they were to run up to the Hunchback and there receive the orders to start from Captain McCann, who was to have the passage through the barricade marked and was to engage the battery with all the gunboats. Myself and staff were up all night attending to this, and at 4 oclock, having called General Spinola for the purpose, we stood on the upper deck of the Escort to see them pass. At this hour they had reached the Hunchback, near the barricade, and were stopped by Captain McCann, because, as he afterward reported to me, he thought it would be daylight when they would be passing the upper (Rodmans Point) battery. At 6 oclock on the morning of the 6th I left for New Berne, having given orders to each transport that was to accompany me and each one that was to remain. At evening I arrived at New Berne. On the 7th I appointed Major Frankle chief of staff for an expedition which I expected to conduct, and I passed the day with my staff exam- ining persons who knew the country between the Neuse and Washing- ton and endeavoring to form a plan of operations conformable thereto and to General Fosters wishes. During the day I was quite ill and constantly retching, to the iuter- ruption of the investigation. This was increased about 9 p. m. on learning that the Allison and Phe~nix had arrived here and brought the schooners with the regiment I hoped had reached General Foster. I received from department headquarters a list ~f the troops that would be over the Neuse in the course of the night and available for a march, and I organized them into brigades and constructed an order of march. Early on the 8th I awoke with a blinding headache and sickness, and sent an officer of my staff with the organization and order of march at once to General Palmer, with the message that I was too ill to attend to any duty. Indisposition has prevented my making this report before. I have the honor to be colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY PRINCE, Brigadier-General of Volunteers. Lieut. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, A.A. G., Hdqrs. Eighteenth A. C., New Berne, N. C. N. B.I have inadvertently omitted to say that in the night of the 5th instant I sent through the barricade in an open boat all the 6-pounder and 3-inch guns ammunition which arrived in the Northerner Page 225 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHING2~N, N. C. 225 APRIL 16, 18637.30 p. in. I am 4 miles from Core Ci~eek, having stopped at dark, working till that time bringing along rails and laying them down. I shall drive in the pickets on this road to-night with a company, reconnoitering to the bridge. Colonel Jones, with his own and the Eighth Massachusetts, will go to the crossings on the Dover road and beat up the enemys quarters on the other side of the creek, if possible, in course of the night. In the morning early I shall go ahead. It is thought the enemys l)ickets are watching ns. Yours, HENRY PRINCE, Licut. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant. General. HDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS New Berne, N. 0., April 2f~, 18~33. COLONEL: Pursuant to instructions, dated Headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps, New Berne; April 16, 1863, I advanced on that day in the direction of Kinston with Col. J. Jourdans command, consisting of five companies of the One hundred and fifty-eighth Regiment New York Volunteers, nine companies of the One hundred and thirty-second Reg- iment New York Volunteers, nine companies of the Third Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, and four companies of the Eighth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, with four pieces of Riggs battery, and with Col. J. Richter Jones command, consisting of the Fifty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers and 21 enlisted men of Company II, Third New York Cavalry. In the evening I re-enforced Colonel Jones with a battalion of the Eighth Massachusetts Volunteers and directed him to follow the Dover road and take possession of its crossing of Core Creek. The main col- umn followed the railroad, which required some repairing as we went along, and encamped about 4 miles from Core Creek. Camping places being very sparse, the route does not admit of much choice in this re- spect. I sent forward immediately Captain OConnor, of Company G, One hundred and fifty-eighth Regiment New York Volunteers, with his company, to reconnoiter to the railroad crossing of Core Creek. He found a picket there of about 25 men; exchanged a volley with them and drove them to the other side. Colonel Jones marched his command in the night to Core Creek and endeavored to cross at a blind ford, hut failed on account of the depth of water~from recent rains. He then bivouacked near Dover Crossing. The next morning Colonel Jourdan advanced over Core Creek, at the railroad crossing, with all the force not already stated to be with Colonel Jones, excepting the Third Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers and the battery held in reserve and some companies or?picket. He extended to the right, after crossing, to theDover road. Colonel Jones; flndii~ g Nethercntts men opposed to his crossing, forced thu passage, and in a smart skirmish, ~in which he followed them 3 miles, drove them beyond reach. In this skfrniish we lost 1 man killed and 4 wounded, all of the Fifty- eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers1 Three of tke enemy left 15 R HVOL XVII Page 226 226 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. on the ground were buried by the victors. A large party worked all this day upon the railroad bridge and laying down sleepers and iails beyond to a considerable distance. In the course of the day I received the further instructions to assume an ofl~nsive and strongly defensive position on the line of Core Creek and hold the same until further orders. At night the troops were withdrawn to the right bank, on the railroad and on the Dover road, with pickets out on the left bank. Ou the 18th Colonel Jourdan with the same forces crossed the rail- road bridge and advanced somethinb over a mile to the Core Creek Switch, whence a road leads to the 1)over road, intersecting it at three- quarters of a mile from the Dover Crossing and about 1~ miles from the switch. He extended his command to the Dover road and held the point of junction with it in force. At the same time Colonel Jones passed down Core Creek on the west side to take in rear any party at the Neuse road crossing of Core Creek. This operatiou occupied the whole day, the troops not getting back into their camps till some time after dark. Four rebel cavalry oniy were found at the Neuse Cross- ing, who were captured, with their arms an(l horses. The party then crossed the creek, having to construct means of crossing for their ambulance, and returned, by the road on the east side, to the l)9ver Crossing. The next day, Sunday, the troops were not disturbed in their bivouac. On Monday morning, having fully concerted the operation with Colonel Jones and Colonel Jourdan, I directed these zealous and ener- getic officers to advance, maintaining a constant communication with each other until the long sand ridge should be fully explored. The troops of the two camps moved at the same time. The left wing ex- tended to the Dover roa(l an(i scoured to the right and left of the rail- roa(l through most difficult ground; the right advanced by the open country bordering the Dover road and dashed first into the Sandy Ridge region, when they were opposed by skirmishers. The noise of this con- flict was the first counnunication the left was able to obtain with the right, although nearly abreast with it. The enemys picl~ets on the railroad retire(i along the track, firing, timus giving distant notice of our progress there. Arriving at the Biddle road, an avenue 1 mile long fromn the long sand ridge to the railroad, while the skirmish was going on, Colonel Jourdan moved rapidly to the ri~ht 111)011 it, with a bat- talion, and in support. rfhe affair concluded on the Dover road about a mile in advance of the avenue. At that place the Sandy Ridge do- dines into a swamp, and the last end of it was roughly intrenched. The rapid movement and severe fire of the excellent skirmishers of the Fiftv-ei~hth Pennsylvania and gallant charge of 17 cavalry of company TI, Third New York Cavalry, under Sergeant l)ow, leaping the intrench- meats, drove the main body of the rebels into the swamp, and detained a comnmnissioned officer and 27 enlisted men of the Forty-ninth North Carolina Regiment in our hands as prisoners. Our loss in this skirmish was 7 enlisted men of the Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers and 1 of Company II, Third Regiment New York Cavalry, wounded. Three horses of the same cavalry party were killed. On Tuesday, pursuant to orders from headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps, my column returned to the New Berne lines and resumed their former positions. I have to acknowledge myself under obligations to Colonel Jones, of the Fifty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Colone Page 227 CHAP. XXX.J SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 227 Jourdan, commanding the Second Brigade of my division, for their untiring energy and intelligence; also to Major Fitz Simmons and Lieu- tenant Greig, Third Regirneut New York Cavalry, who joined my staff for the expedition, the former as chief of staff and the latter as aidede- cam p. No opportunity offered for the nse of artillery; but in it, and, I may add, throngliout the entire command, the very best kind of spirit was made evident to me. Inclosed please find a report of Colonel Jones. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY PRINCE, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. Lient. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Eighteenth Army Corps, New Berne, N. C. HDQRs. FIRST DIVISION, EIGHTIFWNTH ARMY CORPS New Berne, N. C., April 24, 1803. Maj. Gen. J. G. FOSTER Comdg. 18th Army Gorps, Dept. of N. C., New Berne, N. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of yesterday, in which you inquire whether, during your recent absence at Washington, N. C., the question as to your power to give commands from that place was raised by any one, and, if so, by whom and nnder what circnmstances. It is natural for one to infer from this interrogatory that you have heard that the question was raised, and I think it but justice to my- self and others to state that in no official manner was this done. But as you inquire if this matter was spoken of in such consultations an(l conversations between commanding officers as would naturally under such circumstances take place and influence actions, 1 thi uk it proper to add that the only remark that came under my own observation, and that could be considered by any one as at all calculated to raise the question of your power, was a remark uttered in private conversation by General Prince on the morning of the 10th instant (I think), and this occurred in this way: Several officers, including myself, were standing on the pavement near your quarters. General Prince said: Here is a question. General Foster is shut up in Washington with a small com- mand. He is unable or unwilling to leave there. Is he then in command of the department, or who is then in command? The above is the substance of the remark, as I understood it. I paid no attention to it at the time, as I was very much occupied in getting ready to leave for the blockade. I left the place where the conversa- tion was going on while General Prince was conversing, and I do not even now recollect the persons who were there but I think General Wessells was. This was not calculated to influence (my) actions. Genera] Prince certainly never advised with me, officially or privately, as to the power of the commanding general while in Washington, and the remark was simply an idle one, which I thought it better not to make at that time, and I regret the necessity foul ever speaking of it. I am, sir, very respectfully, yours, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General, C1ommanding First Division Page 228 228 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE PAMLICo, Washington, N. 0., April 26, 1863. Maj. Gen. J. Or. FoSTER, Oomdg. Eighteenth Army Corps, Dept. of N. C.: GENERAL: Your letter of the 21st instant* was received by me on the 22d. You say: The siege of Washington being raised, my duty to our country, to yourself, and to myself requires some explanation of past events. I will endeavor to answer seriatim the queries which follow this pas- sage satisfactorily to our country, to yourself, and to myself. The passage which I will first consider is as follows: Learning that an attack was to be made on Washington, I left on March 29 for that place and arrived there on the 30th. April 1, I wrote to General Palmer suggesting three ways of raising the siege and expressing my preference for the first, which was to land a strong force at a point below Hills Point Battery, take that battery in reverse, mardi up in rear of Rodmans Point, and join me at Washington Bridge. What effort, if any, was made to carry out my orders as above quoted? Was any re- connaissance made by your order for the purpose of learning the strength and position of the enemy, on the result of which you reported to me that it was impracticable to land and take the batteries? On the 1st day of April the following letter from General Palmer, com- manding the department in your absence, was received by me: hEADQUARTERS LIGHTEENTIL Aniuy Cours, New Berne, April 1. 1863. Brigadier-General PRINCE, iYew Berne, N. C.: GENERAL: Inforniation is just received from General Foster from Washington, N. C., that that place is about to be attacked by the enemy in force. The re-enforce- ments nuder General Spinola have not been able to et to Washington, as the rebels have established a battery at Hills Point, near the blockade below that city. Gen- eral Foster has directed that you proceed immediately to that vicinity to take such measures for the reducing of this battery as your good judgment may dictate, ami you will get the re-enforcements to their destination if possible. The gunboats from here are ordered to proceed immediately to that point and they will be under way in an hour or two. The steamer North Shore will be placed at your disposition. She takes a supply of ammunition for 32-pounder and Wiard guns with her. The gunboats from Plymouth have also been sent for, and they will be down as soon as possible. I sen(l you the letter of General Foster for your information. General, very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General, Commanding. With the above came a letter from General Potter, of which the fol. lowing is a copy: WAshINGTON, N. C., March 31, 166312 m. Brigadier-General PALMER, Commanding: GENERAL: The rebels are about to attack us in strong force. They sent in a flag of truce this morning for the purpose of having the women and children removed. The flag was not received. The regiments and battery that were to follow us have not arrmve(1 cause supposed to be the fire from a battery which the rebels have planted at Hills Point wbere they formerly had one. We can hold out for two or three days. General Foster wishes you to send up at once all the gunboats that can be spared, and, if possible, 400 rounds of 3~2-pounder shot and shell, and 200 rounds of 12-pounder Wiards. lie also wishes either yourself or General Prince to come up and to act according to your own discretion in attacking the battery at lulls Point. If the gunboats cannot succeed in silencing the battery in question it will rest with you or General Prince to decide as to the advisability of landing your infantry and flanking the battery. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD E. POTTER, Chief of Staff. * The only copy of this letter found is in lettcrpress~book, and is illcgib1e Page 229 CHAP. XXX.J SIEGE OP WASHINGTON, N. C. 229 I remember reading also a letter from you stating that there were three means of relieving Washington. I left New Berne, on the North Shore, at 2.45 in the afternoon of that day and arrived at the fleet, off Bath in Pamlico mver, at 2.45 the following morning. (The 2d, not the 4th.) General Spinola was in command there. I sought him immediately and talked with him of the situation of matters. He instantly showed me an order he had issued for landing some troops at daybreak for the purpose of storming the Hills Point Battery. No reconnaissance had been made, and I did not see that his plan contemplated one, and asked him if he proposed to make it without any. He replied that he had no intention to attempt his l)lan without one and should make a reconnaissance first in the morning. 11 then approved this course and directed the reconnaissance to be made. This was done according to my detailed instructions. The ofluicer in command of the party that made it reported verbally to my satisfaction. T here were present about 11,600 men, artillery and infantry, and the two little armed steamers, Lockwood and Allison, and a sailing sloop with a heavy gun on board, which vessels vainly endeavored to interest the Hills Point Battery. I informed myself, by the examination of many (lifferent persons and by personal observation, of the precise nature of the situation of Hills Point Battery and of all the ways by which it could be approached and all the places where landing was not naturally obstructed and where it was obstructed by nature. And, as enjoined so forcibly in my instructions, I permitted myself to be governed solely by my judgment in deciding that a landino~ means b could not be effected with any at my command. Nothiun has occurred to shake this opinion or modify it. Time amid light all confirm it. When I had formed it fully I did all I could to make it immediately known to you and to General Palmer. At eveuiug on t lie 3d of April I left the river for New Berne, to go and return as quickly as possible, for the purpose of conferring with General Palnier. I carried the following dispatch with me to General Palmer, having writteit ittosenCl: PAMLICO RIVER, N. C., April 2, 1863. Cd. SOUTJIARD HOFFMAN Asst. Adjt. Gee., Eighteenth Army Coips, New Berne, N~ C. COLONEL: The battery on Hills Point is very strong. The gunboats we have (the Allison and Lockwood) make no impression on it. Its geometrical position, consid- ered with the relative situation of the enemys forces, make it linassailable except l)y gunboats. Whether 5 000 troops landed on this river or marched froni New Berne would be iiumatei al, no less would be able to reach the battery and get away again if unsuc- cessful I~audiiio therefore with me is ont of the question as things stand. Blounts Creek is iIfllvissThlo and ~it the bridge is a camp of 1,000 men. There is no way of my com- nand gettiu~ out of the triangle formed around the battery by the water and the road. I shdl lie here and threaten, and if a strong force of gunboats comes the bat- tery can l)C fully tested. Larg vessels (~uuboats) cannot find their way through the blockade, the buoys Ileing Ill) due I he piles being cut off 2 feet nuder water, and while they are beleaguered the well-served eight guns (some Whitworths) could destroy them. I shall attempt to send some aum uuitiou to Washington to-ni ght in a small boat, hugging the northern shore; but it will be a trifle, I know. The officers of the gunl)oats will consider well while near the battery the feasibility of one running through, but I feel confident they xvii I decide~ adversely to the attempt. If General Dix sends 5,000 men we may relieve Washington. If the large gunboats come they may succeed. Ia order to remain here, coal is necessary. I send a tug to bring xis a schooner containing it. As every steamer will be out of coal in thirty-two hours, whatever else fails li~t the tugs bring some coal-vessel. Yours, respectfully, HENRY PRINCE, Brigadier- General, Volunteers Page 230 230 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. And on the same day I endeavored to express myself better and more dearly in a communication to your headquarters, a copy of which I sent through the barricade to you, which is as follows: NEw BERNE, April 3, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel HOFFMAN: COLONEL: The above sketch (for correction of which 1 refer to the map of North Carolina by Topographical Bureau) is to indicate the relative situation of points re- ferred to in the foltow ing statement: General Foster, with tWQ reginients, a company of cavalry, and a company of artillery (1,200 men), and three gunboats is at Washing- ton. He is invested on the north side of the river by the brigades of Pettigrew and Garnett, as he states in his letter to General Prince of April 2,~ 1863. On the south side is D. H. Hill with two brigades, according to General Fosters information, same letter; but other information, to which he probably has not access, indicates a stronger force. The enemy have at Rodmans Point a battery with which they are destroying the gunboats. At Hills Point the enemy have a tine battery of six or eight guns. A barricade formerly constructed by the enemy extends from Hills Point to Swan Point; the barricade consists of a double row of piles cut off 2 feet under water. Instead of destroying the barricade our vessels made a passage through it 60 feet wide, and marked the passage with buoys. The enemy having removed the buoys, it is not possible iii the expanse of the river to know where the passage is ruunin~. The bat- tery therefore perfects the blockade and also the investment of the small force of ours at Washington. Haviiw been up myself to the front of the Hills Point Battery and felt it with some small ~unb oats, and having reconnoitered the shore there and obtained carefully sifted information, I can add something to the above statement. Blounts Creek has a bun bridue where the road crosses, and is impassable below. ~lld the cii The bridge is partly removae,an at it is a force 1,000 strong ~of~ emy ever since these operations commenced. Above the bridge the swamp is impassable. In reconnoitering the shores of Blounts Bay I found the enemys pickets of infantry on its west shore, all along, and infantry and cavalry on its east shore. This shows the enemy to be on the alert there; and having seen lying there transports filled with troops two nights and a day before I arrived there they are in anticipation of a landing. The enemy therefore on the south side of the river a~e in force to defend the Hilts Point Battery. It is believed by me from my reconnaissance that the nature of the position west of Blounts Creek does not admit of the gunboats rendering any assistance to troops that have landed save while they are on the inirnediate shore; the entire bank is high, rugged, and wooded. Any force landed there places itself at once in a state of siege from which there is no retiring excepting under most adverse cirenuistances. A niarch upon the shore itself would expose the troops to a fire from the bluff which they couhl not fairly return. As I am about to return to the position I shall use all the means I can to obtain further knowledge of the enemy, and if an opportunity to land occurs I shall do it. Up to this time since the first arrival of the troops near Blouut~s Bay the high wind and low water would have prevented any descent before as well as after my arrival. If anything can be done by the combined forces of army and navy assembled at the barricade you may be assured that no pains will be spared to do it. lt is understood at the headquarters of the Eighteenth Army Corps that the en- emys regiments in this region are full, and it is not unlikely that two brigades of D. H. lulls command number ten regiments. Very respectfully, your obedient serv ant, HENRY PRINCE, Brigadier-General, Volunteers. I returned to Blounts Bay the next day. In the trip I had seen the Southfield an(l two other gunboats from Plymouth on their xvay to Blounts Bay, where they arrived before me, and I left the Hunchback, from New Berne, detained by the weather in the mouth of the Keuse. The passage of the Sound was rendered very difficult, and was con- stantly being interrupted during the most of the time I was up in the Painhico IRiver by the high wind. The first re-enforcements arrived on the 5th. There were then in all 2,500 nien there; clearly not enough to attempt the operation of forcing the crossing of ~ Creek, which cannot be more correctly described now that our troops have it in pos- session than it was by me then Page 231 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 231 The instructions, contemplate a fair trial of the large class of gun- boats. The hunchback did not succeed in reaching Blounts Bay until the afternoon of the 5th. On that day I received your instructions to leave the river to the care of the gunboats, and lcft~arly the next morn- ing. I do not think a full test of what the gunboats could do with the battery had then been made, but supposed it would be. There were no means of landing troops at Blounts Bay under fire, and it was of no use to collect them unless the troops could get there. It seems not to have been possible up to the time I quit there to get a sufficient force from New Berne to fight the brigade of 4,500 men, which was the least force that could be reasonably deemed to be supporting the Hills Point Battery. To recapitulate: I arrived at the forces on the Pamlico iRiver at 3 oclock on the morning of the 2d of April. An order had been issued Puw troops to land at daylight and storm the Hills Point Battery. I countermanded this ordermy greatest service yet rendered to the country in any one act. I ordered an armed reconnaissance, in which I explained every detail of the mode in which it should be conducted in the events that I imagined might occur. It was completed to my satisfaction. I reconnoitered the region carefully myself. I ascer- tained the nature of it with the most irrefragable accuracy, as well as the position of the enemy, whose force I correctly estimated. I sifted justly the mass of information I obtained on all these subjects, and thus saw the situation clearly and positively. The stormy night of the 3d of April and the day of the 4tjut I traversed the waters of Pamlico Sound to New Berne and back. On the 5th of April 1 received your orders to quit the river with the 2,500 men that were there in my ~ommand, ex- cepting one regiment to be sent by the naval force to you, and I ac- cordingly left early on the morning of the 6th of April for New Berne. And now as to the question of landing. The notes written by you from Washington, such as I saw, cannot be regarded technically as orders. Their style suggested the idea to me that you did not so re gard them yourself, as they are not sufficiently coherent with each other or sufficiently definite in themselves, it seems to me, to be considered such. In the paragraph of your letter which I am now considering you said: I wrote to General Palmer suggesting three xvays, & c., and ex- pressing my preference for the arst & c. You then said: What effort, if any, was made to carry out my orders as above quoted ~ I think from this that you do not always regard them as orders. They are in fact, as you style them yourself; your suggestions and l)reterences from your point of view at the moment of writing. Undoubtedly you would not consider them orders in the case of fitilure of anything done in pur- suance of them. In one addressed to General Palmer you say that the first plan was described to be to land a strong force below (no place being par- ticularized) Hills Point Battery, take that battery in reverse, march up in rear of Rodmans Point, and join me at the bridge. In one addressed to me, dated April 2, you say: The batteries must be taken in succession, to do which it is necessary to laud nu- der cover of the gunboats and to assail the battery in its flank or rear at the same time that the gunboats assail it in front. The battery will prol)ahly be supported by a brigade, which you must whip. If you have not troops enough send at once to Palmer with orders from me to load any steamer or sail-vessel with troops enough to (10 the business surely At this stage 1 visited General Palmer, who said that he was using all the transportation If the gunboats arrive before more troops arrive you can make the attemi)t to land under their cover Page 232 232 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. But the class of gunboats that were expected to affect the battery did not arrive till the 5th April. In another addressed to me you said that after the Hills Point Ba~t- tery was taken the troops ought to re-embark in order to proceed to the iRodmans Point Battery on transports. The letter oC General Potter, chief of your staff, says: lie (General Foster) also wishes either yoHrself or General Prince to come np and to act according to your own discretion in attacking the batt cry at Hills Point. If the gunboats cannot succeed in silencing the battery in question it will rest with you or General Prince to decide as to the advisability of landing your infantry and flanking the battery. Thus I have shown most clearly that it rested solely on my judgment and responsibility to decide whether the landing of troops near the Hills Point Battery should be made, and I shall proceed to show that I decided correctly. D. II. Hill was known to be on the south side of the Painlico River with at least two brigades of rebels. I derived this knowledge not only from you but from other sources of information. From your headquar- ters I learned that the~rebel regiments about here were all full, each brigade consisting of five regiments, numbering, say, 4,500 men. But as the Hills Point Battery was the key of the whole investment it would be taking a short-sighted view of the generalship of the rebels to suppose that they could not concentrate all their force that was south of the river in its defense; and when we were nearest to being able to land, when we had in all 2,500 men at Blounts Bay, I knew, by ocular observation, that they were concentrated for~ the defense of that bat- tery against a~ landing. The indications were conclusive. This is noW rendered a demonstrated certainty by our troops having marched over the ground and witnessed their freshly-vacated camps there since the raising of the siege of Washington. To land west of Blounts Creek would have been to place ones self where the formatioxfof the shore line refused to permit the gunboats to render any assistance to the infantry landed. No point juts out upon which the gunboats might fire without firing over (that is, into) our troops. No place whatever can be named west of Blounts Creek below the battery where the gunboats could assist the retreat. The troops therefore would have to depend upon themselves and the intrenchments they might make after landing. From the mouth of Blounts Creek to Hills Point Battery is 2~ miles of shore line, forming a uniform and gentle curve of which Hills Point is the culmination merely. The general level of the land along there is 40 feet above the river, the bank of which is bluff. A landing west of Blounts Creek would be on this curve of 2~ miles in length. Inside of it lies encamped the supporting brigade of rebelstheir picliets everywhere on the curve; their main body not over 2 miles distant from any part of it. I will suppose that the other brigade south of the river is distributed at Blounts Creek Bridge, Swift Creek Village, Rodmans Point, the cross-roads, and a point between the cross-road and Swift Creek. I will snppose that we could land 500 men in row-boats, stern-wheelers, & c., at a time. Let us see how the landing would proceed: The transport full of troops draws as near to the shore as she can. She is then half a mile off (or she remains beyond the range of mus- ketrv, which would make the time longer). Each trip to land 500 takes twenty minutes, and, if no contingency prolongs it, the transfer of the whole to land takes one hour and two-thirds. Meantime the rel)C15 have been called to arms by the fire of their pickets, and being not ove Page 233 CHAP. XXX. I SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 233 2 miles distant they are at the landing place in an hour after the land- ing begins and besiege it before the landing is complete. The two principles, without the observance of which the operations should not be attempted, are, first, a secure retreat, and, secqpd, some prospect of taking the battery. Any one can decide the question. I should have been willing with 5,000 troops, having assured myself of your clearly expressed approbation of doing so, as my letters already quoted show, to have attempted what I have described, because I think our soldiers, with a superior morale arising from the holiness of their cause, are superior in battle to the rebel rank au(l file, more steady and persevering, more coolly determined on retaining a reserve of energy and a few unwasted cartridges for final exhibition, and to sweep the field. To land east of Blounts Creek would have been safe and under the cover of the gunboats; but then there would have been between the column and the battery the obstacle of an unfordable creek, watchfully guarded, with a single bridge partly removable and occupied in force. It is evideut that 2,500 men would not have forced the crossing of Blounts Creek if they had landed on the east side of it and remained in a condition to go farther. In fact the entire available force of this department, all the infantry, cavalry, and artillery that could be marched from New Berne, in precise total 6,400 men, went there on the 9th of April, and after experimenting on it marched back to New Berne again with their killed and xvounded, because they could not force it without a too great cost of men. As landing or marching there would have brought the forces to the same identical place, it is therefore demon- strated that my judgment was correct in pronouncing it to be out of the question to get on the flank or rear of Hills Point Battery by laud- ing east of Blounts Creek, for there is no way of turning ~ Creek, as a swamp at the head of it, begihning at the bridge, covers an area 10 miles long and 6 miles wide, and the only pocoson roa(l through it is impassable. Landin~ east or west was, as I wrote to you, out of the question, then, with my forces. I sincerely hope I have rendered it as plain to the coun- try and to yourself as it has long been to me. The next paragraph of your letter is as follows: Nothing being done on the Pamlico River in accordance with my plan No. 1, I wrote oii the 5th of Aprit orderin~ you to take command of all the available forces and march across the conutry to Washington. Why did you not go in command? This question is answered, I think, fully in my reports to your head- quarters of April 13, 1863, rendered for the purpose of answering it. If you will suggest any deficiency in the explanation as there given I will supply it with l)leasure. I believe, in preparing myself for the march, I foresaw every difficulty likely to occur in the march and all the places where it was possible there would be any opposition, and made up my mind how I could persistently endeavor to meet the one and overcome the other. Was any counsel of war held as to the expediency of marching across the conntry? None that I have heard of. But this extraordinary question is enti- tled to more consideration than is supplied by a full answer. I did not ask the opinion of any officer or officers whatever in respect to march- Pig to Washington. At one time General Palmer, Colonel Hoffman (the assistant adjutant-general of the department) at another and Gen. eral Spinola at another time were in my quarters, a few moments each, at the time when myself and my confidential personal staff were gat Page 234 234 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. ering and collating information fiom persons of all colors respecting the country between New Bern~ and Washington and were discussing in the most perfect privacy whatever snbjects in connection therewith it pleased us to mention, it having been state(l by me to them that nothing which was uttered that day by them or by me should be con- sidered an opinion, bnt as a mere suggestion to thought and memory. No reserve was observed when the persons named were in, and no other person was treated with any I)art of such confidence. I am forced to suppose that this working with my staff is the foundation of the ques- tion, if it has any, strange as it may seem, because I cannot imagine any other. Did you, publicly or privately, in consultation with the commanding officer, give your opinion, similar to that expressed to me in a letter, that the g~frrison at Wash- ington were in an cd-pot arid the mouth closed, and so convey the impression that it was inexpedient to incur much risk in eudeavoring to raise the sicge, accepting the surrender as a foregone conclusion, and that the troops that should march to my res- cue would in all probability be cut off l I have never held such opinions, and have never expressed any such to you or to any one. 1 never had impressions resembling such as you mention above and never conveyed any such to any one, publicly or privately. If I had done so publicly, as I have no right to do, the in- formation would be at your service; if privately, as I have the most per- fect right to do to a commanding officer, it would be acred with him. There were two commanding officers whom I consulted with, General Palmer, commanding the department in your absence at Washington, with whom I was bonnd to consult as the commanding officer- the other was General Spinola, whom I relieved in command on the Pamhico River, which fact placed inc on similar terms with him to a certain de- gree. I was habitually frank with them, and if my frankness is partly exposed I submit to you that it is not my thult. They are proper per- sons for my freest intercourse on public matters. The ideas I may have expressed on those matters to the commanding -officer of the department in the form of a(lvice, crude surmises, or partly conceived thoughts for the purpose of eliciting an exchange of impressions, or for persuasion, or conversation merely in that intercourse, the freedom of which is equally sanctioned by discretion and honor and the good of the seryice, are not subject to interrogatories, in which they are liable to misconstruction, br the public eye. It is my freedom to express myself according to the incli- nation of the moment or tIme final decision of my judgment to the officer in command, with whom I am in customary association, on the cnrrent affairs which engage us, untrammeled by the supposition that either he or his confidential staff officer will expose my remarks anywhere. I shall only hold myself responsible to the public for what I so say when it is properly imparted to the public, and then I will substantiate the correctness of time motives actuating my words in the broadest, highest, and purest meaning of a motive; for I will never speak by any other, however agreeable it might be for me to do so. I shall not, therefore, here review my and their ideas exchanged in private conversations. Doing so imperfectly wonid be as unjust to them as it would be to me. 1 may say in general, however, that in discussing a proposed military operation I habitually make every supposition of success or failure, and more especially of failure, that my ingenuity can devise, as the only means of preparing myself or assisting any one else to prepare properly and fully to conduct it. The eel-pot simile I used only in the sense in which I used it to you, viz, as suggesting the manner in which I presnmed the rebels regarde Page 235 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 235 Washington. I never so regarded it myself, but on the contrary always expressed as my firm opinion, in the most public manner and with the intention to diffuse it, that you could come out whenever you pleased and also bring your command, with perhaps some loss, and that I fully shared your confidence of success. I used this simile discreetly with some of those persons interested in running the barricade for you, in connection with such remarks as that the enemy let the Ceres go by without firing at her and probably would let anything else go in, to en- courage these persons in making the passage of the blockade. Was the question raised regarding my authority to give orders? If so when whom, and under what circumstances? , , by The question was not raised that I know of regarding your authority to command the troops in North Carolina. If I had any talk on the topic it was in private with General Palmer or General Spinola, and was either for my own or their amusement and not for any other pur- pose. If in your meaning of the words of the inquiry you are of the opinion that the circumstances in which you were at Washington of themselves raised the question. you must admit that I would have beeii absent-minded not to think of it. Trusting that I have fulfilled the promise with which I began, I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY PRINCE, Brigadier- General, Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CoRPs, New I3erne ill ,J3rig. Gen. HENRY PRINCE, a~ii 8, 1863. Comdg. District of the Pa,nlico, Washington, N. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of April ~6 in reply to mine of the 21st. it is of course desirable in all military operations that the pros and cons should be fully weighed and the operation contemplated be made as certain as possible; that as a rule. But exigencies do occur when it is a duty to act even though the risk of failure is greater than the chance of success; this as an exception; and under this latter hypothesis I con- sider the attempt to relieve Washington to have been. I can therefore only regret that the attempt to storm Hills Point was not made, the more so, as a reconnaissance made by Captain Douglas, of the Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers, showed that Hills Point might have been carried. Information shows that only one brigade was within near reaching distance of that Point. I fear that yourjudgment against the feasibility of attacking the place was too generally disseminated, and that the eff~ct on subordinate offi- cers and men was to discourage and seriously impair the morale so essen- tial to success. This is written, general, to acknowledge your report, and to express my regrets that your views were not mine; or, rather, that you did not recognize the emergency as one justifying and calling for some risks and greater efforts than were made. I remain, general, respectfully, yours, J. G. FOSTER, ]Iifajor- General, Commanding Page 236 236 NORTH CKROLINA AND S. K VIRGINIA. (CflAr. XXX. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF THE PAMLIco, Washington, N. C., May 10, 1863. Maj. Gen. J. 0-. FOSTER, Commanding Department of North Carolina: GENERAL: Perfectly coinciding with you in the generalities of your letter of May 8, 1863, respecting the subject of landing at Hills Point, the reasons I have assigned in my letter to you of ttie 26th of April, 1863, forbid my drawing the same special inference from them, and the hypothesis which yon there state that you consider applicable to the case needs no other commentary than is furnished by the result of the siege. There is no manner in which my judgment could have affected the morale of the troops. I am confident that it was never otherwise than well affected by me. After the fleet returned from the Pamlico, when the troops were crossing the Neuse for the purpose of marching to ~~ashington,in which expedition they expected me to lead them, no regiment passed my house that did not rend the air with unanimous cheers. NO cause whatever has existence for the fear you express, and I (10 most solemnly avow before niy Maker that no valid reason can be assigne(l for it. As I believe that an examination of the reconnaissance referred to by you as made by Captain Douglas, Fifth Rhode Island Volnuteers, will deprive the remark you predicate npou it of all force, T beg that you will cause inc to be furnished with an account of it. Respecting the one brigade immediately in support of the battery it is but just to say that it was Pettigrews, containing six full regiments, nominally 5,400 men, and that it was re-enforced by Claibornes cavalry and by artillery. But D. H. Hill had two brigades on the south side of the river besides three unattached North Carolina regiments. Hulls~ Point Battery was the key of the investment. All military men will agree that he could therefore concentrate his main body iii its defense. No doubt can exist of it. But this is of no moment in the argument. Pettigrews brigade is sufficient for my purposes. - I have in vain endeavored to reach with my perceptive faculties the object of this correspondence. Has the interest of the country suffered ~ Or, on the other haud, has everything terminated according to the ut- most blessing of the Almighty ~ The siege of Washington is raised in the best possible manner. The enemy acquired no advantage whatever over us in the course of it. Everything has resulted in the utter defeat and overthrow of his plans. Nothing could be better. Your name is the theme of every newspaper correspondent. And yet this correspond- ence is entered upon with me, in which there seems to be an elaborate effort to give currency to facts which have no existence by asserting them interrogatively, and in which, notwithstanding the favorable re- sult of the siege, you now even go so far as to say I can therefore only regret that the attempt to storm Ilills Point was not made, plainly regretting that an unnecessary and imminent risk of another Balls Bluff was not run by landing 2,500 men in the face of Pettigrews bri- gade, although such landino would have been in opposition to your own instructions given in writing to me. In this regret, which is nt- tered with such poetical sincerity, neither our country nor myself can possibly participate. General, it is clear to the most common apprehension that the fry- pothesis, the fear, and the regret expressed in this letter have n Page 237 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 237 existence in your mind; and I am sure that the reconnaissance which shows that Hills Point Battery could have been taken by my 2,500 mcii will prove equally fictitious. Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant, IIEM~Y PPJNCE, Brigadier- General Volunteers, Gommanding District. No. 9. Reports of Gol. Silas P. Richmond, Third Massachusetts infantry, of op erations April 710 ~nd 1621. CAMP JOURDAN, New Berne, N. 0., April 11, 1863. SIu: The following is a correct report of the part taken by myself and command in the recent reconnaissance in force under Brigadier- General Spinola. April 7, 6.30 p. m.Ileceived orders to march immediately with three days cooked rations, and seven in bulk to follow. My command left camp at 7 p. in., marched to Fosters Wharf, and there embarked on the steamer Allison, which took us across the Keuse River. We landed near Fort Anderson and bivouacked for the night. I had with me 24 officers and 517 men. April 8.Waited during the morning for the remainder of the troops to cross over. The troops were temporarily brigaded anew, my regiment being put in the First Brigade, under command of Acting Brigadier Ainory. The whole column was under General Spinola, and consisted of three brigades of five regiments each with a small Three of cavalry and artillery. The columji moved at 1.30 p. in., my regiment having the left of the First Brigade. We marched in a northerly direction. The roads for the most part were very good and the column moved fast. We made no halts for rest. We passed New Hope School-House about sunset, taking the road to the left. We marched until 9 p. in., then bivouacked by the road side. iDistance marched, 15 miles. April 9.Our brigade moved at 6.30 a. in., in the same order as yes- terday. Marched back on the same road about 4 miles; thea took a cross-road, which led into the main road to Core Point, and continued on in the latter; halted a short time for dinner and then marched on until 3 p. in., when we got in close proximity to Swift Creek, and the enemys pickets were met2 of them captured and the rest driven in. The enemy almost immediately opened on us with batteries on the other side of the creek. Our batteries moved to the front and engaged the enemy for about two hours, without any apparent effect. The en- emys shell, though few in number, were excellently aimed, every one causing some loss on our side. Ammunition being nearly all expended the order was given to retire, which we did in good order, marchinb back to the cross-roads near New Hope School-fl ouse and then biv- ouacked for the night, it being then about 9 p. in., and having marched during the day about 30 miles. April 10.The column was put in motion at about 7 a. in., Colonel Amorys brigade having the lead and marching left in front, which brought my regiment in advance. Reached the ferry near Fort Ander- son at 10.30 a. in., and after a little delay we were transported across th Page 238 238 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [ChAP. XXX. river, reaching New Berne at 12 in., having marched in all about 55 miles in less than forty-eight hours from the time of leaving Fort An- derson. I brought my men all safely into camp although they were more completely tired out than at any previous time during the cam- paign. Respectfully submitted. S. P. RICHMOND, Colonel, Commanding Regiment. S. A. ILSLEY, A. A. A. U., AS~econd Brigade, Eighteenth Army e2orps. IIDQRS. THIRD REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOL. MILITIA, Camp Jourdan, New Berne, N. C., April 23, 1863. COLONEL: On the morning of the 16th instant I received orders to have my command formed ready to march, with three days cooked ra- tions, seven in bulk, and 100 rounds of ammunition per man. The nec- essary preparations were immediately made and line formed. A large number of both officers and men were on the sick list, con- seqilently the column marched was less in number than at any previ- ous time. I was too nnwell to leave camp, and the regiment went nuder the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Barton. The following is a copy of report to me: CAMP JOURDAN, New Berne, N. C., April 22, 1863. Col. S. P. RICHMOND: COLONEL: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by the Third Regiment in the late expedition under General Prince toward Kinston, N. C.: Formed regiment line at 10.30 on the morning of April 16 and marched with 448 men and 23 officers to the depot at New Berne; embarked on the cars at 2.45 p. in.; pro- ceeded to a point 4 miles beyond Batchelders Creek and bivouacked for the night. On the morning of the 17th formed line at 7.30 and embarked on the cars and pro- ceeded np the railroad and halted at the Jones plantation, a point near Core Creek; disembarked and formed line of battle. Three companies were ordered to report to Colonel Jourdan. Sent forward Companies C, B, and H. Regiment rested on their arms during the day and bivouacked here for the night 181h.All quiet through the night. Three companies were ordered to report to Colonel Jourdan. Sent forward Companies D, F, and A. Orders received to hold the regiment in readiness to act as a reserve. Sent ont Company E on picket. Reg- in~ent halted here for thenight. l9th.All quiet throngli the night. Company G ordered on the cars to guard the train and ammunition. Regiment remained inactive through the day and bivou- acked here for the nio-ht. 2Oth.AIl quiet th~ough the night. Three companies were ordered to report to Colonel Jourdan. Sent forward Companies K, E, and G. About 9 oclock firing was heard at the front. Received orders to go on board the cars as a support to the bat- tery. Moved forward to Core Creek and halted. At 2 oclock returned to our former position and bivonacked here for the night. 2lst.All qniet through the night. Regiment remained inactive until 3 oclock when orders were received to prepare to march. Embarked on the cars at 6 oclock and returned to New Berue, reaching camp at 7 p. m. Whole distance traveled, 34 miles. No casualties. All of which is respectfully submitted. JAMES BARTON, Lieutenant-Colonel Third Begi ent Mass. Vol. Militia. During the absence of the main portion of the regiment those re- maining in camp improved in health considerably, but I am sorry to say that our sick list is still very large. Company I returned from de- tached service on the 20th instant, and last evening we had a dress- parade in which all the companies belonging to the regimeut partic Page 239 CHAP. XXX.J SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 239 pated. It was a very pleasing reunion to us, it being the first time at which all the companies have had an opportunity to form on the same line since the first day of our arrival in this department. I remain, colonel, most respectfully, your obedient servant, S. P. RICHMOND, Col. J. JoURDAN, Colonel, ~Jomrnanding Regiment. Comdg. Second Brig., P~fth Die., Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 10. Report of Capt. John ill. Willson, Third New York Cavalry, of skirmish at Sandy Rrdge, April 20. PICKET STATION, KEUSE IIOAD, April 22, 1863. SIR: I have to report to you that in the skirmish with the enemy April 20, 1 man was wounded and 3 horses killed and 1 revolver lost. Seventeen of my command were engaged, under the command of Sergt. Henry iDow. I was sick and could not take command. I am, respectfally, yours, JOHN M. WILLSON, Captain, Third New York Cavalry, Commanding Station. Col. S. H. MIX, 61ommanding Third New York Cavalry. No. 11. Report of Col. J. Richter Jones, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry, of skirmish at Sandy Ridge, April 20. HDQRS. FIFTY-EIGHTH REGIMENT PENNSYLVANIA VOLS., Camp at Core Creek, April 20, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that I advanced on the Dover road this morning according to arrangements. No enemy were found this side of Sandy Ridge, but at the junction, or just beyond the causeway running from the railroad, fire was opened on my skirmishers. I had three companies deployed, which drove the enemy gradually back, they making a stand at every strong position. Near the upper end of the ridge, where it is not more than 100 yards wide, they had a breastwork of logs and earth reaching across to the swamps on both flanks, which they endeavored to hold and defended with great resolution. Finding the flout likely to cost me many men, I deployed two more companies on the right and left flanks, with directions to force their way through the swamps. Those swamps were barely passable by woodmen, but my men succeeded in advancing on the flank of the breastwork, when they raised a shout, at which the eiieiny abandoned it, and fled into the swamp to the rear of the ridge. I cannot speak too highly of the Conduct of my officers and men~, of their coolness and steadiness under fire, and of their perseverance in pushing the enemy. The enemy opposed to us were one company o Page 240 240 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. Nethercutts battalion and three companies of the Forty-ninth North Carolina, Lieutenant-Colonel Flemming, and they numbered, one of the prisoners says, 225. We found oue of the enemy dead on the field (whom we buried decently), 2 wounded and took 27 prisoners. Our loss is 8 wounded, one of whom belongs to Company II, Third New York Cavalry, which company behaved gallantly and lost 3 horses. The breastwork where the enemy made their final stand is at the upper end of the ridge, about 6 miles by the Dover road from Core Creek; beyond, that road runs principally through swamps to its junction with the railroad. Yery re~pectfully, your obedient servant, J. RiCHTER JONES, Colonel Fifty.eighth Regi~uient. Captaiu WALDRON, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 12. Reports of Brig. Gen. Francis B. AS~pinola, U. S. Army, commanding Pro- visional Division and First Brigade, F& fth Division, ?f operations on the Pamlico, April 14; action at Blounts Creek, April 9, and of Ex- peditions from New Berne to Swift Creek Village, April 1321. HEADQUARTERS SPINOLAS BRIGADE, Washington, N. C., ]Jitay 12, 1863. COLONEL: in obedience to verbal orders, received at 4 oclock on the morning of March 31, for me to have two regiments of my brigade ready to embark from the wharf at Fort Spinola at daybreak and for myself and staff to accompany them to Washington, N. C., where I would re- port to General Foster, I have the honor to report, viz: I immediately proceeded to execate the order. The One hundred and seventy-first and One hundred and seventy-fifth Regiments Pennsyl- vania Militia, the first commanded by Colonel Bierer and the second comman(lCd by Colonel Dyer, w& e at the wharf at the appoiiited time. At 6 a. m. the steamer Emilie, with a schooner iu tow, started with the One hundred and seventy-fifth Regiment and the right wing of the One hundred and seventy-first Regiment, and at 10 oclock the same morning the steamer John Farron started, with schooner in tow, the left wing of the One liundr~d and seventy-first Regiment being oii the Farron and three pieces of Ransoms battery, wi$h caissons, limbers, and 200 rounds of ammunition for each gun, together with Captain Ransom and his company, being on the schooner; myself and staff on the Faron. I l)rocee~d down the Neuse River and at 2 ~ m. came np with the steamer Sylvan Shore, lying at anchor insid~e of the light-house at the mouth of Neuse River. 1 gave the captain orders to proceed at once to the steamer Thomas Colyer, then aground on a shoal about 8 miles from the light-house, and take the One hundred and fifty-eighth Regi- inent Pennsylvania Militia from on board of her and proceed with it to Washington, N. C., with all dispatch. The One hundred and fifty-eighth Regiment had started for Washing- ton on March ~9 nuder orders from Headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps. I subsequently ascertained that the steamer Sylvan Shore could not accommodate all of the regiment, and at 3 oclock of the same da Page 241 CHAP. XXX.j SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 241 I overtook the steam-tug Alert and sent her, together with the stern~ wheel steamer Wilson, after the remainder of. the One hundred and fi~yeighth Ifegiment. After the regiments had all been taken from the Colyer I put part of them on the John Farron and a portion of them on the schooner with the artillery, and directed the tug to take the schooner in tow and reach Washington with her as soon as possible. At 4.30 p. m. passed Brant Island Shoals Light-House, and at 7 oclock passed the light-house at the entrance to Pamlico Iliver. At 7.20 oclock met the steamer North Shore. The officer aboard in~rmed me that he was bound to New Berne with dispatches from General Foster to Gen- eral Palmer, and that the rebels had erected batteries on Mulls and Hills Points, on the Pamlico River, and that it was General Fosters orders not to proceed any farther up the river until gunboats should arrive to convoy the transports by the batteries. I proceeded to within about 5 or 0 miles of Mulls Point and at 9.30 oclock caine to anchor. Our approach was signaled by the enemy from a point about 10 miles below Mulls Point. The signals were very distinct and continued at intervals throughout the night. On Wednesday morning, April 1, the gunboat Lockwood passed by a little before daylight, and proceeded to within 1 mile of Lulls Point and came to anchor. At 6 oclock on the morning of April 1 I got the steamer Farron and other transports under way and J)roceeded np the river, and at 9 oclock again anchored within 2~ miles of the Hills Point Battery. At 10 oclock I visited the gunboat Lockwood and learned from Mr. Hicks, who commanded her, that there were five guns mounted on the battery on Hills Point; that he had been directly under the battery and had seen and counted the guns. Mr. Hicks expressed his willing- ness to do anything in his power to assist the transports in running by the batteries, whereupon I requested him to proceed within range and open fire upon it, which he did, taking his vessel directly under it and continuing to fire for an hour and a half without any reply from the enemy. At 2.30 p. m. Captaifi Gourand, of General Fosters staff; and Lieu- tenant Cole, of my staff, volunteered to run by the blockade in a small boat and proceed to Washington with dispatches for General Foster. They got safely by the Hills Point Battery, and after proceeding a few miles up the river met Masters Mate MeKeever, of the gunboat Louis- iana, who was on his way down with dispatches from General Foster. Captain Gouraud and Lieutenant Cole returned again to the steamer. Masters Mate McKeever said that no boat drawing 6 feet of water could reach Washington, as the tide was lower than it had been for a year. This statement was also confirmed by the pilot of the gunboat Lockwood, who asserted to his knowledge that it had, never before been so low; all the transports required more than 6 feet of water; while Mr. Hicks, commanding the gunboat, gave it as his opinion that he be- lieved it impossible for any of the transports to pass the batteries, as the channel was only about 80 feet in width and all the buoys had been removed by the enemy. At 7.30 p. m. I sent the steamer Sylvan Shore to New Berne for ad- ditional gunboats and ammunition of the kind required for the gnus at Washington, that aboard of the transports not being of the character required for the gunboats and artillery at that place. The stern-wheel steamer Wilson arrived and reported at 9.30 p. in. Lieutenant Cole, of my staff, and Masters Mate MeKeever started in a small boat to run the blockade, with dispatches for General Foster, 16 R UVOL XVII Page 242 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. 242 anti got safely through, and returned at 7.15 oclock on the morning of April 2 with (lispatches from General Foster. After arriving in front of the rebel batteries and remaining there all day, and finding it quite impossible to run the transports by the batteries at that time or nntil hdditional gunboats should arrive so as to hold the enemys gnus in check while the vessels were passing, and after having carefully examined in person the shore from the mouth of Blounts Creek to within a short distance of Hills Point, having likewise made the necessary soundings along the shore to ascertain the depth of water between the above-named points with a view to select the most suit- able place to land, I decided to have the troops put ashore and storm the works on Hills Point, and to that end issued the following orders on the afternoon of April 1, 1863: SPECIAL ORDERS, IiuvADQuARTRRS ABOARD JOHN FARON, ~o. 1. Pamlico River, N. C., April 1, 1863. L Colonel Dyer, commanding the One hundred and seventy-fifth Regiment Penn- sylvania Militia, will disembark his regiment on the steamer Wilson and land them near the mouth of Blounts Creek and storm the battery on HilVs Point at daylight to-morrow morning. II. Colonel l3ierer, commanding the One hundred and seventy-first Regiment Penn- sylvania Militia, will holdthat portion of his command that is now aboard the steamer Eumilie in reachness to disembark at daylight to-morrow morning to support Colonel Dyer, who is to storm the battery on Hills Point. iii. Lieutenant-Colonel Troxel, commanding the One bnndred and fifty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Militia, will hold that portion of his command that is now aboard the steamer Binilie, and a sufficient number in addition from aboard the schooner to make his command 300 men in all, in readiness to disembark at daylight to-morrow to act in conjunction with Colonel Bierers command as support to Coloucl Dyer, who is to storm the battery on Hills Point. 1\T Lient. Thomas Low, in command of three guns of the battery, now aboard the schooner Annie L. Edwards, will be ready to go into action with his guns at daylight to-morrow morning. He will act in concert with the captain of the gunboat Lock- wood. The schooner will be towed into action by a propeller. By comumand of Brigadier-General Spinola: L. HANLEY, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. I also made a thorough and careful exari~ination on the evening of April 1 of the approaches by water to Bath, on the north side of the river, with a view of lauding there and marching to Washington in case I failed in takin the battery on Hills Point. At 2 oclock on the morning of April 2 the steamer North Shore ar- rived with Brig. Gen. Henry Prince and staff aboard. The foregoing orders were not executed, as General Prince took command of the forces, aial all movements from that time until he left again for New Berne were under his direction and will, I presume, be embodied in his report. At 6 p. m. on the 2d instant the steam-tug Alida left for New Berne, and at 8 oclock the same evening General Prince and staff started for New Berne on the steamer North Shore, which again left me in com- mand. April 3 I loaded eight small boats with ammunition, and although it was blowing almost a gale of wind, which rendered the undertaking of running the blockade extremely hazardous in addition to passing the enemys batteries, yet I experienced no difficulty in finding a sufficient iiumber of volunteers from aboard the gunboats to man all the small boats, and at 9 p. m. this little fleet started, under the command of Lieu- tenant Williams, of my staff; and reached the garrison in safety. Upon consultation with Captain MacDearmid, of the gunboat Ceres, he volun- teered to buoy out the channel and run his boat past the batteries Page 243 Cw~p. XXX. I SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 243 Accordingly at 10 oclock on the night of April 3 he started to place the buoys, and at 12 oclock reported that he had succeeded and wa.s then ready to run his boat through if I desired it. I accordingly had the Ceres brought alongside of the Farron and put on board of her all the ammunition her magazine could hold. At 2.45 oclock on the morning of April 4 Captain MacDearmid started with his gunboat and passed all the batteries iii safety, the Hills and Swans Point Batteries firing at him as long as he was within range of their guns. At 4 oclock on the morning of April 4 I received a dispatch from General Foster for General Prince. It was of an important character, and I concluded to forward it at once to General Prince at New Berne. Accordingly I had the 600 troops on the Farron transferred to the two schooners that had Ransoms battery aboard, and started the steamer at 6 oclock in the morning for New Berne with a letter to General Palmer, asking that all the small boats, together with the surf boats and launches that could be procured at New Berne, might be sent down by the steamer on her return, as I had become satisfied that the garrison could be re- enforced by passing the blockade with these boats in the night, in case all other plans failed. The steamer returned but the boats did not come. At 2 oclock three additional gunboats arrived, the Southfield, White- head, and Seymour. Their several commanders expressed a desire to render all the assistance in their power toward relieving the garrison, and wished to know my desires in the matter; wherenpon I requested that they would at once engage the battery on Hills Point, which they did at a distance of about 1,000 yards, and nothing could have been more accurate than the firing of the Southfield and one or two others of the boats, from the eff~ct of which I became entirely satisfied that the battery could be passed in safety. After ascertaining that the buoys put down by Captain MacDearmid had not been disturbed, and as soon as dark set in, I had the whole of Ramsons battery, including officers and men, transferred to the schooiier Nellie D., and the six guns placed in position on the schooners deck. I likewise transferred the whole of the One hundred and seventy-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Militia, nuder command of Colonel Dyer, num- bering 600 men, on the same schooner, and had made arrangements for the gunboat Lockwood to take aboard the ammunitiou that had reached me for the gunboats and batteries at Washington, and also to take the schooner in tow and run the blockade with her before daylight on the following morning. The above arrangements were made by the regi- mental and battery commanders in pursuance of the following orders: SPECIAL ORDERS,? IIEADQUARTERS ABOARD THE THOMAS COLYER, No. 2. Pamlico Birer, rear Hills Point, N. C., April 4, 1863. I. Col. Samuel A. Dyer, commanding One hundred and seventy-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Militia, will immediately transfer his command from the schooner to the schooner Nellie D. that has Ransoms battery aboard, for the purpose of running the blockade by the rebel batteries on Hills i~nd Swans Points and Rod- man s Quarters arid re-enforcing General Foster at Washin~ton. II. The utmost caution must be exercised in keeping the men between decks while passing the batteries. III. Captain Ransom, commanding battery, will transfer the guns of his battery, together with caissons, ammunition, and men, from the schooner to the schooner Nellie D., and have all his guns placed in position and ready for action on the deck of the schooner Nellie D., so as to assist in fighting his way past the batteries. IV. The captain of the schooner Nellie D. will receive aboard his vessel Colonel Dyers regiment of infantry and the balance of Ransoms battery. V. Captaiu Graves, of the gunboat Lockwood, is requested to receive aboard hi Page 244 244 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. boat the ammunition sent from New Berne for General Foster, aud lay his vessel alongside the schooner Nellie ID. for the purpose of towing her past the batteries and through the blockade to Washington between now and daylight. By command of Brigadier-General Spinola, comaiandino~ L. HANLEY, Captain and Assistant A djutant-General. Everything was ill readiness to make the move under the above orders when General Prince and staff arrived in the steamer Escort at about 11 p. in., April 4, and assumed command, after which the execu- tion of the foregoing orders devolved npou hini. The arrangements for running the blockade with the gunboat and schooner were not carried out, although the schooner had weighed anchor and the gunboat had made fast to her and both were nnder way when General Prince coun- termanded the orders and the schooner again came to anchor. I had made all the above arrangements under the belief that the favorable moment to re-enforce the garrison had arrived, as there were 2 or 3 feet more water in the river than there had been at any time since my arri- val. I ascertained this fact by soundings made under my own pei~- sonal supervision. The reason for countermanding the orders under which the arrangements had been made for the schooner Nellie I). and gunboat Lockwood to run the blockade 1 have no doubt will be fully explained in General Princes report. All the officers and men of my brigade were both willing and anxious to incur any risk or to enconnter imy danger necessary to relieve the beleaguered city, and no troops in the army could have manifested a greater willingness to make any necessary sacrifice to re-enforce the garrison and to relieve it from the perils that surrounded it. I cannot close this report without bearing testimony to the gallant conduct of the Navy while acting in conjunction with my command, particularly Captain MacDearmid, of the gunboat Ceres. The conduct of the several commanders of the gunboats engaged was all that could have been expected of them. They manifested great bravery, coupled with a willingness to do all in their power to relieve the garrison. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. B. SPINOLA, Brigadier- General. Lient. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Eighteenth Army Corps. IIDQRS. ON FIELD AT LITTLE SWIFT CREEK, April 8, 1863Wednesday night, 11 oclock. GENERAL: In pursuance to your instructions of to-day the column under my command started at 3 oclock p. in. and arrived at this place at 8 oclock p. in., The advance guard met the ~nemy~s pickets about 7 miles from Fort Anderson. They retreated without returning fire, and about half an hour later we heard their alarm guns. From information entirely reliable I learn that the enemy, 6,000 infantry and 1,000 cav- alry, are in a strong fortified position at Walter IRuffs farm, on the road leading to Blounts Creek. I also learn from the same source that the enemy occupy both sides of Swift Creek Bridge. There are other forces on the road leading to Kinston, but I could not learn their position or strength. It is to be presumed that the enemy is in strong position and force at the cross-roads near Washington. Should I proceed to Wash- ington on the Swilt Creek road I feel assured that I will be attacke Page 245 CHAP. XXXL1 SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 245 in the rear by the forces above named on Ituffs farm, and would also be harassed on my left flank by the forces stationed on the Kinston roads. In case I fail to drive the enemy from the cross-roads near Wash- ington and am compelled to retreat it can only be done with a large sacrifice, if at all. From all the information I have received it estab- lishes the strength of the enemy not less than 20,000, under Hill, Petti- grew, and Garnett. The majority of the information fixes the enemys strength at 22,000, and it is therefore snpposable that we will have to en- counter at least 10,000 nn der Hill at the cross-roads near Washington. that being the main position of the enemy. It appears to inc now that the only possible successful way to relieve the garrison is to take the battery at Hills Point, and in that way raise the blockade. We are constructing the bridge over Little Swift Creek to~night. I shall have a consultation to-night with the brigade commanders, ar- tillery, and cavalry. It is my intention to start from here in the morning for Blounts Creek, and engage the enemy there, and drive them, if l)OsSible, beyond th~ battery on Hills Point with a view of taking it. Should I not be successful I shall retreat to Fort Anderson, as I am satisfied it is utterly impossible to march on Washington by the Swift Creek route without endangering my entire command. Jn the event of having to retreat it will be necessary that transportation be ready to convey the command across the Neuse River. Send forward immediately the forage wagons and wagons with officers baggage; the other wagons leave till you hear further from me. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant F. B. SPINOLA, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. I. N. PALMER. HEADQUARTERS GENERAL SPINOLAS COMMAND, NEAR NEW HOPE ScHOOL-HOUSE, Thursday Evening, April 9, 186311.30 oclock. GENERAL: I have the honor to communicate that I started at 7 oclock this morning from Little Swift Creek with my command and marched to Huffs Mill, at the head of Blounts Creek, a distance of 15 miles. Two miles from this place we met and exchanged fire with, the enemys picket, which was continued till we reached the cross-roads, 1 mile from Huffs Mill. I followed the enemy with the intention of crossing Blounts Creek, in order to make my way to Washington, as I have already indicated in my last letter to you. I found, however, the enemys position almost impregnable, owing to the thickness of swamp woods on the north side of Blounts Creek, and also to the strong earth- works on the south side of the creek, behind which the enemy were 2,000 strong. I will also mention that these earthworks are thrown up close to the bridge, which was destroyed by the enemy previous to my arrival there. The earthworks were partly dug in the ground and partly throxVn up, so that they could only be reached by depressing our pieces. In the enemys works were six pieces mounted, which I judge to be 12- l)onnder howitzers, [which] were served with great skill. Behind these fortifications, at a distance of about a half mile, were also 3,000 of the enemy, the whole 5,000 being under the command of General Pettigrew. I also learmi from reliable sources that the roads from Blounts Creek to Washington and Hills Point are entirely occupied by the enemy, and I learn by positive evidence that there are two brigades encamped at and near the cross-roads in front of Washington, under the immediat Page 246 246 NORTII CAROLINA ANP S. t. V1R~INtA. tOHAP. XXX. command of General Hill. The engagement was commenced by a com- pany of the Third New York Cavalry with a mountain howitzer. The howitzer, under command of Lientenant Burke, and the company of cavalry, nuder the command of Captain , were under the direc- tion of Major Garrard, Third New York Cavalry, temporarily detailed on my staff. The cavalry detachment constituted part of Colonel Ainorys brigade, who engaged the enemy at the bridge for nearly two hours. Owing to the condition of the ground it was impossible to develop a large force against the enemy, and therefore only two regi- ments of infantry, the Seventeenth and Forty-third Massachnsetts Volunteers, two sections of Captain Belger~s battery, and one section of 32-pounder howitzers, nnder command of Lieutenant , together with the cavalry above named, were actnally engaged. Though we suc- ceeded in silencing the enemys battery, yet we were unable to drive them from their position, as our infantry and artillery fire were without much effect upon them, owing to the nature of their earthworks and the L)osition of our guns. It was equally impossible to enfilade their works or to cross or fQrd the creek at any other point, and, as stated above, the bridge being destroyed we were unable to charge the enemy or build the bridge under their heavy musketry fire. Seeing that it was impossible to cross the creek, I was obliged to return, and did so at 5 oclock this afternoon, in regular order, without being molested in any way by the enemy. I take pleasure in stating that Colonel Amorys conduct during the march and engagement was of the most creditable character, as was also Major Frankles, Major Garrards, and Major Stones, temporarily de- tailed on my staff. The Seventeenth Massachusetts Volunteers, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Fellows, is especially deserving of notice; while all the officers and men of the command manifested an anxious determination to reach Washington at all hazards and relieve the garrison there, but failed to do it for the reason that they could not perform impossibilities. I deplore the necessity of stating the casualties of officers and men during the engagement, which was very slight considering the nature of our engagement. Captain Belger was wounded in the hip, the ball passing through his thigh and killing his horse; Lieutenant Roberts, Seventeenth Massachusetts, left arm broken by a Minie ball; 2 men of Battery F, First Rhode Island Artillery, 1 slightly, the other severely; 5 men of Seventeenth Massachusetts, 1 severely. I shall leave this pla~e for New Berne to-morrow morning, feeling conscious that I have done all that was in my power to comply with the requests of General Foster as well as to carry out your instructions. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. B. SPINOLA, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. I. N. PALMER. CAMP AT NEW Horn ScHooL-HOUSE, Tuesday, April 14, 1863.5 p. in. GENERAL: Pursuant to instructions received last night I left Fort Anderson with my command at 10.30 a. mu. and arrived at this place at 4 p. m. At the forks of the road, about 8 miles from Fort Anderson, I sent the whole detachment of cavalry (but 10) and the cavalry howitzer on the road leading to the right, which terminates at the road leading to Blounts Creek and about 1 mile from the school-house. I expecte Page 247 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 247 the enemys pickets to be posted at this place in strength, and therefore instructed the commandant of the cavalry to march quickly over the road in order, if possible, to cut them off from their main force; in the mean time our main column marched on the direct road here. I am happy to inform you that Captain Chamberlin, commanding the cav- alry, has faithfully performed the duty assigned him by succeeding in cutting oft and capturing two cavalry pickets stationed here. From our prisoners we have received information that the enemy occupied Blounts Creek with 6,000 infantry and one regiment of cavalry, and from that to the cross-roads leading to Washington they have 15,000 infantry and three regiments of cavalry stationed. They are fortified in ~every avail- able position with about one hundred and fifty pieces of artillery. I also learn that the stringers of the bridge across Blounts Creek are cut, which, if so, will prevent our crossing there. The prisoners belong to Colonel Claibornes regiment, Seventh Con- federate Cavalry, newly arrived from the Blackwater. They state that there are 50,000 rebel soldiers stationed around Washington. I have sent the cavalry in two parts to scour the roads leading to Blounts Creek and Swift Creek. The latter road I have our pioneers employed in clearing what we blockaded in our last march here, as I intend leav- ing here at daylight in the morning and march toward Swift Creek, leaving a portion of my command to occupy our present position until we return. I am ,genera], very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. B. SPINOLA, Brigadier General WESSELLS, Brigadier- Ueneral. Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS SIuNoLAs BRIGADE, Washington, N. C., ]Jiay 15, 1863. COLONEL: In obedience to orders received from Headquarters Eight- eenth Army Corps, directing that my brigade should be at Fosters Wharf at 2 a. m. on April 8 for the purpose of crossing the Nense River, I have the honor to submit the following report: The brigade reached the place designated a quarter of an hour before the time specified, and in two hours were all over the river. They bivouacked near the old rebel fort on the road leading to the New Hope School-House. At between 1 and 2 oclock on the morning of April 8 I called upon Brig. Gen. Henry Prince at his headquarters to ascertain if there were any specific instructions to be issued in regard to the expedition and to learn what time he had fixed on for the column to commence moving. I believe that General Prince was to command the expedition, as he had been ordered by General Foster to proceed with it to the relief of the garrison at Washington, N. C., which was then invested by the enemy. I found General Prince in a state of mind denoting that he was very much exercised in regard to the propriety of making the contemplated march, and he freely expressed his opinion to me that the expedition could not succeed, that it mnst be a very great failure, for he did not be- lieve that any of those who accompanied it would return, as we would all be captured, and that it was like making the rebels a present of all the artillery Page 248 248 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. General Prince a~ this interview also invited me to volunteer to take the command of the expedition, which I declined in the most positive and unmistakable language. I was entirely willing to take my chalice with others of either falling npon the field or being taken prisoner, but my own good sense promptly told me that the size of the expedition and the ilnl)ortance of its trust forbade one of my limited military cx- perience from assuming its command, except under positive orders from my superior officers, and then, in obedience to a willing heart I (olild only promise to do the best I could to accomplish the object of the CXI)CditiOlJ. At about 10 a. m. on April 8 a messenger called at my room and told me, that General Palmer desired to see me at once. I immediately proceeded to his headquarters, when he informed me that the command of the expedition would fall upon me. This was the first intimation~I had received that this important trust would be placed under my charge. I expressed my astonishment at it, and told General Palmer that I could not assume the command unless I received a written order to that effect, which he assured me I should have before starting. 1 have deemed it due to truth and the interest of the service that these facts should be stated i~ this report, as they form a link in the history of the efforts made to relieve the invested garrison. I then crossed the river, and shortly after reaching,the other side was handed Phe following order: FORT ANDERSON, N~USE RIVER, April 8, 1863. Brig. Gen. F. B. SPINOLA, U. S. Volunteer8, New Be~rne, N. C.: GENERAL: The forces for the relief of Washington are hereby placed nuder your command, and a list of them is furnished to you. General Foster, commanding this department, has given positive instructions that all the available force at New Berne shall march to Washington to his relief. You will perceive that this order has been implicitly obeyed as far as placing the troops at your disposition is concerned. You have informed me that you have read the orders sent to General Prince by General Foster. As these are the only instructions I have seen I can only direct you to bear in mind the letter of General Foster and exercise your best judgment in carry- ing out his views. The sole object of the expedition is to get the troops into Wash- ington, now invested by the enemy, and I feel confident that everythingthat can be doiie will be effected. ~ Please to keep me informed of the state of affairs as you proceed. Look well to the roads leading into your route from the direction of Kinston. Should you be obliged to build ~ bridge at Swift Creek it should be protected, for the supplies for your com- mand may not be able to start until to-morrow. I will notauticipate a failure to get through, but should you be obliged to return (for I shall sei~d for you if this place is attacked by any force that I think will be able to overcome the force left here) let the return movement be conducted with order and great care I am, general, very respectfully; your obedient servant, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier-General, Cornmandi~g. on. the receipt of which I directed the column to be ready to move at 3 oclock that afternoon. I organized the several regiments comprising the command into three brigades, of five regiments each, and assigned to each brigade its proper portion of artillery, and also gave the cavalry the necessary instructions to govern them on the march. rfhe First Brigade was put under the command of Colonel Amory, of the Seventeenth Massachusetts Volunteers, and comprised the follow. mo- infantry and artillery: The Seventeenth Massachusetts Volun teers two 32-pounder howitzers, Forty-third Massachusetts Volunteers, One hundred and first Pennsylvania Volunteers, Ninety-sixth New Yrk Volunteers, Third. Massachusetts Volunteers, andiBelgers batters Page 249 f~4IAP. XIXX.J SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 249 The Second Brigade was commanded by Colonel Lee, and consisted of the following-named infantry and artillery: The Eighty-fifth New York Volunteers, One hundred and third Pennsylvania Volunteers, Riggs battery, Fifth Massachusetts Volunteers, Eighth Massachusetts Volunteers, and One hundred and thirty-second New York Volunteers. The Third Brigade was under the command of Colonel Bierer, and included the following regiments of infantry and pieces of artillery: Two pieces of artillery, One hundred and seventy-fifth~Pennsylvania Militia, One hundred and fifty-eighth New York Volunteers, One hun- dred and seventy-first Pennsylvania Militia, One hundred and fifty- eighth Pennsylvania Militia, and Fifth Rhode Island Volunteers. The following official statement, purporting to show the true strength of the command, was also furnished me by General Palmer on the day the expedition was to leave, and it is the one referred to in General Palmers order: Eighty-fifth New York Infantry One hundred and third Pennsylvania Infantry Fifth Massachusetts Infantry Eighth Massachusetts Infantry One hundred and fifty-eighth New York Infantry One hundred and thirty-second New York Infantry Third Massachnsetts Infantry. - - - Seventeenth Massachusetts Infantry. Forty-third Massachusetts Infantry One hundred and first Pennsylvania Infantry.. - Ninety-sixth New York Infantry. One hundred and seventy-first Pennsylvania Infantry One hundred and fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry One hundred and seventy-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry Fifth Rhode Island Infantry Official 8tatement of troop8 that can be furnished Brig. Gen. H Prince, U. S. Volunteers, commanding Expedition, April 8, 1863. Men. 445 471 593 271 245 555 674 591 701 395 278 600 600 600 388 Total infantry 7,407 Artillery, 16 guns. Cavalry, two squadrons, 400 men. By command of Brig. Gen. I. N. Palmer, commanding: J. A. JUDSON, Gaptain and Assistant Adjutant- General. It is evident that this statement was prepared with the understand- ing that General Prince was to command. It represents the strength of the expedition to be 7,807, exclusive of the artillery, which was 316, as shown by a field report made at the time of starting, which would make the whole force 8,123; while the field report received from each brigade, together with the artillery and cavalry, half an hour before starting, showed the whole force to be but 6,465, instead of 8,123, a difference of 1,658 less than that shown by the official statement. The column moved promptly at 3 oclock, and reached Little Swift Creek at 8 oclock the same evening, having, marched between 14 and 15 miles. The advance guard met the enemys picket about 7 miles from Fort Anderson. They retreated without returning fire. Half an hour later three heavy guns were heard in the direction of Swift Creek Village, which I took for alarm guns of the enemy. From information of a character that seemed entirely reliable I learned that six regiments of infantry (about 6,000 men), under command of General Pettigrew, and one regiment of cavalry, under command of Colonel Claiborne, numbering about 1,000 men, were encamped at Walter Rufts farm, o Page 250 [CHAP. XXX. 250 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. the road leading to Washington and Hills Point, where it crosses Blounts Creek. From various sources I learned that the enemy were also in large force at Swift Creek Village and occupied both sides of the bridge, as well as the roads leading to Kinston and Greenville; but I could not learn their exact strength, except that they occupied five or six different camps. The fact that the enemy were mu torce at the cross-roads in front of Washington was also confirmed by both contrabands and prisoners in a manner that left no. doubt in my mind that the strength of the enemy on the south side of Pamlico ILtiver and vicinity, and all of which were within supporting distance of each other, could not have been less than 12,000 or 15,000 men, although it was fixed by all the information received at a much greater number. With these facts before me and after a consultation with the brigade com- manders together with the chief officer of artillery, who were unanimons in their expressions of opinion that the column had better return to INew Berne, as in their judgment an absolute failure would be the result of the expedition if we proceeded by this route, I therefore concluded not to go by the way of Swift Creek Village. The infantry of the enemy at this place was strongly intrenched and had thrown np earthworks for their artillery which commanded all the direct approaches to the village, although from the evidence received their strength in the village proper was not as great as mine, and if I had attacked them there and driven them out of the place they could have retreated toward the cross-roads in front of Washington and joiimed the forces located at that point. Still, to have pursued this course and pushed on toward Washington by this route would have exposed my left flank to the assault of the enemy, who were encamped in considerable force on the roads leading toward Kinston and Greenville, while Petti- grew would certainly have crossed Blounts Creek and attacked my rear, for I had no way of protecting it except by dividing my force arid it was not large enough to admit of that being done, particularly so as I would have been compelled to have met at the cross-roads and in my front a force very much larger than my own and well intrenched. Thus hemmed in on three sides by aim active foe, with an impenetm~able swamp on my right, it would have left me but a small chance of success and no opportunity whatever of falling back in the event of a repulse at the cross-roads, the consequence of which would have been either the annihilation of my command or its capture, to avoid which I decided to I ry and reach Washington by the way of Blounts Creek road, and if possible drive the enemy back, so as to reach Hills Point and capture that battery and thus raise the blockade. In making this march I could completely cover my rear and flanks by removing the bridges across Little Swift Creek and blockading the roads over which I was to pass before reaching the main road leading to Blounts Creek, all of which I did, although I could not have protected my rear and flanks by the same means if I had taken the Swift Creek road, as it would have (lit off my only means of retreat in the event of a repulse, as well as to have completely destroyed all communication with New Berne, which I was (lirected to protect and keep open for the accommodation of the wagon and ammunition train, which could not start until one day after the main body of the troops. I further deem it of interest that the following communicatiomi, re- ceived from General Palmer while on the march, should be introduced in this report, as it is confirmatory of my own information in regard to the strength and position of the enemy Page 251 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OP WASHINGTON. N. 0. 251 NEW BEItNE, N. C., April 9,1863S a. m. Brig. Gen. F. B. SPINOLA, United States Volunteers: GENERAL: Yours, written at 11 p. m. yesterday, I have received. An hour before I received your letter I heard from Captain McCann, commanding the gunboats on the river near the blockade the same information concerning the force and position of the enemy. Your suggestions as to the mode of relief for Washington, taking all things into consideration, appear to be good. I cannot trammel you with orders. Your own good judgment must dictate your course. Your suggestion concerning the transporta- tion and the wagons to be forwar~ed shall be adopted. Very respectfully, yours, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier-General, Commanding. On the morning of April 9 I moved back from Little Swift Creek to- ward the New Hope School:llouse, which I reached at 9 oclock, halted the column, fed the artillery horses (the forage having j ust reached inc at this point), ~nd at 10 oclock started for Blounts Creek, a distance of 11 miles, which place I reached at about 3 oclock in the afternoon. After marching 2 miles we met and exchanged fire with the enemys pickets, which was continued until we reached the cross-roads 1 mile from Huffs Mill, which is located near the head of the creek. I here halted the column for about fifteen minutes while I made a reconnais- sance of the approaches to the bridge which led over th~ creek. I here found the enemy in forc6 and strongly intrenched. I moved forward Colonel Amorys brigade, with two 32-pounder howitzers under the com- mand of Lieutenant Folk, and the I 2-pounder Nal)oleon battery under command of Captain Belger. The approaches to the creek by the main road were through a dense wood with marsh on the left, the ground to the right being a little higher but heavily timbered, while the edge of the stream could not be reached owing to its swampy nature, together with the growth of heavy timber and underbrush which rendered it im- passable, so that it was impossible to reach the creek below the bridge except toward its mouth, a distance of 5 or 6 miles, and there it could not be crossed without the aid of pontoon bridges or flats decked over, neither of which I had been provided with. As we approached, the enemy opened fire on the column from the op- posite bank of the creek and the engagement was immediately com- menced by Company , Third New York Cavalry, Captain Pond, which was dismounted and deployed as skirmishers, with a mountaiti howitzer under command of Lieutenant Burke, the howitzer and cavalry being nuder the direction of Major Garrard, Third New York Cavalry. The advance line of skirmishers was also engaged at the same time with the cavalry and howitzer companies. The enemy on the opposite bank of the creek, which is not fordable and crossed only by a bridge which they had rendered impassable by tearing off the planking, were concealed on the higher ground occupied by them. I accordingly had the skirmishers, the howitzer, and cavalry companies withdrawn, and opened fire with canister from the two 32- pounder howitzers, to which I soon added four pieces of Belgers bat- tery, the enemy replying in the same manner with grape, canister, and shell. The engagement continued for an hour and three-quarters in this way. Having silenced the enemy~s guns and dismounted one of them, and finding it utterly impossible under the circumstances to cross the creek, I ordered the infantry to fall back and the artillery gradually with- drawn, with a squadron of cavalry in their rear. No property of any description was left behind. The return marc Page 252 (CHAP. XXX. 252 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. was made without the least confusion or interruption of any kind and without any molestation from the enemy. The column proceeded as fir as the New Hope School-House and bivouacked for the night, and returned to New Berne the next day. The casualties of officers and men were 11 wounded, none killed, which was very slight considering the nature of the engagement. Captaill Belger was wounded in the leg, the ball passing through his thigh and killing his horse under him; in the Seventeenth Massachusetts Volun- teers, Lieutenant Roberts and 7 men; in the artill6ry, 2 men besides Cal)tain Belger. It is impossible to ascertain the loss of the enemy. Several prisoners were taken. As our fire was well sustained, it doul)tless did good exe- cution. The Seventeenth Massachusetts Volunteers and the Forty-third Mas sachusetts Militia were the only part of my infantry engaged, and the conduct of both officers and men was all that could be desired, as was also that of the artillery and cavalry engaged. I take great pleasure in stating that the conduct of Colonel Amory, commanding brigade; Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, of the cavalry; Lieu- ten ant-Colonel Fellows, commanding Seventeenth Massachusetts, to- gether with Captain Belger, of the artillery, during the march and en- gagement, was not only cool and brave but of the most creditable character, particularly while under fire; as was also that of Major G ar- rard, of the Third New York Cavalry; Major Frankle, of the Seven- teenth Massachusetts Volunteers, and Ma Stone, of the Third New York Artillery, the last-named officers having been temporarily detailed on my staff. I am, colonel, with respect, your obedient servant, F. B. SPINOLA, Brigadier- General. Lient. Col. SOUTHARD HOFFMAN, Assistant Adjutant General, Eighteenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS SPJNOLAS BRIGADE, Washington, N. U., May 18, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report: At 5 p. m. on April 13 II received the following order: NEW BmiNE, N. C., April 13, 1863. Brigadier-General SPINOLA, Commanding Brigade: GENERAL: You will cross the Neuse with your brigade with as much expedition as practicable, and make from Fort Anderson a careful reconnaissance in the direction of Washington, for the purpose of ascertaining the condition of the country and to divert the attention of the enemy from their attempt on our position at Washington. A squadron of cavalry and a section each from Belgers, Riggs, and Ransoms batteries are ordered to accompany you. Major Garrard, an officer of intelligence and familiar with the country, will report to you in person for such duty as you may require. The road to the New Hope School-House and that toward Swift Creek Yillage should be carefully examined, and in all movements care should be taken to secure your flanks and rear by occupying strong and unassailable positions. Much m left to your di~ere lion, it being understood that General Fosters desire is for ns to occupy or divert the attention of the enemy from his front. The (1uartermasters department is ordered to furnish the necessary transportation. Three days rations will be taken in the haversacks, and additional supplies sent to you at Fort Anderson on your requisition Page 253 CHAP. XXIX.] SIEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 253 It is desirable that you move with all your effective force and issue strict orders against straggling, marauding, destruction of property, and the wanton practice of firing the woods along the line of march. Communicate frequently with these headquarters. Respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. WESSELLS Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Commanding. I immediately ordered the necessary rations prepai~d for the march, and at 8 oclock on the evening of April 13 reached Fosters Wharf and the brigade crossed over the Kense River. At 11 oclock we reached the old rebel fort 1 mile beyond Fort Anderson and bivouacked for the night. At daybreak on the morning of April 14 the brigade took up its line of march toward the New Hope School-House, which place we reached early in the forenoon. Having marched 10 miles I halted the column to allow the men to rest and prepare their dinner, after which I care- fully examined by sfrong detachments all the roads leading to this place for a distance of 7 or 8 miles, except the one leading to Swift Creek. After the return of the various detachments, it being late in the day and the men considerably fatigned, I ordered the brigade to bivonac for the night. There was no enemy in any force on any of the roads examined ex- cept pickets, 5 of whom I captured, 3 of them belonging to Claibornes cavalry and 2 of them to Whitfords battalion. It was my intention to have moved on toward Swift Creek Village and attack the enemy at that place, but before reaching Little Swift Creek I received the follow- ing explanatory. instructions from the general commanding: HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTh Ani~iv CORPS, New Berne, N. 0., April 14, 1863. Brigadier-General SPINOLA: SIR: I am directed by the general commanding to inform you that it will be im- possible to send you more cavalry. The general is afraid that you may have misun- (lerstoo(l his orders. His desire is that you should simply make a thorough recon- naissance, not au attack, and that you should be particular to keep your rear strongly protected so in case you want additional supplies it will not be necessary to send a guard with the train. Each road in your rear should be left strongly guarded. The general desires you to communicate with him iu writing as often as possible. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN F. ANDERSON, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. At daylight on the morning of April 15 the brigade moved toward Swift Creek by the old road across Little Swift Creek. I found the road blockaded and the bridge over the creek destroyed. I commenced a reconstruction of the bridge, but before I had completed it I received an order from General Wessells to return to New Berne, which Idid that night. I gained on this reconnaissance no additional information in regard to the position and force of the enemy, all the proofs establishing their strength, as heretofore reported, from 18,000 to 25,000, and chiefly en- caml)ed at and near Swift Creek Village, the cross-roads in front of Washington, at Blounts Creek, and on the north side of Washington. The brigade on reaching Fort Anderson bivouacked for the night and remained there until April 18. I have the honor to be, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. B. SPINOLA, Brigadier- General. Col. SOIJTHARD HOFFJIIAN, A. A. G., Eighteenth Army Corps Page 254 254 NORTH CAROLINA .~ND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Itinerary of the First Brigade, Fifth Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, March 31April 21, 1863.* March 31.The One hundred and seventy-first, One hundred and fifty- eighth, and One hundred and seventy-fifth Regiments Pennsylvania Militia, of this brigade, left New Berne on steamboats and transports, to re-enforce Gener~ji Foster at Washington, N. C. Found the river block- aded by rebel batteries on both sides, which were attacked by our gan- boats, but failed to raise the blockade, and we had to return to New Berne, where we arrived April 6. April 8.The same three regiments left New Berne on another expe- dition by land to Washington, and went as far as Blounts Creek, where we had an artillery engagenient. The bridge over the creek being torn up and the creek not fordable, we returned to New Berne, where we arrived on the night of the 10th instant. - April 13.The whole brigade crossed the Neuse River and went on a reconnaissance. April 14.Marched toward Swift Creek and Washington, N. C. At New Hope School-House we captured 2 rebel cavalry pickets. We then marched toward Little Swift Creek, but by orders of General Wessells we returned, to Fort Anderson on the night of the 15th and bivouacked there until the 18th, when the brigade again left for Swift Creek Village, clearing the blockade on the roads and building three bridges on our march. April 19.In the afternoon we met the enemys pickets and drove them across Big Swift Creek that night. April 20.We crossed into the village. Finding no rebels there we returned to New Berne, where we arrived on the night of April 21. No. 13. Itinerary of the Second Brigade, E~fth Division, Gol. James Jourdan, One hundred and fiftieth New York Infantry, commanding, April 7~22.* The princil)al incidents of the history of this brigade during the month ending April 30 are as follows: April 7.The regiments of this brigade, under the immediate corn- mand of Col. F. J. Coffin, of the Eighth Massachusetts Volunteer Militia (1 being absent from the department by authority of the major-general commanding), formed a part of the force which marched under command of Brig. Gen. F. B. Spinola for the purpose of relieving the garrison at Washington, N. C.; said force failing to accomplish the object for which it marched, returned to New Berne April 10. Nothing worthy of special mention occurred on the occasion referred to. April 17.This brigade again moved in the direction of Kinston, un- der my immediate coulmand, together with other forces under the gen- eral direction of Brig. Gen. Henry Prince, commanding Fifth Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, and after passing Core Creek scoured the country to within about 10 miles of Kinston, skirmishing continually, and, by proper co-operation with other forces, sncceeded in compelling the enemy to retire precipitately from an intrenched camp on a place known as Sandy Ridge, leaving in our hands between 30 and 40 pris- oners, and after accomplishing the object for which it marched, returned to New Berne on April 22. * From Brigade Return for April, 1863 Page 255 CHAP. XXX.] SiEGE OF WASHINGTON, N. C. 255 No. 14. Report of Brig. Gen. Robert Ransom, jr., 0. S. Army, of skirmish at Sandy Ridge, April 20. HEADQUARTERS, Kinston, N. 0., April 21, 1863. GENERAL: Your note of to-day is received. I have started five differ- ent parties to vicinity of Morehead City and New Berne. Whitford rel)orts the Yankees retiring from Swift Creek says Foster declares he will give you a hard fight, which will do to write in the history of the war. In an hour after your telegram came I started a regiment and four pieces of artillery to Cowards Bridge. I have now here sixteen field pieces. I kept [A. Th] Moore, [Company E, Tenth North Carolina Volunteers, or First Artillery], as I deemed his battery of importance. Yesterday there was another skirmish on Sandy Ridge; three compa- nies of the Forty-ninth and about 70 of [Maj. J. H.] Nethercntts men, [Eighth North Carolina Battalion]. The enemy was first driven back, imt got a strong re-enforcement and in turn we had to retire. We had 1 killed, 6 wounded, and 112 or 14 missing. Three horses were killed by our men belonging to the field officers. We went forward to in sight of Core Creek after the fight. To hold Core Creek would require at least two regiinents.~ I cannot. afford to fritter away strength. We shall soon know if the enemy is going to tome this way. I should have to fight him on Southwest [Creek] or not at all until he gets to the river. We are working on Southwest. If I have time will destroy the works over the bridge. For three days I have been getting sick, and am now hardly able to write this. If morning finds me no better this place will need your presence or some one else. I have no horses. Where are the Wheeler horses ~? I heard that the men were permitted to sell them or send them home. If an attack be made here we cannot well have too many guns. I am almost ill. Yours, respectfully and truly, 11.RANSOM, JR., General ID. H. HILL. Brigadier-General. P. S.I have just heard (9 p. in.) that the enemy is rebuilding the raih-oad; finished to Core Creek, and were working this side with very large force Page 256 256 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. ICHAr. XXX. APRIL 1, 1863.Expedition from Yorktown to Smiths and Byrds Planta tions, Ware River, Va. RS2PORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Erasmus D. Keyes, U. S. Army. No. 2.Second Lieut. William S. Andrews, Ninth New York Infantry, Acting Signal Officer. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. Erasmus D. Keyes, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Fort Yorktown, Va., April 7, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the following extract from the report of Lieut. Corn. J. II. Gillis, commanding United States steamer Commodore Morris, to Admiral Lee, of an expedition into Gloucester County by the land and naval forces on this station. Commander Gillis kad on the 31st nltimo made an examination of the country bor- dering on Ware River and found stored there large quantities of grain for the Southern Army. I extract from his report as follows: I therefore embarked my men, and with Mr. Smith as prisoner returned to York- town; immediately communicated with General Keyes, informed him of the circum- stances, and, his views coinciding with iiiine as to the necessity of either bringing off or destroying the grain, I determined to return to Ware River on the following morn- ing, the 1st instant, and on informing General Keyes that a rebel cavalry force was stationed at Gloucester Court-House, and that our operations, if we went without a considerable force, would not be likely to remain undisturbed, he immediately placed at my disposal as many men, cavalry or infantry, whichever I thought would he best, as I thought would be necessary. I took 100 infantry, and with these and the Delaware, which I fortunately met on my way down York River and directed to accompany me, I yesterday morning returned to the plantation of Mr. Smith and commenced remov- ing a quantity of wheat, of which there was about 1,000 bushels, but had not gotten oft more than 250 bushels before the alarm was given that the cavalry were approach- mo- The men were immediately formed and we prepared to give them a warm recep- tien as they charged down upon us, and a few well-directed shots caused a wavering in their ranks, and a cheer and a charo-e on the part cf both sailors and soldiers turned an attack into a retreat, and they fled until out of range of our muskets, when they halted and appeared to he holding a consultation, but just at this time a shot was fired from the 100-pounder rifle on board this ship, which struck right in their midst, and they again took to flight and disappeared around a bend of the road. On going down the road some distance I discovered indications of the effect of our firing, there being quite a quantity of blood in the road, showing that some of the party had paid pretty dearly for their tenierity. I would state that when we were seen approaching, the overseers son was sent off, and I had not the least doubt, when I learned that such was the case, that he had been sent to bring a force sufficient to cut us off, not expecting to meet any more than had landed the day before, and they were doubtless very much surprised on seeing so large a force. They succeeded in capturing 2 of our pickets in their charge, but had not time to take them off, when they in their turn were charged upon, and the consequence was that we did not lose a man. Knowing that it would take me a long time to re- niove the grain, and that the enemy would hav~ ample time to bring down a strong force upon us, I determined to destroy it, and thdrefore set fire to all but one of the buildings, in which there were at least 1,500 bushels of corn; that I left for the use of the family and the haiids on the plantation. After seeing the fires vfell under way I embarked my force without further molesta- tion and started to return. Arriving opposite to the house of a man by the name of Byrd, who is an officer in the rebel army, and who had left his property in charge of an old negro servant, I landed a party, who found that there was a large quantity of corn stored in lils barns, and these were also set fire to; and, although the party were on shore but a few nioinents, they came very near being cal)Ulre(l, the cavalry making a dash down upon them under cover of the smoke of ~he burning buildings; but I dis- covered them in time t, throw a shell from one of the howitzers, which exploded i Page 257 CHiP. XXX.] EXPEDITION FROM YORKTOWN, VA. 257 their midst and they fled witho~it accomplishing their object. I destroyed at this latter place, as near as could be estimated, 1,000 bushels of wheat and 3,000 bushels of corn, making altogether some 22,000 to 23,000 bushels of grain that the rebels have thus been deprived of. J have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. KEYES, Major-General, Commanding Fourth Army Corp8. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, U. S. Army. No. 2. Report of Second Licut. William S. Andrews, Ninth New York Ii~fantry, Acting Signal Officer. ON BOARD U. S. STEAMER COMMODORE MoRRIs, Off Yorktown, Va.; April 3, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report to the Signal Officer of the Army, liaviug directed the fire of this vessel (from the shore) by sig- nals on a small body of the enemy at head of Ware River, near Glou- cester Court-House, Va., on the 1st instant. On the 31st of March, Captain Gillis, of the Commodore Morris, dis- covered a large quantity of grain stored in barns at the bead of Ware River. it was determined either to remove it or destroy it, and on the next day, the 1st, we returned to Ware River with two companies of infantry on board the Morris, and the gunboat Delaware in company. Gaptain Gillis expected interruption from the rebel cavalry that infests Gloucester and Matthews Counties to the number of about 200. 1 accompanied him ashore for the purpose of communicating with the Morris in case of necessity, relying on one of my flagmen, Private George II. Walker, whom I left on board, to read the signals. The party landed; soldiers and sailors numbered about 200. The meit all landed between 11 and 12 a. m. and set to work carrying the grain to the boats and loaded a schooner brought for that purpose. The inThntry posted pickets and made the usual preparations for defense in case of attack. A number of messages were sent to gunboat between that time and 1 p. m. At about that time a cavalry force of the enemy were seen approaching our pickets. I immediately signaled the Mor- mix that the enemy approached, and by Captain Giflis order directed them how to fire. The first shot fired from the boat fell in the midst of the rebels, emptying one saddle. They retired precipitately several hundred yards, leaving two of our pickets, whom they had already cap- tured, and whom in their flight they attempteA to kill. The gunboats continued to fire; constantly ~irected by signals as the enemy changed J)ositions, the Delaware firing in the same direction as the Morris. Our men now advanced up the road at a double.quick, firing one or two volleys. The enemy retired into the edge of a piece of woods, about 1,000 yards distant from our position, which the gunboats continued to shell, still directed by signals. In consequence of the interruption by the enemy the plan of removing the grain was abandoned and the barns 17 R RYOL XVII Page 258 [CHAP. XXX. 258 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. were fired. When they were burned we ret~urned to the vessels, all the force being embarked by 3.30 p. m. The following is an extract from flue report of Lieutenant-Commander 0-illis, commanding United States steamer Morris, to Acting Rear-Ad- miral Lee, commanding North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, which I am permitted to make: I would state that I received most important aid from Lieutenant Andrews, of the Signal Corps, as by his assistance I was enabled to direct the aiming of the guns on l)oard this vessel. All my messages were transmitted with the greatest celerity, al- most as rapidly as they could have been given had they been delivered orally,, and with entire accuracy, and this, too, during the excitement of a sudden attack. I desire to call especial attention to the coolness and efficiency of Private George II. Walker, signal flagman. For some mouths I have known of Walkers capacity to read. He obtained the code over a year ago through the negligence and carelessness of an officer instructed at Annapolis. For a long time I promised the severest punishment to my men if caught attempting to read or to obtain any portion of the code, but finding that officers senior ~o myself not only tolerated but encour- aged their men to do so, I spoke to them of it, and was informed that the matter was well known to Major Myer. Since being at Yorktown, therefore, I have allowed Walker to read, and have been astonished at his intelligence, superior to that of some officers I have ~vorked with. Lieutenant Benson and myself abbreviated all ordinary messages to at least one-fourth their length if sent in full; but Walker seldom has trouble to read them. In directing the fire of the Morris on the 1st in- stant I at first partially spelled out the messages, using only the more suggestive abbreviations, such as eny, enemy; apch, approach, & c. But desiring to work more quickly I used the abbreviations dl, ef, ot; fo, ect, and was somewhat astonished at Walkers receiving them all instantly and correctly without once calling for a ~~repeat.~~ He has never heretofore received the official abbreviations from me, but I have now given them to him, as I deem myself justified in doing, as I am liable at any time to have occasion to use them with him. I desire to recommend Private Walker for promotion. I intended to have recommended him for appointment as sergeant under the new organization of the Signal Corps, and now I consider that he has doubly earned his chevrons. Walker has been with me since June 25, 1862, and I have had ample opportunity of knowing hi8 capacity. The accompanying plan * will explain the relative positions of the forces engaged in the affair of the 1st instant. The outline of the sketch was enlarged from a chart. I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. S. ANDREWS, Second Lieut. Ninth N. Y. Vols. and Acting Signal Officer. Capt. LEONARD F. HEPBURN, Acting Signal Offi?~er, Washington, D. C. 4 P. S.Since this report was written information has been received at Major-General Keyes headquarters that during the firing from the gunboats, directed by signals, on the 1st, the enemy lost 4 killed and 3 wounded. Our forces sustained no loss whatever. * Not found Page 259 CHAP. XXX.1 SKIRMISH AT NIXONTON, N. C. 259 APRIL 6, 1863.Skirmish at Nixonton, N. C. Report of Capt. Enos C. Sanders, First North Carolina (Union) Infantry. WASHINGTON, N. C., May 1,1863. I started on the steamer Massasoit for New Berne and arrived at midnight. Took the same boat on the 2d instant for Plymouth. I made application for transportation at New Berne, and the quartermas- ter, Lieutenant-Colonel Biggs, ordered the Massasoit to go the whole trip with me; but as hi& orders did not reach the captain of the steamer I went to Plymouth, where I arrived on Sunday, the 3d instant. Saw Commander Charles Flusser that evening; he was to send a gunboat as convoy to the steamer Massasoit, which I had already procured the use of, to go as far as Roanoke with me. After getting the men that I was after (but afterwards the general decided to send a gunboat and a company of infantry), on the morning of the 4th I started at 5 a. m. on the United States gunboat Southfield, Captain Behm commanding, with a company of the Eighty-fifth New York Infantry, Lieutenant Whitney commanding. Arrived at Halleys Landing at 9a.m.; the wharf had been burned by the Confederates. 1 landed with the company, and, on making inquiries, found that the men of Company E were encamped in the woods 10 miles from that place, and as it was uncertain about the force of the enemy in that vicinity I did not think it prudent to go into the country. We then started for the Pasquotank River, where we arrived at 5 p. m. We landed at the mouth of the river and marched to Shiloh, a distance of 10 miles, where we went aboard of the gunboat at 10 p. m. I sent word to the men to be ready the next day to go with me. On the morning of the 5th we went to Elizabeth City; landed and got the family of William Wright; went to Shiloh; the schooner Patty Martin had arrived; went to Jones Mill; landed; marched to Old Trap; found so me of the men collected there, but the others, not know- ing of our presence, could not be found. We stayed till morning, and then went on board with 7 of my men, as follows: Peter, Stephen, Cor- nelius, and Nicholas Burgess, Ithean and Wilson Duncan, and Demp- sey Wright. We crossed over to the Pasquotank side; landed and got the family of Joseph Morgan. There were four men in that county be- longing to my company; one, John Cartwright, came with us; one could not be found, and the other two were, one sick and one wounded. We went aboard at dark. On the morning of the 6th the Southifeld started for Roanoke at 2 a. m. I started for Nixonton, on Little River, at daylight with the schooner Patty Martin and my men, numbering 17. We arrived at the landing of Thomas Moss place at 5p. ma.; came to anchor; sent a boat ashore with 6 men, with orders not to land till they found all right; a large flat at the landing looked suspicious. As the boat approached the land they saw a handkerchief waived in the window of Mrs. Moss house. They put about and pulled for the schooner, when they were fired upon by the guerrillas. They returned the fire from the boat, and we commenced a brisk fire from the schooner, which was kept up till the boat came alongside, when we got under way and headed down the river. We had used nearly all the ammunition we had. There was no one hurt on our side, although the boat was within 40 yards of the shore when fired upon. The vessel was struck several times. We got to the mouth of the river at sunset, where we found the United States steame Page 260 260 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. IX VIRGINIA. [CnAP. XXX. Whitehead, Captain French commanding. We went back to Nixonton in the morning; got the family of Mr. Moss, and started for Roanoke Island. I landed at Croatan for the family of J. W. fiarrison ,but the weather was so heavy he could not get on board. Stopped at Roanoke till 10 p. in.; got under way and sailed for Washington, where we arrived at 6.30 a. in., on Sunday, May 10. 1 labored under the difficulties of having a gunboat of too much draught of water, whose commander was very anxious to get to Roa. noke, and therefore would not give me time to do my business as I could ~f I had had the command of the expedition myself. I left 11 men in Camden, 3 in Pasquotank, and ~ in Elizabeth City. it was impossible to get word to them in so short a time, as they have to keep hid in the woods most of the time. Yours, respectfully, E. C. SANDERS, Gaptain, Company D, First North Carolina (Union) VQls. APRIL 7, 1863.Expedition from Gloucester Point to Gloucester Court House, Va. Report of Cot. A. iii. Grirnshaw, Fourth Delaware infantry. CAMP GILPIN, Gloucester Point, April 9, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that in obedience to your order of instant I left this post at 7 a. in. on Tuesday, the 7th in- stant, with a detail from the Fourth Delaware Volunteers and three companies of the One hundred and sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Drafted Militia, the squadron of the Second Massachusetts Cavalry attached to this command, and a detachment of cavalry under Major Hall, of the Sixth New York. The party proceeded up the main- road to Gloucester Court-House. At Abingdon Meeting-House I left one company of One hundred and sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Drafted Militia to prevent any communication with the enemys pickets. Beyond Hickory Fork Major Hall was ordered to proceed to the right, and after destroying any grain he might find, to join the column at or near Gloucester Court-House. With regard to the particulars of the destruction of grain I refer to Major Halls report, which I have directed him to send directly to your headquarters. No mail was found at Gloucester Court-House ready to be sent south. A few letters, which II have handed to General Keyes, were found. These confirm the account of the late fight with and defeat of Lees cavalry. In accordance with the instructions of the general commanding the Fourth Army Corps I made preparations to return to Gloucester Point on the 7th, since the re-enforcements from the gunboat had not landed, and the signalone rocketwas not received by the boat. The die- tauce to the station of the boat being evidently greater than we had supposed, Major Hall proceeded by the Bell Roy road, making a detour toward the York River, so as to destroy a quantity of grain in a barn beyond Gloucester Court-House, of which we obtained information at Gloucester Court-House. The major rejoined the column at Hickory Fork. The force marched during thirteen hours 32 miles. The me Page 261 CHAP. XXX] GLOUCESTER POINT, VA. 261 and horses returned in good spirit and condition. The roads were muddy anti obstructed by numerous collections of water. I inclose a report of Lieutenant Toner, quartermaster of Fourth Del- aware Volunteers, of the amount of material seized and placed in his charge; also a note from Major Crowninshield.~ Allow me to speak of the good conduct of the men and the prompt- ness of the officers accompanying the expedition. Major Hall was act- ive and efficient and rendered me especial service by his advice and experience. Lieutenant-Colonel Tevis, Fourth Delaware, and Major Ciowninshield, with Captain Paul, all contributed, each in his positioi, to the success of the movements. I (lid not destroy the grain at Tabbs farm, because it is within such a short distance that a very small force can transport it to this post. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. II. GRIMSIIAW, Colonel, Commanding Post. Major-General KEYES, Yorktown, Va. APRIL 914, 1863.Operations against Gloucester Point, Va. Report of Cot. D. J. Godwin, C. S. Army. IIEADQUARTERS, King and Queen Court-House, Va., April 15, 1803. GENERAL: In obedience to your order of the 7th instant I proceeded on Thursday, the 9th, with all the force undermy command then armed and equipped, to the enemy~s fortifications at Gloucester Point. I ar- rived in the neighborhood of the Point Thursday evening. By daybreak on Friday morning I appeared in front of his works and remained there during the day, making demonstrations at several different points. I appeared alternately as infantry and cavalry, and so maneuvered my troops as to represent a heavy force. I drove in his Pickets early on Friday morning, killing 1, wounding another, and captured 2 unhurt. I had ~ men wounded, 1 badly, the other only slightly. I kept up these demonstrations Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday until 112 in., at which time I returned to my camp, leaving behind, however, two full companies to watch the enerny~s movements. The enemys force at the Point consisted of two infantry regiments, one battalion of cavalry, and two field batteries. I am satisfied that my demonstrations had the effect of diverting his force from the Peninsula. I found it ut- terly impossible to attack him behind his works with success, and there- fore decided not to do so. His fortifications at the Point are strong and thorough. My officers behaved with great gallantry and my men with marked firmness. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. J. GODWIN, Maj. Gen. ARNOLD ELZEY, Colonel, Commanding. Commanding Department of Richmond, Va. P. S.Capt. Robert Tomlin, a volunteer aide, who behaved with dis- tinguished gallantry, L regret to say, was severely wounded in the leg. *Not found Page 262 262 NORTF[ CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. APRIL 11, 1863.Skirmish at Williamsburg, Va. REPORTS, ETC. No. l.Maj. Gen. Erasmus D. Keyes, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. RuThs King, U. S. Army, commanding at Yorktown, with result- ing correspondence. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. Erasmus D. Kepes, U. S. Army. FORT MONROE, VA., April 11, 1863. Our communication with Fort Magruder is re-established. The en- emy have retired beyond. They destroyed some camp and garrison equipage of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry and a small amount of hospital stores. No other loss reported. Wise and his whole force are near Williamsburg. I have ordered Colonel West to hold the strofg line of defense below the city at all hazards. It would be very injurious to give it up. E. D. KEYES, Major- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. NORFOLK, VA., April 11, 18638 p. m The enemy was fairly repulsed at Williamsburg to-day. Our pickets are in the edge of the city, and the line of Fort Magruder, strengthened by another regiment, is now guarded from York River to James River. We lost no men. Found two dead rebels, but they had time, when our shots fell, to carry off dead and wounded. While the affair at Williams- bnrg was closing the rebels attacked Pecks pickets at Suffolk, and a deserter just in from there reports that 50,000 men are close upon our lines. I have ordered all our troops to hold their ground without re- gard to the number of the enemy. E~ D. KEYES, Major-General. 11\Iaj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. No. 2. Reports of Brig. Gen. Rufus King, U. S. Army, commanding at Yorktown, with resulting correspondence. YORKTOWN, April 11, 18637.45 a. m. The enemy appeared in front of Williamsburg this morning about 6 oclock. Our pickets fell back in good order to Fort Magruder. Colonel West has opened fire on the town and is now firing. Force of the enemy not yet known. RUFUS KING, Brigadier- General. Major-General KEYES, Fort Monroe Page 263 CHAP. XXX,J SKIRMISH AT WILLIAMSBURG, VA. 263 YORKTOWN, April 11, 18638.20 a. m. The enemy in large force, cavalry, artillery, and infantry, have passed through Williamsburg and are moving on Fort Magruder. Another force of infantry, reported 500 strong, have got on this side of the fort. They haye captured and destroyed the camp of the Fifth Pennsylvania, burned the hospital, and paroled the patients. I have ordered the Sixth New York to fall back toward Yorktown. All communication with Colonel West is cut off. The troops here are under arms. If it be pos- sible I shall send re-enforcements to Colonel West; not, however, so as to endanger this post. Can a boat be sent up at once~ RUFUS KING, Brigadier. General. Major-General KEYES, Suffolk. YORKTOWN, April 11, 186312.30 p. in. I have just received a letter from Colonel West. He is all right and safe in Fort Magruder. He reports Wise in front with his entire com- mand. The road is open between this point and Fort Magruder. I have sent cavalry up to patrol the road and keep me advised of all move- ments. Except the camp and property of the Fifth Pennsylvania and some hospital stores we have lost nothing. RUFUS KING, Major-General KEYES, Fort Monroe. Brigadier-General. YORKTOWN, April 11, 18632.30 p. m. We have reopened communications with Fort Magruder. Colonel West has just telegraphed that everything is safe there; that the enemy are retreating, but still occupy Williamsburg, and that we have lost noth- ing but what was captured in the cavalry camp. He asks for a fresh regiment of infantry. I shall send him Colonel Johnsons regiment, and will bring over the Fourth Delaware to replace them, if need be. RUFUS KING, Major-General KEYES, Fort Monro.~. Brigadier.General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA Fort Monroe, April 11, 1863. Brigadier-General KING, Commanding, Yorktown: If the enemy are in rear of Williamsburg he can only be there in very small force, so I wish you to send up Colonel Johnsons regiment to clear them out and communicate with West. If there be two gun- boats on the station you can bring over the Fourth Delaware, who are plucky. If West has provisions and ammunition he can hold against 10,000 men, and the enemy cant spare that number; sohemust hold on. I have asked Admiral Lee to send a gunboat up James River. During the day the gunboat should move up and down between York- town and Wests Landing. F. B. KEYES, Major-General Page 264 264 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, April 11, 1863. Brigadier-General KING, Yorktown: I have directed a stern-wheel steamer for West to be sent np if one can be had. If West does not waste his ammunition he ought to do fiv~ times as much damage to the enemy as he receives. I cani~iot understand how the 500 got below Fort Magruder. iDid they cross the James River ~ Do all you can to supply West and to encourage him and his men to fight. E. D. KEYES, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, Fort Monroe, April 11, 1863. Brigadier.General KING, Yorktown: Order Colonel West to cease firing on Williamsburg unl~ss he knows the enemy are present there in arms. He will waste his ammunition. That town must be held as a shield, and it must not be destroyed ex- cept in accordance with my orders. E. D. KEYES, Major- General. [APRIL 12, 1863.] Brigadier-General KING: The line of defense at Fort Magruder ought not to be given up lightly. You ought not bring away anything from Gloucester Point. You may, however, use your discretion about sending another regiment of infantry toward Williamsburg. E. ~. KEYES, Major- General. YORKTOWN, April 12, 18639 a. m. Colonel West telegraphs that all is quiet as yet at the front; that the enemy are in large force on the other side of the town. He recommends abandoning the town and establishing his pickets on this side, as his force is not strong enough to guard the Peninsula. We have taken 10 prisoners, one of them an officer, who corroborates the rumor of yester- terday that Wise has issued orders to take the forts at all hazards. RUFUS KING, Brigadier- General. Major-General KEYES, Fort Monroe. YORKTOWN, April 12, 186311.35 a. m. Major Chamberlin, who has just come in from Fort Magruder, brings me a verbal communicaton from Colonel West to the effect that he thinks his position insecure and the line too extended to be successfully de- fended. From prisoners and deserters he learns that Wise, who is in command of the enemys force, has 4,000 infantry, 500 or 600 cavalry, and 6 or 8 pieces of artillery; that his orders from Richmond are t Page 265 CHAP. XXX.] SKIRMISH AT WILLIAMSBURG, VA. take and hold Williamsburg and Fort Magruder, and that he expresses his determination to do so. The prisoners say that their attack yester- day would have succeeded if the infantry that came around in rear of our cavalry camp had not been too late. They also report that Longstreet was to have attacked Suffolk and Fitzhugh Lee Gloucester at the same time that Wise assailed our front. Colonel West thinks that it will be difficult to hold his position without more infantry. He would also like two more 12-pounders. Unless he can be thus re-enforc~d he advises an abandonment of the present line and the establishment of a new and shorter one, say in the neighborhood of the brick hospital. A tug-boat came down James River as far as Kings Mill Landing yesterday and went np again. Wise, with his troops, is still at Williamsburg await- ing re-enforcements, as is said, though the attack may be renewed at any moment. All quiet thus far to-day. RUFUS KING, Major-General KEYES. Brigadier-General. YoRKToWN, April 12, 18634 p. m. Colonel West telegraphed. an hour ago that the enemy were reported to be advancing, and that his troops were under arms; but as we have heard no firing, the report was probably unfounded. Fourteen rebel prisoners, two of them lieutenants, have arrived here from Fort Magruder. They will be sent to Fort Monroe in the morning. Are we to continue to supply the patients in the insane asylum at Williamsburg~l RUFUS KING, Brigadier- General. Major-General KEYES, Norfolk. IIEADQUARTEI~S DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA, April 12, 18634 p. m. Brigadier-General KING, Yorktown, Va.: Until you receive further dispatches from me, do as circumstances re- quire; but I do not ~Avise sending up any artillery to Williamsburg. I think it will be far more dangerous to withdraw from that line than to hold it. E. D. KEYES, P. S.Keep me advised by telegraph. Major-General. YORKTOWN, VA., April 12, 1803. I do not think the line of defense now established will be given up. Colonel West is confident that he can hold his ground. No change will be made at Gloucester Point unless unforeseen circumstances require it. I shall keep a gunboat lying off Queens Creek, which will communi- cate with Colonel West. Three more prisoners were brought in to-night and others on the way. Everything quiet. RUFUS KING, Brigadier- General. Major-General KEYES. 26 Page 266 266 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. K VIRGINIA. (CHAP. XXX. YoRKTOWN, April 12, 186310.20 p. m. I have just received a dispatch from Fort Magruder. All quiet there, but an attack on the redoubts is expected in the morning. Colonel West suggests that a gunboat stationed off College Creek, in James River, would prevent the enemy from turning his left and thus proba- bly enable him to keep his line unbroken. RUI3US KING, Brigadier- General. Major-General KEYES, Norfolk. YORKTOWN, April 12, 18639 a. m. Colonel WEST, Fort Magruder: Do as you think best about drawing your pickets in closer to the forts. Keep me advised of any change in the situation of affairs and of your wants. General Keyes telegraphs from Norfolk that the line between Williamsburg and Yorktown must be held at all hazards. RUFUS KING, Brigadier- General. FORT MAGRUDER, April 12, 1863. IAeut. Col. C. C. SUYDAM: I did not understand by your last dispatch whether Colonel John- sons regiment is to remain here or return. He wants to know so as to provide himself and fix camp where they are. There are no bridges on Kings and College Creeks. The enemy did not cross the creek; they stole down along College Creek and so around by the Brick Church road. They cannot do it again without my knowledge. ROBT M. WEST, Commanding Advance Brigade. ArRIL 12, 1863. Colonel WEST: Coloffel Johnsons regiment will remain with you for the present. He had better get five days supplies. C. C. SUYDAM, A8sistant Adjutant- General Page 267 CHAP. XXI.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 267 APRIL 11NAY 4, 1863.Siege of Suffolk, Va. SUMMAR-Y OF TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. April 11, l863.Confederate forces, under command of Lieut. Gen. .J~mes Long- street, advance upon Suffolk. Skirmish on the South Quay Road, near the Blackwater. 1213, l863.Skirmishes on the Edenton, Providence Church, and Somerton. Roads. 14, l863.Engagement at the mouth of West Branch and near the Norfleet House, Nansemond River. 15, l863.Engagement near the Norfleet House. Skirmish on the Edenton Road. 17, l863.Skirmishing generally along the lines. 19, l863.Captnre of Battery Huger, Hills Point. 23, 1863.Affair at Chuckatuck. 24, 1863.Skirmish on the Edenton Road. May 1, 1863.Skirmish at South Quay Bridge. 2 4, l863.Confederate forces retire from Suffolk. 3, l863.Skirmishes near Hills Point and Reeds Ferry, Nansemond River. Skirmish at Chuckatuck. Reconnaissance on the Providence Church Road. 4, 1863.Skirmish at Leesville. REPORTS, ETC.* No. 1.Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Department of Vir- ginia, with congratulatory orders.t No. 2.Abstract from Record of Events in the Department of Virginia, April 11May 4. No. 3.Capt. Charles L. Davis, Eighty-second Pennsylvania Infantry, Chief Signal Officer. No. 4.Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army, commanding at Suffolk.t No. 5.Return of Casualties in the Union forces. No. 6.Brig. Gen. Michael Corcoran, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Sev- enth Army Corps. No. 7.Maj. Alexander G. Patton, First New York Mounted Rifles, of skirmish on the Edenton Road, April 15. No. SItinerary of the First Brigade, Brig. Gen. Henry D. Terry, U. S. Army, com- manding, April 11-30. No. 9.Col. Robert S. Foster, Thirteenth Indiana Infantry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 10.Lieut. Col. John MeConihe, One hundred and sixty-ninth New York Infantry. No. ll.Itinerary of the Third Brigade, CoL Mathew Murphy, One hundred and eighty-second New York Infantry, commanding, April 9-May 3. No. 12.CoL William McEvily, One hundred and fifty-fifth New York Infantry. No. 13.Itinerary of the Reserve Brigade, Col. David W. Wardrop, Ninety-ninth New York Infantry, commanding, April 24-May 1. No. 14.Brig. Gen. Charles C. Dodge, U. S. Army, commanding Southeast Front. * For reports of Actg. Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee, Lients. W. B. Cushing and R. H. Lamson, and Actg. Master C. H. Brown, U. S. Navy, see Annual Report of the Secre- tary of the Navy, December 7, 1863. t See also dispatches between Keyes, Dix, Hooker, and Peck, April 11-May 4, and Dixs and Pecks telegrams to Halleck, in Correspondence, etc., Page 268 ~CI1A?. XXX. 268 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. B. VIRGINIA. No. 15.Brig. Gen. George W. Getty, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Ninth Army Corps. No. 143.Col. Harrison S. Fairchild, Eighty-ninth New York Infantry, commanding First Brigade. No. 17.Col. William R. Pease, One hundred and seventeenth New York Infantry. No. 18.Brig. Gen. Edward Harland, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. No. 19.Col. John E. Ward, Eighth Connecticut Infantry, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. No. 20.Col. Griffin A. Stedman, jr., Eleventh Connecticut Infantry. No. 21.Col. Arthur H. Dutton, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. No. 22.Maj. Hiram B. Crosby, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry. No. 23.Brig. Gen. George H. Gordon, U. S. Army, commanding Reserve Division, of operations May 14. No. 24.Maj. Gen. Samuel G. French, C. S. Army, commanding the Department of Southern Virginia. No. 25.Maj. L. M. Shumaker, C. S. Artillery, Chief of Artillery, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. No. 26.Maj. F. J. Boggs, C~ S. Artillery, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. No. 27.Maj. James Dearing, C. S. Artillery, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. No. 28.Capt. Robert M. Striblin& Fauquier Artillery, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. No. 29.Lieut. Col. John A. Jones, Forty-fourth Alabama Infantry, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. No. 30.Col. John K. Connally, Fifty-fifth North Carolina Infantry, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. No. 31.Maj. Gen. George E. Pickett, C. S. Army, commanding Division, of skirmish on the Edenton Road, April 24. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. John A. Dix, U. S. Army, commanding the Depart ment of Virginia, with congratulatory orders. FORT MONROE, VA., April 19, 1863. I deem it due to the forces at Suffolk to notice briefly their gallant conduct during the last six days. On Tuesday General Pecks right was attacked and the enemys advance was gallantly met by Colonel Fosters light troops, driving him back to the line of his pickets; Andersons division was engaged at the same time on the water front with our gunboats and batteries, and suffered materially. On Wednesday a rebel battery of 20-pounder rifled guns was effectually silenced, and an attack on the Smith Briggs, an armed quartermasters boat, was repulsed. Repeated attempts have been made on our lines but have all been foiled. The storming of the enemys battery near the West Branch of the Nansernond by General Getty and the gunboats under Lieutenant Lamson of the Navy, and the capture of six guns and 200 prisoners closes the operations of the six days against the enemys large force very satisfactory. JOHN A. JMX, Major- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Ohi~f Page 269 SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. CHAP. XXX.] 269 IIDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, SEVENTH ARMY Coups, Port Monroe, Va., May 23, 1863. GENERAL: In the latter part of September last the town of Suffolk was threatened by the enemy, who had concentrated a large force on the Blackwater. Brigadier-General Ferry, who commanded at Suffolk, made the best practicable arrangement of his troops to meet the enemys advance, bnt the place was entirely without intrenchm~nts. It had been occupied from the time the enemy evacuated Norfolk, but without any definite purpose, except as an advanced position from which the country east of the Blackwater and Chowan and between the James River and Albemarle Sound might be watched and the land communi- cation be kept up between Norfolk and North Carolina east of the Dismal Swamp. I suggested last autumn the relinquishment of this position on account of some inherent objections to it, since explained in my letter of May 10th instant, and the occupation of a more defensible line nearer Nor- folk. It was decided at that time to hold it, and Major-General Peck, whom I ordered to take command at Suffolk on September 22, and in whose experience, discretion, and military skill 1 had entire confidence, immediately commenced the execution of a system of intrenchments planned by himself, which the physical conformation of the place and the contiguous country necessarily rendered very extensive. For six months a portion of the troops under his command were diligently en- gaged in the construction of these works. With a view to have them fully occupied and to inure them to more active service I directed him to keep about one-third of his force con- stantly in motion and to harass the enemy on the Blackwater by all practical means. My directions were carried out with good jndgment and with very satisfactory results. Frequent expeditions were made; the enemy was repeatedly attacked. In nearly every renconter the advantage was on our side; prisoners were taken,munitions of war were captured, and a rocket battery fell into our hands. While engaged in these labors and active movements General Peck, by constant atten- tion, brought his command to an excellent state of discipline. On April 11 the enemy suddenly advanced with a large force, com- manded by Lieutenant-General Longstreet, which had been quietly as- sembled on the Blackwater, intending to take Suffolk by assault; but finding the place well prepared for defense, after repeated unsuccessful attempts on our lines in all of which he was signally repulsed, he sat down before it and commenced an investment according to the most approved principles of military science. The details of all the opera- tions of the siege, which terminated at the end of twenty-two days by his retreat in the night, are fully given in the report of Major-General Peck,whichlhavethehonortotransmitherewith. When the enemy appeared before Suffolk I was in the city of New York with leave of absence for a few days on a surgeons certificate of disability. On the following day (Sunday, April 12) I received a dispatch in- brining me of the enemy~s presence and I left the same evening, freach- ing Suffolk on Tuesday morning, the 14th. From this time I was every alternate day at Suffolk and on the Nansemond River, where the gun- boats belonging to the blockading squadron of Admiral Lee were en- gaged with the enemys batteries, being thus enabled to bear testimony from personal observation to the good conduct of all concerned in resisting the enemys advance. The large force of the enemy, amount Page 270 270 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. ing to some 35,000 men, and the character of the Upper Kansemond running back to the rear 7 miles with a very narrow channel and afford- ing very extraordinary facilities for cutting off our communications with Norfolkrendered incessant vigilance necessary to defeat his purpose, and unremitting labor to cover weak points with additional works. The successful termination of the investment is due in a great degree to the industry of Major-General Peck in putting his position in a state of defense, the judicious arrangements made to repel attacks upon his works, and his unslumbering vigilance from the advance of the enemys forces to theirfinal retreat; and I desire to acknowledge his great prompt- itude in carrying out all my suggestions and orders and his good judg- ment in the far more numerous exigencies iu which he acted on his own discretion. To his officers and men the highest praise is due for their gallantry in the face of the enemy and their zealous deVotion to all their duties, including the construction of extended and heavy intrenchmentsthe least attractive but often the most essential service of an army in the field. Particular reference is due to Brigadier-General Getty, who was placed in charge of the Kansemond, the most vulnerable part of our line, and under whose direction a portion of our force was thrown across the river and a battery of five guns carried by storm. My thanks are due to Admiral Lee, who co-operated by means of his gunboats in preventing the enemy from crossing the Kansemond, and to Lieutenants Cushing, Lamson, and Harris, who displayed great cool- ness, gallantry, and good judgment in the management of their vessels. Lieutenant Lamson deserves particular mention as having suggested the capture of the battery on the river and having aided General Getty in carrying the plan into execution. I desire to refer to the report of Major-General Peck for a more particular mention of the services of his officers and men. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN A. DIX, Major- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA, SEVENTH A. C., No. 32. f Fort Monroe, Va., May 6, 1863. The major-general commanding congratulates Major-General Peck and the troops under his command at Suffolk on the sudden retreat of the enemy to the Blackwater, after a close investment of the place for more than three weeks by a superior force led by some of the most dis- tinguished generals in the service of the insurgents. The enemy has sustained a loss of five guns, and not less than 1,500 men in prisoners, killed, wounded, and deserters, while ours is limited to a comparatively small number of killed and wounded. For this result the highest praise is due to Major-General Peck, through whose untiring industry and good judgment during the last six months the place has been strongly fortified, and through whose watchfulness it has been held during the investment. The same high praise is due to the troops under his com- mand and to their officers. Their courage and vigilance, their firmness in resisting the enemys attacks, their gallantry in assaulting him in his works on repeated occasions deserve the heartfelt thanks which the major-general commanding hereby tenders to them. The major-general commanding avails himself of the occasion to a Page 271 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK~ VA. 271 knowledge the gallant and efficient co-operation of the gunboats sent by Admiral Lee into the ~ansemond, under Lieutenants Cushing and Lamson, in silencing the enemys batteries, iu resisting the enemys attempts to cross the river, and especially the assistance lent by the latter to General Getty in capturing five of the enemys guns. By command of Major-General iDix: D. T. VAN BUIREN, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 2. Abstract from Record of ~ in Department of Virginia, April 11 May 4* April 11.The enemy advanced upon Suffolk, Va., from Blackwater, drove in our pickets, capturing the outpost of cavalry on South Quay road, and was not checked until within artillery range, when he was driven back. April 12.He advanced on the Somerton road, but was repulsed, retiring hastily, and our infantry pickets were posted on the original lines. April 13.The enemy concentrated along the Nansemond, erected heavy batteries, and succeeded in blockading the river; he failed in all his attempts to effect a crossing. The gunboats and our batteries were almost incessantly engaged and several times silenced the enemys batteries. April 19.The enemy opened on the gunboats from Fort Huger. A plan was immediately agreed upon by General Getty and Lieutenant Lamson, U. S. Navy, to cross the river and attack the fort. The gun- boats and batteries opened upon it impetuously. In the mean time a detachment from the Eighty-ninth New York Volunteers and from the Eighth Connecticut crossed on the gunboat Stepping Stones and stormed the fort, and were highly successful, capturing five pieces of artillery, two 20-pounder Parrotts and three 12-pounder howitzers; a Iso 129 pris- oners, including 9 officers. April 20.Major Stratton, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, visited Elizabeth City, N. C., and found it abandoned by our forces. April 27.A reconnaissance in force was made upon the enemys right flank on the Edenton road, also on the Somerton, and after some skir- mishing the enemy was driven from his rifle-pits back upon his main line. Two transports ran the blockade under the volunteer pilotage of Lieutenants Rowe and Horton, Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers. Many shots were fired by the enemy, but little damage was done to the steamers. April 28, 29, and 30.Skirmishing on the river between our gunboats and the enemy. The following re-enforcements arrived during the month: April 12.Ninth New York Volunteers, assigned to Gettys division. April 14.Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, assigned to Gettys di. vision (transferred April 28). April 16 and 17.Two brigades assigned to Abercrombies division, consisting of eight regiments; one regiment transferred to General Cor- corans division. April 18.One hundred and seventeenth New York Volunteers, as- * From Returns of Seventh Army Corps for April and May, 1863 Page 272 (CHAt. XXX. 272 NORTh CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. signed to General Getty, and One hundred and sixty-ninth New York Volunteers, assigned to General Corcoran. April 19.Detachment of the Third New York Volunteers and th~ First Delaware, Sixteenth and Nineteenth New York Batteries. April 17.The Ninth Vermont was assigned to General Getty and transferred, April24, to the Reserve Brigade. The Twenty-sixth Michi- gan and One hnndred and fifty-second New York assigned to General Corcoran. April 22.The Tenth New Jersey was assigned to General Corcoran and the One hundred and eighteenth New York assigned to Reserve Brigade. The following officers were killed and wounded dnring the month: April 8.Captain Bowdish, commissary of subsistence; killed by ac- cidet on the railroad. April 12.Lieut. Col. Edgar A. Kimball, Ninth New York Volun- teers; killed by Brig. Gen. M. Corcoran while on duty. April 23.Capt. John E. White, Ninety-ninth New York Volun- teers; wounded by rebel sharpshooters. April 24.Snrg. James Wilson, Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers; wounded by rebel sharpshooters. Second Lieut. B. Conron, Thirteenth Iii diana Volunteers; killed in skirmish on Somerton road. Col. C. Buell, One huac red and sixty-ninth New York Volunteers; wounded in skir- inish on Somerton road. Maj. Alonzo Alden, One hundred and sixty- ninth New York Volunteers; wounded in skirmish on Somerton road. April 15.Capt. J. McAnally, One hundred and fifty-fifth New York Volunteers; wonnded in the skirmish on Edenton road. April 24.Second Lieut. T. J. Cantwell, One hundred and sixty-fourth New York Volunteers; wounded in the skirmish on Edenton road. May 1.The Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers had a skirmish with the enemy on South Quay road, near Suffolk. Loss: killed, 4; wounded, 42. May 2.Two companies of the Third Pennsylvania Artillery reported. May 3.Reconnaissance on the Petersburg road by General Getty; enemy driven from their rifle-pits on their main line. Loss, killed and wounded, 60. After dark the enemy abandoned the siege of Suffolk, re- tiring in haste toward the Blackwater. May 4.Colonel Foster commenced pursuit after the enemy, coming on the rear guard at Leesville, which were dispersed and most of them cap- tured. General Corcoran pursued them on the Edenton road, General Terry on the South Quay road, and a cavalry detachment on the Peters- burg road, but all were unable to come across any force. Many prisoners were captured, mostly stragglers (about 250), including 4 officers. One hundred and thirty signified their willingness to take the oath of alle- giance and were sent North. No. 3. Report of Capt. Charles L. Davis, Eighty-second Pennsylvania Infantry, Chief & gnal Officer. OFFICE oF CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, DEPT. OF VA., Fort Monroe, Va., May 9, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to subndt the following report of the operations of the Signal Corps in the siege of Suffolk, lasting from April 11 to May 2: For some months past I have had a signal station on a tree near th Page 273 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 273 crossing of the Seaboard and Poanoke and Norfolk and Petersburg Rail- roads, to which the pickets on the South Quay and Carrsville roads were instructed to report for orders in ease of attack. Through this station the commanding general at Suffolk was kept informed of movements on the front toward the Blackwater. This station stood at the junction of two roads, on each of which a company of cavalry was stationed 1,200 yards in advance. At 3.30 p. m. April 11 a contraband reported to the officer (Lieuten- ant Thayer) on duty at this station that the enemy was advancing in force on both roads and only a few miles distant. Through the cxtraor- dinary promptness of this officer this information was immediately transmitted to General Peck by Lieutenant Strong, who received it by signals at Suffolk. A few minutes afterward Lieutenant Thayer (notic- ing the cavalry soldiers coming in at a furious rate, riding barebacked) sent to General Peck by signals the message, Pickets driven in. Ite-enforcements needed. In the absence of a commissioned officer to command the infantry lickets Lieutenant Thayer took command and made such disposition of them as he thought necessary to check the advance of the enemys van-uard and prevent the cutting off of the cavalry pickets on the $outh Quay road. This action he immediately reported by signals to General Peck, and while so doing the enemy opened fire with their sharpshooters on Lieu. tenant Thayer and his fiagmen (Privates A. II. Eames and W. J. Mott), who were located in the top of a high tree performing their duty, and so remained until the arrival of a regiment of cavalry, when Lieutenant Thayer was ordered to abandon his post and come in. On the 12th I was notified by telegraph that signal supplies and offi- cers were needed at Suffolk. The supplies were promptly sent, and I received orders from the commanding general of the department to proceed there at once, taking with me such officers as could be spared from elsewhere. Communication was immediately opened by Captain Tamblyn between the signal tower (which had been previously erected in the towii of Suf- folk for this very emergency) and the fronts, commanded by Generals Terry, Corcoran, and Dodge. These lines of communication were con- stantly employed in transmitting intelligence as to the movements, of the enemy. On the morning of the 13th a message was received from Lieutenant Strong, on General Terrys front, that the enemy had established a sig- nal station at the junction of the Seaboard and Roanoke and Norfolk and Petersburg Railroads and were signaling. This information I fin- mediately gave to General Peck, and was directed by him to ascer- tain from Captain ILee whether he could shell the enemy from their position, and if so, direct him to do it. Captain Lee, from his gunboat in the Kansemond River, immediately opened his fire; and being en- tirely unable to see where his shot struck on account of the intervening woods he was directed in his firing by signals. The point where each shot struck, with directions as to change of range, was given him through signals by Lieutenant Thayer, who noted the effect of each shot from the tower in Suffolk and transmitted the same to Captain Lee by sig- nals. After firing a number of shots, most of which struck well, Lieu- tenant Thayer signaled to Captain Lee that the enemys signal station was abandoned. On the 14th Lieutenant Young, stationed at headquarters of General Corcoran, at Fort Union, together with numerous other messages, trans. 18 ri lZVOL XVII Page 274 274 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. ICHAr. XXX. mitted the information from General Corcoran ~to General Peck that the enemy had attacked on the Somerton road. Promptly orders were returned to General Corcoran to open fire. These messages were trans- mitted while the shells of the enemy were falling around them and evi- dently directed at the signal flag of Lieutenant Young, who, with his flag- man (Private J. W. Brown), exhibited great coolness during the attack. These lines of communication were kept open and transmitting much. valuable information nntil the 16th, when, the ei~emy threatening to cross the Nansemond River and attack our right and rear, General Peck directed communication to be opened with Gen~al Gettys front and the forces on the Nansemond. Captain Tamblyn was therefore directed to break up communication with the other fronts, as of less importance, and open a line down the Nansemond River. This was accomplished in a very short time, and the line was constantly used in transmitting important, and, iij some cases, confidential messages between the dif- ferent stations. This line was composed of four stations, and the offi- cers and men dperating them were all so constantly on duty, night and (lay, sleeping and eating only when a short leisure would permit, that without relief some of them must have succumbed had not matters taken a change. This line of communication was kept open and (until the raising of the siege and departure of the enemy) was continually useful. A field telegraph train would have been of eminent utility in this locality, and I shall have one ormore of these trains at my disposal in a few days. In closing this report I wisk to state that officers and men all stood up to their duty nobly and when nearly worn-out with fatigue by watching and working night and day and under fire of the enemy. To Capt. W. Tamblyn, acting signal officer, the senior officer of that part of my detachment at Suffolk, great credit is due for his faithful super- vision of affairs. Lients. A. M. Thayer, H. P. Strong, George F. Young, and H. H. Murray, acting signal officers, deserve special mention for having stood faithfully to their duties under the fire of the enemys sharpshooters. Flagmen A. II. Eames, W. J. Mott, C. II. Treadwell, and J. W. Brown performed their duties faithfully, even when the flag they held in their hands was the special mark of the enemy. I inclose herewith a map, showing the different lines of communica- tion had by signals. The small red flags indicate the stations ii~nd the dotted lines the lines of communication had at different times. All of which is respectfully submitted. I have the - honor to be, colonel, very~ respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES L. DAVIS, Captain and ChiefSignal Officer, Department of Virginia. Lieut. Col. Louts H. PELOWE, Assistan* Adjui~ant-~eneral. Ko. 4. Reports of Maj. Gen. John J. Peck, U. S. Army, commanding at Suffolk. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Suffolk, Va., May 5, 1863. COLONEL: On September 22, 1862, I was ordered to Suffolk, with Qbout 9,000 men, to repel the advance of Generals~Petti.grew and Frenc Page 275 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 275 from the Blackwater, with 15,000 men. No artificial defenses were found nor had any plan been prepared. Situated at the head of the Nansemond River, with the railways to Petersburg and Weldon, Suffolk is the key to all the approaches to the mouth of the James River on the north of the Dismal Swamp. Regarding the James as second only in importance to the Mississippi for the Confederates and believing that sooner or later they would withdraw their armies from the barren wastes of Northern Virginia to the line of the James and attempt the recovery of Portsmouth and Norfolk as ports for their iron-dads and contraband trade, T prepared a system, and on the 25th commenced Fort Dix. From that time until the present I spared no pains for placing the line of the river and swamp in a state of defense. My labors alarmed the authori- ties at Richmond, who believed I was preparing a base for a grand movement upon the rebel capital, and the whole of the Blackwater was fortified, as well as Cypress Swamp and Birchen and Chipoak Rivers. This line rests upon the James near Fort Powhatan. About February 26 Lieutenant-General Longstreet was detached from Lees army and placed in command of the Department of Virginia, with headquarters at Petersburg. Of his corps, 15,000 were on the Black- water and 15,000 between Petersburg and the river, near the railway. This distribution enabled him to concentrate in twenty four hours within a few miles of Suffolk and looked threatening. Reports were circulated and letters written to the effect that Longstreet was in South Carolina aiid Tennessee with all his forces with the view of throwing me oft my guard. My information was reliable, and I fully advised the department of the presence of this force, and on March 14 Gettys division (Ninth Corps) reported for duty. Early in April deserters reported troops moving to the I3lackwater, that many bridges were being constructed, and that a Pontoon train had arrived from Petersburg. On the 6th I was advised that General Foster was in reat need of troops and asked to send him 3,000. 1 replied that no g soldiers ought to leave the department, but I would spare that number provided they could be supplied at short notice. On the 10th, at 4.30 p. in., as the troop train was leaving, I was in- formed of the contents of a captured mail by General Viele to the effect that General Longstreet would attack me at once with from 40,000 to 60,000; that he had maps, plans, and a statement of my force, and that General Hill would co-operate. On the 11th Hoods division followed up my cavalry, returning from l3lackwater on the South Quay road, and about 4 p. m. captured, with- out a shot, the cavalry outposts. Others followed on other roads and a surprise in open day was attempted. The signal officers, under Cap- taimi Tamblyn, rendered most signal service. Lieutenant Thayer held his station for a long time in spite of the riflemen about him. On the 12th, about noon, Picketts division advanced on the Sornerton and Jenkins on the Edenton road, and a large column on the river by the Providence Church road. Much fine skirmishing took place on all these roads, but the pickets were pressed back and the enemy was not checked until he came within artillery range. He sustained some loss and fell back a few miles to his line of battle. On the 13th the enemy skirmished with our light troops on all the ap- proaches. On the Somerton, Colonel Foster handled him very roughly, (Iriving him back and restoring his picket line at sundown. On the river the contest was sharp and long, but the batteries and gunboats held the ~iiemy at bay Page 276 276 NORTH CAROLINA AND S E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. On the 14th Lieutenant Cushing, U. S. Navy, was hotly engaged for several hours with a large force at the mopth of the West Branch. His loss was severe, but the enemy suffered much and had some artillery dis- mounted. The enemy opened a ten-gun battery near the Norileet house for the purpose of destroying the gunboats and of covering a crossing. Lieutenant Lamson with the Mount Washington, West End, and Step- ping Stones, engag~d the battery for some hours in The most gallant manner, but was compelled to drop down to the West Branch. The Mount Washington, completely riddled and disabled, grounded, as did the West End, and both were towed off by the Stepping Stones. The rudder of the Alert was broken. Several batteries on the river were opened with fine effect and others were pushed with all dispatch toward completion. More or less skirmishing and artillery fire on all portions of the lines. In the night the Smith Briggs, lying near my headquar- ters, was attacked, but Captain Lee and the guns of the draw-bridge repulsed the enemy. On the 15th the force between Suffolk and West Branch was reported by the best authorities at 10,000, with a pontoon train under the imme diate command of General French. About noon our batteries, under the direction of General Getty, below the mouth of Jericho Creek, were warmly engaged with the Norfieet battery. Four of the rebel 20-pounder rifles were dismounted and the battery was silenced. A party sent out on the Edenton road captured the camp equipage of one regiment. Fear of an ambuscade prevented taking of many prisone.rs. On the 17th Major Stratton, with a force of cavalry, held South Mills, which is the key to nearly all the approaches from North Carolina on the south side of the Dismal Swamp. There was mnch skirmishing on all the avenues of approach with some field artillery. General Terrys - front was much annoyed from the first day by the near approach of riflemen. Under his orders the enemy was signally punished.* Gen- eral Frenchs engineer was taken prisoner by Lieutenant Cashings l)ickets. He was laying out works and had a map of Suffolk, which he tore to pieces. On the 18th the enemy was very active in throwing up new batteries and rifle-pits along the river. A heavy one was in progress near the mouth of West Branch on Hills Point. Admiral Lee, U. S - Nav.y, or- dered all the boats out of the Upper Nansemond, lest they should be destroyed, leaving the whole defense of the river to the land forces. The admiral was nrged to reconsider his orders. Upon my representa- tion the order was temporarily suspended. On the 19th, about dusk, General Getty and Lieutenant Lamson cx- ecuted most successfully a plan which had been agreed upon for cross- ing the river and capturing Battery Huger at the mouih of the West Branch. The Eighty-ninth New York and Eighth Connecticiz~t were taken over on the Stepping Stones. Five pieces of artillery, 9 officers, and 120 soldiers were captured. It was well conceived and ably con- ducted, and refle~cts great honor on the combined arms. Lieutenant Lam soil suggested the enterprise, lauded with four of his howitzers, and played a brilliant parL Captain Stevens was conspicuous for his gallant conduct in this affair and deserves mention; also Lieutenants MeKechnie and Faxon, aides of General Getty. Un the 20th Major Stratton visited Elizabeth City, N. C., and found * Return of Terrys brigade, First Division, Seventh Army Corps, for April, 1863, gives the following casualties in this affair of the 17th: Three privates killed and 10 ;v ounded Page 277 CifAP. XxX] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 277 it abandoned by our troops. He found General Longstreets pickets in the vicinity of Sandy Cross. On the 21st the command was highly honored by a visit from Major- General Hal Dix. leck, Commander-iu-Chief~ accompanied by Major-General On the 22d a heavy rain-storm commenced, suspending all fatigue labors, but adding materially to the strength of the swamp on the left Ihuik. On the 24th a demonstration was made upon the enemys right flank, on the Edenton road, nuder General Corcoyan and Colonels Foster and SI)ear, while a feint was made on the Somerton by Colonel Buehler. The enemy was driven in confusion from all his advance points and rifle pits l)ack npon his main line of defense behind the dam and swamp at - 1)ardens Mill. A force estimated at about 1,500 was believed to be massed on that front. The object of the move was attained and the corn- inand withdrawn. Colonels Beach, Drake, and Murphy had provisional brigades, and handled them extremely well; Captain Simpson coin- manded the artillery. On the 25th information was received of the arrival of heavy artillery from Petersburg. Troops were reported on this side of the Chowan, on the way from General Hill, under General Garnett. On the 27th Major Stratton occupied Camden Court-flouse and burned a ferry-boat of the enemys. Rebels were very active at night, chopping, moving troops, and signaling. A new battery of three guns was opened by them below the Korfiect Battery. Chopping I)arties were broken up by the Hedan and Mansfield Battery. They reoccupied the Hills Point Battery in the night. The steamers Commerce and Swan, under the volunteer pilotage of Lieutenants Rowe and Horton, of the ~inety-ninth ~ew York Volunteers, ran down past the batteries in the night, but not without many shots. These officers are entitled to much credit for this service. On the 28th Suffolk was visited by a heavy storm. A rebel work for several guns was discovered on the river. On the 29th the Hon. Secretary of State, W. TI. Seward, paid a visit, in company with Major-General Dix, to this command. On the 30th, early in the morning, the enemy opened with one Whit- worth, one 30 and one 35 pounder Parrott. Toward night they opened fire upon the Commodore Barney, and the battery was silence(l by the Barney (Lieutenant Cushing, U. S. Navy) and Captain Morris, battery in Fort Stevens. May 1.There was a sharp skirmish onGeneral Terrys front about 5p. m.* The enemy, re-enforced largely, was held in check from the guns of Nansemond, South Quay, and Rosecrans with considerable loss. Another brigade from North Carolina was reported to have joined Long- street. May 3.A reconnaissance in force was made by Generals Getty and Harhand on the enemys left flank. The troops crossed at 9 a in., at the draw-bridge, under the fire of Battery Mansfield, the Onondaga, and the Smith Briggs, and seized the l)lateau near Pru(leus house in spite of sharpshooters in the rifle-pits, orchards, and woods. The ad- vance ~vas slow, every inch being hotly coutcsted. The movement me- sulted in bringing heavy re-enforcemnents for the enemy. his numbers and artillery failed to check the troops. Bynight the enemy was massed Return of the Seventh Army Corps; Department of Virginia, for the month of - May, 1563, gives the loss in this affair as follows: Pour killed and 42 wounded, ail of the Ninety-ninth New York Infantry Page 278 [OnAr. XXX. 278 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. on his strong line of intrencliments and under the fire of a numerous artillery. The purpose of the movement having been attained, the troops were directed to remain on the ground awaiting events. In conjunction with the above, Major Crosby crossed the Nansemond near Sleepy Hole with the Twenty-first Connecticut, a section of the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, and eleven mounted rifles. At 4 a. m. pushed on and occupied Chuckatuck, driving out 300 rebel cavalry. He skir- mished all the way to Reeds Ferry, capturing 16 prisoners, and then returned to the river under cover of the gunboats. At the same time Colonel Button crossed in boats and occupied Hills Point with the Fourth Rhode Island, a portion of the One hundred and seventeenth New York, and a detachment from the Commodore Barney. He ad- vanced some distance, but was met by a superior force posted strongly in the woods, and after much skirmishing returned upon Hills Point, from which the enemy could not dislodge him. I again take pleasure in acknowledging the valuable services of Lieu- tenants Cushing, Lamson, and Harris, U. S. Navy. These officers ren- dered every assistance in their power in crossing the river. Lieutenant Cushing sent a boat howitzer and detachment with the Fourth Rhode Island, under Colonel Button. I regret to state that Colonel Ringold, of the One hundred and third New York, lost his life from two wounds while leading on his men in the most gallant manner. He was a meritorious officer. May 4.About 9 p. m. on the 3d the enemy commenced retiring upon the Blackwater. His strong line of pickets prevented deserters and contrabands from getting through with the information until he had several hours the start. Generals Corcoran and Dodge were promptly in pursuit on the Edenton road while Colonel Foster followed upon the Somerton. By 6 a. m. Colonel Foster was pressing the rear of a formida- ble column on the old road near Leesville. He was compelled, from the smallness of his force, to wait for the command under General Corcoran and could not again strike the column before it reached the river. The cavalry of Colonels Spear and Onderdonk were pushed on numer- ous roads, and rendered valuable services in procuring information and capturing prisoners. Thus ends the present investment or siege of Suffolk, which had for its objects the recovery o7f the whole country south of the James ex- tending to the Albemarle Sound in North Carolina, the ports of Nor- folk and Portsmouth, 80 miles of new railroad iron, the equipments of two roads, and the capture of all the United States forces and property with some thousands of contrabands. General Longstreet finding that an assault at the outside upon works defended by one-half his own force would be expensive and uncertain, and having failed in turning either flank, decided to besiege the place and asked for re-enforcements; probably not less than two divisions joined from General Hill. The works constructed are on the most extensive scale and in the most approved manner. The rules and regulations prescribed by military authorities for the conduct of siege operations have been observed. Some idea may be formed of this so-styled ft~raging expedition when I state that not less than 10 miles of batteries, covered-ways, and rifle-pits have been thrown up; most of the artillery was protected by embrasures; the parapets were from 12 to 15 feet in thickness and well revetted, while the covered-ways were from 8 to 10 feet. Longstreet had a wire laid from the Blackwater, and telegraphed arrangements throughout his lines Page 279 CHAP. XXXI SIEGE OF SUFFOLK;-YA. 279 RESULTS. We have taken five pieces of the famous Fauquier Artillery, about 400 prisoners, some rifles, and camp equipage. Probably 500 or 600 have been killed and wounded and 500 have deserted, making a total loss of at least 1 500. Our own killed is 44; wounded, 202, and missing, 14. Total, 260.* All the morale, prestige, and glory belong to the patient and brave officers and men of the Federal Army. Besides these brilliant results, this command has held the masses of the enemy around Suffolk in order that General Hooker might secure the crowning victory of the ~var, and it is entitled to a share of the glory that may accrue to his arms. My thanks are due all officers and sol- diers who have worked cheerfully and patriotically on these fortifica- tions. They now see that their labors are not in vain. The truth of history requires that I should state that a small portion of the One hundred and twelfth New York became homesick and dis- contented, and said that they came to fight and not to dig. This feel- ing was seized upon by politicians, and since the adjournment of the Senate I have been advised that efforts were made to defeat my con- firmation in consequence thereof. Soldiers who love their country will cheerfully perform any duty assigned them; men who know how to build fortifications will know how to defend or assault them. It should not be forgotten that the principal rebel successes have been behind intrenchments, as at Manassas, Fredericksburg, Richmond, Yicksburg, Charleston, & c. It is an unpleasant duty to state that most of the Ninth New York, Colonel Hawkins, left this command on the 3d, by expiration of their term of service, while their comrades were actively engaged with the enemy. It can be regarded only as an unfortunate termination of a hitherto brilliant career of service. To Generals Corcoran, Terry, IDodge~ and Harland, and Colonels Dutton and Gibbs, commanding fronts or lines; Colonels Spear and Onderdonk, of the cavalry; Colonels Gurney and Wardrop, command- ing reserves, and Captain Follett, chief of artillery, I am under very great obligations for the able, faithful, judicious, and cheerful discharge of every duty incident to their important positions. General Getty was intrusted with the river line below the Quondaga Battery, the key of the position and about 8 miles in lengtha ver~diffi- cult line to defend against an enterprising enemy acquainted with every by-path and guided by owners of the soil. His responsibilities were of the highest order, and the labors of his troops were incessant. Under his vigil ant supervision everything was done that could be for the security of the right flank, and the enemy was foiled in dli plans for crossing. Col. II. S. Foster, of Indiana, commanding brigade and a portion~of the front, added fresh laurels to the high reputation which he estab- lished in West Virginia and on the Peninsula. He was at home in grand skirmishes, and the enemy always recoiled before him. General Gordon reported three days before the conclusion of the siege and was assigned to the command of the Reserve Divisioii. His long and varied experience rendered his judgment of great value, and I re- gret that he has been called to another field. My thanks are due General Viele, of Norfolk, for the prompt trans- mission of important intelligence and for the alacrity with which my calls were responded. But ~ee revised statement, p. 288 Page 280 2g0 NOW~l CA1~OLINA MID ~3. t. VITWINIA. [CHAP. XXX. Captain Ludlow, quartermaster at Norfolk, deserves mention for his untiring efforts in forwarding the main bulk of supplies for the army. The medical department, nuder the able management of Dr. Hand, was in excellent working order and equal to every emergency. The wounded were promptly cared for and spared all unnecessary suffering. The commissary department was admirably managed by the late Cal) tan Bowdish, and since his death by Captain Felt. Colonel Murphy commanded brigade; Colonel Drake, Fort Union; Colonel Hawkins, Fort Nansemond; Captain Sullivan, Fort Halleck; Colonel Davis, the Draw-Bridge Battery; Colonel Worth, Battery Mans- field; Colonel Thorp, the iRedan and iRosecrans; Captain Johnson, Bat- tery Monday; Colonel England, Battery Montgomery; Colonel Pease, Battery Stevens, and Colonel McEvily, Fort Dix, with ability, and their troops were always ready for the enemy. Major Stratton, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, was at South Mills watching the operations of the troops from Carolina. By his discretion and energy the rebels were prevented from penetrating the Dismal Swamp. Captain Tamblyn, Lieutenants Seabury, Young, Thayer, Strong, and Murray, of the Signal Corps, have been indefatigable day and night and of the greatest service in their department. Captain Davis shares the above commendation for the few days he was here. The conduct of Lieutenant-Colonel Nixon, Ninety-ninth New York; of Captain Morris, Lieutenants Hasbrouck, Hunt, Whitney, and Beecher. of thn artillery; Lieutenants James, Grant, Macardle, Soederquist, and Burleson, on engineer duty; of Lieutenant Bnttz, assistant provost- marshal, and of Major Wetherill, was conspicuous. Major Stewart, of the Engineer Corps, joined for a few days, evincing the same lively interest which characterized his valuable services on the Peninsula. The command is mainly indebted to the provost-marshal, Major Smith, of the One hundred and twelfth New York, for the good order and cleanliness which has prevailed in town and camp. The co-operation of the gunboats, nuder Lieutenants Cushing, Lam- son, and Harris U , n very effective, andl .S. Navy, sent by Admiral Lee has bee take great pleasure in acknowledging the gallant serv- ices of their officers and crews. The army gunboats Smith Briggs and West End, commanded by Captain Lee and Lieutenant Rowe, proved invaluable. The Smith Briggs was for many days the only boat above the West Brai~ch, in consequence of the order oC Admiral Lee. My personal staff have all earned a place in this record by their zeal, fidelity, and unremitting labors day and night, increased by injuries which I sustained from the fall of my horse. Their claims to promotion were established long before the siege of Suffolk. Maj. B. B. Foster, as- sistant adjutant-general; Capt. George S. Dodge, quartermaster; Lieuts. Charles It. Stirling and James D. Outwater, aides-dc-camp; Lient. A. B. Johnson, ordnance officer, and Licut. James D. Mahon, judge advocate. Doubtless many names have been omitted, but discrimination is im- possible where all have done so well. For the conclusion is reserved the agrceable duty of testifying to the cordial and efficient support I have ever received from Major-General Dix. No request or suggestion has ever escaped his attention, and most of my requirements have been anticipated by his liberal and com- prehensive policy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN J. PECK, lfajor- General. Col. D. T. VAN BUREN, A .A. U., Dept. of Va Page 281 CrAP. XXX.] $IEc*E OF SUFFOLI~ VA. 281 HEADQUARTERS, New I3erne, N. 0., December 18, 1803. GENERAL: My excuse for this trespass upon your most valuable time is izliat I have been unofficially advised that Admiral Lee has endeav- ored to depreciate the importance of Longstreets campaign against me. This is very singular, for he did not visit Suffolk during the nine months I was in command, and saw nothing of my system of fortifica- tions or of Longstreets, the development of which was from 9 to 10 miles. His headquarters were at Newport News, some 30 miles from mine. his views were based entirely upon the impressions o1 young and inexperienced subordinates,~whose vision was limited to short dis- tances beyond the guuboat decks. On April 20, thirteen days before the conclusion of the siege, lie ordered all the boats to Hills Point for safety, 7 miles from Suffolk, against which I protested, and some sharp correspondence ensued. Besides the distance the densel.y-wooded banks of the ~ansemond were unfavorable for forming a judgment of the numbers and labors of the enemy, everywhere screened in timber. The whole country was one vast forest, out of which I had to cut a field of fire for my artillery. Admiral Lee thinks that Longstreet brought a force of negroes for building his extensive line of works. On his arrival the negroes ceased to come into my lines, and parties were sent out to bring them in for inform ation, but without success. After his repulse on May 3 and night retreat some blacks escaped from Franklin and informed me that all the contrabands, except servants and drivers, were left at Franklin, across the Blackwater, to l)revent their escape. They also stated that they prayed very loud that Massa Longstreet might be whipped by you folks. Captain Lamson, one of the most gallant officers in the U. S. Navy, commanded the flotilla in the Upper Nansemond, and was on the staff of the acting admiral. He says he made a complete examination, during two days, of Longstreets lines after his retreat, and changed his opinion and so told the admiral; he estimated the rebel force from 35,000 to rio, 000. Major-General Dix was over my lines, including the Nanse- mond, every alternate day, and had favorable opportunities fbr judg- big; he says some 35,000. General Gordon states that ihe works he examined could not have been made by less than 30,000. Major-General Keyes conclnded my situation was so critical that I onght to evacuate the lines to save the troops from capture. On my J)Ositive refusal he called for two corps. He estimated 40,000 prior to Hills arrival. A mail, with several hundred letters, was taken, showing that Hill was to co-operate, and that they had a statement of ray force, artillery, and a map of the works. General Hooker telegraphed that his reliable ~l~Y in Jlichmond ad- Vised that Jeff. Davis had ordered Hill to leave North Carolina amid join Longstreet at Suffolk. All prisoners, deserters, and Union people agreed as to this co-operation. About April 26 a division arrived from Little Washington, having crossed the Chowan near Gatesville. General Hill joined with his cmi- tire command on May 1, by way of Weldon, Franklin, and Hollands Corners. Hills letter to Longstreet, asking orders, is in my possession. General Dix employed a spy to visit the armies of Lomigstreet and Lee in February and March. He was two weeks in Longstreets lines and longer in Lees. Through a friend in the War Office in Richmon Page 282 [CHAr. XXX. 282 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. he was allowed entire freedom in the camps and sold his goods to officers and men on credit. He reported 28,000 to 30,000 in March in my gen- eral front and one hundred and nine regiments, of some 84,000, in the army of Lee. Then 28,000, with the forces of Hill from North Carolina, represent generally the mass opposed to me. My effective force for some days was 14,928. I asked for one division only. For a few days 1 had about 29,000 effectives on a line from below Hills Point, on the river, ext ending across to the Dismal Swamp of at least 15 miles in length, with a detachment of the same at South Mills, 30 miles distant, the key to the southern approaches of the swamp. The campaign will be clear when it is stated that Hill was to make noisy and furious demonstrations in Carolina, for the purpose of induc- ing General Foster to call for troops from Virginia. Accordingly, Pettigrew appeared in the vicinity of New Berne and Hill attacked or cannonaded Washington. Our casualties were 6 at New Berne, .bnt I have failed to learn that any occurred at Washington. Ten thousand were asked for Geperal Foster, and I was called npon to contribute from my 15,000 on the 10th April. Against my judgment I consented to send 3,000, and they were on the troop train. Longstreet was advised of this detachment in a few honrs and advanced that very night. With your approval I brought back the 3,000 at dusi~, and very luckily for our affairs in that quarter. The operations about Suffolk, ending May 4, were suddenly eclipsed in the night of general gloom and painful anxiety which attended Hookers great disaster at Chancellorsville. Attention was not again awakened upon that field, and the campaign has been imperfectly understood by the public. I desire to thank you for the liberal support sent me at Suffolk. With sentiments of respect, your obedient servant, JOHN J. PECK. Major-General HALLECK, Commander-in-Chief, Washington, D. C. [ilinclosure.] From the Philadelphia Enqtairer, April 24, 1863. THE GALLANT CAMPAIGN AT SUFFOLK. Having in our recent articles traced the progress of the war in the Southwest, in Tennessee, and in North Carolina, we follow them up this morning by a review of the short and exciting campaign about Suffolk. This campaign, in presence of some of the vast events of the war, appears to be nothing more than an episode, but in our judgment it is entitled to considerable prominence. It must be remembered that the military authorities charged with the occupation of Norfolk estab- lished an important post at a considerable distance to the southwest of that cityat Suffolk, where the Petersburg and Norfolk Railroad in- tersects the Seaboard and IRoanoke Railroad, leading to Weldon, N. C. Suffolk is also at the head of navigation on the Nansemond River, which empties into the James River near its mouth. From this post the National troops were enabled to operate to a distance in the inte- rior of the south side of Virginia, keeping the country comparatively clear of guerrillas, contraband traders, and spies, and thus more effect- ually guarding Norfolk Page 283 CHAP. XXK I SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 283 For a long while the rebel leaders at Richmond permitted this occu- pancy by the Union forces to pass without interference, although it was exceedingly unpalatable to their adherents in the country occnpied. Within the last two or three weeks, however, for reasons that may ap- pear in the sequel, they detached a heavy force, under their pet geii- eralLongstreet-to recover Suffolk and to bring Norfolk once more nuder the sway of the rebellion. The movement commenced about the same time with that of General Hill against General Fosters garrison at Washington, N. C., and the two were unquestionably inteude(l to co-operate with each other. Having massed some 38,000 men behind the Blackwater River Gen- eral Longstreet began the execution of his plan on the 10th instant by crossing his grand army over that stream by means of five pontoon bridges. On the next night his advance drove in our pickets in front of Suf- folk, and the situation of our forces began to look serious. The rebel plan was to cut the Nansemond River some 6 miles or so below Suffolk, on our right flank, while another force was to be thrown against the Norfolk Railroad, on our left flank and rear, and, thus sur- rounded, General Pecks entire army and the city of Norfolk were to fall a rich and easy prize into the hands of the enemy. It so happened, however, that two matters over which the rebel chieftains could exer- cisc but little control interfered to defeat the scheme. In the first place General Peck, who was in command of the National force, was entirely too vigilant, too active, and too enterprising for General Longstreet; and in the second place General Fosters resolute resistance again~4 Hill at Washington, N. C., where the latter stubbornly persisted in holding out after his adversary claimed that he was hopelessly cut oil; prevented Hill from coming np in time to execute his share of the gran(l achievement. Nevertheless, General Longstreet went at his plan with energy, and from April 11, when he first drove in our pickets, until Tuesday last he kept up an incessant series of attacks of the most harassing and vexatious character to General Pecks troops. He rushed his squadrons of cavalry against our lines in one place and established batteries of field artillery to sweep the Nansemond River at others. lie maneuvered to overwhelm us here and flank us there, and in every way endeavored to penetrate our lines, but was baffled in every attempt by the watchfulness, activity, endurance, skill, and conrage of General Peck and his brave companions in arms. Among those who were conspicuous on our side General Getty, Colonel Foster, of the light troops, and Lieutenant Lamson, of the Navy, are mentioned by General Dix; Colonel Foster having repelled an assault upon the right, and General Getty, with Lieutenant Lamson, having stormed, in the most gallant manner, a troublesome battery of six guns, which they captured, with 160 prisoners. Thus repulsed at every point, Longstreet appears to have abandoned his enterprise, at least for the present, for the latest advices state that skirmishing ceased on the 21st. Now, what is the importance of this defeated moveiueiit of Loug- streets ~ To get an intelligent answer to that question we have oiily to look at contemporaneous operations on the James River. I~ or sex- eral weeks past the rebels have been quite busy fortifying its b in just as they have fortified the Mississippi. They are casemating- I out Powhatan, and have three batteries thoroughly finished. I hey re taking up the obstructions at Fort Darling. They know the x alut of water communication to ns, and of what priceless advantage it is to the Page 284 [CHAP. XXX. 284 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. YIRGINIA~ to be able to prevent our passage. This is the lesson they have learned at Yicksburg, Port Hudson, Fort Pemberton, and at Charleston. If they fortify the James down to its mouth it is closed for our l)nr- poses and left free for theirs. It brings their iron-dads, now lying idle at Richmond, clear down to Hampton Roads, where they may lie in wait and have their opportunities always in sight. To complete this grand scheme of operations Norfolk is wanted, and then, with their iron-dads, that city would be an open port until we could complete another fleet of monitors to close it up again. We tried to develop all this some days ago. Moreover, there are indications that the rebel leaders intend to defend Richmond with a much smaller army than that hitherto devoted to that purpose, and upon a line much nearer to that city than the Rappahannock. That is the reason why there is so much activity in strengthening the works immediately in front of Rich- mond. They know that we can scarcely assail that city by the land route, for that compels a long line of communications, which experience tells them they can break up with a small and active body of cavalry; hence another reason for fortifying the James and closing the water approaches against our iron-dads. All these considerations make the campaign about Suffolk a rather important feature of the war and not a mere episode. It appears to be over for the present, but we trust that the vigilance, activity, and skill which have thus far baffled the enemy will continue to be exerted, and that General Peck will have supports at hand. Longstreets withdrawal may only be temporary, to wait the tardy arrival of Hill from North Carolina. The Richmond Examiner of November 27, 1863, has the following in its leading editorial upon Lieutenant-General Longstreet and his Knox- ville and Suffolk campaigns, which are pronounced as parallel failures. The liberal admissions by the rebel press at the time and now respect- ing the Suffolk operations are highly creditable to the command of Major-General Peck, and ought to satisfy those who sought to under- rate that campaign: Perhaps the result might have been different if Longstreet and his corps of the Vir- ginia army had been in line. His operations in East Tennessee afford little compen- sation for the reverse at Chattanooga, nor have the late bare and scanty news from that quarter sustained the high hope which the public justly based on the first intel- ligence briskly forwarded by General Bragg. His telegram declared that Longstreet5 cavalry had pursued the enemy into Knoxville, that the infantry was close up, and it was natural to suppose that the next news would be that of Knoxvilles recapture; but the next news from Longstreet contained a mention of intrenching, which sug- gested disagreeable reminiscences of Suffolk. Since then little or nothing has been heard from Longstreet unless we are to receive the unofficial story of the telegraph this morning to be trustworthy. Oh, that it may be so! His pressure on Buruside has undoubtedly quickened Grants attack on Bragg, while the absence of his whole corps from the Confederate line at the time of Shermans arrival in the Federal host has given the enemy a great opportunity. It was during the parallel campaign of Longstreet against Suffolk that Hooker made his coup at Chancellorsville; but he found there Jackson, while Grant had to do with Bragg alone. HDQRS. ARiVEY AND DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. 0., December 25, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following supplementary report as a part of my report of operations during the siege of Suffolk in April and May last: The name of Col. J. P. McMahon, One hundred and sixty-fourth New York, should have been in the paragraph commencing with Colonel Murphy, commanding brigade Page 285 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOJ~K, VA. 285 My right flank rested upon the Upper Kansemond for some 8 miles, a narrow, shallow, and tortuous stream, offering great facilities to an enterprising enemy for crossing and cutting the communications with Norfolk. Including this the whole line extending to the Dismal Swamp was from 12 to 15 miles in length; besides a force in observation was requisite at South Mills, 30 miles distant, the key of the southern ap- l)roaches to the swamp. In view of these and other objections I advised the withdrawal of the troops to a new and short line near Portsmouth after the reduction of the rebel and Union fortifications. The advance of Pettigrew toward New Berne and of Hill upon Little Washington were only feints (our casualties being less than a dozen at both places) made by order of ILongstreet some days before the date fixed for his own advance upon Suffolk for the purpose of inducing the authorities in North Carolina to call on Virginia for re-enforcements. As designed, 10,000 were asked for North Carolina, of which I was con- tributing 3,000 on the 10th. The information reached Longstreet at Franklin, and he crossed the Blackwater that night. Major-General Hooker kindly telegraphed that he had advices that General lull would join Longstreet. The time when the North Caro- lina trool)s arrived is material. Major Stratton, of the cavalry, re- l)orte(l the fact on the 20th, and I did time same on the 25th, some of them being captured. Major Stratton was correct, for Major-General Foster advised that the enemy retired from Little Washington on the evening of the 15th, and that the deserters said the cause was that they were ordered to re-enforce the army in Virginia. May 4, while in full pursuit of the columns of Longstreet and Hill toward the Blackwater, an order was received to dispatch General Gor- don with a large force to West Point. Ten thousand additional were also ordered to be held in readiness to move at a moments notice, leav- ing but the ordinary small garrison intact at Suffolk and of course end- ing offensive operations. On May 4 prisoners were taken representing forty odd regiments and independent commands, whicli gives some idea of the organization and masses of the enemy. The many miles of earthworks thrown up by the rebels were constructed by the troops. Lest the contrabands should come into my lines the bulk of them were left on the other side of the Iilackwater. It is proper to remark that the forces under my command from Sep- tember to April, 1863, were rated by the public at twice and even thrice the actual numbers. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN J. PECK, Major- General. Brig. Gen. LoRENzO THOMAS, Adjutant- General, U. ~. Army. tllidorscmCnt.] ilnAnquAnmus I)EPARTMENT OF TIlE EAST, Non Yor1~ Gity, January 21, 1864. Itespectfnlly forwarded. The withdrawal of the troops to a line nearer Norfolk was suggested by me after the investment of Suffolk and was ordered by the General- in-Chief. JOHN A. DIX, Major- General Page 286 NORTH CAROLINA AND 8. E. VIRGINIA. No. 5. Return of Casualties in the Union forces. [Compiled from nominal l4~ts of casualties, returns, etc.] Killed. Wounded. C~~e~or Command. 0 0 9 . . 0 ~ 9 ~4 -4 0 o U2 0 d~ 0 ~l) o 0 - 9 ~ ~ bfJ o r~ 0 ~ o r~i ~ COROORANS DIVISION. Brig. Gen. MICHAEL CoRcORAN. Terrys Brigade. Brig. Gen. HENRY D. TERRY. 26th Michigan * 130th New York 152d New York * 1st Battalion New York Sharpshooters 167th Pennsylvania 11th Rhode Island* Total Terrys brigade Festers Br%gade. Col. ROBERT S. FOSTER. 13th Indiana 6th Massachusetts * 112th New York 169th New York 165th Pennsylvania 166th Pennsylvania Total Fosters brigade Murphys Brigade. CoL MATREW MURPHY. 10th New Jersey * 155th flew York 164th New York 170th New York* 182d New Yorkt - - Total Murphys brigade Total Corcoran8 division GETTYS DIVISION. Brig. Gen. GEORCE W. GETTY. First Brigade. Col. RusH C. HAwKINS. 10th New Hampshire * 9th New York* 89th New York 103d New York 117th New York * Total First Brigade U. 1 2 10 12 1 1 . . 1 3 4. . 8 1 4 5 15 17 16 2 4 23 1 30 . 1 4 5 1 1 8 10 . (*) 1 2 12 15 5 6 45. 1 57 3 1 9 13 1 2 2 15 . 20 1 5 3 24 33 * No loss rel?orted. I Qr Sirty.nsnth New York National Guard Artillery. 286 LCHAP~~ 6 5 Page 287 287 SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. Return of Casu4lties in the Union forcesContinued. Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. Command. a - S S U U~ ~ UI ~ -~ ~ o ui 0 0 0 -~ V V .- S ~ S o pq 0 0 Second Erigade Brig. Gen. EDWARD HARLAND. 8th Connecticut 11th Connecticut 1~th Connecticut 16th Connecticut Total Seoond Brigade Third Brigade. Col. ARTHUR H. DUTTON. 21st ConnectIcut 13th New Hampshire 25th New Jersey 4th Rhode Islaud Total Third Brigade Light Artillery. 1st Pennzylvania, Battery A* 5th U. S., Battery A. Total Light .Artrnery Total Gettys division GURNEYS DIVISION. Col. WILLIAM GURnEY. Second Brigade. Col. BURR PORTER. 22d Connecticut 40th Massachusetts 141st New York Total Second Brigade Third Brigatle. Col. ROBERT S. HucrisToN. 1~7tli New York 142d New York 143d New York. - - . . - P14th New York Total Third Brigade Total Gurneya divisiont RESERVE BRIGADE. CoL DAVID W. WARDEOP. 99th New York 118th New York* 9th Vermont* 19th~Wisconsin* Total Reserve Brigade. 4 2 1 3 1 2 16 3 4 18 20 6 5 23 10 3 41 54 1 3 4 1 2 2 14 19 1 1 13 15 1 4 5 2 5 2 34 43 3 3 3 3 20 8 102 133 - -- = == 13 4 54 71 -- ~-- 13 4 54 . 71 3 * N6loss reported. No loss. Not ituder IWo. CRAP. X.XX. Page 288 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. Return of GasuaZtics in the Union forcesContinued. Killed. Wounded. Captured or missm~. Command. a S S S C ~ s~ a CI) ~ -~ I), a ~ 51 s~ a F 0 0 CI) a 0 0 P~ GAYALRY. 1st New York Mounted Rifles 4 1 5 11th Pennsylvania5 Total cavalry 4 1 5 LIGHT ARTILLERY. Capt. FREDERICK M. FOLLEIT. 1st I)ela~ are Battery 7th Massachusetts Battery 16th New York Battery 19th New York Battery 4th U. 8., Battery P 4th U. 8., Battery L Id Wisconsin Battery 4th Wisconsin Battery Total Light Artillery* ILEAVY ARTILLERY. Capt. JoHn A. BLAKE. Id Battalion, Third Pennsylvania* UNASSIGNED. 3d New York (Battalion) ~ - -. Grand total - -. 3 38 18 205 2 266 * No lose reported. Oflicers k iled C ol. Benjamin Jtiu~old, One hundred and third N~w York; Capt. Lewis II. Buzzell, Thirteenth New Hampshire; and Chaplain Francis E. Butler, Twenty-fifth New Jersey. No. 6. Report of Brig. (ien. Michael Coreoran, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Seventh Army Corps. IIDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, SEVENTH ARMY Conps, Suffolk, Va., May , 1863. MAJOR: In compliance with orders from headquarters I respectfully submit the following report as to the operations OIL tile Edenton and Somerton roads and the line of defenses under my command, extending from Fort Nansemond to Fort ilalleck, during the late investment of this place by the enemy: On Saturday, April 11, it being reported that the enemy was advanc- ing agaiAst this place, I immediately repaired to my front and had all the troops placed nnder arms and ready for action. The enemy did not, how ever, advance within sight, and this condition of affairs re- mained until Monday afternoon following, when an advance was made 288 [CuAr. XXX Page 289 CHAr. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 289 by the enemy on the Somerton road. He opened upon us with artillery. The guns of Forts Union, Kansemond, and McClellan replied with such effect as to very soon silence theirs and drive the enemy back. Some skirmishing ensued, in which detachments from the Thirteenth Indiana and One hundred and twelfth New York Volunteers and One hundred and sixty-fifth and One hundred and sixty.sixth Pennsylvania Militia took part and deserve great credit for their actions on that occasion. Our picket lines were re-established that afternoon. On Wednesday, the 15th, Col. J. P. MeMahon, of the One hundred and sixty-fourth Regiment New York Volunteers, went out on the Edenton road for the purpose of reconnoitering the enemys position. He brought with him three companies of infantry, one from the One huudred and sixty-fourth, One hundred and fifty-fifth, and One hundred aud seventieth Regiments respectively, two companies of cavalry of the First New York Mounted Rifles, under the command of Major Pat- ton, and one howitzer. They started out just before daylight, drove in the enemys pickets, and engaged the Seventeenth Virginia Regiment, capturing 4 prisoners and killing and wounding several. They found that the enemy were in considerable force a short distance from his outposts. On the same day Colonel Spear, of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cav- alry, went out on the Somerton road with a small force, consisting of four companies of infantry, two from the One hundred and sixty-fifth and One hundred and sixty-sixth Pennsylvania Militia respectively, two l)ieces of the Seventh Massachusetts Battery, one company of his own regiment, with guns, and three companies of cavalry, and made an at- tempt to charge their rifle-pits, but this movement was not as success- fmil. as was anticipated it would be. Small parties were from time to time afterward sent out on the several roads, also in the direction of the Dismal Swamp and along the Jericho Canal, but nothing of interest occurred. The object of the parties sent in the latter direction was to discover if time enemy were endeavoring to get through in that locality, but mio evidence of any such attempt could be discovered. Omi April 24 ami expedition, which had been for some time in contem- plation, went out under my command on the Edenton road. It cou- sisted of about 5,000 infantry, 500 cavalry, and 10 pieces of artillery. I assigned Col. It. S. Foster to the command of the infantry; Colonel Spear had char~e of the cavalry, and Captain Simpson of the artillery. A small party went out at the same time on the Somerton road to en- gage the attention of the enemy there and co-operate with us on the Edenton road if necessary. We advanced about 4 miles and met the enemys outposts. The pickets retired, and we found the enemys ad- vance behind rifle-pits. Our artillery opened, and after considerable firing on both sides the enemy was driven from his position and our skirmishers occupied it. The firing still continued a short time, and finally the enemy fell back some distance and ceased firing. In accord. atice with my instructions I gave instructions not to follow, and we slowly returned to camp. As full reports of this and the other affairs above alluded to have already been furnished I refrain from giving any extended or detailed account of them. On the 2d instant, about lip. in., we received information from two de- serters that the enemy was retreating from our front, and 1 immediately went in person to the major-general commanding and reported the in- formation and that I had ordered a force out on the Edenton and Somerton roads. The major-general having approved of my action I started out myself ordering an additional force to follow. Colonel Fos- 19 U UVOL XVII Page 290 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. 294) ter went on the Somerton road and General Dodge on the Edenton. I accompanied the latter. He crossed over to the Somerton and met the force under Colonel Foster at Leesville; we advanced some distance farther, and as it was then apparent that the enemy were beyond reach I ordered the troops to return, except a few cavalry left for the purpose of picking up the enemys s~tragglers. On the march we captured a large number of prisoners, arms, & c. From the commencement of the affair the officers and men evinced the most commendable disposition to do their whole duty, always on the alert and ever ready to obey all commands of their superior officers. The works, which at the beginning were unfinished, by unceasing ex- ertions were soon completed, while other works of defense were also as rapidly and cheerfully erected. The woods mu front were cleared to a great extent by slashing parties, who were at work at times night and day. The pickets maintained their ground, except npon two or three occasions when they were forced to retire by overpowering tiumbers, and deserve great praise for their courage and vigilance; in fact the desire exhibited by the troops to meet the enemy either inside or outside the works gave nndoubted assurance that the enemy would have been encountered, had he attempted~~ to carry out his intention of attacking this place, with as courageous and determined a resistance as could pos- sibly be made by gallant men. I feel called upon to state that I was ably assisted thronghout the whole time by General Dodge and Colonel Foster, who, respectively, commanded portions of my front, and that tliey were always at the post of duty and carried out their instructions upon all occasions promptly and cheerfully. I send their reports here- with. I remain, major, your most obedient servant, MICHAEL CORCORAN, Brigadier- General, Gommanding. Maj. B. B. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, Fairfax Court-House, Va., December 14, 1863. MAJOR: I beg leave to state that I nuderstand I inadvertently omitted to give in my report of the operations at Suffolk, Va., an esti- mate as to the probable strength of the enemy during the investment, and therefore request that the following supplement may be appended to said report: From information received from deserters the strength of Longstreets forces at his approach ranged between 32,000 to 45,000, none under the former, which was corroborated by the statement of a man claiming to have been in the commissary department, who reported that 34,000 rations had been issued at the Blackwater when Longstreet was pre- paring to cross. During the first three days not less than 40 prisoners and deserters were examined, whose statements convinced me that the strength of the enemy at that time was not less than 32,000. The deserters from Picketts division established the fact that many of the regiments had just been filled up to 900 men; some were very weak, but the average seems to have been about 500. Many of the deserters had run great risks to reach our lines, and, being either of Northern birth or Irishmen, were anxious to give accu- rate information Page 291 CHAP. XXX.J SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 291 It is certain that the whole of Longstreets grand corps, comprising the entire divisions of Pickett, Hood, and French, were engaged in the first advance on Suffolk, as well as Jenkins division, of the Blackwater troops, who took position on the Edenton road on the fourth day of the siege. The disposition of the rebel force during the first two weeks of the siege was, in my opinion, as follows: Jenkins (probably 4,000 strong) mainly in position on the Edenton road near Dardens Mill; Picketts division (of four brigades) on the Somerton road, his right meeting Jenkins left in the woods between the Edenton and Somerton; Hoods division on the South Quay, connecting with Pickett opposite Fort Nansemoud; French on the Providence Church road and river line. During the pursuit of the enemy, on the morning of their retreat (May 4), we ascertained beyond the possibility of a doubt that on May 1 or 2 two brigades of North Carolina troops (Garnetts and another) joined Pickett, and encamped with him on the Somerton. During that pursuit nearly 300 prisoners were captured from forty different regi- ments, all of which had been encamped on the Edenton and Somerton roads, and were from Jenkins and Picketts divisions and the two North Carolina brigades exclusively. These prisoners rather increased than diminished the previous esti- mates of the enemys strength and confirmed fully the statements of (leserters and people residing in the vicinity. The vast and formidable lines of the enemys works could not have been constructed in twenty-three days by less thaii 35,000 troops, con- sidering the constant state of activity in which they were kept by the movements of our forces. Our own troops were incessantly engaged in fatigue duty, and certainly performed less than one-fourth of the labor done by the enemy. 1 am convinced by the foregoing facts that the enemy under command of Longstreet during the investment of Suffolk was not less than 34,000 men, exclusive of Hills re-enforcements. I am, major, yours, very respectfully, MICHAEL CORCOIRAN, Maj. B. B. FOSTER, Brigadier-General. Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 7. Report of Maj. Alexander U. Patton, First Yew York Mounted R~flcs, of skirmish on the .Edenton road, April 15. CMU FIRST MOUNTED RIFLES, 8uffolk, Va., April 18, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that at 3 oclock on the morn- iilg of the 15th instant I left this camp to make a reconnaissance on the Edenton road, to attack the enemy, and, if possible, to ascertain his force. My command consisted of Company E, Captain Gregory; Company M, Captain Masten, and one howitzer, in charge of Corporal McConnoll, of Company D, all of this regiment. At Fort Dix I was joined by Colonel McMahon with two companies of infantry. We proceeded cautiously for some 2~- miles, when, having approached near to the enemys pickets, I directed one shot to be fired from th Page 292 (CHAP. XXX. 292 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. ]~. VIRGINIA. howitzer; Captain Gregory to charge down the road with his company, Captain Masten supporting him, the howitzer party having directions to advance at quick-time with the infantry, supported by a detail from our picket guard under Captain Poor commanding Company P. The roa(l was found to have been barricaded no less than eight times, but such was the rapidity of our movement that the outer sentry at the enemys camp was captured. Charging upon the right of the enemy they wer& found to be drawn lip in line of battle in the woods, and the advance fell back to await the arrival of the remainder of the party, which on coming up was formed in au open field on the right of the road and in front of the enemy. Company P was then deployed as skirmishers on the edge of the woods to cover our right and a charge made upon the right of the enemy, which was met by a galling fire and we were forced to fall back. At ibout the same moment the infantry rushed forward, cheering, and at- tacked their left, and by their rapid and effective fire, in conjunction with that of the howitzer opening on their right, forced them to fall l)ack through their camp on the cross-roads leading just miles to the Soinerton road. At this point we charged again, driving the enemy some distance, but losing 2 men of Company 1), whom (the enemy at length having received re-enforcements of infantry and artillery) we were forced to leave in their hands. having accomplished the object of the movement and destroyed tile camp of the enemy we fell back leisurely, without annoyance, the en- ciny appearing to be too much crippled to attempt any offensive opera- tions. Our loss in the affair was 2 men wounded and prisoners from Coin- pany D, and 1 wounded; and 1 man wounded in the howitzer party, and IS horses killed and wounded. I have to acknowledge the efficient aid rendered mc by Colonel Mc- Mahon and the infantry under his command, and to present to your notice Corporal McConnoll, who handled the howitzer in the most effi- cient manner. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully; your obedient servant, A. U. PATTON Major, First New York Mounted Rifles. Brig. Gen. M. CORCORAN. No. 8. Itinerary of the First Brigade, Brig. Gen. Henry D. Terry, U. ~. Army, commanding, April 11~3O.* April 11, Saturday.The enemy appeared before and invested Suf- lolk. The brigade immediately took position in the trenches and have remained there ever since. April 17, Friday.A reconnaissance was sent out, consisting of six companies of the One hundred and thirtieth New York Volunteers, two companies of the Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers,( one company of the New York State Sharpshooters, for the purpose of ascertaining the force of the enemy in front. They were found in force in rifle-pits with large reserves. The loss sustained was as follows: Killed, 2 pri * From Return of Brigade for April, 1863 Page 293 ChAP. XXX.1 SIEGE OP S1JFFOLR, VA. 293 yates of the Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers and 1 private of the One hundred and thirtieth New York Volunteers; wounded, 4 privates ~ the Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers, 5 privates of the One hun- dred and thirtieth New York Volunteers, and 1 private of the eighth company New York State Sharpshooters. No. 9. Report of Gol. Robert S. Foster, Thirteenth Indiana infantry, command ing Second Brigade. HEADQUARTERS FOSTERS BRIGADE, Suffolk, Va., ]Lfa~y 9, 1863. CAPTAIN: In pursuance of circular from your headquarters I have the honor of submitting the following report of the part taken by my command during the twenty-three days of the investment of Suffolk: tipon receiving information on Saturday, April 11, of the approach of the enemy I immediately visited my command and found them occu- pying their respective positions previously assigned. Every arrange- ment was made to secure as strong a defense as possible. No evidence of the enemys appearance on my front until Sunday. On Monday, the 13th, the pickets on the Soinerton road were driven in by a force of infantry and cavalry, the pickets maintaining their ground as long as possible. The enemy opened on us with artillery, and immediately the guns from Forts Union, Nansemond, and McClel- lan responded and silenced their guns. At 3.30 p. m. I Sent out a party of skirmisllels, accompanying them myself~ consisting of details from the Thirteenth Indiana, One hundred and twelfth ~ew York Volun- teers, and One hundred and sixty-fifth and One hundred and sixty-sixth Pennsylvania Militia. They advanced rapidly and drove the enemys skirmishers back to their reserve at Brothers house, on the Somerton road. I then established my old picket line, extending from the right of Fort Union to Fort Nansemond, and have maintained said line throughout the siege. Too much praise cannot be given to the detachments from the above- mentioned regiments in their skirmishing on that day. At the earnest solicitations of Colonel Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, I sent out two pieces of the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, under Captain Vallee, supported by one company of the One hundred and sixty-fifth Pennsyl- vania Militia. After having fired a few rounds I recalled them. In the morning I ordered the houses on the Somerton road near the reserve picket station burned, which was accomplished. The enemy used the white house of Brothers as a shelter, and I was anxious to destroy it if possible. To this end I dispatched on several occasions a party of skirmishers to effect this object, but the overpowering force of the enemy prevented. On Wednesday Colonel Spear (with orders from General Corcoran) took command of a small party, consisting of two companies of the One hundred and sixty-fifth Pennsylvania Militia, twQ companies of the One hundred and sixty-sixth Pennsylvania Militia, two pieces of the Sev- enth Massachusetts Battery, one company of his own regiment, with guns, and three companies of cavalry, and made an attempt to charge their rifle-pits at Brothers house, but without success. On Thursday, April 16, a party of skirmishers, under Lieutenant Page 294 [CHAr. XXI. 294 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. Wallick and Conron, of the Thirteenth Indiana, were sent out. They exchanged a few shots with the enemy, but found them too strong to make any advance. 0 On the succeeding day I sent Lieutenants Zent and (I3onron with a party of the Thirteenth Indiana to flank the works at the white house if possible. After a sharp engagement they were obliged to withdraw. In this encounter Lieutenant Conron received a wound from which he died a few days after. He was a brave and gallant ~fflcer, and sacri- ficed his life in his zeal to accomplish my desire. In all these skir- mishes the men and officers from the different regiments behaved in a gallant and praiseworthy manner, and one name I wish particularly to mention: Private Bircham, Company F, Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers. On Saturday, the 18th, an unusual quietude prevailed on the picket lines. The pickets of the One hundred and twelfth New York ex- changed newspapers with the enemys pickets and received the assur- ance they would not be fired on as pickets. The Thirteenth Indiana was ordered to report to General Getty at the small-pox hospital. On Sunday a portion of my command was ordered to be in readiness to form a part of an expedition oh the Edenton road, and I also organ- ized a party to push out on the Somerton road to co-operate with the former party. Said expedition was postponed and did not go out until the succeeding Friday. The forces from my front consisted of the Eleventh, Fifteenth, and Sixteenth Connecticut and the Thirteenth Indiana, under command of Colonel Beach, Sixteenth Connecticut; the One hundred and sixty- ninth New York and five companies of the One hundred and twelfth New York forming a part of Colonel Drakes command. I was intrusted with the command of infantry. A report has already beeii furnished of the result of the expedition.* I have kept large details from the dif- ferent regiments at work during the whole time building new works and strengthening the old, chopping the trees on the front, and in every way doing all I could to make our means of resistance as sue- ces~fuinl as possible. Upon hearing of the enemys departure, early on Monday morning, and under General Corcorans directions, I started in pursuit of the enemy, the result of which has already been furnished you officially. During the time, 1 have had the following regiments on my front: The One hundred and sixty-ninth New York was added to my brigade on April 17. In addition to my brigade the Eleventh, Fifteenth, and Sixteenth Connecticut and One hundred and forty-third, One hundred and twenty-seventh, and One hundred and eighteenth New York have occupied a portion of my front at different periods. The Seventh Mas- sachusetts, First Delaware, Sixteenth New York, and Fourth and Sec- ond Wisconsin Batteries also constituted at different times a part of my command. All the above commands exerted themselves to the dis- charge of their duties in an acceptable and praiseworthy manner, at all times meeting every detail with promptness and in every way discharg- ing their duties in a soldierlike manner. During the time, in the dif- ferent expeditions and skirmishes, the enemy met with a heavy loss, as subsequent events prove. ROBT. ~. FOSTER, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. J. J. BLODGETT, Assistant Adjutant-General. * Return of the Second Brigade, Third Division, Seventh Army Corps, for the month of April, 1863, shows a loss in this affair of 3 killed and 11 wounded Page 295 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 295 No. 10. Report of Lieut. cot. John MeGonihe, One hundred and sixty-ninth New York Infantry. HEADQUARTERS 169TH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, Gamp Griswold, Suffolk, Ya., May 8, 1863. ADJUTANT: In pursuance of your circular, dated May 7, requiring commanders of regiments to prepare and send in an official report of the part taken by their respective commands in the scenes of the past twenty-three days, I beg leave to report that the One hundred and sixty-ninth Regiment New York State Volunteers left Martindale Bar- racks, Washington, ID. 0., on the morning of April 15, with orders to go to Norfolk, reporting en route at Fort Monroe. We were transported by the steamer John Warner to Norfolk, Va., arriving there on the 16th instant. The same day we were transported by rail to Suffolk, Va., arriving there late in the night, and on the morning of April 17 we were, by order of General Peck, attached to Acting Brigadier-General Fosters brigade, and occupied a camp near the breastworks on the Somerton road. From this date up to April24 we continued to furnish fatigue parties to work on the fortifications. On April 24 the regiment was placed in the Second Provisional Bri- gade, Col. J. 0. Drake commanding, and moved out on the Ildenton road with the other forces, and took part in the reconnaissance in force made by General Corcoran on that occasion. The regiment was placed far in advance of all others in support of Captain Folletts battery (ID, Fourth U. S. Artillery), and unflinchingly faced a continuous and un- abating shower of shell, grape, and canister from the well-directed fire of the enemy until orders were received to retire, the object of the re- connaissance having been accomplished. The colonel (Clarence Buell) was severely wounded by a piece of shell, and Lieutenant Hughes, of Company A, was badly injured in the leg by a shell; E. H. Brock, of Company H, was instantly killed, the back and top of his head being carried away by a shell; Major Aldens horse was wounded in the neck by a shell and the major bruised; Corporal Noyes, Privates Falen, Fogarty, and Kennely were wonnded. On April 28 Captain Vaughn, of Company F, was detailed for the purpose of making a reconnaissance through the Jericho Canal, which expedition was eminently successful, being made through an overflowed swamp, almost impenetrable on account of the depth of the water and the nature of the vinvs, brush, and timber, and at a time when the rain fell unceasingly for the two days (the 28th and 29th) that the said com- pany was absent. On May 3 the regiment stood under arms on Main street during the day, being ordered to act as a reserve, in conjunction with the Thir- teenth Indiana Regiment, under Colonel Dobbs, to a force which crossed the Nansemond at the foot of said street, and attacked the enemy on the Providence Church road. During the night the regiment occupicd Fort Peck and the rifle-pits on the left of said fort at the foot of Main street. Monday, the 4th, the regiment returned to camp, and has been cii- gaged in doing picket duty and furnishing fatigue parties. I am, very respectfully, JOHN MoCONIHE, Lieutenant- Golonel, Commanding. Lient. S. E. MARVJN,~A. A. A. U., Gen. Fosters Brigade, Sutfolk, Va Page 296 296 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. No. 11. Itinerary of the Third Brigade, Cot. Mathew Murphy, One hundred and eighty-second New York Jnfantry, commanding, April 9May 3* In accordance with General Orders, No. 22, from Headquarters United States Forces, Suffolk, Ya, issued April 9, 1863, Brigadier-General Cor- coran assumed command of the First Division, Seventh Army Corps; whereupon the senior colonel, Mathew Murphy, assumed, by right of rank, command of the Irish Legion, and immediately issued his General Orders, No. 5, to that effect, appointing Lieut. J. Townsend Connolly, of the Sixty-ninth Regiment, his acting assistant adjutant-general, and established his headquarters at Fort iDix, on the southeast front of our lines, facing the Edenton road. April 11.The enemy invested Suffolk and soon after (the next day or so) worked around gradually from the South Quay, when our pickets were first driven in to the Jamestown and Edenton roads. Immediately on the first alarm the long roll was beaten, and the troops deployed in line along the breastworks, running right and left from Fort Dix. Their relative conditions continued as follows until the siege was raised: The Sixty-ninth Regiment defending works in front of its camp, on the right of the line; the One hundred and sixty-fourth Regiment next in line and first on the left of the said fort; the One hundred and fifty-fifth at first marched up from their camp in reserve and formed along the works, bivouacking at night between the One hundred and sixty-fourth and One hundred and Seventieth Regiments, and on the left of the One hun. dred and sixty-fourth. April 15.No action was taken offensively on the part of this Legion against the enemy until the 15th instant, when a small force was sent out on the Edenton road to reconnoiter. This force consisted of one company from the One hundred and fifty-fifth Regiment (Company I), one company from the One hundred and seventieth, and one company trom the One hundred and sixty-fourth (Company C), together with a squadron of cavalry from the First New York Mounted Rifles, and one ~3-pounder, the whole force under the command of Colonel McMahon, of the One hundred and sixty-fourth Regiment, Major Patton having charge of the cavalry and gun. It started from Fort Dix at 2.30 a. in., and, after marching 2~ miles out on the Edenton road, drove in the enemys mounted pickets, followed them as rapidly as possible to Mill, where they found a rebel regiment drawn up in line of battle to receive them. The enemy were posted in the rear of a large field, on the right of the road covering a cross-road, which led across the mill-dam to the Somerton road. Here a conflict ensued of half an hours duration, when the enemy retreated, taking up his second position on the opposite side of the mill-pond. A few well-directed shots from the 6-pounder gnu drove him from this place, when re-enforcements arrived to the enemy. Colonel McMahon, after advising with Major Patton, deemed it best to retire, the object of the reconnaissance being accomplished, the entire camp equipage of the enemy captured, besides some provisions and 3 prisoners. Our loss was 9 men wounded and 3 killed12 in all. A list of casualties that have occurred in the entire brigade has been for- warded through the proper channels, with names, nature, & c.; hence it will be better not to recapitulate here, as our space is limited. From this date (lSth).until the 24th the brigade was engaged night and day * From Return of tim, Corcoran Irish~Legion, Seventh Army Corps, for month of April, 1863 Page 297 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 297 in building intrencliments, digging and slashing, cutting trees to give full range to the guns, & c. April 23.The Tenth New Jersey was assigned to this Legion, wheu the One hundred and fifty-fifth returned to camp in reserve and the Tenth New Jersey took its place between the One hundred and sixt - Thurth and One hundred aud seventieth IRegiments. April 24.The brigade accompanied General Corcoran on the grand reconnaissance iu force of that date. Marching from Fort Dix down the Edenton road, double column closed in mass, it brought up the rear of the column and marched with it until halted in a large field on the right, and formed line of battle to the right, while the artillery, cavalry, and skirmishers in front carried on the affair. Only one regiment was marched from this line (the One hundred and sixty-fourth, Colonel Mc- Mahon) previous to halting and forming line; it was sent to the front, under orders of General Corcoran, to support a line of skirmishers. In this regiment occurred our only loss. While occupying the enemys rifle-pits 15 men were wounded (1 mortally) and all borne off the field, when the order was given to fall back. The remaining regiments did not engage the enemy, and consequently lost none. The column started from Fort Dix at about 2 p. m. and returned about 6 p. m. From this date until May 3 none of the regiments were engaged on other (luty than fatigue, picket, & c. May 3.The One hundred and seventieth Regiment accompanied General Getty on his reconnaissance iu force across the Nansemond River, on the Smithfield road. An account of the proceedings in May will be deferred to the report of that month. No. 12. Report of Gol. William MeEvily, One hundred and fifty-fifth New York Infantry. HDQRS. 155TH REGT. N. Y. STATE VOLS., CORCORAN LEGION, 1ST Div., 7TH ARMY CORPS, Suffolk, Va., May 11, 1863. In compliance with orders received I here forward, for the inforina- tion of the brigadier-general commanding southeast front during the time of the investment of Suffolk by the enemy, a detailed account of the operations of the One hundred and fifty-fifth Regiment New York Volunteers, under my command: An alarm from th& apprehended approach of the rebels in force coin- menced in the afternoon of April 11, and five companies of the regi- inent were sent to man the breastworks and four ordered to garrison Fort Dix. From April 11 to 19 the regiment remained doing duty on the line of breastworks, on which latter date all but three companies returned to cainI), where an order was received to be in readiness for an advance against the enemy, but this order was not carried into effect as antici- pated. On the morning of April 14 Company I, with detachments from other regiments under the command of Col. J. P. McMhlion, One hundred and sixty-fourth Regiment New York Volunteers, had a skirmish with the enemy, and behaved with great gallantry, coolness, and deternilna- line driving the rebel forces, though superior in number, back on their of intienchinents. Captain McAnahly and Privates Michael Den Page 298 298 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. nison, John Glennon, John Gallivan, and John Leary were wounded in this fight. On the 21st the regiment was ordered out for a reconnaissance, and l)roceeded as far as the breastworks, where it remained from 10 a. m. to 1.30 p. ni., when the order was countermanded, and the regiment, after relieving the companies then in Fort Dix, with others returned to camp. Nothing of importance transpired until April 24, when fhe regiment prepared to move to Fort ilalleck, according to an order received the day previous, but did not go on account of a second order countermand- ing it and requiring the regiment to at once get ready to go on a re- connaissance, which it did, starting at 2 p. m. and returning at 6 p. in., having marched out about 3 miles on the Edenton road. No casualties occurred, the regiment not being called into action. The regiment re- mained in camp till the 26th, on which day Colonel McEvily received an order from Brigadier.General Dodge charging him with the defense of Fort Dix and the battery adjoining. Until May 2 nothing momentous occurred. At 10 oclock in the even- ing of that day the long roll was beat, and the regiment marched up to Fort Dix, when, under command of General (Jorcoran, it went out on the Edenton road and re-established our pickets that had been driven in, went close to the enemys lines and then returned, arriving in camp at 2 a. m. At 3.45 oclock on May 4 the regiment, with other troops, started out in pursuit of the enemy, who were retreating, marching past their fortifications on the Edenton road and turning off on the Somerton road, and was ordered to halt and hold the cross-roads known as Hol- lands Corners; the remainder of the force, the One hundred and sixty- fourth New York Volunteers, Sixty-ninth New York National Guard, an(l Company A, Thirteenth Indiana, together with a number of other regiments, went ahead in pursuit. Quite a number of prisoners here gave themselves up into our hands, and many were captured and sent back by the forces ahead. Toward evening all the troops returned to the Corners, and reported the enemy across the Blackwater River, since which the usual routine of regimental and garrison duties have been resumed. During the period of the investment of Suffolk by the enemy, unfor- tunately no opportunity occurred Cor the regiment to distinguish itself, although both officers and men showed by their cheerful discharge of every duty their willingness and anxiety to render every possible aid toward the discomfiture of the enemy. I am, lieutenant, respectfully, your obedient servant, WILLIAM McEYILY, Colonel, Commanding Re~qiment. Lieut. J. T. CONNELLY, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 13. Itinerary of the Reserve Brigade, Col. David W. Wardrop, Ninety-ninth New York Infantry, commanding, April 24May 1A~ This brigade was formed and Colonel Wardrop assigned to the com- mand by Special Orders, No. 106, dated April 24, 1863, from Head *From Returns of tlie Reserve Brigade, Seventh Army Corps, for themouths ceCApril and May, 1863 Page 299 Cn~r. XIX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 299 quarters, Suffolk, Va., Major-General Peck commanding. It then con- sisted of the Ninth Vermont Volunteers, Nineteenth Wisconsin Volun- teers, Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers, One hundred and eighteenth New York Volunteers, and the One hundred and fifty-second New York Volunteers. By Special Orders, No. 109, dated April 20, 1863, from Headquarters, Suffolk, Va., the One hundred and fifty-second New York Volunteers was detached from the brigade and attached to General Terrys brigade. During the siege of Suffolk all the regiments have been actively employed in manning the rifle-pits and strengthening the fortifications and other duties of the defense. The following officers have been wounded by sharpshooters during the month, but before the formation of the brigade: - April 23.Capt. John E. White, commanding Company G, Ninety- ninth New York Volunteers; thigh and arm, slightly. April 24.James Wilson, M. ID., surgeon Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers; chest, slightly. May 1.At the beginning of the month the various regiments com- posing the brigade were posted in different parts of the defenses, under the immediate orders of the commanders of the several fronts on which they were stationed. On the afternoon of the 1st the Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers, then under orders of Brigadier-General Terry, was sent out to recon- noiter the enemys rifle-pits. The enemy was found in strong force and the regiment was obliged to retire. Loss, 13 killed (or died of wounds) and 31 wounded. Two officers, Capt. James II. Hart and Capt. Charles E. Cartwright, were wounded; both slightly. No. 14. Report of Brig. Gen. Charles C. Dodge, U. S. Army, commanding South east Front. HEADQUARTERS SOUTHEAST FRONT, FORT iJix, Suffolk, Va., AiTay 7, 1863. CAPTAIN: In accordance with circular just received I have the honor to submit the following report of operations upon this (southeast) front, extending from Forts Union to Halleck, inclusive, since Saturday, April 11, when I first assumed command: As at that time the enemy were already in our immediate front and the general disposition of our force complete, it only remained for me to carry out the orders received from Brigadier-General Corcoran, com- manding front defenses, to watch closely, and, if advisable, counteract any movement of the enemy; to make every preparation in my power for the defense of my line; to keep the troops constantly on the alert and ready for immediate service; to finish as rapidly as possible the various works then in process of erection, or which thereafter might be decided upon, including a large amount of slashing, & c. These orders were diligently complied with. It seeming advisable to ascertain the force and iutentions of the enemy upon this immediate front, a detachment, under command of Colonel McMahon, One hundred and sixty-fourth Regiment New York Volun- teers, and consisting of three companies of infantry, a squadron of cav- alry (the First New York Mounted Rifles), and a mountain howitzer Page 300 300 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [ChAP. XXX. was advanced at daylight on the morning of the ultimo, and vigor- ously engaged the rebel outposts, driving them quite back upon their reserves, who retired nearly a mile to the old mill, about 5 miles from this place. At this time about 3,000 men were reported on the Edenton road and vicinity. The rebels at once commenced throwing up a redan and strong breast- works completely commanding the road and approaches to their posi- tion. Itiflepits for the protection of their outposts were also con- structe(1. It was not considered advisable to attempt to prevent this as our forces were at that time too much engaged upon important duty under General Getty. Slight skirmishing between the outposts con- tinued daily, with, however, but 2 casualties upon our part. Scouts were c~zrntinualIy out, and every exertion was made to keep us fully infoimed of whatever the enemy might be attempting. Occasional de- serters from their ranks aided us greatly in this respect. On the a force of some 200 infantry and an equal number of cav- alry, under the command of Col. S. P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, endeavored to again feel the enemy on our front, but was unable to drive theni from their rifle-pits, which were uncommonly de- fensible. On the most of the troops along this front were detailed by the brigadier-general commanding for a reconnaissance in force under his owii command. During his absence it became my duty to dispose, as advantageously as possible along General Corcorans front such fresh troops as had been ordered up to defend the line in place of those re- lieved, and to prepare for any emergency that might occur upon either the Edenton or Somnerton roads, npon which our forces were engaged. General Corcoran reported the enemy re-enforced to about 6,000 or 8,000 men and eight pieces of artillery on the Edenton road. From the ultimo to the 2d instant nothing of moment occurred along this front, and our men were kept most busy at the various fatigue - work necessary. About 11 oclock on the evening of the 3d instant the officer of the day reported with two deserters, who informed us that the enemy were rapidly withdrawing their forces and en route for the Blackwater. The troops were at once ordered under arms and the report forwarded to headquarters south front. Investigation and additional deserters soon confirmed the first report, and with a column of about 150 cavalry, four pieces of light artillery, and three regiments of infantry I started, by command of Brigadier-General Corcoran, in pursuit. Advancing rap- idly but cautiously we soon arrived at the enemys earthworks, which were found quite deserted. Pushing on, a small cavalry detachment was sent to Cypress Chapel, on the Edenton road, where several rebel officers and men were secured, and with the main body we moved by the first available road over to the main Somerton road, and leaving a force at the cross-roads pushed on to Leesville, where we united with Colonel Fosters column, which, starting simultaneously with ourselves and having some 5 miles less distance to travel, had reached that point in advance of us and succeeded in picking up large numbers of strag- glers and a portion of the enemys rear guard as prisoners. Brigadier-General Corcoran then assuming command of the united forces, we advanced some distance toward Hollands Corners, where, upon consultation, it was decided that no advantage could be gained by push- ing the infantry farther, as our advanced scouts ~nd others reported the main force of the enemy already over the river and occupying their strong earthworks there. Cavalry, however, was. thrown forward t Page 301 CHAP. XXX.~ SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 301 Hollands Corners, Carrsville, Deserted House, & c., and succeeded in bringing in some 40 or 50 prisoners. The entire column was then re- turned to Suffolk and the troops resumed the usual regimental and general duties. During the time that I have been in conimand of this part of General Corcorans front occasional but immaterial changes have occurred in the troops and their dispositions. I have but few casualties to report, a list of which has been forwarded. Much arduous labor has been accomplished, whicli can but prove satis- factory to the ~eneral commanding. I am happy to say in conclusion that with scarce an exception officers and men, nnder every circumstance of exposure, fatigue, and danger, have exhibited such cheerful endurance, earnest faithfulness, and eager desire to meet the enemy as must always insure them success, while it merits the admiration and gratitude of the commanding generals. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES C. DODGE, Capt. J. J. BLODO-ETT, Brigadier-General. Assistant Adjutant- General, No. 15. Report of Brig. Gem George 1V. Getty, U. ~ Army, cornmandinq Third hivision, Ninth Army Gorps. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISIoN, NINTH ARMY Coups, Suffolk, Va., May 12, 1863. Sin: On April 11, the alarm of the enemys approach being given, in compliance with the orders of the major-general commanding, the troops of this division were called out under arms. The pickets along the northeastern front were strengthened; two companies of the Tenth New Hampshire were placed in Fort ilalleck, where they remained until May 10; the troops under Colonel Dutton engaged in fortif,ying the river; the Twenty-first Connecticut and five companies of the Thir- teenth New Hampshire at Fort Connecticut; the Fourth Rhode Island One hundred and third New York, and the remainder of the Thirteentl New Hampshire at Fort Stevens were called in. Three companies, however, of the Thirteenth New Hampshire were ordered to remain at Fort Connecticut, with orders to observe the river, resist any attempt of the enemy to cross until the last moment, and then to fall back to Suffolk over the corduroy bridge across Broers Creek, taking up the bridge. The troops remained under arms and on the alert during the night. The Second Brigade strengthened the south front between Forts Union and McClellan, and remained in this position until April 28,withtheexceptionoftheEighthConnecticutVolunteers,which,on the 14th, was ordered to the river front, where it has since remained. On the 18th General Harland was assigned to the command of the front from Fort Halleck to Battery Onondaga, and on the 28th the Eleventh and Fifteenth Regiments Connecticut Volunteers, and on the 29th the Sixteenth Connecticut Volunteers, reported to him. On the 12th Col. A. H. Dutton, commanding the Third Brigade, was placed in command of the line of defenses included between Forts Jericho and Halleck, and at once set to work throwing up rifle-pit Page 302 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. 302 (CHAr. XXX. and fortifying his position. Under Colonel Duttons snpervision the front between Fort ilalleck and Battery Onoudaga was very materially strengthened. Rifle-pits were thrown up, covering all the approaches by the Portsmouth road, and a second line on the west bank of Jericho Creek and Fort Dutton, on the left of Fort Jericho, was thrown up. lie was relieved on April 18 by Brigadier-General ilarland and assigned to the command of the river defenses between the mouth of Jericho Creek and Dr. Councils. The Eighty-ninth Regiment ~ew York Volunteers was placed in Fort Montgomery, where it remained until May 0 with the exception of temporary absences. On the 13th the Fourth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers was or- dered to report to Brigadier-General Corcorau and was stationed by him behind the breastworks on the left of Fort Union. It occupied this position until May 1, when it was relieved by the Ninth Vermont and placed on the line of river defenses near Fort Connecticut, where it now is. The One hundred and third New York was stationed on the 13th instant behind the breastworks to the left of Fort Union, a positiomi which it held until May 6. The Ninth Regiment New York Volunteers was placed in Fort Nansemond, where it remained until relieved and sent North on May 3. It is my painful duty in this connection to animadvert upon the course pursued by the Ninth Regiment New York Volunteers, who for the first time in their military history turned their backs upon the enemy, and, deaf to the appeals of the commander of the department, persisted in returning home, when every consideration of patriotism, honor, and pride called upon them to remain and share the dangers of battle with their comrades in the field. Most deeply do I regret that a regiment whose career since they entered the service two years ago has been most brilliant should at the close sully their glorious reputation by such an act; but it is due to truth to say that in my opinion the fault lies chiefly with the officers, and most of all with the commanding officer, whose whole course in this affair seems to have been actuated by per- sonal pique and caprice. On April 14, reconnoitering along the river, I discovered a battery of the enemy at Norfleets farm, which in an engagement that morning with our gunboats had disabled the Mount Washington and repulsed the remainder. I found that this battery mounted four gunstwo 20-pounder Parrotts and two brass 12-pounders; that it commanded completely a point directly opposite and extending out some distance from this side, and that a large party of the enemy was at work strength- ening the battery and throwing up additional works and rifle-pits. I immediately sent for guns and troops, negroes and tools, which arrived in the course of the afternoon. During the night I filled the point with sharpshooters to dispute the passage of the enemy in case he attempted to cross, and posted the Tenth New Hampshire and a section of artillery to check his farther advance in case he succeeded in driving our sharpshooters and effecting a lodgment on the point. Their position was strengthened with rifle-pits during the night. Two positions were selected for batteries, one near the base of and a little to the right of the point, since named Battery Kimball, distant some 1,200 yards from the enemys battery, the other on the left side of the point, at the mouth of Broers Creek, distant 900 yards from the enemys battery, and since named Battery Morris. The works were pushed vigorously during the night. Battery Mor- ris, constructed by Captain Beger, Second Wisconsin Battery, who, with three guns of his battery (10-pounder Parrotts), had been sent t Page 303 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 303 me by the order of the commanding general, was completed and the guns placed in position before 2 a. m. Battery Kimball was completed about midnight. Two 20-pounder Parrott guns, under Captain Morris, Ninth Regiment New York Volunteers, and one 3-inch gun of the Fourth Wis consin Battery, also under his charge, were placed in position. Both batteries were screened by trees and underwood. At daylight the next morning Captain Beger, cutting away the trees which intercepted his fire, opened on the enemys battery, firing percus- sion-shell from one gun, fuse.shell from a second, and case-shot from the third. In a few moments the enemy replied, firing briskly. Several of the 20-pounder shells passed through and through the frail parapet of Battery Morris. As soon as his whole attention was engaged with Battery Morris and the position of his guns ascertained from their fire, the screen was thrown aside from Battery Kimball and Captain Morris opened fire from all his guns, directing his whole fire omi one piece of the enemy, and successively on two others, silencing all three in turn, Captain Beger meanwhile keeping up a hot and well-directed fire from his three guns in Battery Morris. At the end of two hours the enemys fire slackened and became very feeble. In another hour he was entirely silenced. During the action our sharpshooters, who had been placed on the point and on an island in the marsh to the right, kept up a fire which must have proved very annoying to the enemys gunners, since it pro- voked one or two discharges of canister. The following night he with- drew his guns. The only casualties were 3 drivers of Battery A, Fifth U~ited States Artillery, wounded, 1 mortally. One of the 20-pounder Parrotts threw off its muzzle after firing twelve rounds and was replaced by a 3-inch gun from the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, a section of which had been sent to me and was kept in reserve. The three days following every nerve was strained to put the river in a thorough state of defense. The military road already completed to Fort Connecticut was extended to Fort Stevens. Batteries and rifle- pits were thrown up on all the exposed points. The troops, as fast as they arrived, were sent into the trenches, and on the 18th the following was the disposition of the troops along the line of the river: Lient. G. B. Easterly, Fourth Wi~sconsin Battery, at Battery Kimball, with one 20-pounder Parrott and two 3-inch guns; Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers~ with one company of sharpshooters, holding position next below the mouth of Jericho Creek; Captain Beger, Second Wisconsin Battery, with two guns, in Battery Morris, supported by one company ofthe Twenty-fifth New Jersey Volunteers; Lieutenant Crabb, with one section of light 12-pounders; Lieutenant Schulz, with one sec- tion of 10-pounder Parrotts; the Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers, Ninth Vermont Volunteers, one company of the Twenty-flftJm New Jer- sey Voluuteer~, and four companies of the Nineteenth Wisconsin Vol- unteers, under the command of Colonel Donohoe, Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers, holding position of Fort Connecticut, from Broers Creek to Dr. Councils; Captain Morris, with two 20-pounder Parrotts in Battery Stevens, supported by Colonel Pease, One hundred and seventeenth New York Volunteers; Major Wheelan on the right of Colonel Pease, with four companies of Mounted Rifles, and five gunboats between the mouth of Broers Creek and a point half a mile below Dr. Councils land- ing. Gunboats below West Branch; number not known. Two regi- ments of infantry, the Eighth Connecticut and Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, six companies, and one section of artillery in reserve Page 304 304 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. B. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. On the 14th instant the enemy had planted a battery in the earth- works on Hills Point, and, in the engagement that ensned between them and our n.ival forces in the river, almost entirely destroyed the gnnboat Mount Washington. After this action five gunboats returned to the Upper Nansemond, above Hills Point, and it became evident that their safety required that this battery should be silenced, for the channel of the river runs within 50 yards of Hills Point, and the action of the 14th showed conclusively that it would be almost certain de- struction for any boat to attempt to run past. it was therefore with a view to deliver our gunboats from a dangerous position, a~ well as to annoy the enemy and to gain possession of an important point for future operations, that an expedition to cut out the battery was under- taken. The plan of operation, as arranged with Lieutenant Lamson, U. S. Navy, commanding flotilla, was as follows: Five hundred men were to embark on the gunboat Stepping Stones at l)r. Councils land- ing, proceed down the river, land on Hills Point just above the bat- tery, and charge the works with the bayonet. Lieutenant Lainson volunteered to land four boat howitzers to co-operate in this movement, and at his request was furnished with 40 men to man the drag-ropes. At 5.30 p. m. on April 19, detachments of 130 men from the Eighth Connecticut and 140 men from the Eighty-ninth New York embarked on the Stepping Stones at Dr. Councils landing. A canvas screen, which effedaally concealed the men, was drawn up all around the deck, and the boat pushed off and steamed rapidly down the stream. As she approached the battery not a shot was fired or a sound heard to indi- cate the presence of the enemy. He was waitiirg, with all his guns double-shotted pith canister, until the vessel should come abreast and within 50 yards of his battery. At 300 yards above the battery Lieu- tenant Lamson headed his boat inshore, but striking on a spile she glanced off, and, borne on the ebb-tide, was on the eve of shooting in front of the battery, when Lieutenant Lamson, with admirable presence of mind, reversed the paddle-wheels and backed her aground. The mcii jumped off from both ends of the boat up to their waists in mud and water, scrambled hastily ashore, and with a cheer dashed for the battery. ln an instant Lieutenant Lamson had landed his howitzers and followed. The enemy, apprised of our approach by the cheers, opened a hot fire of musketry, and was enabled even to reverse and fire one of his guns; but seeing himself cut off, and receiving one or two discharges of canister from Lamsons howitzers, he surrendered. The capture of 5 guns, 7 officers, and 130 men, the liberation of the five gunboats above, and the occupation of a point of vital inmportance to the enemy and an admirable point of operations for mis were the results of one of the most brilliant achievements of the war. Our loss was 4 killed and 10 wounded. The battery taken, our whole attention was turned to fortifying the position and preparing for attack. The boat howitzers were placed in battery just above the landing place in a position to sweep the plain in front over which the attacking party must pass, rifle-pits were com- menced, and pickets thrown out. Col. A. H. I)utton was placed in com- mnand. Five companies of the Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers, a detachment of 00 men of the Ninth Vermont, Colonel Pease, One hun- dred and seventeenth New York, with four companies of his regiment, and Lieutenant Crabb, Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery, with gun de- tachments to man the captured pieces, were sent over to re-enforce the position, and by ihorning a formidable line of rifle-pits and batteries was erected Page 305 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OP SPFFOLR, VA. 305 The boat howitzers were withdrawn and re-embarked on the arrival of Lieutenant Crabb. Contrary to expectation the morning dawned without an attack. A section of Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery, under the command of Lientenant Murray, and the remainder of the One hun- dred and seventeenth New York were sent across. The day was spent in fortifying and strengthening the position. No demonstration was made by the enemy during the day with the exception that in the morning a line of skirmishers advanced across a field and afterward withdrew. In compliance with the order of the major-general commanding, given npon my representations, the position was evacuated on the night of the 20th. The movement began soon after dark. The artillery, in- trenching tools, surplus ammunition, & c., were embarked on the Step- ping Stones, and the troops ferried across and landed on the marsh op- l)osite by the West End and by small boats. The picket line was held to the last moment, and at 12.30 oclock the last load crossed over un- (listurbed by the enemy, who during the whole evacuation scarcely fired a shot or gave the least annoyance. After the capture of Hills Point Battery nothing of special impor- tance occurred until May 3. The enemys sharpshooters cansed consid- erable annoyance to our pickets and working parties; nevertheless the works were pnshed vigorously, every available man being sent into the trenches. On the 18th the enemy opened fire from two heav~r guns in sunken batteries on the West Branch, a few hundred yards above Hills Point; but the capture of Hills Point on the 19th exposed them to a similar fate and necessitated their withdrawal. They were withdrawn on the night of the 19th. On the 24th the Ninth Vermont, Eighth Connecticut, and the Nine- teeiith Wisconsin Volunteers were ordered by the major-general com- inanding to report to General Dodge to take part in a reconnaissance tinder direction of General Corcoran. They returned the following inorm n g. Oii the 27th instant a new battery of the enemy was discovered some (listance west of Norfieets house, and on the morning of the 28th it opened fire on the Swan and Commerce, two unarmed steamers which l)iIss~d down the river from Suffolk. On April 30 the enemy opened fire from a battery of three heavy guns at Le Comptes house o~i the West Branch. After a short engagement with the gunboats and the two 20-pounder Parrotts. under Ca tam IMorris, in Fort Stevens, the battery was silenced. On May 2 I received orders to make a reconnaissance on the Provi- (lence Church road the following day. The operations of the 3d instant constituted a reconnaissance designed to ascem-tain the number and position of the enemys force and his move- n-ients. They were threefold. The main force was to advance on the l~rovidence Church road, while two expeditions were to cross the Nanse- lnon(l below at different points, seize Reeds Ferry, and feel the enemys left. The One hundred and third and Eighty-ninth Regiments New York Volunteers, supported by the Twenty-fifth New Jersey and Thir- teentim New Hampshire, crossing the bridge over the river, deployed as skirmishers on the right and left of the road and advanced, driving the enemy back from position to position until he took refuge in his rifle- pits and batteries. Hasbroucks battery followed along the road, and, with the assistance of Davis battery, kept silent the enemys artillery. Major Wheelan, with four companies ~f the Mounted Rifles, followed 20 u RVOI. XVr Page 306 306 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CRAP. XXX. llasbroucks battery but was not brought into action. The Connecticut regiments, Eleventh, Fifteenth, and Sixteenth, under General ilarland, followed and supported the advance, relieving the advance regiments as they exhausted their ammunition and holding the ground already gained; Colonel Onderdonks cavalry, the One hundred and forty-third, One hundred and forty-fourth, and One hundred and seventieth IRegi- ments New York Volunteers, constituted the reserve, under the com- mand of Colonel McIvor, of the One hundred and seventieth Regiment New York Volunteers. The enemy was found strongly posted at the forks of the Providence Church and Reeds Ferry roads. An earthwork on his left rested on a swamp, from which strong rifle-pits extended across his whole front and rested on his right on a branch of the river. It will be seen that the position could not be turned, and to carry it a direct assault had to be made on the front, which, even if successful, must inevitably have resulted in a great sacrifice of life. It was determined, therefore, on consultation with the major-general commanding, that the objects of the reconnaissance, in revealing the position and force of the enemy, were attained as far as was possible under the circumstances, and therefore nothing remained but to withdraw with as little loss as possible. Ac- cordingly, the rifle-pits on the enemys side next the draw-bridge were manned by the One hundred and seventieth New York Volunteers, and the whole force was rapidly and quietly withdrawn without the loss of a man. The movement was completed by 9 p. m. and the bridge taken up. We lost in this engagement Col. Benjamin Ringold, of the One hun- dred and third Regiment New York Volunteers, a most gallant and val- uable officer, who fe[l at the head of his regiment late in the afternoon.# Meanwhile the Fourth Rhode Island Volunteers crossed in boats at Hills Point at daylight and advanced across the field toward the woods, but, encounteriuig a superior force of the enemy advantageously posted in the woods, they were compelled, after considerable skirmishing, to withdraw upon Hills Point, from whence they were withdrawn to this side the following night. The Fourth Rhode Island was assisted by a boat howitzer from the Commodore Barney and by a detachment of the One hundred and seventeenth New York Volunteers. The Twenty-first Connecticut, a section of Vallees battery, Fourth Wiscon- sin, and a sergeant and 1() mcmi from the Mounted Rifles, under command of Major Crosby, of the Twenty-first Connecticut, crossed the river near Sleepy Hole, with the assistance of the gunboats, and advanced to Chuckatuck, where they drove out some 300 of the enemy~s cavalry, part of which retreated on the route leading to Isle of Wight and the remainder on the road leading to Everetts Bridge, some 3 miles above Reeds Ferry. Skirmishing all the way, they pushed forward to Reeds Ferry, which they occupied after a brisk skirmish, in which they cap- tured a lieutenant amid 15 men. Being unable to communicate with our forces on the left, the Fourth Rhode lsland, or the main advamice, Major Crosby, moved down the left bank of the West Branch to the iNanse- mnond and took up an intrenched camp, from which he was withdrawn the following day. He lost 2 killed and 4 wounded. On May 5 the commanding general published General Orders, No. 31, anmiouncing the retreat of the enemy. On the 7th, Field Orders, No. 14, were issued, disposing the troops of this division as follows, which positions they now occupy: The Second * Return of the Seventh Army Corps, Department of Virginia, for the month of May, - 1863, gives the following casualties in this affair: Sixty killed and wounded Page 307 CUAP. XXX.1 SIEGE OP SIJPFOLR, VA. 307 Brigade, General E. Jiarlatid, from Fort ilalleck to the mouth of Jericho Canal; the Third Brigade, Col. A. II. Dutton, ou the river, from the mouth of Jericho Creek to Battery Stevens; the First Brigade, Col. II. S. Fairchild, in reserve along the line of Suffolk County road from Jericho Canal to Calhouns; the artillery in the batteries along the river. The amorfnt of work performed by troops on this line, taken in con- riection with the great amount of picket duty necessitated by the extent f the line and the incessant watchfulness imposed by the presence of ~he daring and enterprising enemy in great force, is astounding. On the tront, from Fort ilahleck to Battery Onondaga, there have been throwii up 3,434 yards of rifle-pits and 308 yards of parapet, 7 feet high aud 7 feet in thickness on top. Qn the river line, 4,398 yards of riflepits, 1,944 feet of parapet, with an average height of 8 feet and thickness of something over 10 feet on top, were constructed. In addition to which some 10 miles of entirely new roads, including several bridges Over impassable creeks and marshes and miles of corduroying, were made. Much of the work was done under the fire of the enemys sharpshooters, who proved exceedingly annoying during the whole course of the siege. These results could not have been obtained had I not had the efficient sul)port of Colonels Button and Pease, commanding the upper and lower defenses respectively, and their officers and men. Both of these offi- cers worked day and night. Colonel Dutton, in addition to his duties as a commanding officer, was also obliged to assume those of an engineer, and personally laid out and constructed many of the most important works on this line. Lientenant Murray, of Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery, was also of great service in constructing works. Fort Lamson and a battery next below Dr. Councils was laid out by him. The services of Colonel Derrom, in constructing roads and bridges, were of the utmost value. Without the bridge constructed by him across Broers Creek it is doubtful whether the line of the river could have been held with the small force at my disposal. Colonel Stevens, also, of the Thirteenth New Hampshire, is deserving of credit. Both Colonels Stevens and Derrom displayed zeal, judg. ment, and courage on the 3d instant. The whole deportment of the troops was excellent; with a single ex- ception there was no complaint. Every order was obeyed with the utmost cheerfulness, and the same men who came off picket duty in~the morning went on fatigue duty at night without a murmur. The artillery is especially deserving of great credit. Captain Morris, Ninth New York Volunteers, with a battery of 20-pounder Parrotts, with the assistance of three 10-pounder Parrotts of Captain Begers battery, silenced most effectually the enemys battery at Norifeets ,and afterward rendered good service iii silencing his batteries at Le Comptes. The services of the signal officers, Lieutenants Thayer and Murray, were great, and rendered always cheerfully amid promptly. I cannot close this report without acknowledging the important serv- ices rendered by the naval forces co-operating in the river, a tribute which they have richly merited. Lieutenants Cushing and Lamnson and the officers and men of their commands have shown that in their countrys service they know no fear, and that the old breed of naval heroes is not extinct; but to Lieutenant Lamson in particular, whose gallantry exhibited in his engagements at Norileets amid at Hills Point has been fully equaled by the willingness and desire he has shown on all occasions to cooperate with the land forces and to do everythin Page 308 308 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. for the good of the service, my thanks are due. Rut in acknowledging the services of meritorious officers I must not omit those of my own staff. To their services I am myself a witness, and with great pleasure am I able to state that in every emergency they have responded to the call made upon them with alacrity and willingness. Captain Gardner, assistant adjutant.general; Lieutenants MeKechnie and Faxon, aides- dc-camp; Dr. Hnmphreys, medical director, and Lieutenant herbert, ordnance officer, did their whole duty, and in this ~is comprised every- thing. Capt. Hazard Stevens, assistant adjutant-general, whose distinguished services and conduct have been acknowledged in previous reports, was particularly conspicuous throughout the operations above recited. On all occasions, whether in the discharge of his legitimate duties in the trenches, reconnoitering, or on the field under the enemys fire, he evinced an earnestness and devotion worthy of emulation and deserv- ing the highest praise. I append lists * of officers and men of the Eighty-ninth New York and Eighth Connecticut Volunteers, who participated in the storming of the enemys battery at Hills Point; also reports of brigade, battery, and regimental commanders. Lists of casualties already transmitted.t I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. W. GETTY, Brig~dier- General, Commanding Divtswn. Maj. B. B. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Suffolk, Twa. No. 16. Rejport of Col. Harrison S. Fairchild, Eighty-ninth New York Infantry, commanding First Brigade. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIV., NINTH ARMY CORPS, Near Suflolk, Va., May 7, 1863. SIR: In compliance to circular orders froni Headquarters, Third Di- vision, dated May 5, 1863, 1 have the honor to submit the following re- port: Gu the evening of April 11, by your orders, I sent two companies of the Tenth New Hampshire to Fort ilalleck, and on the morning of the 12th the remaining eight companies of this regiment were sent to relieve the Eighty-ninth New York Volunteers, on picket at the Jericho Canal, and the Eighty-ninth Regiment ordered to Fort Montgomery. On the 13th the Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers was relieved by the Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers and returned to camp. On the afternoon of April 13 the One hundred and third Regiment New York Volunteers was sent to the front, on the right of Fort Union, and the Ninth New York Volunteers was held in reserve between Forts Union and McClellan until evening and then sent to Fort Nansemond. On the same afternoon the eight companies of the Tenth New Ilamp- shire Volunteers were sent to the Nanseinond River, below Jericho Canal, near the small.pox hospital, This disposition of the regiments Not found. t Embodied in revised statement, p. 286 Page 309 ChAr. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK,. VA. 809 of the brigade, and subsequently placed under different commanders other than the brigade commander, remained so until April 23, when Col. H. C. Tlawkins assumed command of this brigade by Special Or- ders, No. 100, dated Headquarters Third Division, April 23, 1863. On Saturday, May 2, by Special Orders, No. 109, dated Headquarters Third Division, May 2, 1863, I again assumed command of the brigade, but having no command assigned me on the front with any portion of the brigade, consequently not being in a position personally to observe the actions of the severa.l regiments, I can only submit reports of the regimental commanders, giving an account of their operations, and a list of casualties in each regiment, which are herewith inclosed.* General, I have the hon or to be, yours, very respectfully, H. S. FAIRCHILD, General GEORGE ~. GETTy, Colonel, Commanding. Commanding Third Division, Ninth Army Corps. No. 17. Reports ~f Col. William R. Pease, One hundred and seventeenth New York Infantry. HDQRS. ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTEETNH N. V. VOLS., Calhouns Point, TTa., April 19, 186311.30 a. m. GENERAL: I have the honor to report abont 10.15 a. m. to-day a new rebel battery, opposite Stevens battery at this I~oint, opened fire on the gunboat below here. They fired two or three shots before the boat replied. The boats from above moved down to a point opposite this camp and opene(l fire. Stevens battery opened as soon as possible and very satisfactorily. A new battery of the enemy, heretofore unknown to us, below the old battery, opened the fire, and we believe that it has beca pretty efibctuahly silenced. I filled the rifle-pits, dug last night, with sharpshooters, and a brisk fire has been kept up on their sharp- shooters. The enemy have not replied to the fire of the battery on this Point. They have not fired for the last forty minutes. The gunboats are firing occasionally. All is well. No casualties known. Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant, XV. II. PEASE. General GETTY, 6ommanding Third Division. HEADQUARTERS, Calhouns Point, Va., April 21, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that at 6 oclock p. m. yester. day I received an Or(lCr from the commanding general to hold the One hundred and seventeenth New York Volunteers and a section of the Fourth Wisconsin Battery in readiness to march to the landing at Dr. Councils house and embark for Hills Point in case the party sent against the enemys work at that place were successful. The place was Embodied in revised statement, p. 286 Page 310 310 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGiNIA. [CHAr. XXX carried about 7 oclock p. nt, and this command marched immediately. On arriving at Dr. Councils no boat was ready to take the command over. About 10 oclock p. m. Captain Vallee received an order to return with his section of artillery to Calhouns Point. The One hundred and seventeenth New York Volunteers, 720 strong, remained in the road until about l2p. in., and received an order to report to Colonel Donohoe, Tenth ~ ew Hampshire Volunteers, about 1~ miles above Dr. Councils. The regiment reported as ordered, and about 2.30 p. m. on the 20th an order was sent to send four companies of the One hundred and seven- teenth New York Volnuteers back to Dr. Councils house to embark for Hills Point. A special order was received from the commanding geii- eral for the colonel of the One hundred and seventeenth New York Vol- unteers to take command of the four companies of his regiment and accompany them to Hills Point. Companies D, F, H, and K were the companies sent over; they arrived at 4 oclock p. in. and began to in- trench. A detail was made from the companies to furnish skirmishers. The skirmishers were deployed and exchanged shots with the enemy, in which First Sergt. William Casselman, Company D, One hundred and seventeenth New York Volnuteurs, was severely wounded in the right leg by a rifle-ball from the enemys skirmishers. The first fire applied to the building on Hills Point was set by Second Lieut. D. B. Magill, One hundred and seventeenth New York Volunteers, who volunteered to perform the service. At 10 oclock a. in. on the 20th the remainder of the regiment arrived and reported and were set to work intrenching. At 3 oclock p. in. the order to evacuate the Point was issued. The em- barkation commenced on one of the gunboats, and after lauding about 400 men on the marsh opposite Hills Point the small boats were substi- tuted, and the crossing of all was completed about 12.30 a. in. on the morning of the 21st. All reached their old camp in safety. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. R PEASE, Colonel, Comdg. One hundred and seventeenth N. Y. Vols. Capt. HAZARD STEVENS, Asst. Adjt. Uen., Third Division, Ninth Army Corps. HDQRS. ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTEENTH N. Y. VOLS., Calhouns Point, Va., April 22, 18638.30 a. in. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report all quiet on this end of the line. No movement of the enemy discovered last night; no evidences of any parties working during the night. If we could have the use of a 12- l)ounder boat howitzer it would be very effective indeed in preventing the enemy from placing artillery in the battery on the opposite shore. Captain Morris informs me that the howitzer can be obtained from Cap- tain Cushing, on the gunboat. I have a four-gun battery nearly corn- pleted, and respectfully request that the remainder of Captain Vallees pieces be sent down. Tjzmere was no movement of the gunboats during the night. Very respectfully, captain, your obedient servant, W. It. PEASE, Colonel, Comdg. One hundred and seventeenth N. Y. Vols. Captain STEVENS, 4ssistant Adjutant- Generg Page 311 CHAr. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 311 HEADQUARTERS CALHOUNS POJINT, VA., ]Lliay 1, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the gunboats all below Hills Point. They were fired upon while moving down about 7 oclock p. m. yesterday. The officer in command of the picket at Hills Point last night reports that about 9.40 p. m. his sentinels saw men approaching in small parties of 2 and 3, and our men who were on guard in advance of the rifle-pits opened fire upon them. The enemy returned it and con- tinuedto advance, increasing in numbers. Our sentinels fell back, firing, and the men behind the rifle-pit opened fire; but the enemy still ad- vanced and greatly outnumbered our party. Our men took to the boats and on reaching the boats not a piece was loaded to give the signal agreed upon in case they were obliged to retreat. The officer in com- mand, Lieutenant Magill, then flredthree shots from his revolver, which was the signal, and all put ofL They reached the opposite bank in safety a few minutes past 10 oclock p. ni. There was no firing from the enemy after the boats reached the shore, but in going they fired several volleys. There is nothing in reference to the enemys batteries since 7 oclock p. m. yesterday. The 30-pounder Parrott has not arrived. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. It. PEASE, Colonel, Commanding. Capt. HAZARD STEVENS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Division, Ninth Army 6orps. HEADQUARTERS CALHOUNS POINT, VA., May 4, 18638.45 l~ m. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that I this inornin~ sent Lieu- tenant Itisley, of the One hundred and seventeenth New York Volun- teers, with 30 men of his regiment, across the river with orders to ad- vance as far as possible, and gain such information as he could of the movements of the enemy. He landed and sent a party of his men out cS skirmishers, advancing slowly; seeing some indications of the enemy, I ordered him to return to the rifle-pits until I could send for one of the gunboats to come up and protect his left flank and rear. At 1.~0 p. in., there being no indications that we were to receive ally assistance from the gunboat, I directed Lieutenant Ifisley to advance slowly arid go as far as he could. He started and found no impediment to his progress; he passed four batteries in the woods along the marsh on the right bank of the West Branch all bearing on the river. He reports that the enemy kept the right bank of the West Branch very strongly picketed. He l)assed on to the battery on the hill at Le Comptes house. The position is a very strong one; an excavation made behind a fence, revetted with timbers an(l two embrasures; rifle-pits on the right and rear of the buildings. Lieutenant IRisley sent a citizen and a negro, both of whom I sent to headquarters of the division. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Colonel, Corn manding. Capt. HAZARD STEVENS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Division, ]Wntlt Arrn~q 6~orps Page 312 312 NORTH CAROLINA A~D S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAr. XXX. No. 18. Report of Brig. Gem. Edward Ilarland, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade. IIDQRS. [SECOND BRIG.,] THIRD Div., NiNTH ARiVEY CORPS, Suffolk, Va., May 6, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the niovements of the troops of this brigade from April 11 to the present time: On the afternoon of April 11 the brigade was placed under arms in consequence of the approach of the enemy. I received orders from General Peek to hold my command in readiness to support either Gen- eral Terry or Colonel Foster, who had commands, respectively, on the right and left of Fort Nansemond. The troops remaine~4 under arms during the night, and on the morn- ing of the 12th, by order of General Peck, I sent the Eighth and Six- teenth Regiments Connecticut Volunteers to occupy a portion of the breastworks on the right of Fort Union. About nooii of the same day I received verbal instructions from Brigadier-General Corcoran to take command of the line of defenses between Forts Union and McClellan. On the morning of the 14th the entire brigade was posted along the line of breastworks under my command. That evening, by order of General Peck, I sent the Eighth Connecticut to report to General Getty for instructions, since which time the regiment has not been under my command. On April 18 1 was ordered to take command of the line of defenses extending from Fort Halleck to Battery Onondaga. The Eleventh and Fifteenth Regiments reported to me on April 28 and the Sixteenth on the 29th. Nothing of any importance occurred until May 3, when,~ with the Eleventh, Fifteenth, and Sixteenth Regiments, I took part in the re- connaissance on the Providence Church road. The regiments crossed the Nansemond at the draw-bridge at about 9 oclock on the morning of May 3. Immediately after the brigade had crossed the bridge the One hundred and third and Eighty-ninth iNew York, in the advance, engaged the enemys pickets. The brigade halted, and remained in this posi- tion until about 12 in., when I crossed the river to confer with General Getty, and received prders from him to send one regiment to support the One hundred and third New York, which was reported to be with- out ammunition, and also to return and take the general direction of the movement. I recrossed and sent th& Sixteenth Connecticut, under command of Colonel Beach, up to the support of the One hundred and third Regi- inent, and having reached said regiment relieved it. After relieving the One hundred and third the Sixteenth engaged the enemy and moved forward a short distance until the right of the regiment rested on the bank of the river. This position was held by the regiment until night, when the troops were withdrawn to the other side of the river. Soon after sending the Sixteenth Connecticut to support the One hundred and third New York I received word from Colonel l)errom, commanding the Twenty-fifth New Jersey, on the right of the road, that he needed support; also word to the same effect from Colonel Stevens, commanding the Thirteenth New Hampshire7 whjch w~s oi~ t1t~ left o Page 313 ChAr. XXX.] SIEGE 01? SJJFFOLK, VA. 313 the road. I sent the Fifteenth Connecticut, under Colonel Upham, to re-enforce the right, and the Eleventh Connecticut, nnder Colonel Sted- man, to re-enforce the left. The reports of the commanders of these different regiments are here- with forwarded, by which it will be seen that their positions did not vary materially during the rest of the day. The general position re- mained the same thron gli out the day, with the exception that part of the artillery took up a more advanced position about 5 p. in., by order of General Getty. About the same time I placed the One hundred aud forty-third New York, one of the regiments held in reserve in the or- chard, on the left of the road. The regiment was deployed in a direc- tion l)arallel to the line of battle, the right resting about 100 yards in rear of the left of the advance while the left of the regiment rested on a bay that set back from the river. About sunset Captain Stevens, of General Gettys staff, informed me that General Getty wished me to withdraw the troops to the other side of the river as SOOII as I could, under cover of night; that he desired the pickets withdrawn last, and that he wished one section of Howards battery and one of Davis battery to remain until the bulk of the troops had crossed. Captain Stevens indicated the positions which General Getty desired those sections of batteries to occupy. lie also stated that General Getty wished me to direct Colonel Derrom, of th& Twenty- fifth New Jersey, to make a detail of men from his regiment to take up the bridge after the troops had all crossed, and to superintend the work himself. I sent one staff officer to give the necessary orders to the troops on the right of the road and another to those oii the left. 13efoi~e these staff officers returned Lieutenant Faxon, aide-de-camp of General Getty informed me that General Getty wished to see me at General IPecks headquarters. I found General Getty, who told me that he had given orders that four pieces of Davis battery instead of two were to remain to protect the troops in falling back, and that Colonel Davis, of the Regiment, would superintend the taking of the bridge instead of Colonel Derrom, and that he wished me to have a detail of men sufficient for that purpose report to Colonel Davis at the bridge. General Getty further directed me to place one of the regi- ments which had been held in reserve during the day in the rifle-pits on the left bank of the river, to serve as a rear guard. I went to the other side of the river to superintend the withdrawal of the forces. After the troops had all crossed the river except the One hundred and seventieth New York, which was then marching from the rifle-pits (where it had been placed to serve as a rear guard to the bridge), I saw Lieutenant Faxon, who informed me that it was not General Gettys in- tentions that the troops should be withdrawn until further orders were. received from him; that he had heard that the enemy were retreating, and if so he wished to be in a position to follow them up in the morning. The movement had then been conducted so far that in a few minutes all the troops would be across. I therefore did not order the crossing to cease, but waited until the last had crossed and then reported in person to General Getty that the troops were across and that Colonel Davis was commencing to take up the bridge. General Getty repeated what Lieutenant Faxon had informed methat it was not his intention to have the forces withdrawn until ordered by him. As the rumor that the enemy were retreating proved to be true it is to be regretted that this singular misunderstanding should have arisen. I forward herewith regimental reports of the moven4ents of the li Page 314 [ChAP. XXX. 314 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. ferent regiments in this brigade from April 11 to April 30, and reports of the commanders of the Eleventh, Fifteenth, and Sixteenth Regi- ments of the part taken by their respective regiments in the recon- itaissance of the 3d instant. Lists of casualties have already been forwarded. * I am, captain, very res~)eCtfully, your obedient servant, EDWARD HAIRLAND, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CHARLES T. GARDNER, Assistant Adjutant- General.. No. 19. Report of Col. John B. Ward, Eighth Connecticut Infantry, of the capture of Battery Huger, April 19. RD QRS. EIGHTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT FOLS., Suffolk, Va., May 6, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my regiment in the capture of the rebel battery at Fort Huger, April 19, 1863. On the afternoon of April 19, in accordance with orders from General Getty, I marched from my bivouac with six companies (130 men) of my regiment and embarked on the gunboat Stepping Stones, in company with Lieutenant-Colonel England and about 150 men of the Eighty-ninth New York Volunteers. We were landed at Hills Point, in the rear of Fort Huger, a little before sunset, immediately charged upon the works, an(l after a very short struggle captured the fort, with five pieces of artillery, a large quantity of ammunition, and about 130 prisoners, in- cluding 7 officers. Having taken possession we immediately proceeded to place the captured guns in position to resist any attempt of the enemy to ret I~e the Point, and commenced intrenching ourselves as well as possible with the means at our disposal. Re-enforcements, including the other four companies of my regiment, soon arrived and all were employed during the night in constructing rifle- 1)it8~ removing ammunition from the fort, and performing picket duty. At about 10 oclock our pickets stationed a short distance outside the fort were attacked and driven in, but were immediately reposted and held their position until the regiment was relieved at noon the follow- ing day. The loss of my regiment in this affair was 1 killed, 4 severely wounded, and seveial others very slightly injured. A list* of the names of the killed and wounded is forwarded herewith. Very respectfully, yours, ~. EDWARD WARD, Colonel Eighth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers. Brig. Gen. J. D. WILLIAMS, Adjutant- General State of Connecticut. * l~mbodied in reyised statement, p. 287 Page 315 SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. CHAP. xxxj 315 No. 20. Reports of (Jot. Griffin A. Stedman, Jr., Eleventh Connecticut I~Jhntry. HDQRS. ELEVENTH CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, May 3, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that the Eleventh Regiment Conm~c- ticut Volunteers crossed the Nansernoud River at the draw-bridge this morning, being part of the Second Brigade, Third Division. About midday it was ordered to the front to support the Thirteenth New 1Iainp~h ire Volunteers, which was skirmishing on the left of the new Providence Church road. By order of Colonel Stevens, in charge of the troops iii that place, the regiment was deployed and became a part of the line of skirmishers. After advancing some distance into the woods (50 rods) the line halted, by command of Colonel Stevens, and remained in that position until withdrawn by command of Brigadier- General ilariand. During this time the line was within 20 yards of the enemy and exchanged shots constantly. Casualties: Capt. Randall II Rice in the arm; both wounds , Company A, wounded in leg and serious. Private John Bracken, Company F, wounded in the abdomen; Private Samuel Bassett C wounded in the knee; and Private Anguste Didier, , ompany A, Company I, missing; he was sent forward and did not return; supposed to have been shot or captured. The regiment marched with 220 enlisted men and 20 officers, and returned to camp without a straggler. Respectfully, your obedient servant, GRIFFIN A. STEDMAN, Jn., Colonel Eleventh Connecticut Volunteers. Lient. H. P. GATES, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Brigade. UDQRS. ELEVENTH CONNECTICUl VOLUNTEERS, Suffolk, Va., May 5, 1863. SIR: In compliance with Special Orders, No. 78, dated Headquarters Second Brigade, Third Division, Ninth Army Corps, May 1, 1863, I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of this regiment from April 11 to April 30: At the time of the alarm the regiment was ordered under arms and remained so until the evening of April 12, when the men were allowed to go to their quarters for the night. On the morning of the 13th it was ordered to the parapet, on Fosters front, between Forts Union and McClellan. On April 24 it composed a part of a reconnoitering force on the Eden- ton road, under Brigadier-General Corcoran. During this reconnais- sance the regiment was deployed as skirmishers. Casualties were 1 man killed and 1 wounded. On the 28th ultimo it was relieved from duty on Fosters front and m-eceived orders to report to Brigadier-General ilarland, on the river front, where it still remains. Respectfully, your obedient servant, GRIFFIN A. STEDMAN, Jn., Colonel Eleventh Connecticut Yolugeerm Lient. II. P. GATES, Aetint~ 4ssistant Adjutant- ti#en~ra~ Page 316 316 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. No. 21. Report of Col. Arthur Iii. Dutton, Twenty-first Connecticut D~fantry, corn manding Third Brigade. IIDQRS. THIRD BRIG., THIRD DIV., NINTH ARMY CORPS, Suffolk, Va., May , 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the followiug report of recent oI)erations: Early in the month of April my command was constituted as follows: The Fourth Rhode Island and Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, stationed on the Norfolk and Petersbnrg Railroad, three-quarters of a mile north of Suffolk; the Twenty-fifth New Jersey Volunteers, on Jericho Creek, three-quarters of a mile northwest of the above, and the Twenty- first Connecticut Volunteers, on the Nansemond River, 3 miles below Suffolk. The latter regiment had just commenced the work now known as Fort Connecticut, and on April 8 was joined by three companies of the Thirteenth New Hampshire, under Major Storer. On the 10th ultimo, information having been received that the enemy was advancing from the Blackwater I was ordered to proceed, with the Fourth Rhode Island, the Thirteenth New Hampshire, and the One hnn- dred and third New York, to a point on the Nansemond opposite the mouth of Western Branch, fortify the position, open direct communica- tion with the Twenty-first Connecticut, and hold the entire line betweeii the said point and the mouth of Jericho Creek, to prevent any crossing of the enemy. Below this point the river was safely held by gunboats. The command arrived at the point designated about midnight. At snn- rise the work on the fortifications commenced; trees were felled, rifle- pits made, Battery Stevens commenced, and Lieutenant Bruce, of my staff, reconnoitered a site for a military road to the camp of the Twenty- first Connecticut. A road was already in progress from the latter camp direct to Jericho Creek, and only awaited the completion of a trestle bridge over Broers Creek, under charge of Colonel Derrom, Twenty-fifth New Jersey. On the evening of the 11th, however, orders were received to return instantly to Suffolk. No means of transportatiou being at hand, it be- came necessary to leave a considerable quantity of baggage and a small guard. The battalion of Major Storer waM retained at Fort Connecticut, with instructions to maintain a strict watch on all sides to prevent a crossing of the enemy, if possible, and, if forced to retreat, to do so by way of the new road, destroying camp equipage, & c., and demolishing the trestle bridge. No attack being made, on the following day our position was strengthened. I was assigned to the command of the line of defense included between Forts Halleck and Jericho. On this line I threw np rifle-pits and posted the troops in the most advantageous nianner for con- centration upon any given point, while at the same time I held myself in readiness to snpport General Corcoran, on my immediate right, should his be the line attacked. Not thinking it safe to send a train of wagons for the abandoned baggage, I dispatched two or three at a time to Bat. tery Stevens, and by this means transferred everything in safety from that point to my headquarters. Six men from the Fourth Rhode Island re- mained there permanently to observe the enemy. The baggage of the Twenty-first Connectient was transferred by hand over Broers Creek and thence by wagons to its camp. On the 12th the Fourth Rhode Island was assigned to the conti~zmapci of Brigadier-General Corcor~n Page 317 CHAP. XXX.J SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 317 On the 13th the Nineteenth Wisconsin xvas assigned to my command, and on the day Thllowing the Ninth Vermont also reported to me. On the 15th my line of defense was extended to Battery Onondaga, at the mouth of Jericho Creek. It may ~uftice here to remark that all l)oints of the defenses have been constantly strengthened each day since the commencement of the siege, all soldiers, including pickets, being reqllire(l to labor day and night on the intrencliments. On Tuesday, the 14th, th~ enemy having, from a battery nearly op. l)Osite the small-pox hospital, engaged and damaged the naval forceson the river, I was ordered to reconnoiter positions for connter batteries and superintend their construction. Under the snpervision of the gen- eral commanding division J constructed Batteries Kimball and Morris, the Tenth and Thirteenth New Hampshire and Eighth Connecticut biv- ouacking near at hand as supports. Early on the morning of the 15th these batteries, consisting of two 20-ponuder Parrotts, two 3-inch rifled guns, and three 10-pounder Par- rotts, being detachments from the Second and Fourth Wisconsin and Morris Independent Batteries, opened fire, and by 10 oclock the rebels ceased to reply. On the 17th the Ninth Vermont Volunteers proceeded to Fort Con- necticut. Meantime the military road from SuiThik to Fort Stevens had been completed by the Twenty-fifth New Jersey Volunteers, five com- pan~es of which regiment were in camp at Broers Creek. On April 18 General ilarland superseded me in command of the troops on the Jericho, and I was assigned to duty on the 19th on the line of the Nansemond, making my headquarters at Fort Connecticnt. On the evening of the 19th the rebel battery of five guns at Hills Point was captured by detachments from the Eighth Connecticut and the Eighty-ninth New York. The following is an account of the capture of the Hills Point Battery on the Nansemond River: Shortly before sunset the gunboats on the river and the fonr rifled guns at and near Battery Stevens (two 20-pounder Parrotts, Captain Morris, and two 3-inch ordnance guns, Captain Vallee) opened a terrific fire upon the rebel battery. Meantime detachments from the Eighty- ninth New York, Lieutenant-Colonel England, and the Eighth Connec- ticut, Colonel Ward, embarked on the gunboat Stepping Stones, Lieu- tenant Lamson, at a point about a mile above the battery. Protected by time artillery fire the gunboat boldly steamed down the river and ran close to the shore, about 200 yards above the rebel workthe shore at tIme point being an abrupt bluff. Immediately the troops disembarked, wading to their xvaists in water, ascended the bluff, and with loud cheers charged on the rear of the fort. Meantime the gunboats crew had landed four boat howitzers, placed them in position, and opened on time fort. The enemy, taken completely by surprise, were able to discharge but two or three volleys of musketry and one gnn, when our troops entered the work and capturcd the entire party, consisting of 7 officers and 130 mnen, with five brass guns and a large supply of ammunition. I was now directed by Brigadier-General Getty to assume command of the post and l)ut it in a state of defense during the night. The force at my disposal for this purpose consisted of detachments of the Eighth Connecticut, Eighty-ninth New York, Tenth New Hampshire, and Ninth Vermont, in all about 700 men. The soldiers, although fatigued and Pisting, worked with a most commendable zeal to intrench themselves, as we fully exi)ected an attack in the morning. To the two detachments first named especial credit is due. They had beemi under arms nearly all day; had most gallantly captured th Page 318 318 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. B. VIRGINIA. [ChAr. XXX. battery in the evening; had been a considerable time without food, and were drenched with the water through which they were forced to wade in landing, yet not a murmur was heard from them throughout. I forward herewith a sketch from memory, showing the location of the rebel battery and the works thrown up for our own defense. Half an hour before daylight our preparations were nearly complete and the troops in position. The artillery was massed on the left, covering the point of disembarkation, three guns being in Battery A and one how- itzer in Battery D. All were loaded with canister and directed to sweep the plain by which the enemy must approach. One howitzer was disabled, the trail of the carriage being broken. My design was to defend the entire line if possible, and if forced to abandon a portion to withdraw the troops on the right across the ravine and concentrate my entire force upon the left, which, besides being the strongest posi- tion, also covered the communication with the naval forces. At early daylight a line of the enemys skirmishers was discovered advancing abont 1,000 yards distant. They covered themselves behind trees and fences and a few were observed entering a house a few hun- dred yards in front of onr left. About this time the One hundred and seventeenth New York, Colonel Pease, and a section of Gilliss battery (A, Fifth U. S. Artillery) arrived and were duly posted, the latter in Battery C and subsequently in Bat- tery B. It now became apparent that the enemy did not meditate an attack, but contented himself with annoying our pickets by occasional scatter- ing shots. I accordingly gave direction that the house above alluded to should be fired and the woods shelled. This being accomplished we were troubled no more. During the day (20th) our troops continned to strengthen the defenses, but in the afternoon orders were received to evacuate the place. This was done by the assistance of the naval forces. The intrenching tools, artillery, limber-chests, & c., were placed aboard the gunboat Stepping Stones before dark, quakers being substituted in the batteries; but (luring the process the ebbing tide left the steamer aground, and fears were entertained that the enemy might attack us before she floated again, in which event the destruction of the vessel and the loss of much material might have resulted. Immediately after dark, however, the process of ferrying the troops across the river in row-boats commenced and was safely accomplished by midnight; meantime the steamer was got oft in safety. The evacuation was thus completed without the loss of a man or a single article of property. In this connection I cannot forbear paying a tribute to, the valor and energy of the naval forces under Lieutenant Larnson. This gallant officer has at all times shown himself most willing to render invaluable assistance to the land forces with men and material, fearlessly imperil- ing the safety of himself, his men, and his vessels. The day following the evacuation of Hills Point I was assigned to the command of all the troops on the Nansemond from Jericho Creek to Dr. Councils l)lace. They consisted of the Tenth New Hampshire Vol- unteers, the Twenty-first Connecticut Volunteers, the Thirteenth New tlanmpshire Volunteers, the Eighth Connecticut Volunteers, the Twenty- secon(l Connecticut Volunteers, the Ninth Vermont Volunteers Gilliss battery (A, Fifth U. S. Artillery), three guns of Begers (Second Wis- consin) battery, four guns of Vallees (Fourth Wisconsin) battery, one 20- pounder Parrott (unassigned), and four guns captured from the enemy. The Thirteenth New Hampshire replaced the Nineteenth Wisconsin Page 319 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 319 which regiment, by command of General Getty, has been sent to Suffolk for disgracefhl conduct. The infantry and artillery was advantageously iosted along the river and the fortifications advanced daily. No action occurred previons to May 3 except continual firing between opposing batteries and pickets. On the night preceding May 3, as a part of a combined movement, I was directed to send the Fourth IRhode Island Volunteers across the Nansemond at liiis Point in row-boats, to march thence at daybreak and occupy the Suffolk and Smithfield road near its junction with the Providence Church road, communicating with the Twenty-first Connec- ticut at Reeds Ferry, on the West Branch; also to cross the Twenty- first Connecticut some 3 miles lower down with a section of Vallees bat- tery and a squad of cavalry. This force was to advance to Chuckatuck and communicate with the Fourth Rhode Island at Reeds Ferry. The latter force crossed, as directed, nuder command of Major Crosby, and marched to Chuckatuck, his progress being constantly impeded by the enemys skirmishers, who resisted his advance with tenacity although in small force. Reaching Chuckatuck he did not consider it safe to send a detachment to Reeds Ferry, and therefore proceeded to that place with his entire column. Not meeting the Fourth Rhode Island at that point, as expected, and having no other means of communicating with co-operative forcesthe Reeds Ferry Bridge being buvnedhe marched down the West Branch to the Kansemond, losing some half a dozen men. His march was impeded from beginning to end by the enemys skirmishers, bn t his movements were continued regardless of obstacles. His regimeliit behaved with great gallantry. While already nearly ex- hausted with fatigue and picket duty it performed in twelve hours a march of 18 miles, 8 miles of which were through an enemys country, drove its opponent before it, and brought in 16 prisoners, including 1 officer. For further details of Major Crosbys march I refer to his graphic report, herewith forwarded. Meantime Lieutenant-Colonel Buffum, with the Fourth Rhode Island, 250 strong, occupied the opposite shore before daybreak, but not being familiar with localities disembarked by mistake half a mile above Hills Point. I had urged upon him the importance of taking a guide, xvhich, however, he declined to do, pleading a perfect understanding of the position. I joined his command at daybreak and instantly saw the misfortune that might have resulted from his error had the enemy occnpied Hills Point in any force, as, by holding the intreuchments there thrown up by me on April 20, they might have easily kept us away We, however, immediately occupied the place, driving out about a dozen rebels. I now formed line of battle, threw out skirmishers, and advanced. Immediately the enemy opened fire from behind fences and trees. We drove them about three-quarters of a mile, to the edge of a forest which completely environed the position from shore to shore. Here their fire was so rapid that I halted to study the position. I drew their fire in volleys two or three times to determine their force, which I estimated at from 200 to 400. Between me and them there was a quarter of a mile of open ground, over which we could not have ad- vanced without tremendous loss. I then threw skirmishers into the timber on the right and there also discovered the enemy in greater or less force. It seemed therefore that to advance farther would insure my b& ing cut off from Hills Point and perhaps captured. I therefore fell back and proceeded to the gunboat Barney to consult with Captain Cushing. Here it was reported that the enemy had 500 men at L Page 320 [CHAP. XXX. 320 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. (Jomptes house, about half a mile to the right of my advance, betweeu me and Reeds Ferry. It now occurred to me that if the main advance froiii Suffolk was successful the force opposed to me would be intercepted between Geii- eral Getty, the West Branch, and myself, and I accordingly resolved to attract their attention by continual skirmishing. Captain Cushing kindly supplied me with a boat howitzer and a detachment of sailors. Colonel Pease, One hundred and seventeenth New YoAi, also sent me, at my request, 100 men, and I once more advanced, driving the enemy to the skirt of the woods. Skirmishing continued for a couple of hours, when the enemy brought artillery and opened fire upon me. My how- itzer having expended its ammunition. I again retired with slight loss. During the engagement the officers of the regiment behaved with great coolness and bravery, and there were individual instances of gal- lantry the men, but I re~ret to state that the mass of the men among exhibited an aversion to exposing themselves, a willingness to retreat, and a contempt for good order that I scarcely expected in. a regiment of two years experience and which has five battles inscribed upon its flag. At about 3 p. m. I received a dispatch from Major Crosby announc- ing his success. I therefore meditated a joint movement of the two regiments upon the enemy near Le Comptes house, which I was as- sured would result successfully though involving considerable loss; but learning that the Twenty-first Connecticut was utterly exhausted and without food for man or horse I concluded to await orders from the general commanding. After dark, by order of General 0-etty, I with- drew the troops from Hills Point, bringing~ over also some valuable pieces of timber, which I found useful the following day. On the 4th the enemy retired altogether from our front, and I with- drew Major Crosby~s force. The horses and artillery were embarked by the aid of an improvise(l floating wharf which I constructed out of row-boats and loose timber. Ever since the commencement of the siege I have been generally well seconded by the officers and soldiers under my command. All have nobly done their duty, but some have done more. Among these I take pleasure in mentioning Maj. H. B. Crosby, of the Twenty-first Connec- ticut, who has always shown himself a zealous, industrious, brave, and trustworthy officer. I would also specially commend Colonel Derrom, Twenty-fifth New Jersey, to whose ability as an engineer the service is much indebted; Colonel Donohoe, of the Tenth New Hampshire, to whom I am indebted for valuable co-operation in superinten(ling the river defenses; Major Storer, of the Thirteenth New Ilamnpshire; Cap- taiiis Brown and Reed, of the Fourth Rhode Island ,and Lieutenaft Bruce, of my staff, for their faithful and soldierly deportment in the various trying scenes in which they separately l)articil)ate(l. I am in- (lebted for repeated and v~iuable favors, to Lieutenants Cushing and Lamnson, U. S.- Navy, commanding flotilla. I also take prjde in calling the attention of the general commanding to the general admirable be- liavior in action of the three new regiments of nmy brigade. 1 transmit herewith a list of casualties in my brigade.* I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. II. DUTTON, Colonel, Commanding. Capt. CHARLES T. GARDNER, Assistant Adjutant- General. Embodic4 in revise4 statement, P. 287 Page 321 Ca& i. XXX.J SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 321 No. 22. Report of Maj. Hiram B. Crosby, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry. IIDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST REGT. CONNECTICUT VOLS Suffolk, Va., May 5, 1863. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that in compliance with orders from the general commanding 1 crossed the Nansemond on Sun- day, at 4 oclock in the morning, May 3, having under my command the Twenty-first Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, a section of the Fourth Wisconsin Battery under Lieut. Martin McDevitt, and a sergeant with 10 mcii of the First New York Mounted Rifles. My orders were to march to Chuckatuck and from thence to Reeds Ferry, opening com- munication with the Fourth Rhode Island on my left. The troops were under way for Chuckatuck at 4.30 oclock Sunday morning, the distance being 2~ miles. My skirmishers came upon the line of rebel pickets about half a mile from the Nansemond, thejr fires still burning. The rebel pickets fell back to Chuckatuck as we ad- vanced. - When within half a mile of the village we saw a company of rebel cavalry drawn up in the main street leading into the village. I ordered Lieutenant McDevitt to open fire upon them with artillery, and the rebels, after a few rounds, retired to the farther side of the village, at the junction of the Reeds Ferry and Isle of Wight roads. I advanced the skirmishers to the village and moved up the columii. Appearances indicated that the enemy would make a stand at that point, but they again retired, a portion of their force taking the Isle of Wight road, but the greater number retiring by the Reeds Ferry road. As soon as my command were in the village I sent Sergeant Trow- bridge, of the Mounted Rifles, and his detachment of cavalry to recon- noiter the road leading to the Isle of Wight, and also ordered Captain Spittle, acting major of the Twenty-first, with Companies A and K,to skirmish along the Reeds Ferry road. From the accounts given by contrabands at this point the enemy~s cavalry were estimated at about 300 strong, and that they had a camp at Isle of Wight and also on the Reeds Ferry road. I ordered Lieutenant McDevitt to put the artillery in 1)OsitiOn to command both roads until they could be reconnoitered. On discovering that the enemy intended to make no resistance at this point the column was moved ahead on the Reeds Ferry road. Captain Spittle came upon the camp on this road about half a mile beyond Chuckatuck. The enemy had but just left; their camp-fires still burn- ing. About a mile beyond Chuckatuck the roads branch off one leading to Reeds Ferry the other to Everetts Bridge. The foot-prints indicated that the enemys cavalry had retired by the latter road, but as the two roads ran near together for quite a distance I halted the .column at this point, put the guns in position commanding both roads, and ordered Captain Spittle to reconnoiter them. The enemy were then reported nowhere in sight. The column was at once set in motion along the Reeds Ferry road, with the exception that Lieutenant McDevitt, with one piece of artillery and a sufficient support, was left behind to command the Everetts Bridge road until an advance was secured. The column had moved but an eighth of a mile in advance when I ordered Sergeant Trow- bridge to make a reconnaissance on the Everetts Bridge road for about 21 R RVOL XVII Page 322 NORTH CAROLINA A!~D S. E. VIRGINIA. tonAr. XXX. 322 50 rods, passing over the same ground which our skirmishers had pre- viously gone over. The cavalry had gone but a short distance when the enemy, who had suddenly returned, opened fire upon them, killing 1 and wounding 2 of their number. Lieutenant McDevitt opened upon them at once and shelled them back toward Everetts Bridge. The column was delayed at this ioint about half an hour, but there being no signs of the enemys returning I advanced the skirmishers rapidly on the Reeds Ferry road, and again set the column in mo- tiomi. Our march was necessarily slow, owing to the thick underbrush through which the skirmishers were obliged to make their way. On approaching the West Branch we again discovered the enemys pickets. The skirmishers, nuder Captain Spittle, Captain Shepard, and Captain Belden, advanced gallantly and were soon engaged. The artillery was moved up with supports and opened fire at once, commanding the oppo- site bank of the creek, where the enemy had two companies of sharp- shooters as a support. The skirmish at this point was short and spirited, resulting in our capturing 1 lieutenant, 3 sergeants, 2 cor- porals, and 10 privates of the enemy. Our loss was 3 wounded, 1 of whom died some two hours afterward as we were withou1~ surgical aid. We encamped Sunday night on the Nansemond, near the ferry, and under protection of the gunboats. On the next morning Captain Spittle was sent out with Companies A and K to reconnoiter, and returned, bringing 2 deserters, who were dispatched to the general commanding. He further reported that the enemy, on the opposite side of the West Branch from us, commenced their retreat on the evening previous at 8 oclock, and that the most of their forces had retired before midnight, burning behind them the bridge at Pages Mill. I am under great obligations to Flag-Officer Captain Cushing and also to Captain Lamson. Acting Masters Mate Lawrence rendered me great assistance in giving information where to post the artillery so as to be of service to our troops enga~ed with the enemy on the other side of the creek, and also took quite an active part in the skirmish. My thanks are due to the officers of the regiment for their prompt and hearty co-operation. The patience and courage of the men, after the fatigue of the past ten days, is deserving of especial praise. I take pleasure in mentioning the gallant conduct of Lieutenant Mc- Devitt, of the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, and the prompt and eflhcient manner in which both he and his men performed their d~ity. The detachment of New York Mounted Rifles, nuder Sergt. [James U Trowbridge, are also deserving of great praise, for, though few in number, they were of the greatest assistance. The casualties are as follows: Company K, killed4 Private Alfred J. Freeman; Company A, wounded, Private Hiram C. Loomis; Com- pany K, Private Lyndes C. Bushnell. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HIRAM B. CROSBY, Major, Commanding. Lient. G. A. BnucE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Brigade Page 323 CHAP. XXX.J SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 323 No. 23. Report of Brig. Gen. George II. Gordon, U. S. Army, commanding Reserve Division, of operations May 14. HEADQUARTERS GORDONS DIVISION Folly Island, 8. 0., October 21, 1863. GENERAL: Constant service in the field has delayed a report of my participation in the memorable siege of Suffolk, Va., during portions of the months of April and May in the present year. Reporting to Major- General Dix, commanding the Department of Virginia, on April 29, I was ordered to join you at Snifolk, Va., to assume command of a division of troops within the almost closely-invested town. I reported on May 1 and was assigned to the command of the Reserve Division, consisting of two brigades, the Second and Third, of what was formerly Abercrombies division, the Second, commanded by Col. Burr Porter, of the Fortieth Massachusetts Regiment, consisting of his own regiment, the Twenty- second Connecticut, One hnndred and forty-first New York, and Elev- enth Rhode Islaiid Regiments; the Third, commanded by Col. William Gurney, of the One hundred and twenty-seventh New York Regiment, consisting of that regiment and the One hundred and forty-second, One hundred and forty-third, and One hundred and forty-fourth New York Regiments; in all, eight regiments, numbering over 5,000 officers and men. The siege had continued for some days before my arrival. I found the enemy holding a belt of woods that surrounded the town in front and flank from the Nausemond on the right to the Dismal Swamp on the left. His rifle-pits covered his line far to the front, while his sharp- shooters annoyed not only our gunners at their pieces but the men in their encampments. All had been done that skill could suggest to strengthen your posi- tion. An outer and inner line of forts protected the .front; strong inclosed works defended the flanks, the whole connected by a line of in- trenchinents for infantry protected by ditches and abatis. The woods cleared from your front gave a full sweep to the artillery. Every pre- caution by artificial works, by the advantages of strong natural sites, and by a judicious disposition of the troops to repel an assault, seemed to me to have been taken. The sudden flight of the enemy from the front on the night of May 3, thus raising the siege, placed my division at the disposal of the commander of the department, by whom I was immediately ordered on the important duty of occupying, holding, and fortifying West Point as a military base for future operations. The removal of the enemy from our front developed the whole of his opera- tions and gave me a good opportunity of judging, from the extent and character of his works, the force which threatened your po5ition. It was well known that Generals Longstreet and Hill, of the rebel service, had united their forces in front of Suffolk. Without taking into consideration the reports of deserters and facts revealed by recon- naissances, special as well as in force, but simply judging from the amount of labor performed in completing their lines of investment, the besieging force could not have been less thau 30,000. Everywhere in front, from the Nansemond to the swamp, they had thrown up heavy intrenchments for infantry. On all the roads batteries for artillery, in embrasure, well revetted, with ditches wide and deep, and abatis skill- fully laid and thickly interwoven, rendered a sortie almost hopeless. Not oimly one line of such defenses covered the enemys front but on some roads three, four, and even five parallel lines of formidable work Page 324 324 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA. [CHAP. XXX. were formed, indicating in the clearest manner a strengthened base from which the approaches were to be made and npon which the enemy couhi retire if forced back in their attack. These works were made with great skill and of great strength. The parapet for infantry defense conid have resisted the heaviest rifle caliber, being not less than 12 feet thick. Apart from lines of earthworks for offensive operations there were also temporary structures in process of erection, covered sheds to protect supplies, and every evidence of prepa- rations for the reduction of the fortifications of Suffolk. While thankful for the movement of the Army of the Potomac, which gave the disappointed rebel commanders an opportunity of withdrawing from your front, as every humane soldier should be at being spared the sacrifices of ~n unnecessary conflict, regret will mingle with triumph that he who came strong in the conviction of an easy victory did not try your metal, but, satisfied with a glance, turned from the offensive to the defensive and finally stole away in the night, nuder pressure of a strong reconnaissance of your forces, which drove him from his rifle- pits back to his first line of defenses. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. H. GORDON, Brigadier- General of U. S. Volunteers. Maj. Gen. JOHN J. PECK, Commanding, North Carolina. No. 24. Reports of Maj. Gem Samuel U. French, C. S. Army, commanding the De partment of Southern Virginia. IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF SOUTHERN VIRGINIA, Near Suffolk, Va., April 22, 1863. SIR: I respectfully submit to the lieutenant-general commanding the following report respecting the loss of the guns of Striblings battery: On the morning of the 15th instant Ii started from my camp on the South Quay road, at the request of Lieutenant-General Longstreet, to endeavor to destroy the gunboats of the enemy in the Kansenmond River. Striblings, Bradfords, and [J. C.] Coits batteries were taken dowii. Only one gunboat could be seen, and she was lying behind the point of land below the mouth of the Western Branch of the Nansemond. The batteries were put in position in the hope she would niove up, but a storm coming on and the near approach of night induced me to withdraw the guns. The engineer informed me that he and other officers had selected two sites for batteriesthe one near the left of General Hoods line of battle, in which there was in a work constructed a battery of field artillery and an infantry force for protection; the other wass the work built for the defense of the river when we held Suffolk and that in it was an infantry force, but no artillery. I directed Maj - L. M. Shu- maker, my chief of artillery, on the night of the 16th to take trom some houses on a farm near by materials to construct platforms, and before morning to put the guns of Stribhings battery in the work. This he accomplished. The next morning three gunboats attempted to pass up. One suc- ceeded, but was severely damaged, when the other two turned back. Page 325 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 325 had selected the site for pits for two 32-pounders, and on the night of the 18th they were completed and the guns placed in position. For the protectioii of these guns in the pits I asked that three corhpanies of infantry be sent, designing to use them, however, to guard also the road where all the camps were, but the lieutenant-general ordered down the Fifty-fifth North Carolina Regiment, Colonel Connally commanding. On Sunday, the 19th, the situation of affairs was thus: bradfords bat- tery was in the new work, with instructions from my chief of artillery, while the work was defended by troops from Hoods division, and by his officers they were posted, relieved, and got their orders. In the Hills Point Battery were Striblings battery, with my instructions; the work defended by two companies of infantry, under instructions from the officers placing them there. The 32-pounders were in positioii and a company of the Fifty-fifth North Carolina near by, while the other companies were a supporting force to either of these last two batteries. All the batteries were to receive further support from General Hoods command if required, and all my officers were so informed, and conriers were left there to communicate such intelligence to General Law, who was on the extreme left, if his aid should be required. The river as low down as the mouth of the West Branch was guarded by the troops of General Hood, and reported, of course, to their comman(lers. I was ill on Sunday and could not ride down the river, but sent Col. G. A. Cunningham. There were four gunboats above the work on Hills Point and three below, and five or six land batteries and sharpshooters on the opposite side of the river. About 10 a. m. the four gunboats above and the land batteries opened a sharp fire on the Hills Point work, and two gunboats from below moved np to aid them, when the 32-pounders opened fire on them, and after a spirited engagement one was slightly injured and both were drivemi back. The fire on the work, however, continued until near 4 ]). in., when it ceased. Major Shumaker then communicated with Captain Stribling, and althbugh it was reported that the gunboats had troops on board his note does not intimate that he apprehended an attack by a force of the enemy landing for that purpose. About 4 p. m. Colonel Cunningham instructed Colonel Connally to support the batteries, and this was, as he states, about an hour and a half before the guns were lost. In that time he might have been near the work, so far as distance is concerned, but I have my doubts if any regiments could have passed the wide plain and rendered any real sup- port under the fire that was or could have been brought to bear on their approach. The manner of attack appears to have been to have sent one gunboat down as though she was going to pass the work to engage the attention of the men in the fort, while from the other boats a force of about 500 men was landed. It appears to me that if the garrison was surprised, they were negligent; if not surprised, they did not offer a sufficient resistance. I inclose herewith papers marked AOmder detailing Colonel Connallys regiment, by direction of the general commanding. BCopy of orders given Colonel Connally. CColonel Connallys report.* II~Maj. L. N. Shumakers report.t E and FGeneral Frenchs orders to Major Shumaker. GMajor Shumakers note to Captain Stribling after the cannonade ceased. 1 *See JZbport No. 30. I See Bepo~t No. 25 Page 326 NORTH CAROLINA AND S. E. VIRGINIA.. [CHAP. XXX. 326 11Captain Striblings answer; shows he apprehended no land at- tack. JIteport of property lost by the capture. KReport of Major Boggs, of the artillery.* As before stated, I was ill in camp, which was some 9 or 10 miles distant from Hills Point. As soon as I heard that the attack had been made and the report that the guns had been captured by the enemy I started for the purpose of retaking the work. On arriving there, abont 1 a. m. on the morning of the 20th, I found on the ground Major-General Hood, General Law, and General Robertson, with his brigade. The night was dark, the ground unknown to the troops, the enemys pickets out in advance of the work, and to have retaken the work by crossing the open l)lain under the fire of seven gunboats stationed near the fort, that of the land batteries, and that of the enemy in the work was believed would involve a sacrifice of men of more value to us than the fort if recaptured. r1~he enemy, as you are aware, the night following evacuated the work. The report shows that 93 men, all the horses, harness, running-gear of cannons, limbers of guns, fuse, wagons, & c., were not in the work, and that the loss was only the five guns and most of the ammnnition chests. You are perhaps aware that on neither of those works could any labor be performed in the day-time, owing to the opposite bank being strongly occupied by the enemy, and I do not think the parties in the fort had time to prepare embrasures for the guns looking to the rear in anticipa- tion of a land attack. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. G. FRENCH Major- General, Commanding. Maj. G. MOXLEY SORREL, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indorsoment.] HEABQuARTERS, Near suffolk, Va., April 25, 1803. Respectfully forwarded. There seems to have been a general lack of vigilance and prompt attention to duties on the part of most of the parties connected with this afPair. General French seems to be nnder the impression that General Hoods command was expected to protect the batteries. Such was not the expectation, and his conclusion that General Hoods corn- mand was expected to proteit them seems strange as the batteries were under his control exclusively, and he was twice ordered to take the Fifty-fifth North Carolina, the largest in this army, for that pur- l)ose. General Hood naturally and properly considered himself re- lieved from responsibilities with the river batteries when they were especially assigned to the charge of General French. His (General Hoods) division was on our left1 and was ready, of coarse, to resist any general attack of the enemy; but the staff officers of General French should have made all of their reports to General French, that he might have made the necessary arrangements to resist any landing by the en- emy. The slight loss of Colonel Connallys regiment while lying within 600 yards of the old fort will hardly justify the conclusion that nothing could live through the enemys artillery fire. The attack was made about sunset, or a little later. The cannonade being more brisk than any that we had previously had with the gunboats, I took out my watch and See Report No. 26 Page 327 CHAP. XXX.] SIEGE OF SUFFOLK, VA. 327 counted the number of shots per minute. In no instance did they exceed thirteen to the minute; the average, I think, was about eight. Of the thirteen shots that could have been fired at a command charging across the field after night it is not likely that more than four could have taken effect, and those ought not to be expected to destroy more than 2 meu per shot. So I think it reasonable to conclude that the fort and battery could have been recaptured with the loss of 75 men. Many of the offi- cers were of limited experience,however, and I have no doubt acted as they thonght best. 11 do not know that any of theni deserve particular censure. This lesson, it is hoped, will be of service to us all. The com- mand at the fort seems to have been completely surprised, and is prob- ably less excusable than other parties in the affair. JAMES LONGSThEET Lieutenant- General, Commanding. [luclosuro A.] SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS FRENCHS COMMAND, No. 3. April 17, 1863. I. Brig. Gen. J. It. Davis will detail three companies of the Fifty-fifth North Carolina Troops, Col. J. K. Connally, to proceed immediately to Norfieets house, on the Reeds Ferry road, to report to Maj. L. M. Shn- maker for duty in guarding the batteries located in that vicinity. One days rations will be taken. The remainder of the regiment will march to the same place to-morrow morning for permanent duty on the river. * * * * * * * By command of Maj. Gen. S. G. French: GRAHAM DAYES, Assistant Adjutant- General. General J. R. DAVIS, Commanding, & e. [Inelosure B.] SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS FRENCHS COMMAND, No. 7. April 18, 1863. I. Col. J. K. Connally, commanding Fifty-fifth North Carolina Troops, will detail two companies from his regiment for picket duty to-night, one to take post near the fish-honse (Le Comptes) to prevent a landing by the enemy. In case a landing should be attempted, the boats will be permitted to reach the shore before being fired upon. This company will furnish a picket force of 4 men (in charge of a corporal) to take l)osition on the Reeds Ferry road half a mile below Le Comptes house. Prompt information will be given of an advance of the enemy in force, but care will be taken not to give fimlse alarms. The second company will take post near the battery now erecting (Smoots). This company will furnish a party to assist in loading the wagons with forage and provisions from Riddicks farm. In case of attack Colo